bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling the Role of Homologous Receptor Desensitization in Cell Gradient Sensing
Authors: Lin Francis , Butcher Eugene C.
Published: April 2014

G-protein-coupled chemoattractant receptors signal transiently upon ligand binding to effect cell orientation and motility but then are rapidly desensitized. The importance of desensitization has been unclear, because mutated nondesensitizable receptors mediate efficient chemotaxis. We hypothesized that homologous receptor desensitization is required for cellular navigation in fields of competing attractants. Modeling of receptor-mediated orientation shows that desensitization allows integration of attractant signals. Cells expressing normal receptors are predicted to 1) orient preferentially to distant gradients; 2) seek an intermediate position between balanced agonist sources; 3) and can be repositioned between chemoattractant-defined microenvironmental domains by modest changes in receptor number. In contrast, in the absence of desensitization, orientation is dominated by local agonist sources, precluding continued navigation. Furthermore, cell orientation in competing ligand gradients depends on the relative kinetic rates of receptor desensitization and recycling. We propose that homologous receptor desensitization is critical for cellular navigation in complex chemoattractant fields.
Dendritic Cells Treated with Lipopolysaccharide Up-Regulate Serine Protease Inhibitor 6 and Remain Sensitive to Killing by Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes In Vivo
Authors: Andrew Kate A. , Simkins Helen M. A. , Witzel Sabine , Perret Rachel , Hudson Jenny , Hermans Ian F. , Ritchie David S. , Yang Jianping , Ronchese Franca
Published: April 2014

Ag presentation by dendritic cells (DC) in vivo is essential to the initiation of primary and secondary T cell responses. We have reported that DC presenting Ag in the context of MHC I molecules also become targets of specific CTL and are rapidly killed in mice. However, activated DC up-regulate expression of serine protease inhibitor (SPI)-6, a specific blocker of the cytotoxic granule protein granzyme B, which modulates their susceptibility to CTL-mediated killing in vitro. We wanted to determine whether susceptibility to CTL-mediated killing in vivo is also modulated by DC activation. As was previously reported by others, DC treated with different doses of LPS expressed higher levels of SPI-6 mRNA than did untreated DC. The increased expression of SPI-6 was functionally relevant, as LPS-treated DC became less susceptible to CTL-mediated killing in vitro. However, when these LPS-treated DC were injected in vivo, they remained sensitive to CTL-mediated killing regardless of whether the CTL activity was elicited in host mice via active immunization or was passively transferred via injection of in vitro-activated CTL. LPS-treated DC were also sensitive to killing in lymph node during the reactivation of memory CTL. We conclude that increased SPI-6 expression is not sufficient to confer DC with resistance to direct killing in vivo. However, SPI-6 expression may provide DC with a survival advantage in some conditions, such as those modeled by in vitro cytotoxicity assays.
Transduction with the Antioxidant Enzyme Catalase Protects Human T Cells against Oxidative Stress
Authors: Ando Takashi , Mimura Kousaku , Johansson C. Christian , Hanson Mikael G. , Mougiakakos Dimitrios , Larsson Charlotte , Martins da Palma Telma , Sakurai Daiju , Norell Håkan , Li Mingli , Nishimura Michael I. , Kiessling Rolf
Published: April 2014

Patients with diseases characterized by chronic inflammation, caused by infection or cancer, have T cells and NK cells with impaired function. The underlying molecular mechanisms are diverse, but one of the major mediators in this immune suppression is oxidative stress caused by activated monocytes, granulocytes, or myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Reactive oxygen species can seriously hamper the efficacy of active immunotherapy and adoptive transfer of T and NK cells into patients. In this study, we have evaluated whether enhanced expression of the antioxidant enzyme catalase in human T cells can protect them against reactive oxygen species. Human CD4+ and CD8+ T cells retrovirally transduced with the catalase gene had increased intracellular expression and activity of catalase. Catalase transduction made CD4+ T cells less sensitive to H2O2-induced loss-of-function, measured by their cytokine production and ability to expand in vitro following anti-CD3 stimulation. It also enhanced the resistance to oxidative stress-induced cell death after coculture with activated granulocytes, exposure to the oxidized lipid 4-hydroxynonenal, or H2O2. Expression of catalase by CMV-specific CD8+ T cells saved cells from cell death and improved their capacity to recognize CMV peptide-loaded target cells when exposed to H2O2. These findings indicate that catalase-transduced T cells potentially are more efficacious for the immunotherapy of patients with advanced cancer or chronic viral infections.
Regulation of Repertoire Development through Genetic Control of DH Reading Frame Preference
Authors: Zemlin Michael , Schelonka Robert L. , Ippolito Gregory C. , Zemlin Cosima , Zhuang Yingxin , Gartland G. Larry , Nitschke Lars , Pelkonen Jukka , Rajewsky Klaus , Schroeder Harry W.
Published: April 2014

