Th2 Lymphocytes Research Articles

Impact of Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyposis on IL-12 and IL-8.

The pathophysiology of Chronic Rhinosinusitis is coordinated by distinct inflammatory reactions in different individuals. Inflammatory environments with a predominance of Th2 lymphocytes tend also to be rich in eosinophils. These environments are common during the formation of nasal polyps associated with aspirin intolerance, which is also marked by an increase in inflammatory mediators, especially IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13. Despite the significance of these inflammatory mediators, the relevance of IL-12 subunits' presence within eosinophilic nasal polyps, however, has been less studied. The current study aims to evaluate the presence of IL-12 subunits, IL-12p40 and IL-12p70, in eosinophilic nasal polyps and their correlations with IL-8 presence. We compared the concentrations of IL-8, IL12p40, and IL12p70 among samples of eosinophilic nasal polypoid tissue, eosinophilic nasal polypoid tissue associated with aspirin intolerance, and healthy nasal mucosa, using an indirect immunoassay (ELISA) kit. When compared to healthy nasal mucosa, there was a lower concentration of IL-8 in Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyp (CRSwNP) tissue. Aspirin Intolerant polypoid tissue also presented a lower concentration of IL-12 subunits compared to healthy nasal mucosa. There was no significant correlation between IL-8 and IL-12 in the eosinophilic polypoid conditions. In CRSwNP, there is a reduction in IL-8 and IL-12 subunits compared to control, with a lack of correlation between IL-12 and IL-8. The lack of correlation can be justified by a type two inflammatory storm environment.

Specific immunoglobulin G4 correlates with Th2 cytokine reduction in patients with allergic asthma treated by Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus subcutaneous immunotherapy

BackgroundThe modulations of lymphocyte subsets and cytokine production due to subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy (SCIT) are not fully clarified. ObjectiveWe investigated the changes in T-lymphocyte subsets and serum Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus-specific immunoglobulin G4 (Der-p sIgG4), as well as cytokine production during Der-p SCIT, in patients with allergic asthma. MethodsThis study involved 20 patients with allergic asthma who were receiving 156-week Der-p SCIT and 20 patients without SCIT (non-SCIT). We measured symptom and medication scores (SMS), serum Der-p sIgG4 levels, CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T regulatory (Treg), CD4+IL-4−IFN-γ+ T-helper (Th) 1, and CD4+IL-4+IFN-γ− Th2 lymphocyte percentages in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with/without Der-p extract stimulation at weeks 0, 4, 12, 16, 52, 104, and 156. Cytokine release inhibition assays were performed by incubation with serum from SCIT and non-SCIT patients, Der-p allergen, and PBMCs. Levels of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-13, IL-17, interferon (IFN)-γ, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 were evaluated in supernatant. ResultsWe found that SCIT patients had significantly lower SMS after week 52. Der-p sIgG4 levels in SCIT patients significantly increased at week 16 compared with non-SCIT subjects. CD4+IL-4+IFN-γ− Th2% in SCIT patients showed a significant decrease from weeks 104–156 compared with week 0, while no change was observed in CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Treg and CD4+IL-4−IFN-γ+ Th1 percentages. IL-5, IL-13, IL-4, IL-17, and TNF-α levels in supernatant of PBMCs cultured with serum of SCIT patients after 16 weeks showed significant lower levels compared with non-SCIT patients, and showed significant reverse associations with Der-p sIgG4 levels. ConclusionSCIT induced Dep-p sIgG4 may be involved in downregulating Th2 cytokine production in Der-p allergic asthma patients.

Integrated analysis of FKBP1A/SLC3A2 axis in everolimus inducing ferroptosis of breast cancer and anti-proliferation of T lymphocyte.

