Th17-related Cytokines Research Articles

Association Between the Expression of T Helper Type 17 Cell-Related Cytokines and Valve Damage in Rheumatic Heart Disease.

The study aimed to clarify the association between Th17 cell-related cytokine expressions and valve damage in rheumatic heart disease (RHD). Twenty RHD patients undergoing mitral valve replacement surgery were selected as the observation group (Group O), and 20 non-rheumatic valve disease patients undergoing mitral valve replacement surgery (degenerative mitral valve prolapse) were recruited as the control group (Group C). Histopathological examination with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was conducted to observe inflammatory cell infiltration, fibrosis, and neovascularization. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to analyze Th17 cell-related cytokines (interleukin (IL)-17, IL-6, IL-23, IL-21) in patients' cardiac valve tissues. Spearman correlation analysis was employed to investigate the correlation between Th17-related cytokines and inflammatory cell infiltration, fibrosis, and neovascularization. compared to the Group C, the Group O exhibited significantly higher proportions of IL-17, IL-21, IL-6, and IL-23 positive cells and immunohistochemical scores in valve tissues (P < 0.05). Additionally, inflammatory cell infiltration scores, tissue fibrosis scores, and neovascularization scores in valve tissues were significantly higher in the Group O compared to the Group C (P < 0.05). The expression of Th17-related cytokines IL-17, IL-21, IL-6, and IL-23 in valve tissues showed a positive correlation with inflammatory cell infiltration, fibrosis, and neovascularization (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The results demonstrate a notable association between Th17 cell-related cytokine expressions in the heart valves of RHD patients and valve damage, providing a potential target for the treatment and prevention of RHD.

IMMU-48. CRACKING THE ROLE OF ONCOMETABOLITES IN VIROIMMUNOTHERAPY FOR PEDIATRIC MALIGNANT BRAIN TUMORS

Abstract Diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs) are among the most frequent and lethal pediatric tumors. The standard of care for DMGs is palliative, resulting in a median survival of 12 months. Viroimmunotherapy is an emerging alternative treatment for these tumors. Our group developed a platform of oncolytic adenoviruses that was translated to the clinic. Specifically, Delta-24-RGD was recently tested in a Phase I clinical trial for patients with newly diagnosed DMG (NCT03178032) with encouraging results. To further stimulate the immune arm of this therapy, we developed Delta-24-RGDOX, expressing the T-cell activator OX40L (NCT03714334, NCT04714983). Using bulk RNAseq, we showed that treatment with Delta-24-RGDOX upregulated the immunosuppressive immunometabolic IDO-AhR pathway. Of importance, treatment with Th1-related cytokine IFNg resulted in the upregulation of IDO1 expression in a panel of human and murine DMG cells. In agreement with these data, we showed synergy between the oncolytic virus and several IDO1-AhR inhibitors in tumor and immune cell co-cultures, as indicated by T-cell activation and proliferation. To further dissect the reshaping of the TME in clinically relevant DMG models treated with Delta-24-RGD or Delta-24-RGDOX, we performed scRNA seq analysis. We showed a pronounced T-cell infiltration in virus-treated animals versus control-treated mice, further confirmed by flow cytometry. Additionally, Th1 and CD8 effector memory subsets were preferentially enriched in the Delta-24-RGDOX group, indicating an enhanced proinflammatory shift. Importantly, we detected, for the first time, upregulation of IDO-AhR downstream effectors in the myeloid compartment in the virus-treated groups. Interestingly, we detected IL4I1 in myeloid cells, a recently discovered checkpoint upstream of AhR never described in the context of virotherapy. Preliminary data using a combination of Delta-24-RGDOX and AhR inhibitors prolongs the survival of glioma-bearing mice. Collectively, our in vivo and in vitro data support the rationale to propel a future clinical trial combining Delta-24-RGDOX with AhR inhibitors for DMG.