In jawed vertebrates most expressed Ig H chains use only one of six possible DH reading frames. Reading frame (RF)1, the preferred reading frame, tends to encode tyrosine and glycine, whereas the other five RFs tend to be enriched for either hydrophobic or charged amino acids. Mechanisms proposed to favor use of RF1 include a preference for deletion over inversion that discourages use of inverted RF1, RF2, and RF3; sequence homology between the 5′ terminus of the JH and the 3′ terminus of the DH that promotes rearrangement into RF1; an ATG start site upstream of RF2 that permits production of a truncated Dμ protein; stop codons in RF3; and, following surface expression of IgM, somatic, presumably Ag receptor-based selection favoring B cells expressing Igs with tyrosine- and glycine-enriched CDR-H3s. By creating an IgH allele limited to the use of a single, frameshifted DFL16.1 DH gene segment, we tested the relative contribution of these mechanisms in determining reading frame preference. Dμ-mediated suppression via an allelic exclusion-like mechanism dominated over somatic selection in determining the composition of the CDR-H3 repertoire. Evidence of somatic selection for RF1-encoded tyrosine in CDR-H3 was observed, but only among the minority of recirculating, mature B cells that use DH in RF1. These observations underscore the extent to which the sequence of the DH acts to delimit the diversity of the Ab repertoire.
Tat-Induced FOXO3a Is a Key Mediator of Apoptosis in HIV-1-Infected Human CD4+ T Lymphocytes
Authors: Dabrowska Alicja , Kim Nayoung , Aldovini Anna
Published: April 2014

The high mutation rate of HIV is linked to the generation of viruses expressing proteins with altered function whose impact on disease progression is unknown. We investigated how HIV-1 viruses lacking Env, Vpr, and Nef affect CD4+ T cell survival. We found that in the absence of these proteins, HIV-1-infected CD4+ primary T cells progress to the G0 phase of the cell cycle and to cell death, indicating that viruses expressing inactive forms of these proteins can contribute to the CD4+ T cell decline as the wild-type virus, suggesting that other HIV proteins are responsible for inducing apoptosis. Apoptosis in these cells is triggered by the alteration of the Egr1-PTEN-Akt (early growth response-1/phosphate and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10/Akt) and p53 pathways, which converge on the FOXO3a (Forkhead box transcription factor O class 3a) transcriptional activator. The FOXO3a target genes Fas ligand and TRAIL, involved in the extrinsic apoptotic pathway, and PUMA, Noxa, and Bim, which are part of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, were also up-regulated, indicating that HIV infection leads to apoptosis by the engagement of multiple apoptotic pathways. RNAi-mediated knockdown of Egr1 and FOXO3a resulted in reduced apoptosis in HIV-infected HeLa and CD4+ T cells, providing further evidence for their critical role in HIV-induced apoptosis and G0 arrest. We tested the possibility that Tat is responsible for the T cell apoptosis observed with these mutant viruses. The induction of Egr1 and FOXO3a and its target genes was observed in Jurkat cells transduced by Tat alone. Tat-dependent activation of the Egr1-PTEN-FOXO3a pathway provides a mechanism for HIV-1-associated CD4+ T cell death.
Dendritic Cells Modulate Lung Response toPseudomonas aeruginosain a Murine Model of Sepsis-Induced Immune Dysfunction
Authors: Pène Frédéric , Zuber Benjamin , Courtine Emilie , Rousseau Christophe , Ouaaz Fatah , Toubiana Julie , Tazi Asmaa , Mira Jean-Paul , Chiche Jean-Daniel
Published: April 2014

