Static Adhesion Assays Research Articles

Cyclophilin A is a ligand for RAGE in thrombo-inflammation.

Cyclophilin A (CyPA) induces leucocyte recruitment and platelet activation upon release into the extracellular space. Extracellular CyPA therefore plays a critical role in immuno-inflammatory responses in tissue injury and thrombosis upon platelet activation. To date, CD147 (EMMPRIN) has been described as the primary receptor mediating extracellular effects of CyPA in platelets and leucocytes. The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) shares inflammatory and prothrombotic properties and has also been found to have similar ligands as CD147. In this study, we investigated the role of RAGE as a previously unknown interaction partner for CyPA. Confocal imaging, proximity ligation, co-immunoprecipitation, and atomic force microscopy were performed and demonstrated an interaction of CyPA with RAGE on the cell surface. Static and dynamic cell adhesion and chemotaxis assays towards extracellular CyPA using human leucocytes and leucocytes from RAGE-deficient Ager-/- mice were conducted. Inhibition of RAGE abrogated CyPA-induced effects on leucocyte adhesion and chemotaxis in vitro. Accordingly, Ager-/- mice showed reduced leucocyte recruitment and endothelial adhesion towards CyPA in vivo. In wild-type mice, we observed a downregulation of RAGE on leucocytes when endogenous extracellular CyPA was reduced. We furthermore evaluated the role of RAGE for platelet activation and thrombus formation upon CyPA stimulation. CyPA-induced activation of platelets was found to be dependent on RAGE, as inhibition of RAGE, as well as platelets from Ager-/- mice showed a diminished activation and thrombus formation upon CyPA stimulation. CyPA-induced signalling through RAGE was found to involve central signalling pathways including the adaptor protein MyD88, intracellular Ca2+ signalling, and NF-κB activation. We propose RAGE as a hitherto unknown receptor for CyPA mediating leucocyte as well as platelet activation. The CyPA-RAGE interaction thus represents a novel mechanism in thrombo-inflammation.

Assessment of Novel Erythroid Signaling Pathways Modulating Hydroxyurea-Mediated Reduction of Vaso-Occlusive Adhesive Interactions in Early Precursors of Sickle Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

Sickle cell disease (SCD) affects ~100,000 Americans and millions worldwide, with healthcare costs in the U.S. exceeding $1 billion annually to treat frequent and unpredictable vaso-occlusive episodes (VOEs). In addition to fetal hemoglobin induction, hydroxyurea (HU) reduces the frequency of VOEs by increasing nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and decreasing adhesion receptor expression and RBC-endothelial interactions. Very late antigen-4 (VLA-4), the best characterized adhesion receptor in SCD, is highly expressed on circulating reticulocytes (immature RBCs) and white blood cells (WBCs) during VOEs and in SCD patients with severe disease phenotypes and, decreased in response to HU therapy. Like other integrins, VLA-4 is functionally regulated by cell signaling pathways to modulate activity and binding affinity to a wide variety of ligands that are elevated in the SCD micro-environment. There is highly intriguing evidence showing HU modulates adhesion by upregulating a NO/cGMP-dependent pathway to decrease adhesion receptor activity however specific mechanisms remain unclear. The objective of this study was to assess rapid cell signaling pathways involved in HU-mediated reduction in VLA-4 binding to endothelial vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1). Whole blood (WB) was obtained from patients with SCD at benign clinic visits according to IRB-approved protocols. WB density-gradient centrifugation was used to isolate hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and WBCs from the buffy coat layer and, a CD71 monoclonal antibody (Ab) coupled with magnetic beads to isolate reticulocytes from the packed RBC layer. HSCs were matured to erythroblasts (EBs) in appropriate cell culture media and flow cytometric analyses assessed purity of blood samples using CD235a (exclusive WBC marker) and CD45 (exclusive RBC marker) Abs . Blood samples were pretreated with and without a therapeutically relevant hydroxyurea concentration (50mcM) followed by perfusion through micro-fluidic channels coated with VCAM-1 during pulsatile, shear flow (1.67Hz, 1.0 dyne/cm 2). Additionally, EBs were treated with HU combined and 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1- one (ODQ; NO-dependent guanylate cyclase inhibitor). Adhered cells were quantified to establish an adhesion index. The non-parametric Wilcoxon matched pairs signed rank test was used to test the statistical differences between groups. Data are presented as mean ± standard error of mean. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. There was a significant decrease in WB (p=0.01) and reticulocyte (p<0.0001) adhesion to VCAM-1 in HU-treated samples however, there was no effect on WBC (p>0.99) adhesion suggesting reticulocytes reduce the adhesive burden of blood cells in WB adhesion assays and modulation of VLA-4 binding differs in sickle RBCs when compared to WBCs. More recently, preliminary data from my lab demonstrated that EBs pretreated with HU reduces VLA-4 binding to VCAM-1 (from 126.5 ± 29.42 to 109.5 ± 29.09) by cGMP-dependent mechanisms (HU + ODQ; from 109.5 ± 29.09 to 120.2 ± 42.80). Laboratory-based static and flow adhesion assays have been used for decades to describe adhesion in SCD since earlier studies established that sickle RBCs are more adherent than non-sickle blood cells and, adhesion correlates with SCD severity. For example, the adhesion assay described above has been used to demonstrate that VLA-4 binding can stratify SCD patients based on disease severity and predict impending VOEs. Additionally, reticulocyte and HbF levels strongly correlate with VLA-4 binding to VCAM-1 and, VLA-4-mediated adhesion is increased during patient-reported VOEs and decreased in HU-treated SCD patients. This is the first SCD study demonstrating the role of HU in modulating VLA-4 binding to endothelial VCAM-1 through rapid erythroid signaling pathways. There is also compelling evidence involving downregulation of VLA-4 activity/binding affinity through NO/cGMP dependent mechanisms and enhancement of VLA-4 binding by kinase-dependent pathways. HU has also been shown to modulate adhesion by upregulating a NO/cGMP-dependent pathway to decrease adhesion receptor activity. Collectively, these data suggest that VLA-4 mechanisms may be targeted to therapeutically inhibit vaso-occlusive adhesive events that promote VOEs in SCD.