The Effect of Boric Acid and Calcium Fructoborate on T Helper Cell Differentiation by Influencing Foxp3 and Ror-γt in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

Many animal and human studies indicate that boric acid and calcium fructoborate have effects on helper T cells in immunity. The aim of our study is to evaluate the effects of boric acid and calcium fructoborate on Treg (CD4+Foxp3+) and Th17 (CD4+Ror-γt+) cell populations and related cytokine levels in mononuclear cells isolated from peripheral blood samples of rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Newly diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis (n = 10) patients, systemic lupus erythematosus (n = 5) patients, and healthy individuals (n = 9) were included in this study. Consent forms were obtained from all individuals participating the study, blood samples were taken, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated. Isolated cells were exposed to low-dose and high-dose boric acid and calcium fructoborate in cell culture. Treg and Th17 cell populations were analyzed by flow cytometry after 48h of exposure. IL-2, IL-6, IL-17, IL-23, TNF-α, and TGF-β levels in the culture medium were tested by ELISA method. At the end of the study, in healthy controls, high-dose BA improved the Treg/Th17 population but could not display similar effects on RA and SLE group. However, both boric acid and calcium fructoborate at different doses showed an increasing effect on Ror-γt in RA and SLE group. Different doses of BA and CaF treatment found to have a variable effect on cytokine. Both BA and CaF in low doses decreased TNF-α levels in RA group which shows that these boron compounds could contribute positively to the treatment of autoimmune diseases.

Circulating CD31 and resistin levels reflect different stages of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a skin disease with a complicated pathophysiology that includes an extensive inflammatory cytokine network. Nevertheless, the relationship between psoriasis severity, cytokine levels, and coronary artery atherosclerosis remains poorly understood. Our aim was to find serum markers as potential candidates for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk monitoring in patients with psoriasis. Therefore, we examined coronary artery atherosclerosis via coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), serum cytokine levels via multiple immunoassays, and the patients' psoriasis state. Our findings reveal for the first time that the mainstream psoriasis cytokines interleukin 17A (IL-17A), IL-19, and IL-36 in the sera of Japanese patients with psoriasis showed a linear regression association with the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score. Furthermore, the serum level of IL-19 was remarkably correlated to Th2-related serum cytokines such as IL-4 and IL-17E. When we investigated potential markers to monitor CVD in patients with psoriasis, circulating cluster of differentiation 31 (CD31) and resistin, but not psoriasis-related cytokines, were expressed differently at each stage of coronary atherosclerosis by CCTA. CD31 and resistin levels rose dramatically in individuals with psoriasis vulgaris (PV) and noncalcified atherosclerosis. In contrast, CD31 was negatively correlated with the coronary artery calcification score (CACS) in patients with PV, whereas resistin was inversely correlated with CACS in patients with psoriatic arthritis. In conclusion, the axis of IL-17A, IL-19, and IL-36 remains associated with the severity of psoriasis during the chronic phase of the disease, regardless of the application of topical or systemic treatment. Monitoring the levels of these cytokines can accurately determine the severity of skin inflammation. Resistin and CD31 are linked to coronary artery lesions and might be good candidates for tracking the progression of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with psoriasis.

Th1 and Th2 cytokine expression in hyperkeratotic chronic hand eczema and the role of Tofacitinib a oral JAK inhibitor.

Tissue cytokines in chronic hand eczema (CHE) can predict targeted therapy with novel drugs including JAK inhibitors. Our primary objective was to assess the tissue expression of cytokines of Th1 and Th2 cell lines in CHE patients and to study the efficacy of oral tofacitinib. We recruited patients presenting with recalcitrant CHE. Lesional and non-lesional tissue samples were assessed for Th1(IFN-γ, TNF-α) and Th2 related cytokines (IL-4, IL-13, IL-2,) using real time PCR. Tofacitinib 5mg twice daily was initiated with 4 weekly assessment and we also noted relapses post therapy.Of 21 refractory hyperkeratotic CHE patients, cytokine analysis was performed in 11 patients which showed upregulation of IL-4 [n = 5/11, 1.87-fold increase], TNF-α (n = 5/11, 5.13-fold) and IFN-γ (n = 6/11, 1.98-fold) as compared to uninvolved skin. All patients (100%) had used topical corticosteroids (TCS) and 4/21 (19%) had failed methotrexate and 2/21 (9.5%) had failed acitretin. Tofacitinib 5mg twice daily was given in 15/21 patients. The mean time to achieve hand eczema severity index 90 (HECSI 90) was 4 weeks (mean duration of treatment:5.8 months, n = 12). Side effects were observed in 4/12 (33.3%) patients and relapse was noted in 3/12 (25%) patients after a mean duration of 7 months after discontinuation of tofacitinib. Tofacitinib (pan-JAK inhibitor) showed an excellent response in refractory CHE patients with predominant tissue Th1/Th2 cells related cytokine expression.

A case of peeling skin syndrome type 1 with novel CDSN gene variation successfully treated with upadacitinib.