Background: Solute Carrier Family 3 Member 2 (SLC3A2) is a member of the solute carrier family that plays pivotal roles in regulation of intracellular calcium levels and transports L-type amino acids. However, there are insufficient scientific researches on the prognostic and immunological roles of SLC3A2 in breast cancer (BC) and whether everolimus regulates novel SLC3A2 related molecular mechanism in the immuno-oncology context of the tumor microenvironment (TME), therefore, we see a necessity to conduct the current in silico and biological experimental study. Methods: Using diverse online databases, we investigated the role of SLC3A2 in therapy response, clinicopathological characteristics, tumor immune infiltration, genetic alteration, methylation and single cell sequencing in BC. WB, Co-IP, cell proliferation assay, Edu staining, ROS and GSH assay and in vivo tumor xenograft assays were performed to verify FKBP1A/SLC3A2 axis in everolimus inducing ferroptosis of breast cancer. Co-cultures and IL-9 ELISA were performed to demonstrate the T lymphocyte function. Results: We demonstrated that SLC3A2 was aberrantly expressed among various BC cohorts. Our results also suggested that SLC3A2 expression was associated with chemotherapeutic outcome in BC patients. Our results further indicated that SLC3A2 was associated with tumor infiltration of cytotoxic T cell but not other immune cells among BC TME. The alterations in SLC3A2 gene had a significant correlation to relapse free survival and contributed a significant impact on BC tumor mutational burden. Finally, SLC3A2 was illustrated to be expressed in diverse BC cellular populations at single cell level, and negatively linked to angiogenesis, inflammation and quiescence, but positively correlated with other functional phenotypes. Noteworthily, everolimus (a targeted therapy drug for BC) related protein, FK506-binding protein 1A (FKBP1A) was found to bind with SLC3A2, and negatively regulated SLC3A2 expression during the processes of everolimus inducing ferroptosis of BC cells and promoting anti-proliferation of Th9 lymphocytes. Conclusions: Altogether, our study strongly implies that SLC3A2 is an immuno-oncogenic factor and FKBP1A/SLC3A2 axis would provide insights for a novel immunotherapy approach for the treatment of BC in the context of TME.

Farnesoid X receptor antagonizes macrophage-dependent licensing of effector T lymphocytes and progression of sclerosing cholangitis.

Immune-mediated bile duct epithelial injury and toxicity of retained hydrophobic bile acids drive disease progression in fibrosing cholangiopathies such as biliary atresia or primary sclerosing cholangitis. Emerging therapies include pharmacological agonists to farnesoid X receptor (FXR), the master regulator of hepatic synthesis, excretion, and intestinal reuptake of bile acids. Unraveling the mechanisms of action of pharmacological FXR agonists in the treatment of sclerosing cholangitis (SC), we found that intestinally restricted FXR activation effectively reduced bile acid pool size but did not improve the SC phenotype in MDR2-/- mice. In contrast, systemic FXR activation not only lowered bile acid synthesis but also suppressed proinflammatory cytokine production by liver-infiltrating inflammatory cells and blocked progression of hepatobiliary injury. The hepatoprotective activity was linked to suppressed production of IL1β and TNFα by hepatic macrophages and inhibition of TH1/TH17 lymphocyte polarization. Deletion of FXR in myeloid cells caused aberrant TH1 and TH17 lymphocyte responses in diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine-induced SC and rendered these mice resistant to the anti-inflammatory and liver protective effects of systemic FXR agonist treatment. Pharmacological FXR activation reduced IL1β and IFNγ production by liver- and blood-derived mononuclear cells from patients with fibrosing cholangiopathies. In conclusion, we demonstrate FXR to control the macrophage-TH1/17 axis, which is critically important for the progression of SC. Hepatic macrophages are cellular targets of systemic FXR agonist therapy for cholestatic liver disease.

Multi-omics reveals the mechanisms of DEHP driven pulmonary toxicity in ovalbumin-sensitized mice

The plasticizer di- (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is considered a risk factor for allergic diseases and has attracted public attention for its adverse effects on health. However, respiratory adverse effects after DEHP exposure in food allergies have rarely been reported. MiRNAs are considered to be key regulators in the complex interrelationships between the host and microbiome and may be a potential factor involved in DEHP-induced pulmonary toxicity. To investigate the adverse effects of DEHP on the lung during sensitization, we established an ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized mouse model exposed to DEHP and performed 16S rDNA gene sequencing, miRNA sequencing, and correlation analysis. Our results showed that DEHP aggravated the immune disorder in OVA-sensitized mice, which was mainly characterized by an increase in the proportion of Th2 lymphocytes, and further enhanced OVA-induced airway inflammation without promoting pulmonary fibrosis. Compared with the OVA group, DEHP interfered with the lung microbial community, making Proteobacteria the dominant phylum, while Bacteroidetes were significantly reduced. Differentially expressed miRNAs were enriched in the PI3K/AKT pathway, which was closely related to immune function and airway inflammation. The expression of miR-146b-5p was elevated in the DEHP group, which was positively correlated with the proportion of Th2 cells and significantly negatively correlated with the abundance of Bacteroidetes. The results indicate that DEHP may interfere with the expression of miR-146b-5p, affect the composition of the lung microbiota, induce an imbalance in T cells, and lead to immune disorders and airway inflammation. The current study uses multi-omics to reveal the potential link between the plasticizer DEHP and allergic diseases and provides new insights into the ecotoxicology of environmental exposures to DEHP.