Host infection by pathogens triggers an innate immune response leading to a systemic inflammatory response, often followed by an immune dysfunction which can favor the emergence of secondary infections. Dendritic cells (DCs) link innate and adaptive immunity and may be centrally involved in the regulation of sepsis-induced immune dysfunction. We assessed the contribution of DCs to lung defense in a murine model of sublethal polymicrobial sepsis (cecal ligature and puncture, CLP). In this model, bone marrow-derived DCs (BMDCs) retained an immature phenotype, associated with decreased capacity of IL-12p70 release and impaired priming of T cell lymphocytes. Eight days after CLP surgery, we induced a secondary pulmonary infection through intratracheal instillation of 5 × 106 CFUs of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Whereas all sham-operated mice survived, 80% of post-CLP mice died after secondary pneumonia. Post-CLP mice exhibited marked lung damage with early recruitment of neutrophils, cytokine imbalance with decreased IL-12p70 production, and increased IL-10 release, but no defective bacterial lung clearance, while systemic bacterial dissemination was almost constant. Concomitant intrapulmonary administration of exogenous BMDCs into post-CLP mice challenged with P. aeruginosa dramatically improved survival. BMDCs did not improve bacterial lung clearance, but delayed neutrophil recruitment, strongly attenuated the early peak of TNF-α and restored an adequate Il-12p70/IL-10 balance in post-CLP mice. Thus, adoptive transfer of BMDCs reversed sepsis-induced immune dysfunction in a relevant model of secondary P. aeruginosa pneumonia. Unexpectedly, the mechanism of action of BMDCs did not involve enhanced antibacterial activity, but occurred by dampening the pulmonary inflammatory response.
Leukotrienes Are Potent Adjuvant during Fungal Infection: Effects on Memory T Cells
Authors: Medeiros Alexandra I. , Sá-Nunes Anderson , Turato Walter M. , Secatto Adriana , Frantz Fabiani G. , Sorgi Carlos A. , Serezani Carlos H. , Deepe George S. , Faccioli Lúcia H.
Published: April 2014

Leukotrienes (LTs) are potent lipid mediators involved in the control of host defense. LTB4 induces leukocyte accumulation, enhances phagocytosis and bacterial clearance, and increases NO synthesis. LTB4 is also important in early effector T cell recruitment that is mediated by LTB4 receptor 1, the high-affinity receptor for LTB4. The aims of this study were to evaluate whether LTs are involved in the secondary immune response to vaccination in a murine model of Histoplasma capsulatum infection. Our results demonstrate that protection of wild-type mice immunized with cell-free Ags from H. capsulatum against histoplasmosis was associated with increased LTB4 and IFN-γ production as well as recruitment of memory T cells into the lungs. In contrast, cell-free Ag-immunized mice lacking 5-lipoxygenase−/−, a critical enzyme involved in LT synthesis, displayed a marked decrease on recruitment of memory T cells to the lungs associated with increased synthesis of TGF-β as well as IL-10. Strikingly, these effects were associated with increased mortality to 5-lipoxygenase−/−-infected mice. These data establish an important immunomodulatory role of LTs, in both the primary and secondary immune responses to histoplasmosis.
Vaccination with LivePlasmodium yoeliiBlood Stage Parasites under Chloroquine Cover Induces Cross-Stage Immunity against Malaria Liver Stage
Authors: Belnoue Elodie , Voza Tatiana , Costa Fabio T. M. , Grüner Anne Charlotte , Mauduit Marjorie , Rosa Daniela Santoro , Depinay Nadya , Kayibanda Michèle , Vigário Ana Margarida , Mazier Dominique , Snounou Georges , Sinnis Photini , Rénia Laurent
Published: April 2014

Immunity to malaria has long been thought to be stage-specific. In this study we show that immunization of BALB/c mice with live erythrocytes infected with nonlethal strains of Plasmodium yoelii under curative chloroquine cover conferred protection not only against challenge by blood stage parasites but also against sporozoite challenge. This cross-stage protection was dose-dependent and long lasting. CD4+ and CD8+ T cells inhibited malaria liver but not blood stage. Their effect was mediated partially by IFN-γ, and was completely dependent of NO. Abs against both pre-erythrocytic and blood parasites were elicited and were essential for protection against blood stage and liver stage parasites. Our results suggest that Ags shared by liver and blood stage parasites can be the foundation for a malaria vaccine that would provide effective protection against both pre-erythrocytic and erythrocytic asexual parasites found in the mammalian host.
IL-12 Produced by Dendritic Cells Augments CD8+ T Cell Activation through the Production of the Chemokines CCL1 and CCL17
Authors: Henry Curtis J. , Ornelles David A. , Mitchell Latoya M. , Brzoza-Lewis Kristina L. , Hiltbold Elizabeth M.
Published: April 2014