Peeling skin syndrome type 1 (PSS1) is an autosomal recessive genodermatosis caused by the CDSN gene loss-of-function mutation and characterized by widespread superficial skin peeling and erythroderma with unbearable pruritus. Because of its ultra-rarity and unclear mechanism, this rare disease has no established treatment regimen. Herein, we reported a Chinese woman who presented with congenital generalized pruritic erythroderma and exfoliation, notable for significantly elevated IgE levels. The whole exome sequencing identified an unpublished homozygous variant (c.295C>T, p.Gln99*) in the CDSN gene, confirming the diagnosis of PSS1. Immunohistochemistry analysis of the affected skin confirmed the lack of corneodesmosin expression, revealed the overexpression of T helper 2 (Th2)-related cytokines harboring interleukin (IL) 4 and IL-13. After Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) inhibitor upadacitinib administration, both the patient's skin rashes and itching symptoms were significantly alleviated. Our work expanded the PSS1-related CDSN gene mutation spectrums, substantiated the hypothesis regarding the overexpression of Th2-related cytokines, and uncovered the important role of JAK1 underlying PSS1. JAK1 signaling may dominate the pathogenesis in PSS1 and represent a potential therapeutic target.

SO2 activates Th17 cells through the JAK1,2/STAT3 signaling pathway

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of SO2 on Th1/Th2/Th17 cells in allergic rhinitis (AR) and the role of JAK1, 2/STAT3 signaling pathways.To Provide potential directions for the treatment of AR. MethodsFifteen AR patients were enrolled as the experimental group, while 15 healthy volunteers served as the normal control group. After collecting venous blood, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated and cultured, followed by the addition of SO2 derivatives and the JAK inhibitor Ruxolitinib. Flow cytometry was employed to assess alterations in the Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg cell balance upon stimulation with SO2 and Ruxolitinib. qRT-PCR was utilized to detect the expression of Th1-related cytokines IL-2 and IFN-γ, Th2-related cytokines IL-4 and IL-5, Th17-related cytokines IL-17A and RORγt, as well as genes JAK1, JAK2, and STAT3. Flow cytometric cytokine analysis was conducted for quantitative assessment of the expression levels of inflammation-related cytokines in PBMC culture supernatants after stimulation. In addition, we stimulated the Jurkat T lymphocyte cell line with SO2 derivatives, added Ruxolitinib as an inhibitor, and used Western blot analysis to further determine the effects of SO2 on Th cells and the role of the JAK1,2/STAT3 signaling pathway in this process. ResultsStimulation with SO2 derivatives upregulated the expression levels of Th2 cells and associated cytokines, as well as Th1 cells and associated cytokines. both AR patients and healthy individuals displayed increased percentages of Th17 cells and Th17/Treg ratios in PBMCs. The expression of IL-17A, RORγt, and IL-6 was also elevated. Under SO2 stimulation, the expression of JAK1, JAK2, STAT3, and RORγt in Jurkat cells increased. Moreover, after the application of Ruxolitinib, the JAK/STAT signaling pathway was inhibited. This led to a reduction in Th17 cells and IL-17A levels in both AR patients and healthy individuals, as well as a decrease in RORγt expression in Jurkat cells. Additionally, the expression of IL-5 decreased in healthy individuals. ConclusionSO2 exposure exacerbated Th1/Th2/Th17 inflammation in AR patients and induced Th1 and Th17 inflammation in healthy individuals. The stimulatory effect of SO2 on Th17 cell differentiation could be inhibited by Ruxolitinib. This suggests that the Th17 inflammation induced by SO2 stimulation may be related to the activation of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway, and this has been confirmed in the Jurkat cell line.

Prevention and alleviation of allergic rhinitis by oral administration of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei GOLDGUT-Lpc969.