Platelet Angiopoietin-1 Protects Against Experimental Lung Metastasis By Limiting Tumor Cell Extravasation

In addition to their fundamental roles in hemostasis, platelets can contribute to both tumor growth and metastasis. However, despite being a reservoir for pro-angiogenic and metastatic cytokines, platelets also harbor negative regulators of tumor progression. One such regulator is angiopoietin-1 (Angpt1), an angiogenic cytokine that preserves vascular integrity by promoting cell-cell endothelial interactions downstream of its receptor, the receptor tyrosine kinase Tie-2. In addition, Angpt1 also protects against tumor cell metastasis through an unidentified mechanism. Although platelets are believed to be the primary source of Angpt1 in circulation, the contributions of platelet-derived Angpt1 to tumor growth and metastasis have not been investigated. In this study, we demonstrate that platelet Angpt1 is selectively upregulated in the spontaneous PyMT breast cancer mouse model, but not pre-clinical models of melanoma or non-malignant inflammation (colitis), suggesting a distinct contribution of platelet Angpt1 in breast cancer. To test whether deletion of platelet Angpt1 affects tumor growth or metastasis, we generated mice selectively lacking Angpt1 in megakaryocytes and their platelet progeny (Angpt1 fl/flPF4 Cre, referred to as Angpt1 Plt KO). Plasma Angpt1 was undetectable in Angpt1 Plt KO mice, comparable to mice deficient in the megakaryocyte differentiation factor thrombopoietin, which display approximately 10% of platelet counts. Taken together, these findings establish that platelets are the principal source of circulating Angpt1. In tumor implantation studies, orthotopic tumor growth and vascularization were unaffected in Angpt1 Plt KO mice in pre-clinical models of breast cancer and melanoma. However, Angpt1 Plt KO mice had increased experimental metastasis during both early (3-24 hours) and late (10 days, Figure 1) stages of tumor colonization in both breast cancer and melanoma models, revealing an important role for platelet Angpt1 in restraining the latter stages of tumor metastasis following tumor engraftment. Next, we sought to mechanistically determine how platelet Angpt1 limits tumor cell metastasis. Static adhesion assays demonstrated that platelets lacking Angpt1 did not affect tumor cell attachment to endothelial cells when compared to platelets containing Angpt1. However, Angpt1 Plt KO mice had increased tumor cell retention and extravasation in their lungs following experimental metastasis (3-24 hours), suggesting that platelet Angpt1 limits endothelial permeabilization and the trans-endothelial migration of tumor cells out of blood vessels. Most importantly, all intravascular tumor cells were found within platelet-rich microthrombi immediately after sequestration in the lungs. We therefore conclude that localized Angpt1 released by activated platelets at the site of tumor cell arrest likely reprograms the surrounding endothelium to limit successful tumor cell extravasation. These findings reveal an unexpected role for platelets in restricting tumor cell metastasis.

Plasma Treatment of PDMS for Microcontact Printing (μCP) of Lectins Decreases Silicone Transfer and Increases the Adhesion of Bladder Cancer Cells.

The present study investigates silicone transfer occurring during microcontact printing (μCP) of lectins with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) stamps and its impact on the adhesion of cells. Static adhesion assays and single-cell force spectroscopy (SCFS) are used to compare adhesion of nonmalignant (HCV29) and cancer (HT1376) bladder cells, respectively, to high-affinity lectin layers (PHA-L and WGA, respectively) prepared by physical adsorption and μCP. The chemical composition of the μCP lectin patterns was monitored by time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). We show that the amount of transferred silicone in the μCP process depends on the preprocessing of the PDMS stamps. It is revealed that silicone contamination within the patterned lectin layers inhibits the adhesion of bladder cells, and the work of adhesion is lower for μCP lectins than for drop-cast lectins. The binding capacity of microcontact printed lectins was larger when the PDMS stamps were treated with UV ozone plasma as compared to sonication in ethanol and deionized water. ToF-SIMS data show that ozone-based treatment of PDMS stamps used for μCP of lectin reduces the silicone contamination in the imprinting protocol regardless of stamp geometry (flat vs microstructured). The role of other possible contributors, such as the lectin conformation and organization of lectin layers, is also discussed.

