Phagocytosis Of Zymosan Research Articles

Role of nitric oxide and signaling pathways modulating the stimulatory effect of snake venom secretory PLA2S on non-opsonized zymosan phagocytosis by macrophages

The phagocytic activity of macrophages activated with MT-II, a Lys-49 PLA2 homolog, and MT-III, an Asp-49 PLA2, from Bothrops asper snake venom, was investigated in this study using a pharmacological approach. Stimulating thioglycollate-elicited macrophages with both venom components enhanced their ability to phagocytose non-opsonized zymosan particles. MT-II and MT–III–induced phagocytosis was drastically inhibited by pretreating cells with L-NAME, aminoguanidine or L-NIL, cNOS or iNOS inhibitors, or with ODQ (sGC inhibitor) or Rp-cGMPS (PKG inhibitor). These results indicate that the NO/sGC/GMP/PKG pathway plays an essential role in the β-glucan-mediated phagocytosis induced in macrophages by these venom-secretory PLA2s.

Biocompatibility of Dextran-Coated 30 nm and 80 nm Sized SPIONs towards Monocytes, Dendritic Cells and Lymphocytes

Dextran-coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONDex) of various sizes can be used as contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of different tissues, e.g., liver or atherosclerotic plaques, after intravenous injection. In previous studies, the blood compatibility and the absence of immunogenicity of SPIONDex was demonstrated. The investigation of the interference of SPIONDex with stimulated immune cell activation is the aim of this study. For this purpose, sterile and endotoxin-free SPIONDex with different hydrodynamic sizes (30 and 80 nm) were investigated for their effect on monocytes, dendritic cells (DC) and lymphocytes in concentrations up to 200 µg/mL, which would be administered for use as an imaging agent. The cells were analyzed using flow cytometry and brightfield microscopy. We found that SPIONDex were hardly taken up by THP-1 monocytes and did not reduce cell viability. In the presence of SPIONDex, the phagocytosis of zymosan and E. coli by THP-1 was dose-dependently reduced. SPIONDex neither induced the maturation of DCs nor interfered with their stimulated maturation. The particles did not induce lymphocyte proliferation or interfere with lymphocyte proliferation after stimulation. Since SPIONDex rapidly distribute via the blood circulation in vivo, high concentrations were only reached locally at the injection site immediately after application and only for a very limited time. Thus, SPIONDex can be considered immune compatible in doses required for use as an MRI contrast agent.

Polysaccharides from tropical green seaweed Chaetomorpha antennina induces non-specific immune responses and improves antioxidative activities in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) leukocyte culture cell line

Polysaccharides from seaweeds are promising biomolecules that could sustainably improve the health status of cultured fish species. In this study, water-soluble polysaccharides extracted from Chaetomorpha antennina were investigated to determine their physicochemical characteristics and biological activities. C. antennina water-soluble polysaccharides (CAWP) comprised mainly of carbohydrate (69.0 ± 2.3 %), sulphate (12.6 ± 0.5 %), uronic acid (8.8 ± 0.1 %) and protein (3.5 ± 0.2 %). High Performance Anion Exchange Chromatography with Pulsed Amperometric Detection (HPAEC-PAD) analysis revealed that CAWP contained mostly arabinose (17.1 ± 2.3 mg/L), galactose (9.3 ± 1.0 mg/L), glucose (5.1 ± 0.6 mg/L), xylose/mannose (1.4 ± 0.6 mg/L) and a small proportion of fucose (0.3 ± 0.1 mg/L). CAWP, with intrinsic viscosity of 0.66 dL/g and estimated molecular weight of 318 kDa, were non-toxic to Carp leukocyte culture (CLC) cell line at concentrations ≤25 μg/mL. CAWP at concentrations of 12.5 and 25 μg/mL stimulated CLC to release significant amount of nitric oxide (NO), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and augmented phagocytic activity. Intracellular antioxidant activities indicated that CAWP did not induce oxidative damage in CLC but could improve superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), total glutathione (tGSH) and decrease malondialdehyde (MDA) level. The findings from our study provide a foundation for the applicability of water-soluble polysaccharides from C. antennina in the aquaculture industry as a potent immunomodulatory agent. • Chaetomorpha antennina is a rich source of sulphated polysaccharides. • Induction of oxidative burst response in Carp leucocytes • Phagocytosis of Red Zymosan® bioparticles by Carp leucocytes • Improved intracellular antioxidant activities