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a widespread upper airway disorder characterized by inflammation of the nasal passages. It is immunologically mediated via the hypersensitivity type I mechanism, which is primarily elicited by the immunoglobulin E (IgE)-linking allergen-induced imbalance of the Th2/Th1 immune response. Owing to the limited efficacy of current medications, probiotics have received attention for their potential in preventing and ameliorating AR. In this study, a Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain, GOLDGUTLpc969 (Lpc969), isolated from the feces of healthy adults, was proven to be effective in preventing AR by LPA-induced RBL-2H3 in-vitro and OVA-induced AR mice in-vivo evaluation. The strain significantly attenuated the release of histamine and degranulation in LPS-induced RBL-2H3 cells. In the OVA-induced AR mice, L. paracasei GOLDGUT-Lpc969 also exhibited a significant decrease in disease indicators such as the disease activity index (DAI score), serum IgE, and serum histamine. Treatment with L. paracasei GOLDGUT-Lpc969 led to significant suppression of the Th2-related cytokines IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-13, and TNF-α in the serum of mice. Furthermore, a comparison of the genomes of three previously reported AR-effective L. paracasei strains (including GOLDGUTLpc969) and one non-effective L. paracasei strain revealed that the gene K03671 may play a key role in alleviating AR symptoms. In conclusion, this study highlights the efficacy of L. paracasei GOLDGUT-Lpc969 in AR prevention by suppressing the Th2 immune response and proposes the potential involvement of the functional gene K03671 in ameliorating AR symptoms. Therefore, L. paracasei GOLDGUT-Lpc969 shows promise as a probiotic for preventing AR.

Coinhibitory Molecule VISTA Play an Important Negative Regulatory Role in the Immunopathology of Bronchial Asthma.

To investigatethesignificanceofVISTAinbronchialasthma and its impact on the disease. Human peripheral blood of asthma children was gathered. The expressionconcentrationsofVISTA,IL-4,IL-6,CD25,CD40L,andPD-L2 in peripheral blood plasma were detected by ELISA. We established the mouse model of asthma and intervened with agonistic anti-VISTAmAb(4C11) and VISTA fusion protein. ELISA, flow cytometry, and Western blottingwereperformed todetectthe expressionlevels ofTh1,Th2,and Th17 cell subsets and related characteristic cytokines, as well as the protein levels of MAPKs, NF-κB, and TRAF6 in lung tissues. In addition, the infiltration of eosinophils and inflammatory cells, airway mucus secretion, and VISTA protein expression in lung histopathological sections of different groups of mice were analyzed. The concentration of VISTA in human asthma group decreased significantly (p < 0.05); A positive correlation was observed between VISTA and CD40L. The intervention of 4C11mAband fusion protein respectively during the induction period increase the differentiation of Th1cellsandthesecretionofIFN-γ,andinhibitthedifferentiationofTh2 and Th17cells, aswell as the secretion of IL-4, IL-5, IL-13 and IL-17, partially reduce the pathological changes of asthma in mouse lungs and correct the progress of asthma. The MAPK, NF-κB, and TRAF6 protein levels were the middle rangein the4C11mAbandfusion proteingroups (p < 0.05). ThefindingssuggestVISTAmayplayanegativeregulatory role in the occurrence and development of bronchial asthma.

Comparison of serum cytokines and chemokines levels and clinical significance in patients with pemphigus vulgaris-A retrospective study.

In this study, we aimed to examine the relationship between the serum cytokine levels of patients with pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and the Pemphigus Disease Area Index (PDAI), along with the presence of anti-desmoglein (Dsg) 1 antibody, anti-Dsg3 antibody and co-infection among patients with pemphigus vulgaris. This retrospective study included 62 PV patients and 59 healthy individuals who attended the Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University from November 2014 to November 2022. The serum concentrations of cytokines and chemokines were assessed using the Luminex 200 System (a high-throughput cytokine detection method). Additionally, anti-Dsg1 and anti-Dsg3 antibodies were determined through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, while disease severity was evaluated using the PDAI scoring system. The PV group exhibited elevated levels of Th1 cytokines (such as interleukin (IL)-1RA, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-12p70, GM-CSF, TNF-α, IL-18, IFN-γ), Th2 cytokines (IL-5, IL-10, IL-13) and Th17/Th22-related cytokines (IL-17A, IL-22) compared to the healthy control group (p < 0.05). Conversely, the levels of chemokines (macrophage inflammatory protein-1 alpha (MIP-1α), stromal cell-derived factor-1 alpha (SDF-1α), interferon-inducible protein-10 (IP-10), Regulated on Activation in Normal T-Cell Expressed And Secreted (RANTES), growth-regulated on-gene-alpha (GRO-α), MIP-1β) and Th2 (IL-31) were lower in the PV group compared to the healthy control group (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed in other cytokines and chemokines (p > 0.05). Additionally, IL-7, IFN-γ, IL-18 and GRO-α showed positive correlations with PDAI, IL-6 correlated positively with anti-Dsg3 antibody levels, and IL-12p70, IL-18, and IFN-γ correlated positively with anti-Dsg1 antibody levels. Furthermore, IL-15 exhibited a positive association with skin infections. PV patients have elevated levels of various cytokines and chemokines, and there are different degrees of elevation in cytokines and chemokines associated with the activation of various T cell subsets. PDAI and the Dsg1 antibody levels are mainly related to the Th1-related cytokines.