Epitope Mapping of Anti-Mouse CCR3 Monoclonal Antibodies Using Flow Cytometry.

The CC chemokine receptor 3 (CCR3) is a receptor for CC chemokines, including CCL5/RANTES, CCL7/MCP-3, and CCL11/eotaxin. CCR3 is expressed on the surface of eosinophils, basophils, a subset of Th2 lymphocytes, mast cells, and airway epithelial cells. CCR3 and its ligands are involved in airway hyperresponsiveness in allergic asthma, ocular allergies, and cancers. Therefore, CCR3 is an attractive target for those therapies. Previously, anti-mouse CCR3 (mCCR3) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), C3Mab-3 (rat IgG2a, kappa), and C3Mab-4 (rat IgG2a, kappa) were developed using the Cell-Based Immunization and Screening (CBIS) method. In this study, the binding epitope of these mAbs was investigated using flow cytometry. A CCR3 extracellular domain-substituted mutant analysis showed that C3Mab-3, C3Mab-4, and a commercially available mAb (J073E5) recognized the N-terminal region (amino acids 1-38) of mCCR3. Next, alanine scanning was conducted in the N-terminal region. The results revealed that the Ala2, Phe3, Asn4, and Thr5 of mCCR3 are involved in C3Mab-3 binding, whereas Ala2, Phe3, and Thr5 are essential to C3Mab-4 binding, and Ala2 and Phe3 are crucial to J073E5 binding. These results reveal the involvement of the N-terminus of mCCR3 in the recognition of C3Mab-3, C3Mab-4, and J073E5.

209 IL-33 deficiency increases filaggrin protein level with no impact on TEWL increase after tape-stripping

The epidermal barrier function is very important to maintain proper moisture in the human skin and protect inner body homeostasis. The stratum corneum (SC) is the major player in epidermal barrier function. Interleukin (IL)-33 is a tissue-derived cytokine, mainly expressed in epithelial and endothelial cells, and activates Th2 lymphocytes, mast cells, ILC2, and eosinophils. We aimed to study the role of IL-33 in skin barrier function in a steady state. Wild-type (WT), and IL-33 knockout (IL-33KO) mice were tape stripped, and trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) was monitored.

401 Endocannabinoid pathway in Atopic Dermatitis: results from an in vitro pilot study

Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is a multifactorial disease. Activated keratinocytes release proinflammatory cytokines that induce Th2 lymphocytes to produce key AD inflammatory microenvironment. The endocannabinoid system (ECS), including cannabinoid receptors, their endogenous ligands and the metabolic enzymes of these ligands, has recently been implicated in the regulation of various skin process, including proliferation and immuno-tolerance of keratinocytes. Alterations of some components of ECS have been recently hypothesized in AD, but no studies have exhaustively investigated the role of all members of ECS.