Melatonin synthesized by activated microglia orchestrates the progression of microglia from a pro-inflammatory to a recovery/repair phenotype

Microglia, the sentinels of the central nervous system, are responsible for the surveillance and the innate defense against pathogen or danger/damage-associated molecular patterns. The response is fine-tuned to restrain pro-inflammatory responses, preserving neighboring cells. At the injured area, microglia temporarily shift to a pro-inflammatory phenotype (M1), followed by anti-inflammatory (M2) phenotypes. The duration and magnitude of the pro-inflammatory phase are finely regulated to avoid unnecessary loss of brain tissue. The present study shows that melatonin synthesized by microglia plays a key role in the transformation of M1 to M2 phenotypes. In a mixed rat cerebellar glia culture, the percentage of activated microglia did not vary significantly with the treatments, while the role of melatonin synthesized by microglia in promoting the end of the pro-inflammatory phase, and the initiation of the regulatory/phagocytic phases was inferred by using pharmacological tools. Total microglia were identified by the expression of CD11b/c, whereas positive to IBA-1 microglia were considered activated, independent of the phenotype. M1 and M2 phenotypes were distinguished with the biomarkers NOS-2 and ARG-1, as these enzymes act on the same substrate (L-arginine), producing pro-inflammatory (NO) or anti-inflammatory (polyamines and proline) end products, respectively. Luzindole, a blocker of melatonin receptors, impaired the conversion of M1 to M2 phenotypes and zymosan phagocytosis. Thus, melatonin content synthesized by cerebellar microglia determines the extension of the pro-inflammatory phase of defense response.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell Regulation of Macrophage Phagocytosis; Quantitation and Imaging.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have traditionally been studied for their regenerative properties, but more recently, their immunoregulatory characteristics have been at the forefront. They interact with and regulate immune cell activity. The focus of this study is the MSC regulation of macrophage phagocytic activity. Macrophage (MΦ) phagocytosis is an important part of the innate immune system response to infection, and the mechanisms through which MSC modulate this response are under active investigation. Presented here is a method to study MΦ phagocytosis of non-opsonized zymosan particles conjugated to a pH-sensitive fluorescent molecule while in co-culture with MSC. As phagocytic activity increases and the labeled zymosan particles are enclosed within the acidic environment of the phagolysosome, the fluorescence intensity of the pH-sensitive molecule increases. With the appropriate excitation and emission wavelengths, phagocytic activity is measured using a fluorescent spectrophotometer and kinetic data is presented as changes in relative fluorescent units over a 70 min period. To support this quantitative data, the change in the phagocytic activity is visualized using dynamic imaging. Results using this method demonstrate that when in co-culture, MSC enhance MΦ phagocytosis of non-opsonized zymosan of both naive and IFN-γ treated MΦ. These data add to the current knowledge of MSC regulation of the innate immune system. This method can be applied in future investigations to fully delineate the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms.

Mechanosensing of Substrate Stiffness Regulates Effector Functions of Human Neutrophils