Adhesion of human pathogenic bacteria to endothelial cells is facilitated by fibronectin interaction

Human pathogenic bacteria circulating in the bloodstream need to find a way to interact with endothelial cells (ECs) lining the blood vessels to infect and colonise the host. The extracellular matrix (ECM) of ECs might represent an attractive initial target for bacterial interaction, as many bacterial adhesins have reported affinities to ECM proteins, in particular to fibronectin (Fn). Here, we analysed the general role of EC-expressed Fn for bacterial adhesion. For this, we evaluated the expression levels of ECM coding genes in different ECs, revealing that Fn is the highest expressed gene and thereby, it is highly abundant in the ECM environment of ECs. The role of Fn as a mediator in bacterial cell-host adhesion was evaluated in adhesion assays of Acinetobacter baumannii, Bartonella henselae, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Staphylococcus aureus to ECs. The assays demonstrated that bacteria colocalised with Fn fibres, as observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Fn removal from the ECM environment (FN1 knockout ECs) diminished bacterial adherence to ECs in both static and dynamic adhesion assays to varying extents, as evaluated via absolute quantification using qPCR. Interactions between adhesins and Fn might represent the crucial step for the adhesion of human-pathogenic Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria targeting the ECs as a niche of infection.

Gold Nanoparticles Supported on Ceria Nanoparticles Modulate Leukocyte-Endothelium Cell Interactions and Inflammation in Type 2 Diabetes.

Gold-ceria nanoparticles (Au/CeO2) are known to have antioxidant properties. However, whether these nanoparticles can provide benefits in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) remains unknown. This work aimed to study the effects of Au/CeO2 nanoparticles at different rates of gold purity (10, 4.4, 1.79 and 0.82) on leukocyte-endothelium interactions and inflammation in T2D patients. Anthropometric and metabolic parameters, leukocyte-endothelium interactions, ROS production and NF-κB expression were assessed in 57 T2D patients and 51 healthy subjects. T2D patients displayed higher Body Mass Index (BMI) and characteristic alterations in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. ROS production was increased in leukocytes of T2D patients and decreased by Au/CeO2 at 0.82% gold. Interestingly, Au/CeO2 0.82% modulated leukocyte-endothelium interactions (the first step in the atherosclerotic process) by increasing leukocyte rolling velocity and decreasing rolling flux and adhesion in T2D. A static adhesion assay also revealed diminished leukocyte-endothelium interactions by Au/CeO2 0.82% treatment. NF-κB (p65) levels increased in T2D patients and were reduced by Au/CeO2 treatment. Cell proliferation, viability, and apoptosis assays demonstrated no toxicity produced by Au/CeO2 nanoparticles. These results demonstrate that Au/CeO2 nanoparticles at 0.82% exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions in the leukocyte-endothelium interaction of T2D patients, suggesting a protective role against the appearance of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases when this condition exists.

Facile preparation of anti-biofouling reverse osmosis membrane embedded with polydopamine-nano copper functionality: Performance and mechanism

In this study, we conducted a facile membrane modification process by mild electroless deposition of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) integrating polydopamine (PDA) coating to combat biofouling of thin-film composite (TFC) reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. Various experimental tests and characterization techniques have been applied to reveal the anti-biofouling performance and underlying mechanism of prepared membranes (i.e., Cu/PDA/TFC membrane). The successful functionalization with PDA and CuNPs highly enhanced the anti-fouling properties of Cu/PDA/TFC membrane, as evidenced by 45%, 40% and 37% respectively lower adsorption of bovine serum albumin, humic acid, and lipopolysaccharide in static adhesion assays. A significant decreased membrane-foulant adhesion forces by 63% was observed for Cu/PDA/TFC membrane compared to control membrane, which is ascribed to enhanced membrane surface hydrophilicity after PDA coating. Moreover, The Cu/PDA/TFC membranes presented significantly decreased cell viability (E. coli from 90% to 22%, P. aeruginosa from 89% to 26%, and S. aureus from 84% to 18%), and reduced adenosine tri-phosphate (ATP) content after 3 h bacterial exposure (E. coli by 57%, P. aeruginosa by 50%, and S. aureus by 56%). Assessment on cell viability and metabolic activities of bacteria deposited on membrane indicate that contact-mediated toxicity contributed to the antibacterial mechanism of Cu/PDA//TFC membrane. In addition, the reduced viability of the planktonic cells at the membrane surroundings under durable copper leaching (∼17 mg/m2 to ∼9 mg/m2) suggest that release of antibacterial Cu2+ ions also played an important role in membrane antibacterial mechanism. Both contact-mediated and Cu2+ release-based antibacterial mechanisms endow Cu/PDA/TFC membrane with excellent anti-biofouling capacity under long-term dynamic condition, with 45% lower flux decline compared to the control membrane.