Colchicine Protects Against Cardiomyopathy in Humanized Mouse Model for Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetically determined hemolytic anemia with high mortality and morbidity. Sickle cell related cardiomyopathy is one of the main causes of death in adult patients with SCD. Although progress in the knowledge of SCD has been made in the last decade, the pathogenesis of sickle related cardiomyopathy is still under investigation. Here, we studied male and female humanized sickle cell mice (Hbatm1(HBA)Tow Hbbtm2(HBG1,HBB*)Tow) and healthy control (Hbatm1(HBA)Tow Hbbtm3(HBG1,HBB)Tow) at two different ages: a)young mice (3-4 months old); and b) old mice (7-8 months old), with 5-6 mice assigned to each group. SCD mice developed an age-dependent cardiomyopathy, characterized by myocardiocyte loss and degradation of sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA2a), a key system in cardiomyocyte homeostasis. This change was associated with overactivation of MMP9, which participates to both degradation of SERCA2a and to local pro-inflammatory and extracellular matrix remodeling, activation of NF-kB, an inflammatory and redox related transcriptional factor, and up-regulation of other markers of inflammatory vasculopathy, such as Endothelin 1 (ET-1) and P-Selectin. Histopathological studies showed heart infiltration by a Th17 lymphocyte subpopulation, which is linked to both pro-inflammatory cytokines (CCL2, CCXL2, IL17) and activation of TGF-b1 pathway, contributing to the progression of heart fibrosis, as supported by heart collagen deposition in SCD mice when compared to health controls. Recent evidence indicates colchicine as a new therapeutic option for different cardiovascular diseases such as myocarditis, acute myocardial infarction, or pericarditis. Here, we evaluated the impact of colchicine (0.1 mg/Kg/day for 4 months by gavage, starting at 3 months of age, n=5-6 mice in each group) on sickle cell related murine cardiomyopathy compared to vehicle treated animals. In SCD mice colchicine (i) decreased pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic cytokines such as IL17 (Figure 1A); (ii) reduced heart Th17 infiltration (Figure 1B); (iii) prevented heart NF-kB activation; and (iv) reduced the activation of TGF-b1 system and myocardial remodeling pathways (Figure 1C). Our data suggest that colchicine could be considered in SCD as new therapeutic option to prevent/limit SCD-related cardiomyopathy. Figure 1View largeDownload PPTFigure 1View largeDownload PPT Close modal

Opportunities for correction of immunosuppression in patients with COVID-19

Here, we review thematic publications in available literature sources of the databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, eLibrary, 49 of which were dated of the years 19972022. Analysis of such reports is aimed at assessing features of cytokine storm-induced hyperinflammatory reaction with signs of immunosuppression accompanied by pronounced lymphopenia and lowered count of CD4+T helpers during severe COVID-19. The prognostic factor for unfavorable prognosis was based on the marker of systemic inflammatory reaction correlating with the disease severity the soluble IL-2 receptor as well as the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and the lymphocyte subset imbalance. An immunosuppressive therapy of severe forms of COVID-19, aimed at weakening the inflammatory response, exacerbates immune dysfunction by suppressing the T cell function, mainly due to Th1 lymphocytes involved in recognizing and eliminating intracellular pathogens particularly viruses. Upon that, cell-mediated immunity becomes compromised that relies on cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, natural killer cells and macrophages. Timely and targeted immunocorrection is required to prevent or reduce the immunosuppression that accompanies a severe disease course and leads to serious and prolonged complications, as well as to association of secondary infections. In fight against the cytokine storm, it is important not to miss a time point of developing immunosuppressive condition that transitions into immunoparalysis as follows from recent publications covering the tactics of treating immune-mediated complications of coronavirus infection. The review discusses opportunities for immunosuppressive therapy along with glucocorticosteroids and monoclonal antibodies blocking IL-6 or cognate receptors. Studies using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to reduce systemic inflammatory response at COVID-19 are outlined in the review. The use of antigen-specific Treg and their combinations with antagonists of tumor necrosis factor- (TNF), interferon- (IFN) as well as low-dose IL-2 in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection were analyzed. The prognostic perspectives for CAR-T cells and CAR-NK cells technology have been considered as novel therapeutic approaches aimed at training effector cells to recognize the surface SARS-CoV-2 virus spike-like (S) protein. The feasibility of a therapeutic approach is also emphasized by comparatively analyzed of efficacy of using IL-7 or IL-15 during lymphopenia in patients with COVID-19. Here, side effects complicating immunocorrection come to the fore. Critical evaluation of corrected immunosuppressive conditions in patients with COVID-19 in the post-COVID-19 period by using low-dose IL-2 therapy revealed its ability to repair cellular immune response. As a result, a low-dose IL-2 therapy is recommended as a cytokine replacement therapy in such patients with COVID-19 during hyper-to-hypo-inflammatory phase transition in immune response.

MicroRNA-155 acts as a potential prognostic and diagnostic factor in patients with ankylosing spondylitis by modulating SOCS3.