During a response to injury or infection, neutrophils (PMNs) navigate through a tissue microenvironment that is densely packed with parenchymal cells and extracellular matrix. Within these tissues, PMNs sense the physical property of elasticity as a regulatory element as it pertains to motility and effector functions. Historically, rigid tissue culture surfaces like glass and plastic have been used to study many key anti-microbial effector functions of PMNs; however, these fail to mimic the elasticity of peripheral tissues. We hypothesize that elasticity plays a key regulatory role for PMN anti-microbial effector functions associated with pathogen clearance such as phagocytosis, NETosis, respiratory burst, and degranulation. When comparing phagocytosis by neutrophils on soft substrates and stiff substrates coated with fibronectin, we found that stiffness is selectively regulatory. While Zymosan and Whole Glucan Particles were more readily phagocytosed on soft substrates, IgG-opsonized latex beads were more efficiently taken up on stiff substrates. Further, C3bi-opsonized latex beads and apoptotic bodies were phagocytosed equivalently on all stiffnesses. In addition to a mechanosensitive response to phagocytosed particles, we also saw differential mechanosensitive responses in their mechanism. For example, on stiff substrates, inhibiting Rho-associated protein kinase reduced phagocytosis of Zymosan, while blocking CD45 reduced phagocytosis of IgG-opsonized latex beads. Further, Zymosan uptake was found to increase on soft substrates when actin-related protein Arp2/3 complex was blocked, but have no effect on stiff substrates, further exaggerating the soft/stiff phenotype; conversely, blocking formin-mediated actin had the opposite effect and lowered phagocytosis of Zymosan on soft substrates, attenuating the soft/stiff phenotype. Finally, not all blocking targets showed mechanosensitive responses; while inhibition of Spleen Tyrosine Kinase had no effect on Zymosan uptake on any stiffness, blocking total actin polymerization reduced uptake on all stiffnesses. Taken together, these findings show a highly complex mechanosensitive response to phagocytosis in regards to both particle type and mechanism of uptake. Further, PMNs seeded on Candida albicans hyphae were mechanosensitive in regards to oxidative burst and NETosis; both ROS production and NETosis increased on stiffer substrates. Finally, in addition to phagocytosis and hyphae, we also looked at cytokine release to secondary stimulation by fMLP. We found both Lactoferrin and IL-8 release to increase on stiffer substrates, while elastase release was not mechanosensitive. Taken together, these findings indicate a strong regulatory role of substrate stiffness during PMN effector responses. While extensive work has been done to elucidate PMN biochemical interactions, understanding important mechanosensitive mechanisms underlying phagocytosis, NETosis, respiratory burst, and cytokine release may provide further therapeutic targets to benefit patients in the future by reducing harmful PMN behaviors and/or promoting behaviors crucial to pathogen clearance.

Phagocytosis is coupled to the formation of phagosome-associated podosomes and a transient disruption of podosomes in human macrophages

Phagocytosis consists in ingestion and digestion of large particles, a process strictly dependent on actin re-organization. Using synchronized phagocytosis of IgG-coated latex beads (IgG-LB), zymosan or serum opsonized-zymosan, we report the formation of actin structures on both phagocytic cups and closed phagosomes in human macrophages. Their lifespan, size, protein composition and organization are similar to podosomes. Thus, we called these actin structures phagosome-associated podosomes (PAPs). Concomitantly to the formation of PAPs, a transient disruption of podosomes occurred at the ventral face of macrophages. Similarly to podosomes, which are targeted by vesicles containing proteases, the presence of PAPs correlated with the maturation of phagosomes into phagolysosomes. The ingestion of LB without IgG did not trigger PAPs formation, did not lead to podosome disruption and maturation to phagolysosomes, suggesting that these events are linked together. Although similar to podosomes, we found that PAPs differed by being resistant to the Arp2/3 inhibitor CK666. Thus, we describe a podosome subtype which forms on phagosomes where it probably serves several tasks of this multifunctional structure.

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) enhances hypochlorous acid production in phagocytic neutrophils

BackgroundMacrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is an important immuno-regulatory cytokine and is elevated in inflammatory conditions. Neutrophils are the first immune cells to migrate to sites of infection and inflammation, where they generate, among other mediators, the potent oxidant hypochlorous acid (HOCl). Here, we investigated the impact of MIF on HOCl production in neutrophils in response to phagocytic stimuli. MethodsProduction of HOCl during phagocytosis of zymosan was determined using the specific fluorescent probe R19-S in combination with flow cytometry and live cell microscopy. The rate of phagocytosis was monitored using fluorescently-labeled zymosan. Alternatively, HOCl production was assessed during phagocytosis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by measuring the oxidation of bacterial glutathione to the HOCl-specific product glutathione sulfonamide. Formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), an oxidant-dependent process, was quantified using a SYTOX Green plate assay. ResultsExposure of human neutrophils to MIF doubled the proportion of neutrophils producing HOCl during early stages of zymosan phagocytosis, and the concentration of HOCl produced was greater. During phagocytosis of P. aeruginosa, a greater fraction of bacterial glutathione was oxidized to glutathione sulfonamide in MIF-treated compared to control neutrophils. The ability of MIF to increase neutrophil HOCl production was independent of the rate of phagocytosis and could be blocked by the MIF inhibitor 4-IPP. Neutrophils pre-treated with MIF produced more NETs than control cells in response to PMA. ConclusionOur results suggest a role for MIF in potentiating HOCl production in neutrophils in response to phagocytic stimuli. We propose that this newly discovered activity of MIF contributes to its role in mediating the inflammatory response and enhances host defence.