Structural characterization and antagonistic effect against P-selectin-mediated function of SFF-32, a fucoidan fraction from Sargassum fusiforme

Ethnopharmacological relevanceSargassum fusiforme (Harvey) Setchell, or Haizao, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) since at least the eighth century a.d. S. fusiforme is an essential component of several Chinese formulas, including Haizao Yuhu Decoction, used to treat goiter, and Neixiao Lei Li Wan used to treat scrofuloderma. The pharmacological efficacy of S. fusiforme may be related to its anti-inflammatory effect. Aim of the studyTo determine the structural characteristics of SFF-32, a fucoidan fraction from S. fusiforme, and its antagonistic effect against P-selectin mediated function. Materials and methodsThe primary structure of SFF-32 was determined using methylation/GC–MS and NMR analysis. Surface morphology and solution conformation of SFF-32 were determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Congo red test, and circular dichroic (CD) chromatography, respectively. The inhibitory effects of SFF-32 against the binding of P-selectin to HL-60 cells were evaluated using flow cytometry, static adhesion assay, and parallel-plate flow chamber assay. Furthermore, the blocking effect of SFF-32 on the interaction between P-selectin and PSGL-1 was evaluated using an in vitro protein binding assay. ResultsThe main linkage types of SFF-32 were proven to →[3)-α-l-Fucp-(1→3,4)-α-l-Fucp-(1]2→[4)-β-d-Manp-(1→3)-d-GlcAp-(1]2→4)-β-d-Manp-(1→3)-β-d-Glcp-(1→4)-β-d-Manp-(1→2,3)-β-d-Galp-(1→4)-β-d-Manp-(1→[4)-α-l-Rhap-(1]3→. The sulfated unit or terminal xylose residues were attached to the backbone through the C-3 of some fucose residues and terminal xylose residues were attached to C-3 of galactose residues. Moreover, SFF-32 disrupted P-selectin-mediated cell adhesion and rolling as well as blocked the interaction between P-selectin and its physiological ligand PSGL-1 in a dose-dependent manner. ConclusionsBlocking the binding between P-selectin and PSGL-1 is the possible underlying mechanism by which SFF-32 inhibits P-selectin-mediated function, which demonstrated that SFF-32 may be a potential anti-inflammatory lead compound.

Galectin‐9 activates platelet ITAM receptors glycoprotein VI and C‐type lectin‐like receptor‐2

BackgroundPlatelets are multifunctional cellular mediators in many physiological and pathophysiological processes such as thrombosis, angiogenesis, and inflammation. Several members of galectins, a family of carbohydrate‐binding proteins with a broad range of immunomodulatory actions, have been reported to activate platelets. ObjectiveIn this study, we investigated the role of galectin‐9 (Gal‐9) as a novel ligand for platelet glycoprotein VI (GPVI) and C‐type lectin‐like receptor 2 (CLEC‐2). MethodsPlatelet spreading, aggregation, and P‐selectin expression in response to Gal‐9 were measured in washed platelet suspensions via static adhesion assay, light transmission aggregometry, and flow cytometry, respectively. Solid‐phase binding assay and protein phosphorylation studies were utilized to validate the interaction between Gal‐9 and GPVI, and immunoprecipitation for detecting CLEC‐2 phosphorylation. Wild‐type (WT), GPVI‐knockout (Gp6−/−), and GPVI and CLEC‐2‐double knockout (Gp6−/−/Gp1ba‐Cre‐Clec1bfl/fl) mice were used. ResultsWe have shown that recombinant Gal‐9 stimulates aggregation in human and mouse washed platelets dose‐dependently. Platelets from both species adhere and spread on immobilized Gal‐9 and express P‐selectin. Gal‐9 competitively inhibited the binding of human recombinant D1 and D2 domains of GPVI to collagen. Gal‐9 stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of CLEC‐2 and proteins known to lie downstream of GPVI and CLEC‐2 including spleen tyrosine kinase and linker of activated T cells in human platelets. GPVI‐deficient murine platelets exhibited significantly impaired aggregation in response to Gal‐9, which was further abrogated in GPVI and CLEC‐2‐double‐deficient platelets. ConclusionsWe have identified Gal‐9 as a novel platelet agonist that induces activation through interaction with GPVI and CLEC‐2.

Static Adhesion Assay for Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells.

Blood endothelial cells (ECs) constitute the primary physical barrier to be crossed by circulating leukocytes, once attracted to a site of ongoing inflammation/infection. Upon a pro-inflammatory stimulus, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF), ECs upregulate adhesion molecule expression to favor the adhesion and, subsequently, the transendothelial migration of the attracted lymphocytes. To address the ability of a cell to transmigrate through a monolayer of ECs, the classical transmigration assay is usually performed (Muller and Luscinskas, 2008). In the present protocol, adapted from Safuan et al. (2012), we describe an in vitro assay for assessing the functionality of the second step of the transendothelial migration, i.e., the firm adhesion of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) to ECs, under static conditions. By pre-incubating primary human umbilical cord ECs (HUVECs) with either innate lymphoid cell progenitors (ILCPs) or TNF, we were able to upregulate adhesion molecules on the EC surface. Then, by adding total PBMCs, we were able to both quantitatively and qualitatively analyze the cellular subtype and number of PBMCs that adhered to the pre-treated ECs. The important advantage of this technique is the possibility to perform functional studies on ECs biology since, differently from transwell-based strategies, it allows a good recovery of ECs at the end of the assay. Overall, this assay enables to interrogate how/if different stimulations/cell types can influence EC ability to retain PBMCs in vitro, under static conditions. Graphic abstract: The workflow of the Static Adhesion Assay.

Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of novel pyrrolidinone small-molecule Formyl peptide receptor 2 agonists

A series of Formyl peptide receptor 2 small molecule agonists with a pyrrolidinone scaffold, derived from a combination of pharmacophore modelling and docking studies, were designed and synthesized. The GLASS (GPCR-Ligand Association) database was screened using a pharmacophore model. The most promising novel ligand structures were chosen and then tested in cellular assays (calcium mobilization and β-arrestin assays). Amongst the selected ligands, two pyrrolidinone compounds (7 and 8) turned out to be the most active. Moreover compound 7 was able to reduce the number of adherent neutrophils in a human neutrophil static adhesion assay which indicates its anti-inflammatory and proresolving properties. Further exploration and optimization of new ligands showed that heterocyclic rings, e.g. pyrazole directly connected to the pyrrolidinone scaffold, provide good stability and a boost in the agonistic activity. The compounds of most interest (7 and 30) were tested in an ERK phosphorylation assay, demonstrating selectivity towards FPR2 over FPR1. Compound 7 was examined in an in vivo mouse pharmacokinetic study. Compound 7 may be a valuable in vivo tool and help improve understanding of the role of the FPR2 receptor in the resolution of inflammation process.

An artificial membrane binding protein-polymer surfactant nanocomplex facilitates stem cell adhesion to the cartilage extracellular matrix

One of the major challenges within the emerging field of injectable stem cell therapies for articular cartilage (AC) repair is the retention of sufficient viable cell numbers at the site of injury. Even when delivered via intra-articular injection, the number of stem cells retained at the target is often low and declines rapidly over time. To address this challenge, an artificial plasma membrane binding nanocomplex was rationally designed to provide human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) with increased adhesion to articular cartilage tissue. The nanocomplex comprises the extracellular matrix (ECM) binding peptide of a placenta growth factor-2 (PlGF-2) fused to a supercharged green fluorescent protein (scGFP), which was electrostatically conjugated to anionic polymer surfactant chains to yield [S−]scGFP_PlGF2. The [S−]scGFP_PlGF2 nanocomplex spontaneously inserts into the plasma membrane of hMSCs, is not cytotoxic, and does not inhibit differentiation. The nanocomplex-modified hMSCs showed a significant increase in affinity for immobilised collagen II, a key ECM protein of cartilage, in both static and dynamic cell adhesion assays. Moreover, the cells adhered strongly to bovine ex vivo articular cartilage explants resulting in high cell numbers. These findings suggest that the re-engineering of hMSC membranes with [S−]scGFP_PlGF2 could improve the efficacy of injectable stem cell-based therapies for the treatment of damaged articular cartilage.

Multimerin-1 Binds to Specific Motifs in Vessel Wall Collagens and Contributes to Thrombosis: Novel Insights Regarding the Mechanisms That Support Human and Mouse Platelet Adhesion