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a progressive inflammatory disease. Our primary objective was to explore the role of miR-155 and its targeted factors in AS pathogenesis. PBMCs were isolated from 30 AS patients and 30 healthy individuals using the Ficoll-hypaque isolation approach. The expression of miR-155 and its associated targets, including Suppressor Of Cytokine Signaling 3 (SOCS3), STAT3, and IL-21, were determined using qT-qPCR. Then, PBMCs were cultured, and the effect of miR-155, SOCS3 siRNA (to suppress its expression), pEFSOCS3 (enforced expression), and their combination were investigated by qRT-PCR and western blotting. We also treated the cultured PBMCs with Brefeldin A, a potent inhibitor of cytokine secretion, to determine its effect on IL-21 expression and secretion. In addition, the association between miR-155 and patients' clinicopathological features was examined. The results showed that miR-155, IL-21, and STAT3 were increased in patients with AS, while SOCS3 had decreasing expression trend. It was also determined that miR-155 alleviates SOCS3 expression and increases IL-21 and STAT3 expression; it had a prominent effect when combined with SOCS3 siRNA. Besides, we showed that simultaneous transfection of miR-155 and pEFSOCS3 had no significant effect on IL-21 and STAT3 expression, revealing that miR-155 could alleviate the enforced expression of SOCS3. It was also proven that Brefledine A led to IL-21 up-regulation or accumulation while relieving its secretion. Also, a significant correlation between miR-155 and pathological features of AS patients was found. miR-155 acts as a potential prognostic and diagnostic biomarker. Its up-regulation leads to the down-regulation of SOCS3 and increased expression of IL-21 and STAT3 as characteristic of TH-17 lymphocytes, leading to worsening inflammatory conditions in patients with AS.

Immunologic Role of Innate Lymphoid Cells against Mycobacterial tuberculosis Infection.

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb), is one of the leading causes of mortality due to respiratory tract infections worldwide. Infection by M. tb involves activation of a type I immune response characteristic of T helper type 1 (Th1) lymphocytes, natural killer (NK) cells, Interleukin-12 (IL-12), and interferon (IFN)-γ, all of which stimulate the activation of macrophages and robust phagocytosis in order to prevent further infectious manifestations and systemic dissemination. Recent discoveries about innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) have provided further insight about how these cells participate within the protective immune response against M. tb infection and help boost the type I immune response. In order to clearly understand the mechanisms of M. tb infection and advance the efficacy of future treatment and prevention, we must first look at the individual functions each type of immune cell plays within this process, specifically ILCs. By review of the recent literature and current evidence, our group aims to summarize the characterization of the three major groups of ILCs, including NK cells, and analyze the role that each group of ILCs play in the infectious process against M. tb in order to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the host immune response. Equally, previous studies have also highlighted the effects of how administration of the Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine influences the cells and cytokines of the immune response against M. tb. Our group also aims to highlight the effects that BCG vaccine has on ILCs and how these effects provide added protection against M. tb.

MCAM+ brain endothelial cells contribute to neuroinflammation by recruiting pathogenic CD4+ T lymphocytes.

The trafficking of autoreactive leucocytes across the blood-brain barrier endothelium is a hallmark of multiple sclerosis pathogenesis. Although the blood-brain barrier endothelium represents one of the main CNS borders to interact with the infiltrating leucocytes, its exact contribution to neuroinflammation remains understudied. Here, we show that Mcam identifies inflammatory brain endothelial cells with pro-migratory transcriptomic signature during experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. In addition, MCAM was preferentially upregulated on blood-brain barrier endothelial cells in multiple sclerosis lesions in situ and at experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis disease onset by molecular MRI. In vitro and in vivo, we demonstrate that MCAM on blood-brain barrier endothelial cells contributes to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis development by promoting the cellular trafficking of TH1 and TH17 lymphocytes across the blood-brain barrier. Last, we showcase ST14 as an immune ligand to brain endothelial MCAM, enriched on CD4+ T lymphocytes that cross the blood-brain barrier in vitro, in vivo and in multiple sclerosis lesions as detected by flow cytometry on rapid autopsy derived brain tissue from multiple sclerosis patients. Collectively, our findings reveal that MCAM is at the centre of a pathological pathway used by brain endothelial cells to recruit pathogenic CD4+ T lymphocyte from circulation early during neuroinflammation. The therapeutic targeting of this mechanism is a promising avenue to treat multiple sclerosis.