Bacterial and Fungal Toll-Like Receptor Activation Elicits Type I IFN Responses in Mast Cells.

Next to their role in IgE-mediated allergic diseases and in promoting inflammation, mast cells also have antiinflammatory functions. They release pro- as well as antiinflammatory mediators, depending on the biological setting. Here we aimed to better understand the role of mast cells during the resolution phase of a local inflammation induced with the Toll-like receptor (TLR)-2 agonist zymosan. Multiple sequential immunohistology combined with a statistical neighborhood analysis showed that mast cells are located in a predominantly antiinflammatory microenvironment during resolution of inflammation and that mast cell-deficiency causes decreased efferocytosis in the resolution phase. Accordingly, FACS analysis showed decreased phagocytosis of zymosan and neutrophils by macrophages in mast cell-deficient mice. mRNA sequencing using zymosan-induced bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMC) revealed a strong type I interferon (IFN) response, which is known to enhance phagocytosis by macrophages. Both, zymosan and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) induced IFN-β synthesis in BMMCs in similar amounts as in bone marrow derived macrophages. IFN-β was expressed by mast cells in paws from naïve mice and during zymosan-induced inflammation. As described for macrophages the release of type I IFNs from mast cells depended on TLR internalization and endosome acidification. In conclusion, mast cells are able to produce several mediators including IFN-β, which are alone or in combination with each other able to regulate the phagocytotic activity of macrophages during resolution of inflammation.

Comparative study of the effects of ziram and disulfiram on human monocyte-derived macrophage functions and polarization: involvement of zinc.

Ziram, a zinc dithiocarbamate is widely used worldwide as a fungicide in agriculture. In order to investigate ziram-induced changes in macrophage functions and polarization, human monocytes-derived macrophages in culture were treated with ziram at 0.01-10μmol.L-1 for 4-24h. To characterize zinc involvement in these changes, we also determined the effects of disulfiram alone (dithiocarbamate without zinc) or in co-incubation with ZnSO4. We have shown that ziram and disulfiram at 0.01μmol.L-1 increased zymosan phagocytosis. In contrast, ziram at 10μmol.L-1 completely inhibited this phagocytic process, the oxidative burst triggered by zymosan and the production of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and CCL2 triggered by LPS. Disulfiram had the same effects on these macrophages functions only when combined with zinc (10μmol.L-1). In contrast, at 10μmol.L-1 ziram and zinc associated-disulfiram induced expression of several antioxidants genes HMOX1, SOD2, and catalase, which could suggest the induction of oxidative stress. This oxidative stress could be involved in the increase in late apoptosis induced by ziram (10μmol.L-1) and zinc associated-disulfiram. Concerning gene expression profiles of membrane markers of macrophage polarization, ziram at 10μmol.L-1 had two opposite effects. It inhibited the gene expression of M2 markers (CD36, CD163) in the same way as the disulfiram-zinc co-treatment. Conversely, ziram induced gene expression of other M2 markers CD209, CD11b, and CD16 in the same way as treatment with zinc alone. Disulfiram-zinc association had no significant effects on these markers. These results taken together show that ziram via zinc modulates macrophages to M2-like anti-inflammatory phenotype which is often associated with various diseases.

Post-sepsis immunosuppression depends on NKT cell regulation of mTOR/IFN-γ in NK cells.

As treatment of the early, inflammatory phase of sepsis improves, post-sepsis immunosuppression and secondary infection have increased in importance. How early inflammation drives immunosuppression remains unclear. Although IFN-γ typically helps microbial clearance, we found that increased plasma IFN-γ in early clinical sepsis was associated with the later development of secondary Candida infection. Consistent with this observation, we found that exogenous IFN-γ suppressed macrophage phagocytosis of zymosan in vivo, and antibody blockade of IFN-γ after endotoxemia improved survival of secondary candidemia. Transcriptomic analysis of innate lymphocytes during endotoxemia suggested that NKT cells drove IFN-γ production by NK cells via mTORC1. Activation of invariant NKT (iNKT) cells with glycolipid antigen drove immunosuppression. Deletion of iNKT cells in Cd1d-/- mice or inhibition of mTOR by rapamycin reduced immunosuppression and susceptibility to secondary Candida infection. Thus, although rapamycin is typically an immunosuppressive medication, in the context of sepsis, rapamycin has the opposite effect. These results implicated an NKT cell/mTOR/IFN-γ axis in immunosuppression following endotoxemia or sepsis. In summary, in vivo iNKT cells activated mTORC1 in NK cells to produce IFN-γ, which worsened macrophage phagocytosis, clearance of secondary Candida infection, and mortality.