Nasally delivered chitosan-coated poly(lactide-co-glycolide) encapsulating honeybee venom enhances T helper 1-related immunity against Salmonella Typhimurium infection in pigs.

Salmonella Typhimurium is a significant zoonotic concern for human food poisoning and a substantial economic burden in the swine industry. We previously reported that nasally delivered chitosan-coated poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) encapsulating honeybee venom (CP-HBV) could enhance CD4+ T helper 1 (Th1)-related immune responses in healthy pigs. Building upon these findings, the current study aimed to investigate the protective immune enhancement by nasally delivered CP-HBV in pigs challenged with S Typhimurium. 36 healthy, 4-week-old, female, Landrace X Yorkshire X Duroc pigs. 36 pigs were allocated into 3 groups: CP-HBV (n = 16), control (n = 16), and healthy baseline control (n = 4). CP-HBV and control groups were challenged with S Typhimurium 7 days post-treatment. Pigs from the healthy control group were sacrificed at 0 days postinfection (DPI), and 4 pigs from each of the control and CP-HBV groups were sacrificed at 1, 2, 4, and 7 DPI. Salmonella shedding, immune cell frequencies, cytokines, and transcriptional factor expression levels were measured. The CP-HBV group exhibited lower bacterial shedding and an enhanced Th1-related immune response characterized by an upregulation of CD4+ T cells and CD4+ Interferon-γ+ T cells, accompanied by increased expression of Th1-related cytokines and reduced expression of regulatory T cells and immunosuppressive cytokines compared to the control group. CP-HBV is a promising strategy for controlling Salmonella infections in pigs and improving public health.

Progression predictors of clinically isolated syndrome to multiple sclerosis: A prospective study in China

ObjectivesClinically isolated syndrome (CIS) is a preclinical phase of multiple sclerosis (MS). The progression rate of CIS to clinical definite MS (CDMS) varies significantly across different populations, and identifying predictors of progression is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. We aimed to investigate predictors of progression from CIS to CDMS in a Chinese cohort. MethodsA single-center cohort study was conducted with newly diagnosed patients with CIS in China between 2018 and 2021. All patients underwent a comprehensive clinical evaluation, including neurological examination, magnetic resonance imaging, and laboratory tests. Follow-up assessments were conducted at regular intervals to monitor disease progression. Progression to CDMS was defined according to the 2017 McDonald criteria. Age, sex, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score, number of patients with magnetic resonance imaging gadolinium-enhancing (Gd+) lesions, T2 lesions and Gd+ lesions count, CSF cell count, CSF total protein, CSF and serum neurofilament light chain (NfL), progranulin (PGRN) and Th17-related cytokines (IL-6, IL-17, IL-21, IL-22, IL-23 and TGF-β) were measured for association with risk of progression to CDMS. ResultsA total of 96 CIS patients were recruited in the study. During the at least 24 months follow-up period, 57 (59.38 %) CIS patients progressed to CDMS, while 39 (40.62 %) patients without progression remained stable as CIS. Multivariate analysis revealed that younger age at onset (OR= 43.43, 95 % CI= 1.76–1071.68, p<0.021), higher CSF elevated protein (OR=58.64, 95 % CI=2.72–1264.51, p=0.009), higher CSF NfL levels (OR= 97.00, 95 % CI= 4.68–2012.99, p=0.003) and higher CSF IL-23 levels (OR= 412.02, 95 % CI=6.56–25869.60, p=0.004) were associated with high risk of progression to CDMS. ConclusionYounger age at onset, elevated CSF NfL, IL-23 and protein levels might be progression predictors of CIS to CDMS in Chinese population.