IMMUNE RESPONSES IN PATIENTS WITH IGE DEPENDENT AND IGE INDEPENDENT DUST MITE ALLERGIC RHINITIS

<h3>Introduction</h3> Pathogenetic mechanisms of the development of AR in patients with sensitization to house dust mites (HDM) are still a subject of debate. <h3>Methods</h3> 60 patients with the AR aged 20-60 years were studied. Based on levels of total IgE (IgE> 100), patients were divided into two groups: IgE-dependent and IgE-independent AR. All patients were tested for CD3+CD4+, CD3+CD8+, CD19+, CD16+56, CD3⁺CD4⁺CD25⁺CD127_low and cytokines IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, TGF-β, IFN-γ. Evaluation of cytokine synthesis was performed in vivo and in vitro. <h3>Results</h3> In both AR groups increase of T helpers occurred: 54.6 ±5.12% and 48.2±5.75% respectively. Decreases in B-lymphocyte were observed only in patients with IgE-dependent AR to 7.6±3.92%. Decrease of CD3⁺CD4⁺CD25⁺CD127_low cells to 6.8±0,9%, IL-2 to 7.27±13pg/ml and γ-IFN to 8.8±1,21 pg/ml and increased levels of Th2 cytokines - IL4 to 28.8±2.3 pg/ml, IL-5 to 25.6±0.65 pg/ml and IL-13 to 61.22±8.12 pg/ml , and decrease IL-10 to 35.41±2.18 pg/ml and TGF-β 30.3 ±3.12 pg/ml was found only in IgE-dependent form of AR. <i>In vitro</i> studies in patients with IgE-dependent AR, development of allergic inflammation occurs with increased expression of IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13, and decreased IL-2, IFN-γ. In IgE-independent AR, such a clear response of Th2 and T-regulatory lymphocytes was not observed. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Development of IgE dependent and independent AR shows different pathologic mechanisms, implicating that new approaches to treatment of IgE independent rhinitis may be needed.

Ornithine decarboxylase supports ILC3 responses in infectious and autoimmune colitis through positive regulation of IL-22 transcription

Group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s) are RORγT+ lymphocytes that are predominately enriched in mucosal tissues and produce IL-22 and IL-17A. They are the innate counterparts of Th17 cells. While Th17 lymphocytes utilize unique metabolic pathways in their differentiation program, it is unknown whether ILC3s make similar metabolic adaptations. We employed single-cell RNA sequencing and metabolomic profiling of intestinal ILC subsets to identify an enrichment of polyamine biosynthesis in ILC3s, converging on the rate-limiting enzyme ornithine decarboxylase (ODC1). In vitro and invivo studies demonstrated that exogenous supplementation with the polyamine putrescine or its biosynthetic substrate, ornithine, enhanced ILC3 production of IL-22. Conditional deletion of ODC1 in ILC3s impaired mouse antibacterial defense against Citrobacter rodentium infection, which was associated with a decrease in anti-microbial peptide production by the intestinal epithelium. Furthermore, in a model of anti-CD40 colitis, deficiency of ODC1 in ILC3s markedly reduced the production of IL-22 and severity of inflammatory colitis. We conclude that ILC3-intrinsic polyamine biosynthesis facilitates efficient defense against enteric pathogens as well as exacerbates autoimmune colitis, thus representing an attractive target to modulate ILC3 function in intestinal disease.

Impact of ROS-Dependent Lipid Metabolism on Psoriasis Pathophysiology.

Psoriasis is the most common autoimmune disease, yet its pathophysiology is not fully understood. It is now believed that psoriasis is caused by the increased activation of immune cells, especially Th1 lymphocytes. However, in psoriasis, immune cells interfere with the metabolism of keratinocytes, leading to their increased activation. Therefore, the pathophysiology of psoriasis is currently associated with the overproduction of ROS, which are involved in the activation of immune cells and keratinocytes as well as the modulation of various signaling pathways within them. Nevertheless, ROS modulate the immune system by also boosting the increasing generation of various lipid mediators, such as products of lipid peroxidation as well as endocannabinoids and prostaglandins. In psoriasis, the excessive generation of ROS and lipid mediators is observed in different immune cells, such as granulocytes, dendritic cells, and lymphocytes. All of the above may be activated by ROS and lipid mediators, which leads to inflammation. Nevertheless, ROS and lipid mediators regulate lymphocyte differentiation in favor of Th1 and may also interact directly with keratinocytes, which is also observed in psoriasis. Thus, the analysis of the influence of oxidative stress and its consequences for metabolic changes, including lipidomic ones, in psoriasis may be of diagnostic and therapeutic importance.