Multimerin-1 (MMRN1) is a homopolymeric glycoprotein stored in platelets and vascular endothelial cells for regulated release that enhances platelet adhesion to collagen. We tested Mmrn1 contributions to platelet adhesion ex vivo and in vivo using selective deficient mice and triple-helical collagen mimetic peptides to evaluate a putative Mmrn1-selective binding motif. Selective Mmrn1-deficient (Mmrn1-/-) mice were generated by crossing Mmrn1+/- “knockout-first allele” (Mmrn1flxneo/+ from European Mutant Mouse Archive) with flp deleter mice, and then with transgenic global cre deleter mice. The resultant heterozygous Mmrn1+/- mice were crossed with wild type (Mmrn1+/+) mice to remove the cre and flp transgenes. Inbred, gender-mixed, age-matched Mmrn1+/+ and Mmrn1-/- mice were then used for in vitro and in vivo assessments of platelet function. The following highly conserved GPAGPOGPX sequences in fibrillar collagens (that are distinct from collagen motifs that bind von Willebrand factor [VWF], platelet integrin alpha2beta1 or platelet GPVI) were identified to bind MMRN1: GPAGPOGPI (type I), GPAGPOGPV (type II), and GPAGPOGPQ (type III). In static adhesion assays with washed human platelets, triple-helical GPAGPOGPX peptides enhanced platelet adhesion when co-presented with the alpha2beta1-binding peptide GFOGER, like the VWF-binding peptide derived from type III collagen which was tested as a positive control. Static platelet adhesion to GPAGPOGPX peptides was also enhanced by agonists that induce MMRN1 release (p<0.02 for each comparison, where family-wise α=0.05, k=7), and co-presentation of GPAGPOGPX peptides with both GFOGER and III-23 maximized platelet adhesion (p<0.02 for each comparison, where family-wise α=0.05, k=5), providing insights on how MMRN1 and VWF synergistically enhance platelet adhesion. In high shear (1500 s-1) flow assays of platelet adhesion, platelet adhesion to triple-helical GPAGPOGPX peptides that were co-presented with GFOGER was greater than adhesion to GFOGER alone (p=0.015). Mmrn1-/- mice were viable and fertile, with normal blood cell counts and bleeding times (respective medians [ranges] for Mmrn1+/+ versus Mmrn1-/- mice: 300 [60-900] seconds vs. 330 [90-900] seconds, p=0.07), and confirmed Mmrn1 deficiency by Western blot analyses of platelets. In assays of platelet adhesion at high shear (1500 s-1), platelets from Mmrn1-/- mice showed a significant impairment in adhesion to full-length fibrillar collagen (% surface area covered by platelets ± SEM for Mmrn1+/+ versus Mmrn1-/- mice: 37 ± 3% vs. 18 ± 2%, p<0.001) and in collagen-induced aggregation in assays with washed platelets (20-30% reduction in maximal aggregation for Mmrn1-/- platelets compared to Mmrn1+/+ platelets, p<0.05). In assays of washed platelet adhesion, Mmrn1-/- platelets showed minimal static adhesionto the GPAGPOGPX peptide, unlike Mmrn1+/+ platelets(p<0.0001). Assays of platelet adhesion under conditions of flow indicated that co-presentation of GPAGPOGPX with GFOGER enhanced the adhesion of activated Mmrn1+/+ but not Mmrn1-/- platelets. Intravital microscopyexperiments indicated that Mmrn1-/- mice also had impaired platelet adhesion in arterioles treated with ferric chloride (platelets deposited per minute ± SEM for Mmrn1+/+ versus Mmrn1-/- mice: Mmrn1+/+ : 82 ± 4 vs. Mmrn1-/-: 42 ± 6, p<0.001), and the thrombi that formed in Mmrn1-deficient mice were smaller and less stable, with delayed vessel occlusion times (respective medians [ranges] for Mmrn1+/+ versus Mmrn1-/- mice: 17 [10-35] min vs. 35 [22-40] min, p<0.001). Taken together, our studies illustrate that multimerin-1 has functions in supporting and enhancing platelet adhesive function, in vivo and in vitro, and that fibrillar collagens contain highly conserved GPAGPOGPX motifs that bind Mmrn1 and contribute to platelet adhesion. DisclosuresNo relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Sickle-trait hemoglobin reduces adhesion to both CD36 and EPCR by Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes.

Sickle-trait hemoglobin protects against severe Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Severe malaria is governed in part by the expression of the Plasmodium falciparum Erythrocyte Membrane Protein 1 (PfEMP1) that are encoded by var genes, specifically those variants that bind Endothelial Protein C Receptor (EPCR). In this study, we investigate the effect of sickle-trait on parasite var gene expression and function in vitro and in field-collected parasites. We mapped var gene reads generated from RNA sequencing in parasite cultures in normal and sickle-cell trait blood throughout the asexual lifecycle. We investigated sickle-trait effect on PfEMP1 interactions with host receptors CD36 and EPCR using static adhesion assays and flow cytometry. Var expression in vivo was compared by assembling var domains sequenced from total RNA in parasites infecting Malian children with HbAA and HbAS. Sickle-trait did not alter the abundance or type of var gene transcripts in vitro, nor the abundance of overall transcripts or of var functional domains in vivo. In adhesion assays using recombinant host receptors, sickle-trait reduced adhesion by 73–86% to CD36 and 83% to EPCR. Similarly, sickle-trait reduced the surface expression of EPCR-binding PfEMP1. In conclusion, Sickle-cell trait does not directly affect var gene transcription but does reduce the surface expression and function of PfEMP1. This provides a direct mechanism for protection against severe malaria conferred by sickle-trait hemoglobin.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02645604.

Adhesion of Staphylococcus aureus to Candida albicans During Co-Infection Promotes Bacterial Dissemination Through the Host Immune Response.

Interspecies interactions greatly influence the virulence, drug tolerance and ultimately the outcome of polymicrobial biofilm infections. A synergistic interaction is observed between the fungus Candida albicans and the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. These species are both normal commensals of most healthy humans and co-exist in several niches of the host. However, under certain circumstances, they can cause hospital-acquired infections with high morbidity and mortality rates. Using a mouse model of oral co-infection, we previously showed that an oral infection with C. albicans predisposes to a secondary systemic infection with S. aureus. Here, we unraveled this intriguing mechanism of bacterial dissemination. Using static and dynamic adhesion assays in combination with single-cell force spectroscopy, we identified C. albicans Als1 and Als3 adhesins as the molecular players involved in the interaction with S. aureus and in subsequent bacterial dissemination. Remarkably, we identified the host immune response as a key element required for bacterial dissemination. We found that the level of immunosuppression of the host plays a critical yet paradoxical role in this process. In addition, secretion of candidalysin, the C. albicans peptide responsible for immune activation and cell damage, is required for C. albicans colonization and subsequent bacterial dissemination. The physical interaction with C. albicans enhances bacterial uptake by phagocytic immune cells, thereby enabling an opportunity to disseminate.

Synthesis and evaluation of novel cyclopentane urea FPR2 agonists and their potential application in the treatment of cardiovascular inflammation.