Epimedium polysaccharides mitigates Porphyromonas gingivalis-exacerbated intestinal inflammation by suppressing the Th17 pathway and modulating the gut microbiota

This study aimed to investigate the potential alleviating effect of Epimedium polysaccharide (EP) on intestinal inflammation aggravated by Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg). P. gingivalis, an oral pathogen, may play a role in intestinal inflammation, highlighting the necessity to explore substances capable of inhibiting its pathogenicity. Initially, in vitro screening experiments utilizing co-culturing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed that EP significantly inhibited the growth of P. gingivalis and the levels of virulence genes, including Kgp and RgpA. Subsequent mouse experiments demonstrated that EP notably ameliorated Pg-aggravated weight loss, disease activity index, histopathological lesions, and disruption of intestinal barrier integrity, evidenced by a reduction in tight junction protein levels. Flow cytometry analysis further illustrated that EP attenuated Pg-induced Th17 differentiation and Th17-related cytokines, such as IL-17 and IL-6. Additionally, 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing analysis elucidated that EP significantly mitigated Pg-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis, enriching potentially beneficial microbes, including Akkermansia and Bifidobacterium. The metabolomic analysis provided further insight, indicating that EP intervention altered the accumulation of relevant intestinal metabolites and exhibited correlations with disease indicators. In conclusion, our research suggested that EP holds promise as a prospective therapeutic agent for alleviating P. gingivalis-aggravated intestinal inflammation.

Abstract Or114: Inhibiting IL-1 Signaling to Cardiac Fibroblasts Protects Against Acute Viral Myocarditis

Background: Understanding what factors perpetuate cardiac inflammation in patients with unremitting inflammatory dilated cardiomyopathy (iDCM) is critical for developing curative therapies. We have previously demonstrated that inflammatory fibroblasts (IFs), a subset of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) that promote inflammation, depend on IL-17A signaling to drive iDCM progression in experimental autoimmune myocarditis. Here, we demonstrate that IL-1 signaling more potently activates IFs than IL-17A. IL-1 signaling has been implicated in the pathogenesis of viral myocarditis, the most common etiology of myocarditis, though the mechanism is unclear. Hypothesis: We hypothesize that IL-1 signaling to CFs induces their differentiation into IFs, which drive pathogenic inflammation during viral myocarditis. Methods: Primary murine CF cultures were used to characterize IF activation by various cytokines. Next, we both performed qPCR on sorted CFs and used a CCL2-mCherry reporter mouse line to phenotype IF activation during Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) myocarditis. Finally, in-vivo fibroblast-specific IL-1 signaling was genetically ablated using PDGFRα cre IL1r1 fl/fl mice. We infected PDGFRα cre and PDGFRα cre IL1r1 fl/fl mice with CVB3 and assessed myocarditis severity during the peak of inflammation using histological scoring and flow cytometry. Results: Innate, Th1, Th2, and Th17 related cytokines such as IL-1β, IFNγ, IL-13, and IL-17A induced unique IF gene expression signatures. IL-1β most potently activated IFs with a pro-myeloid cytokine inflammatory profile. During CVB3 myocarditis, IF activation peaked on day 3 post infection and was sustained until day 10. Ablating IL-1 signaling to CFs reduced the magnitude of cardiac inflammation by 45% ± 14% (p=0.002) during the peak of CVB3 myocarditis with a reduction in monocyte, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and NK cell recruitment. Gene expression analysis of sorted CFs from mutant and control mice revealed reduced expression of pro-myeloid chemokines such as CXCL1 and CCL2 on day 3 of CVB3 myocarditis. Conclusions: Cardiac fibroblasts exhibit remarkable plasticity allowing them to respond to a changing micro-environment. Blocking IL-1 signaling to IFs during CVB3 myocarditis inhibited production of pro-inflammatory chemokines resulting in attenuation of myocardial inflammation. Therefore, early IF activity acts as a rheostat to modulate the magnitude of cardiac inflammation during myocarditis.

Expression and Significance of PD-1/PD-L1 in MDS Blast Cells, T Lymphocyte Cell Subsets and Treg Cells

To investigate the expression and significance of PD-1/PD-L1 in MDS blast cells, T lymphocyte cell subsets and Treg cells. Eighty-eight MDS patients and 19 AML patients were collectd as the study subjects, and Iron deficiency anemia and healthy bone marrow donors were used as control group. The expression of PD-1/PD-L1 in MDS/AML blast cells, T lymphocyte cell subsets and Treg cells was detected by flow cytometry, and the expression level of Th1/Th2/Th17-related cytokines in peripheral serum was detected. The expression of PD-1/PD-L1 in blast cells, T lymphocyte cell subsets and Treg cells in low risk MDS group were lower than that in control group, medium and high risk MDS group and AML group（all P < 0.01）, and Th1/Th17 type cytokines were dominant. The expression of PD-1/PD-L1 in blast cells, T lymphocyte cell subsets and Treg cells of intermediate and high risk MDS group and AML group were higher than that of control group and low risk MDS group (all P < 0.01), and Th2 type and Treg type (IL-10、TGF-β) cytokines were dominant. After treatment, the differences of PD-1/PD-L1 expression were not statisticatly significant in blast cells, T lymphocyte cell subsets and Treg cells between the MDS remission group and the control group (all P >0.05). The expression of PD-1/PD-L1 in blast cells, T lymphocyte cell subsets and Treg cells in MDS non-remission group were significantly higher than that in remission group and control group (all P < 0.01). The high expression of PD-1/PD-L1, dominance of Treg (IL-10、TGF-β) and Th2-related cytokines and inhibition of effector T lymphocyte cells in patients with MDS is conducive to tumor cell proliferation and immune escape, which may promote the progression of MDS disease.