Features of immune status in children with Wilson–Konovalov disease at different stages of liver fibrosis

The pathology in WilsonConovalov disease (WCD) results from impaired excretion of copper, thus leading to its excessive accumulation in tissues. Hypercupreniluria is characteristic to the WCD. Toxic effects of copper on liver tissue can manifest as fatty degeneration of hepatocytes, hepatitis, fibrosis and cirrhosis. Purpose of the present work was as follows: estimation of immune status in children with WD depending on the stage of liver fibrosis. Fifty-three patients with WCD aged 6 to 18 years, were examined. The stage of liver fibrosis was assessed by transient liver elastography using FibroScan F502 (EchoSence, France). The immune status of peripheral blood lymphocytes was examined using CYTOMICS FC500 flow cytofluorimeter (Beckman Coulter, USA). The relative numbers of B lymphocytes (B1 and B2 populations), NK cells, T helper cells, cytotoxic T lymphocytes, Th17 lymphocytes, regulatory T cells, activated T helper cells were assessed in the lymphoid area. All indices of the patients immune status were recalculated for percentage of deviation from the age-dependent reference values. Mass concentration of copper in daily urine was determined by atomic absorption method using AAnalyst 800 spectrometer. Statistical processing was performed by Statistica10.0 program. The WCD patients are characterized by an increase of Т helpers, regulatory Т cells, Th17 lymphocytes and activated Т helpers, along with decrease of cytotoxic Т lymphocytes and NK cells against normal levels. The number of B cells did not depend on the stage of liver fibrosis and was at the lower limit of normal range, or decreased. Upon increase of the liver fibrosis stage, the number of B1 lymphocytes increases and B2 lymphocytes become decreased. The urinary copper content in the examined patients varied from 19 to 835 g/day, being higher than the reference values in 88% of children, with median value of 175 g/day (71-330). A correlation between urinary copper concentration and degree of immune status deviation was revealed (R = 0.63): urinary copper concentration was increased when the number of Th17 lymphocytes, B1 lymphocytes and regulatory T cells became higher, and when the number of B2 lymphocytes decreased. A significant decrease in the population of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (p = 0.034) was observed in children with WCD in the presence of KaiserFleischer ring. Indexes of cellular immunity in children with WCD are an informative tool to assess the severity of liver damage.

Evaluation of anti-TNF treatment efficiency in children with immune-dependent diseases by means of testing the NF-κB activity in lymphocyte populations

Nuclear transcription factor B (NF-B) regulates innate and adaptive immunity functions and mediates inflammatory responses by activating proinflammatory cytokine gene transcription. TNF inhibitors block the NF-B signaling pathway, thus reducing inflammatory activity. The aim of the study was to evaluate the informativity of NF-kB transcription factor determination in the lymphocyte populations in children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and psoriasis to assess the efficacy of anti-TNF therapy. We have examined 124 children with IBD and 55 children with psoriasis vulgaris administered maintenance anti-TNF therapy, and 30 healthy children. Stratification into the study groups was carried out according to PCDIA, PUCAI, PASI indices ( 10, remission). The number of cells with NF-B translocation was determined by flow cytometry with vusualization (Amnis ImageStreamX Mk II). Statistical evaluation was performed using Statistica 10.0 and SPSS 16.0. The highest number of cells with NF-B translocation was detected in B-lymphocytes and NK cells, thus being significantly higher than in T helper cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes (p = 0.000). The percentage of cells with translocation of NF-B in populations of NK cells, T helper, cytotoxic T lymphocytes, Th17 lymphocytes, cytotoxic Th17 lymphocytes (Tc17) and Treg was increased in the patients at the acute disease stage against the comparison group. In the remission state, NF-B activity in lymphocyte populations was lower than in acute stage. In remission of psoriasis, NF-B activity in B lymphocytes, NK cells, and cytotoxic T lymphocytes was significantly lower than in comparison group. In IBD remission state, the NF-B activity was elevated only in T-helper cells. The level of NF-B translocation in the NK-cell population differed in children with IBD and psoriasis, both in acute phase (IBD, 46.2% (34-58); psoriasis, 36.5% (29-48), p = 0.041), and remission of disease (IBD, 25.4% (22-35); psoriasis, 19.1% (17-22), p = 0.000). ROC analysis of the data from exacerbation/remission states assessed as the NK cell numbers with NF-B translocation showed a good quality of the stratification model (AUC 0.8): The cut-off value in IBD was 41% (Se = 65.4; Sp = 89.1), and in psoriasis it was 23% (Se = 85.2; Sp = 94.7). The informativity of NF-B translocation level in lymphocyte populations in children with IBD and psoriasis was shown to correlate with efficacy of anti-TNF therapy. Exacerbation the disease with decreased therapeutic response is characterized by NF-B activation in lymphocyte populations in the children with IBD and psoriasis.