Identification of Chemotype Agonists for Human Resolvin D1 Receptor DRV1 with Pro-Resolving Functions

Resolution of acute inflammation is governed, inpart, by specialized pro-resolving mediators, including lipoxins, resolvins, protectins, and maresins. Among them, resolvin D1 (RvD1) exhibits potent pro-resolving functions via activating human resolvin D1 receptor (DRV1/GPR32). RvD1 is a complex molecule that requires challenging organic synthesis, diminishing its potential as a therapeutic. Therefore, we implemented a high-throughput screening of small-molecule libraries and identified several chemotypes that activated recombinant DRV1, represented by NCGC00120943 (C1A), NCGC00135472 (C2A), pMPPF, and pMPPI. These chemotypes alsoelicited rapid impedance changes in cells overexpressing recombinant DRV1. With human macrophages,they each stimulated phagocytosis of serum-treated zymosan at concentrations comparable with that of RvD1, the endogenous DRV1 ligand. In addition, macrophage phagocytosis of live E.coli was significantly increased by these chemotypes inDRV1-transfected macrophages, compared with mock-transfected cells. Taken together, these chemotypes identified by unbiased screens act as RvD1 mimetics, exhibiting pro-resolving functions via interacting with human DRV1.

Benefits of Antibiotics During Viral Infections: Immuno‐Modulating Properties of Tulathromycin in Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is a positive‐strand RNA virus that grows in primary alveolar macrophages and causes acute pneumonia in pigs. PRRSV is a major concern in the swine industry with a total cost of productivity losses estimated at $600 million annually in the U.S. alone. However, due to its high antigenic variability, and poorly understood immunopathogenesis, there is currently no treatment to control PRRSV infection. The common occurrence of PRRSV infection with bacterial infections, including Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, begs the question of the value of antibiotics for the treatment of the disease it causes. Tulathromycin, a macrolide used for the treatment and prevention of respiratory disease in pigs and cattle, has been shown to exhibit potent immuno‐modulating properties [1]. We hypothesize that tulathromycin attenuates the detrimental effects of PRRSV in porcine macrophages. This may help characterize novel mechanism through which an anti‐microbial agent may deliver clinical benefits in the context of a viral infection.Aims1) Determine if Tulathromycin has direct anti‐viral effects in PRRSV‐infected porcine macrophages. 2) Identify new immuno‐modulating effects of Tulathromycin in PRRSV‐infected macrophages.MethodsPorcine monocytes were isolated from peripheral blood of healthy piglets. Seven days‐old monocyte‐derived macrophages were treated with Tulathromycin (1 mg/ml) or untreated (control) and incubated for 1h at 37°C. Macrophages were then cultured in media alone, or with PRRSV (MOI of 1) for 2h to 24h. (1) Extracellular and intracellular Viral titers were measured at 2h, 24h, and 48h post‐infection. (2) Macrophage activation was monitored by morphological changes and confirmed with IL‐8 ELISA and ROS production assays at 2h, 6h, 12h or 24h. (3) Phagocytosis properties were assessed by measuring zymosan particles (1 μg/mL) or 3μM opsonized latex beads (ratio beads: cells, 10:1) engulfment assay (4) Cell death ELISA, Annexin V immunostaining and lactate dehydrogenase assay were performed to evaluate the effects of Tulathromycin on PRRSV‐induced necrosis and apoptosis.Results(1) Tulathromycin did not change PRRSV particle forming unit (pfu) in macrophages at any time of infection (2.1×104 PFU/mL with tulathromycin versus 1.9×104 PFU/mL for control) (2). Exposure to PRRSV increased macrophage‐induced production of IL‐8 and ROS by more than four times compared to control. Pre‐treatment with tulathromycin significantly attenuated PRRSV‐induced macrophage activation (i.e. 1.85 times compared to untreated macrophages). (3) Macrophage phagocytosis of both zymosan and latex beads was impaired by PRRSV. Tulathromycin was able to restore phagocytic functions in PRRSV‐infected macrophages to control values. (4) Finally, Tulathromycin reduced viral induced necrosis but synergized with the virus to induce apoptosis.ConclusionOur results demonstrate that Tulathromycin attenuates macrophage‐driven inflammatory response induced by PRRSV, restores PRRSV‐induced phagocytic impairment, and inhibits cell necrosis. These effects occur in the absence of a direct anti‐viral activity. Together, these data demonstrate the potential clinical benefits of Tulathromycin in the context of PRRSV‐induced pneumonia through the modulation of a viral‐induced macrophage‐driven inflammation.This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.