The discovery of natural specialized pro-resolving mediators and their corresponding receptors, such as formyl peptide receptor 2 (FPR2), indicated that resolution of inflammation (RoI) is an active process which could be harnessed for innovative approaches to tame pathologies with underlying chronic inflammation. In this work, homology modelling, molecular docking and pharmacophore studies were deployed to assist the rationalization of the structure-activity relationships of known FPR2 agonists. The developed pharmacophore hypothesis was then used in parallel with the homology model for the design of novel ligand structures and in virtual screening. In the first round of optimization compound 8, with a cyclopentane core, was chosen as the most promising agonist (β-arrestin recruitment EC50=20nM and calcium mobilization EC50=740nM). In a human neutrophil static adhesion assay, compound 8 decreased the number of adherent neutrophils in a concentration dependent manner. Further investigation led to the more rigid cycloleucines (compound 22 and 24) with improved ADME profiles and maintaining FPR2 activity. Overall, we identified novel cyclopentane urea FPR2 agonists with promising ADMET profiles and the ability to suppress the inflammatory process by inhibiting the neutrophil adhesion cascade, which indicates their anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving properties.

Basal anti-inflammatory responses in cultured endothelial cells exposed to two conjugated linoleic acids

AbstractConjugated linoleic acid (CLA) isomers have been shown to possess anti-atherosclerotic properties, which may be related to the downregulation of inflammatory pathways. Whether low concentrations of CLAs are able to affect basal, unstimulated endothelial cell (EC) responses is not clear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of two CLAs (cis-9, trans-11 and trans-10, cis-12) on basal inflammatory responses by ECs.EA.hy926 cells (HUVEC lineage) were cultured under standard conditions and exposed to CLAs (1 and 10 μM) for 48 hours. MTT assay was performed to determine cell viability; incorporation of FA was confirmed by gas chromatography; inflammatory mediators were assessed by multiplex immunoassay; the relative expression of genes encoding transcription factors and inflammatory cytokines was assessed through real-time PCR and static adhesion assay was used to evaluate monocyte attachment to the EC monolayer.CLAs were incorporated into ECs in a dose-dependent manner. Pre-treatment with CLA9,11 (1 uM) significantly reduced unstimulated, basal concentrations of MCP-1 (p &lt; 0.05), and CLA10,12 at 10 uM had the same effect (p &lt; 0.05). Both CLAs at 10 uM increased the relative expression of NFκβ (p &lt; 0.01 and p &lt; 0.05, respectively), while decreasing the relative expression of PPARα (p &lt; 0.0001), COX-2 (p &lt; 0.0001) and IL-6 (p &lt; 0.0001). In contrast, no effect was observed in the adhesion assay for either CLA.These results suggest that both CLAs at a low concentration have a neutral or modest anti-inflammatory effect in basal conditions, which may influence endothelial function and risk of vascular disease. Interestingly, at these low CLA concentrations some pro-inflammatory genes are upregulated while others are down regulated. This suggests complex effects of CLAs on inflammatory pathways.

Neuraminidase-3 Is a Negative Regulator of LFA-1 Adhesion.

Within the plasma membrane environment, glycoconjugate-receptor interactions play an important role in the regulation of cell-cell interactions. We have investigated the mechanism and activity of the human neuraminidase (NEU) isoenzyme, NEU3, on T cell adhesion receptors. The enzyme is known to prefer glycolipid substrates, and we confirmed that exogenous enzyme altered the glycolipid composition of cells. NEU3 was able to modify the sialic acid content of purified LFA-1 in vitro. Enzymatic activity of NEU3 resulted in re-organization of LFA-1 into large clusters on the membrane. This change was facilitated by an increase in the lateral mobility of LFA-1 upon NEU3 treatment. Changes to the lateral mobility of LFA-1 were specific for NEU3 activity, and we observed no significant change in diffusion when cells were treated with a bacterial NEU (NanI). Furthermore, we found that NEU3 treatment of cells increased surface expression levels of LFA-1. We observed that NEU3-treated cells had suppressed LFA-1 adhesion to an ICAM-1 coated surface using an in vitro static adhesion assay. These results establish that NEU3 can modulate glycoconjugate composition and contribute to the regulation of integrin activity. We propose that NEU3 should be investigated to determine its role on LFA-1 within the inflammatory cascade.

Reveal the Neutrophil: Elucidating the Role of a Neutrophil-Specific JAK2-V617F Mutation