A germline STAT6 gain-of-function variant is associated with early-onset allergies

The signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) signaling pathway plays a central role in allergic inflammation. To date, however, there have been no descriptions of STAT6 gain-of-function variants leading to allergies in humans. We report a STAT6 gain-of-function variant associated with early-onset multiorgan allergies in a family with 3 affected members. Exome sequencing and immunophenotyping of T-helper cell subsets were conducted. The function of the STAT6 protein was analyzed by Western blot, immunofluorescence, electrophoretic mobility shift assays, and luciferase assays. Gastric organoids obtained from the index patient were used to study downstream effector cytokines. We identified a heterozygous missense variant (c.1129G>A;p.Glu377Lys) in the DNA binding domain of STAT6 that was de novo in the index patient's father and was inherited by 2 of his 3 children. Severe atopic dermatitis and food allergy were key presentations. Clinical heterogeneity was observed among the affected individuals. Higher levels of peripheral blood TH2 lymphocytes were detected. The mutant STAT6 displayed a strong preference for nuclear localization, increased DNA binding affinity, and spontaneous transcriptional activity. Moreover, gastric organoids showed constitutive activation of STAT6 downstream signaling molecules. A germline STAT6 gain-of-function variant results in spontaneous activation of the STAT6 signaling pathway and is associated with an early-onset and severe allergic phenotype in humans. These observations enhance our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying allergic diseases and will potentially contribute to novel therapeutic interventions.

Emerging Role of Immunomonitoring to Predict the Clinical Outcome of Patients With Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Treated With Radical Radiation Therapy

The present study aimed at evaluating the baseline immune profile and the immunomodulating effects of radical hemithoracic radiation therapy (RT) in patients affected by malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) to identify potential predictive biomarkers of therapy response, toxicity development, and eligibility for further immunotherapeutic treatments. Blood samples were collected from 55 patients with MPM, enrolled in a phase 3 trial comparing radical hemithoracic RT (interventional arm, n=28) with local palliative RT (control arm, n=27). Immunomonitoring was performed before RT, at the end of treatment, and 1 month after therapy, characterizing natural killer cells, B and T lymphocytes, activated CD4 and CD8 T cells, interferon-γ- and tumor necrosis factor-α-producing T helper (Th) 1 cells, regulatory T cells, and Th17 and Th22 lymphocytes, through flow cytometry. Serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6, -8, -10 and mesothelin were quantified through Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) assays at the same time points. Variations in the immune parameters were investigated by Friedman test and Wilcoxon signed rank post hoc test with Bonferroni correction for multiple testing, while the prognostic effect of immune biomarkers was evaluated through Kaplan-Meier method and Spearman's correlation analysis. Major immune variations were noticed after radical RT compared with palliative treatment, in particular an improvement in activated T cells and in interferon-γ-producing Th1 cells after RT. In the interventional arm, baseline high levels of Th22 and IL-10 and an increase in T cells were associated with an improved survival, whereas a fold increase in serum mesothelin correlated with the development of severe toxicity. An improvement of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells was observed in both arms of treatment. The immunomonitoring performed in patients with MPM revealed potential prognostic biomarkers for radical hemithoracic RT treatment and identified specific immune signatures induced by RT immunomodulation, which could suggest a synergistic effect with an immunotherapeutic treatment.