Signaling pathways involved in zymosan phagocytosis induced by two secreted phospholipases A2 isolated from Bothrops asper snake venom in macrophages

Phagocytosis, a process involved in host defense, requires coordination of a variety of signaling reactions. MT-II, a catalytically-inactive Lys49-PLA2¸ and MT-III, an active Asp49-PLA2 isolated from Bothrops asper snake venom, activate phagocytosis in macrophages. In this study the signal pathways mediating zymosan phagocytosis, focusing in lipidic second messengers, were investigated. Macrophages collected from male Swiss mouse peritoneum were obtained 96h after i.p. injection of thioglycollate. Phagocytosis was evaluated with non-opsonized zymosan in the presence or absence of specific inhibitors. Data showed that both venom PLA2s increased phagocytosis. Zileuton, Etoricoxib, PACOCF3 (5-LO, COX-2 and iPLA2 inhibitors, respectively), as well as WEB2170 (PAF receptor antagonist) significantly reduced phagocytosis induced by both venom PLA2s. However, Indomethacin (COX-1/COX-2 inhibitor) and Montelukast (CysL receptor antagonist) did not affect the toxins-induced phagocytosis. Moreover, while PACOCF3 (iPLA2 inhibitor), reduced the phagocytosis induced by MT-II and MT-III, AACOCF3 (cPLA2 inhibitor) significantly reduced the MT-II, but not MT-III-induced phagocytosis. These data suggest the effect of both sPLA2s depends on iPLA2 and that the effect of MT-II depends on activation of cPLA2. COX-2 and 5-LO-derived metabolites as well as PAF are involved in the signaling events required for phagocytosis induced by both venom sPLA2s.

Differential susceptibility of Dectin-1 isoforms to functional inactivation by neutrophil and fungal proteases.

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) experience chronic or recurrent bacterial and fungal lung infections. Many patients with CF cannot effectively clear Aspergillus from their lungs. This may result in IgE sensitization and the development of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, or invasive infections, such as Aspergillus bronchitis. Lung disease in patients with CF is associated with neutrophil-dominated inflammation and elevated levels of the serine protease, neutrophil elastase (NE). Various C-type lectin-like receptors (CLRs), including Dectin-1 and Dectin-2, are involved in the immune response to Aspergillus. Here, we show that purified NE cleaves Dectin-1 in an isoform-specific manner. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from patients with CF, which contains high NE activity, induces Dectin-1 cleavage. Similarly, filtrate from a protease-producing strain of Aspergillus fumigatus induces isoform-specific cleavage of Dectin-1. Dectin-1 knockout (KO) cells and NE-treated cells demonstrated reduced phagocytosis of zymosan, a fungal cell wall preparation. In addition, NE cleaves 2 other CLRs, Dectin-2 and Mincle, and fungal-induced cytokine production was reduced in Dectin-1 KO cells, Dectin-2 KO cells, and NE-treated cells. Thus, Dectin-1 and Dectin-2 cleavage by NE and/or A. fumigatus–derived proteases results in an aberrant antifungal immune response that likely contributes to disease pathology in patients with CF.—Griffiths, J. S., Thompson, A., Stott, M., Benny, A., Lewis, N. A., Taylor, P. R., Forton, J., Herrick, S., Orr, S. J., McGreal, E. P. Differential susceptibility of Dectin-1 isoforms to functional inactivation by neutrophil and fungal proteases.

Tylvalosin Induces Apoptosis of Porcine Neutrophils and Macrophages, Efferocytosis by Porcine Macrophages and Modulation of Lipid Mediators of Inflammation in vitro: A New Class of Anti‐Microbial with Anti‐inflammatory and Pro‐resolution Properties?