Introduction: Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are characterized by monoclonal proliferation of myeloid cells. The clinical presentation of classic BCR-ABL negative MPN includes blood count changes, splenomegaly, chronic inflammation and, prognostically relevant, thrombosis. Within polycythemia vera, essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis, the most frequent genetic alteration is the point mutation V617F (VF) in the Jak2 gene. Due to an activation of leucocyte β1 and β2 integrins, in particular on neutrophils, JAK2-VF is driving thrombus formation (Edelmann et al., JCI, 2018). Thus, understanding the role of neutrophils within JAK2-VF-positive MPN is of special interest. We developed a murine JAK2-VF Catchup model of MPN that is characterized by the neutrophil-specific expression of JAK2-VF in combination with the fluorescent protein tdTomato allowing in-vivo two-photon microscopy. Neutrophil-specificity was achieved through a knock-in allele of Cre recombinase and tdTomato replacing exon 1 of Ly6G (Hasenberg et al., Nat Methods, 2015). Methods: The murine JAK2-VF Catchup model was developed by crossing JAK2+/loxP-VF-loxP mice and Ly6G+/Cre-tdTomato CatchupIVM-red mice. Experiments were performed in 12 weeks old JAK2+/loxP-VF-loxP Ly6G+/Cre-tdTomato CatchupIVM-red (JAK2+/VF Catchup) mice (n=5) and JAK2+/+ Ly6G+/Cre-tdTomato CatchupIVM-red (JAK2+/+ Catchup) mice (n=5) as wildtype (WT) controls. Whole blood cell counts and spleen weight were determined. Bone marrow (BM) cells were harvested from hind limbs followed by isolation of granulocytes using negative selection. In order to determine hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs), BM and spleen cell suspensions were analyzed by flow cytometry (FC). Using ICAM-1, VCAM-1, E-selectin and P-selectin, each with and without Fc-tag, adhesion properties of the isolated granulocytes were examined by either FC or microplate reader analysis. The expression of β1 integrin was further analyzed by FC. Results and Discussion: JAK2+/VF Catchup mice showed a slight but significant increase in platelet counts [1544±58.02 Gpt/l; WT: 1190±90.50 Gpt/l; p=0.011], with the mean value still remaining within the normal range. Hematocrit, red blood cell, white blood cell and neutrophil count as well as spleen weight were also within the normal range showing no differences from their WT controls. Interestingly, neutrophil and platelet counts of JAK2+/VF Catchup mice significantly correlated with one another [p=0.0251; R2=0.8529]. MPN-typical changes in number and composition of c-Kit+ HSPCs in either BM or spleen could not be found in JAK2+/VF Catchup mice. Directly compared to reliably MPN-developing Vav-1-Cre JAK2+/VF mice, JAK2+/VF Catchup mice showed significantly less megakaryocyte-erythroid progenitor (MEP), Lin- Sca1+ c-Kit+ (LSK) and multipotent progenitor cells (MPP) in the BM. In spleen of JAK2+/VF Catchup mice, the fractions of Lin- c-Kit+ (LK) and granulocyte-macrophage progenitor cells (GMP) were significantly lower compared to Vav-1-Cre JAK2+/VF mice. Thus, the neutrophil-specific JAK2-VF mutation does not lead to apparent numerical or compositional changes of HSPCs. These results show that a neutrophil-specific JAK2-VF mutation is not sufficient to induce a characteristic phenotype of JAK2-VF-positive MPN. The expression of β1 integrin on granulocytes was significantly increased in JAK2+/VF Catchup mice [fold change vs. control; 1.126±0.041; WT: 1.0±0.011; p=0.0194]. Unexpectedly, despite increased β1 integrin expression, the binding of granulocytes from JAK2+/VF Catchup mice to either ICAM-1, VCAM-1, E-selectin or P-selectin corresponded to that of their WT controls. Static adhesion and soluble ligand binding assays showed similar results. Since adhesion of granulocytes appeared unchanged in-vitro, we hypothesize that expression of JAK2-VF in neutrophils is not sufficient to overactivate integrins but secondary extrinsic signals (e.g. cytokines) may play a dominant role. Further experimentation is under way to elucidate this molecular mechanism. Conclusions: In order to dissect the properties of JAK2-VF-positive neutrophils, the JAK2-VF Catchup model represents a promising murine model of MPN. Herewith, the initiation of thrombosis and the development of other granulocyte-driven disease manifestations of JAK2-VF induced MPN can be thoroughly examined. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Aronia berry extract inhibits TNF-α-induced vascular endothelial inflammation through the regulation of STAT3.

BackgroundInflammation in endothelial cells induces production of inflammatory cytokines and monocytes adhesion, which are crucial events in the initiation of atherosclerosis. Aronia berry (Aronia meranocalpa), also called black chokeberry, contains abundant anthocyanins that have received considerable interest for their possible relations to vascular health.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate whether an anthocyanin-rich extract obtained from aronia berry can attenuate inflammatory responses in vascular endothelial cells.MethodsAs a model of vascular endothelial inflammation, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) pretreated with aronia berry extract were stimulated with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). The expression levels of cytokines and adhesion molecules were analyzed. To investigate the effects of aronia berry extract on the adhesion of THP-1 monocytic cell, the static adhesion assay was carried out. The possible molecular mechanisms by which aronia berry extract regulated vascular inflammatory responses were explored.ResultsThe mRNA expressions of interleukins (IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) upregulated by TNF-α were significantly suppressed by pretreatment with aronia berry extract. Aronia berry extract decreased TNF-α-induced monocyte/endothelial adhesion and suppressed vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) expression, but did not affect intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression. Moreover, aronia berry extract decreased the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and the nuclear levels of STAT3 and interferon regulatory transcription factor-1 (IRF1). The nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) was not inhibited by aronia berry extract.ConclusionAronia berry extract could exert anti-atherosclerotic effects on TNF-α-induced inflammation through inhibition of STAT3/IRF1 pathway in vascular endothelial cells.