Discordant effects of Janus kinases inhibition ex-vivo on inflammatory responses in colonic compared to ileal mucosa.

Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors are used for treating inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). We aimed to identify molecular effects of JAK inhibition in human intestinal mucosa, considering IBD location and phenotype. Colonic and ileal explants from patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), Crohn's disease (CD), and non-IBD controls (NC) were assessed for phosphorylated signal transducers and activators of transcription (p-STAT) levels and Inflammatory genes expression panel in response to ex-vivo JAK inhibitor (tofacitinib). Cytokine production by lamina propria lymphocytes in response to tofacitinib was assessed. Human intestinal organoids were used to investigate JAK inhibitors' effects on iNOS expression. Explants were collected from 68 patients (UC=20; CD=20; NC=28). p-STAT1\3\5 inhibition rates varied, being higher in colonic compared to ileal explants. p-STAT1\3 inhibition rates negatively correlated with CRP levels. While significant alterations in 120 of 255 inflammatory genes were observed in colonic explants, only 30 were observed in ileal NC explants. In colonic explants from UC, significant alterations were observed in 5 genes, including NOS2. JAK inhibition significantly decreased Th1\Th2\Th17-related cytokine production from lamina propria lymphocytes. Various JAK inhibitors reduced IFN-γ-induced increase in iNOS expression in organoids. Site-specific anti-inflammatory effect of JAK inhibition by tofacitinib was noticed, whereby the colon was more robustly affected than the ileum. Ex-vivo response to tofacitinib is individual. JAK inhibition may attenuate inflammation by decreasing iNOS expression. Ex-vivo mucosal platforms may be a valuable resource for studying personalized drug effects in patients with IBD.

Imbalance of Th17 cells, Treg cells and associated cytokines in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a meta-analysis.

This article aims to investigate the changes of T helper 17 (Th17) cells, regulatory T (Treg) cells and their associated cytokines in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Multiple databases were investigated to identify articles that explored Th17 cells, Treg cells and relevant cytokines in SLE patients. A random effects model was used for calculating pooled standardized mean differences. Stata version 15.0 was utilized to conduct the meta-analysis. The levels of Th17 cells, IL-17, IL-6, IL-21 and IL-10 were higher in SLE patients than in healthy controls (HCs), but the TGF-β levels were lower. The percentage of Treg cells was lower than HCs in SLE individuals older than 33. Among studies that had 93% or lower females, the percentage of Th17 cells was greater in patients than in HCs. However, the percentage of Treg cells was lower when the proportion of females was less than 90%. Patients with lupus nephritis or active SLE had an increased proportion of Th17 cells and a decreased proportion of Treg cells. The increased level of Th17 cells and related cytokines could be the main reason for the elevated Th17/Treg ratio in SLE. The percentages of Th17 and Treg cells were associated with gender, age, disease activity and kidney function. Furthermore, the reduced proportions of Treg cells may primarily result in a rise in the Th17/Treg ratio in older or active SLE patients. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42023454937.

The Impact of the Reduction in Environmental Pollution during COVID-19 Lockdown on Healthy Individuals.