Mucosal inflammatory diseases cause great economic losses in the livestock industry. Previous research has shown that some macrolides effectively modulate bacterial‐induced inflammation in animal models. Tylvalosin (TYL) is a new macrolide antibiotic, meant to treat porcine respiratory diseases, in which inflammation is a major component of pathophysiology. The immune modulating effects of tylvalosin are unknown. We hypothesized that TYL may promote the resolution of inflammation in pigs, hence making it an appealing anti‐infective therapeutic.AimsThe aims of the study were to characterize the effects of this macrolide on (1) apoptosis (2) necrosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production (3) cytokine, chemokine and lipid mediators of inflammation – leukotriene B4 (LTB−4), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and lipoxin A4 (LXA4) (4) phagocytosis and efferocytosis of neutrophils (PMNs) by macrophages.MethodsPorcine blood was collected from the jugular vein for isolation of PMNs and monocytes. Isolated monocytes were grown and matured (verified by esterase staining) over the course of 7 days. Leukocytes were treated with vehicle, TYL, lincomyosin or positive controls: LPS, staurosporine or calcium ionophore. (1) Apoptosis was measured by western blot for cleaved‐caspase 3, TUNEL staining for nicked DNA, and cell death ELISA (2) lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay for necrosis detection was used to assess cell death. ROS levels were assessed using bioassays. (3) Multiplex‐bead based assays and qPCR were employed to assess macrophage cytokine and chemokine levels. Reverse phase‐HPLC and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry were used to assess PMN lipid mediator secretions (4) Macrophage phagocytosis and efferocytosis were determined using zymosan (ZYM) phagocytosis assays, TUNEL staining, and myeloperoxidase (MPO) assay.Results(1) Porcine PMN and macrophage apoptosis were increased in cells exposed to TYL in a time and dose dependent manner (P<0.05), but not in the other groups. (2) Tylvalosin had not effect on LDH or ROS levels in macrophages or PMNs. (3) Tylvalosin reduced CXCL8 mRNA transcription and protein secretion in macrophages. IL‐1α but not IL‐1β protein secretion was inhibited. TYL reduced levels of pro‐inflammatory LTB4 and PGE2, while inducing the production of pro‐resolving LXA4 in TYL‐treated porcine PMNs (4) Treated and untreated macrophages had similar levels of phagocytic uptake of ZYM particles. In contrast, MPO revealed a dose dependent increase in efferocytosis of PMN's in macrophages upon TYL treatment (P<0.05).ConclusionsThese findings suggest that TYL promotes apoptosis and efferocytosis of porcine leukocytes, while having no significant effect on necrosis or ROS production. The effect appears to be, at least in part drug‐selective, and does not affect phagocytic function. TYL inhibits LTB4 and PGE‐2, while enhancing the production of LXA4. Together, these results suggest that tylvalosin may have anti‐inflammatory and pro‐resolving properties in porcine tissues.Support or Funding InformationECO Animal Health, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council & University of Calgary

Mechanism involved in interleukin-21-induced phagocytosis in human monocytes and macrophages.

The interleukin (IL)-21/IL-21 receptor (R) is a promising system to be exploited for the development of therapeutic strategies. Although the biological activities of IL-21 and its cell signalling events have been largely studied in immunocytes, its interaction with human monocytes and macrophages have been neglected. Previously, we reported that IL-21 enhances Fc gamma receptor (FcRγ)-mediated phagocytosis in human monocytes and in human monocyte-derived macrophages (HMDM) and identified Syk as a novel molecular target of IL-21. Here, we elucidate further how IL-21 promotes phagocytosis in these cells. Unlike its ability to enhance phagocytosis of opsonized sheep red blood cells (SRBCs), IL-21 did not promote phagocytosis of Escherichia coli and zymosan by monocytes and did not alter the cell surface expression of CD16, CD32 and CD64. In HMDM, IL-21 was found to enhance phagocytosis of zymosan. In addition, we found that IL-21 activates p38, protein kinase B (Akt), signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-1 and STAT-3 in monocytes and HMDM. Using a pharmacological approach, we demonstrate that IL-21 enhances phagocytosis by activating some mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt and Janus kinase (JAK)-STAT pathways. These results obtained in human monocytes and macrophages have to be considered for a better exploitation of the IL-21/IL-21R system for therapeutic purposes.