The lockdown imposed to combat the COVID-19 pandemic produced a historic fall in air pollution in cities like Barcelona. This exceptional situation offered a unique context in which to examine the effects of air pollutants on human health. The present study aims to determine and compare the oxidative stress biomarkers Th1/Th2 and inflammatory-related cytokines in healthy individuals first during lockdown and then six months after the easing of the restrictions on mobility. A prospective study of a representative sample of 58 healthy, non-smoking adults was carried out. During lockdown and six months post-easing of restrictions, blood samples were drawn to measure the percentage of eosinophils, levels of Th1/Th2 and inflammatory-related cytokines assessed by a multiplex assay (BioRad Laboratories S.A., Marnes-la-Coquette, France), and levels of 8-isoprostane, glutathione peroxidase activity, and myeloperoxidase (Cayman Chemical Co., Ann Arbor, MI, USA), to assess their value as biomarkers of oxidative stress. Six months after easing mobility restrictions, increases in the levels of 8-isoprostane (p < 0.0001), IL-1β (p = 0.0013), IL-1ra (p = 0.0110), IL-4 (p < 0.0001), IL-13 (p < 0.0001), G-CSF (p = 0.0007), and CCL3 (p < 0.0001) were recorded, along with reductions in glutathione peroxidase (p < 0.0001), IFN-γ (p = 0.0145), TNFα (p < 0.0001), IP-10 (p < 0.0001), IL-2 (p < 0.0001), IL-7 (p < 0.0001), basic FGF (p < 0.0001), CCL4 (p < 0.0001), and CCL5 (p < 0.0001). No significant differences were observed in the rest of the biomarkers analyzed. The reduction in environmental pollution during the COVID-19 lockdown significantly lowered the levels of oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, and Th2-related cytokines in healthy people.

The canonical Hippo pathway components modulate the differentiation of lamina propria regulatory T cells and T helper 17-like regulatory T cells in mouse colitis.

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) ameliorate inflammatory bowel diseases. However, their plasticity is not completely understood. In this study using a mouse colitis model, Tregs and T helper 17 (Th17)-like Tregs were detected and sorted using flow cytometry, followed by transcriptome sequencing, real-time RT-PCR, and flow cytometry to analyze the mRNA profiles of these cells. Treg plasticity was evaluated by in vitro differentiation assays. The immunosuppressive activities of Tregs and Th17-like Tregs were assessed in an adoptive transfer assay. We found Tregs-derived Th17-like Tregs in inflamed colonic lamina propria (LP). LP Th17-like Tregs expressed higher Th17-related cytokines and lower immunosuppressive cytokines compared with LP Tregs. Notably, Tregs expressed higher Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) but lower transcriptional coactivator with PDZ‑binding motif (TAZ) than Th17-like Tregs. Verteporfin-mediated inhibition of YAP1 activity enhanced Th17-like Treg generation, whereas IBS008739-induced TAZ activation did not affect Th17-like Treg generation. Besides, verteporfin enhanced while IBS008739 suppressed the differentiation of Th17-like Tregs into Th17 cells. Furthermore, YAP1 activated STAT5 signaling in Tregs, whereas YAP1 and TAZ activated STAT3 and STAT5 signaling in Th17-like Tregs. Compared with Tregs, Th17-like Tregs were less efficacious in ameliorating colitis. Therefore, YAP1 suppressed Treg differentiation into Th17-like Tregs. Both YAP1 and TAZ inhibited the differentiation of Th17-like Tregs into Th17 cells. Therefore, YAP1 and TAZ probably maintain the immunosuppressive activities of Tregs and Th17-like Tregs in colitis.

Laccase/caffeic acid-catalyzed crosslinking coupled with galactomannan alters the conformational structure of ovalbumin and alleviates Th2-mediated allergic asthma

Ovalbumin (OVA) is the major allergenic protein that can induce T helper 2 (Th2)-allergic reactions, for which current treatment options are inadequate. In this study, we developed a polymerized hypoallergenic OVA product via laccase/caffeic acid (Lac/CA)-catalyzed crosslinking in conjunction with galactomannan (Man). The formation of high molecular weight crosslinked polymers and the IgG-binding were analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and Western blotting. The study indicated that Lac/CA-catalyzed crosslinking plus Man conjugation substantially altered secondary and tertiary structures of OVA along with the variation in surface hydrophobicity. Gastrointestinal digestion stability assay indicated that crosslinked OVA exhibited less resistance in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) and simulated intestinal fluid (SIF). Mouse model study indicated that Lac-Man/OVA ameliorated eosinophilic airway inflammatory response and efficiently downregulated the expression of Th2-related cytokines (interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and IL-13), and upregulated IFN-γ and IL-10 expression. Stimulation of bone marrow-derived dendritic cells with Lac-Man/OVA suppressed the expression of phenotypic maturation markers (CD80 and CD86) and MHC class II molecules, and suppressed the expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines. The knowledge obtained in the present study offers an effective way to acquire a hypoallergenic OVA product that can have a therapeutic effect in alleviating OVA-induced allergic asthma.