Characterization and immunomodulatory effects of glucans from Pleurotus albidus, a promising species of mushroom for farming and biomass production

Polysaccharides from a number of mushroom species are recognized as functional food ingredients with potential health benefits, including immunomodulatory effects. In this study, polysaccharides extracted from the basidiome with cold water (BaCW), hot water (BaHW), and hot alkali (BaHA) solution, and exo- (MyEX) and endopolysaccharides (MyEN) from the submerged culture of Pleurotus albidus, a promising species for farming and biomass production, were analyzed for their chemical composition and structure and immunomodulatory effects on macrophages. Compositional (HPAEC-PAD and HPSEC-RID/MWD) and structural (FT-IR, 1D- and 2D-NMR) analyses identified BaCW and MyEX as β-(1,6)-branched β-(1,3)-glucans, BaHW and MyEN as α-(1,3)-(1,2)-branched α-(1,6)-glucans, and BaHA as a mixture of α-(1,6)- and β-(1,3)-glucans. BaCW and MyEX stimulated the production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and nitric oxide (NO), but not interleukin-6 (IL-6), and decreased phagocytosis of zymosan particles. In contrast, BaHW and MyEN induced TNF-α, NO and IL-6 production, and increased zymosan phagocytosis, while BaHA displayed intermediary effects in comparison the other polysaccharides. In conclusion, the basidiome and the submerged culture of P. albidus are sources of easily extractable α- and β-glucans with potential immunomodulatory effects.

Myeloperoxidase deficiency enhances zymosan phagocytosis associated with up-regulation of surface expression of CD11b in mouse neutrophils

Myeloperoxidase (MPO), a major component of neutrophils, catalyzes the production of hypochlorous acid (HOCl) from hydrogen peroxide and chloride anion. Phagocytosis is a critical event induced by neutrophils for host defense and inflammation. Interestingly, we found that MPO-deficient (MPO−/−) neutrophils engulfed larger amounts of zymosan than wild-type neutrophils. Blocking of the CD11b subunit of complement receptor 3 (CR3) as well as inhibition of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) dramatically reduced zymosan phagocytosis. In contrast, blocking of dectin-1, toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), or spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) had no significant effects on phagocytosis. Western blotting analysis showed that inhibition of FAK decreased the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, indicating that ERK1/2 is a downstream regulator of FAK in neutrophils. Importantly, we found that cell surface expression of CD11b and phosphorylation of ERK1/2 was significantly higher in zymosan-stimulated MPO−/− neutrophils than in zymosan-stimulated wild-type neutrophils. Pretreatment with the MPO inhibitor 4-aminobenzoic acid hydrazide dramatically enhanced both zymosan phagocytosis and the surface expression of CD11b in wild-type neutrophils, but not in MPO−/− neutrophils. Collectively, these results strongly suggest that up-regulation of the CD11b/FAK/ERK signaling pathway due to absence of MPO enhances the zymosan phagocytic activity of mouse neutrophils.

Impaired antibody response and phagocytosis in goats fed a diet low in cobalt

Cobalt (Co) is utilized by rumen microflora to produce vitamin B12. The aim of the present study was to determine whether feeding newly-weaned goats a diet containing low levels of Co results in impairment of neutrophil function, antibody production and/or lymphocyte proliferative responses. Forty, ten week old goats were fed a commercially-prepared concentrate (150g/day) and Rhodesgrass hay ad libitum. This diet contained Co at <0.1mg/kg dry matter. The goats were divided into a control group and a treated group (both n=20). Goats in the treated group were supplemented with bi-monthly subcutaneous injections of 2mg of hydroxycobalamin. Two months after weaning, the goats were immunized with keyhole limpet haemocyanin (KLH). A luminol-dependent chemiluminescence (CL) assay was employed to measure the oxidative respiratory burst of neutrophils during phagocytosis of zymosan A. The lymphocyte proliferative response to phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) and pokeweed mitogen (PWM) was assessed. The controls goats demonstrated a significantly lower antibody (IgG) response to KLH compared with the Co-supplemented goats that was apparent 1 week post immunization and was maintained for the 8 week observation period. Neutrophils from the Co-restricted group demonstrated significantly lower CL responses to opsonized zymosan A. Lymphocytes from the control and treated goats did not differ in their mitogenic responses to PHA and PWM. These results demonstrate that goats fed a diet low in Co exhibited impaired antibody and phagocytic responses.