IL-12 family members are an important link between innate and adaptive immunity. IL-12 drives Th1 responses by augmenting IFN-γ production, which is key for clearance of intracellular pathogens. IL-23 promotes the development of IL-17-producing CD4+ T cells that participate in the control of extracellular pathogens and the induction of autoimmunity. However, recent studies have shown that these cytokines can modulate lymphocyte migration and cellular interactions. Therefore, we sought to determine the individual roles of IL-12 and IL-23 in naive CD8+ T cell activation by addressing their ability to influence IFN-γ production and cellular interaction dynamics during priming by Listeria monocytogenes-infected dendritic cells (DC). We found that IL-12 was the major cytokine influencing the level of IFN-γ production by CD8+ T cells while IL-23 had little effect on this response. In addition, we observed that IL-12 promoted longer duration conjugation events between CD8+ T cells and DC. This enhanced cognate interaction time correlated with increased production of the chemokines CCL1 and CCL17 by WT but not IL-12-deficient DC. Neutralization of both chemokines resulted in reduced interaction time and IFN-γ production, demonstrating their importance in priming naive CD8+ T cells. Our study demonstrates a novel mechanism through which IL-12 augments naive CD8+ T cell activation by facilitating chemokine production, thus promoting more stable cognate interactions during priming.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis-Specific CD8+ T Cells Require Perforin to Kill Target Cells and Provide Protection In Vivo
Authors: Woodworth Joshua S. , Wu Ying , Behar Samuel M.
Published: April 2014

Optimal immunity to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection requires CD8+ T cells, and several current Mtb vaccine candidates are being engineered to elicit enhanced CD8+ T cell responses. However, the function of these T cells and the mechanism by which they provide protection is still unknown. We have previously shown that CD8+ T cells specific for the mycobacterial Ags CFP10 and TB10.4 accumulate in the lungs of mice following Mtb infection and have cytolytic activity in vivo. In this study, we determine which cytolytic pathways are used by these CD8+ T cells during Mtb infection. We find that Mtb-specific CD8+ T cells lacking perforin have reduced cytolytic capacity in vivo. In the absence of perforin, the residual cytolytic activity is CD95 and TNFR dependent. This is particularly true in Mtb-infected lung tissue where disruption of both perforin and CD95 eliminates target cell lysis. Moreover, adoptive transfer of immune CD8+ T cells isolated from wild-type, but not perforin-deficient mice, protect recipient mice from Mtb infection. We conclude that CD8+ T cells elicited following Mtb infection use several cytolytic pathways in a hierarchical and compensatory manner dominated by perforin-mediated cytolysis. Finally, although several cytolytic pathways are available, adoptively transferred Mtb-specific CD8+ T cells require perforin-mediated cytolysis to protect animals from infection. These data show that CD8+ T cell-mediated protection during Mtb infection requires more than the secretion of IFN-γ and specifically defines the CD8+ cytolytic mechanisms utilized and required in vivo.
Early Divergence in Neutrophil Apoptosis between Pathogenic and Nonpathogenic Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Infections of Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Elbim Carole , Monceaux Valerie , Mueller Yvonne M. , Lewis Mark G. , François Stephanie , Diop Ousmane , Akarid Khadija , Hurtrel Bruno , Gougerot-Pocidalo Marie-Anne , Lévy Yves , Katsikis Peter D. , Estaquier Jerome
Published: April 2014

We used pathogenic and nonpathogenic simian models of SIV infection of Chinese and Indian rhesus macaque (RMs) and African green monkeys (AGMs), respectively, to investigate the relationship between polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) death and the extent of viral replication and disease outcome. In this study, we showed that PMN death increased early during the acute phase of SIV infection in Chinese RMs and coincided with the peak of viral replication on day 14. The level of PMN death was significantly more severe in RMs that progressed more rapidly to AIDS and coincided with neutropenia. Neutropenia was also observed in Indian RMs and was higher in non-Mamu-A*01 compared with Mamu-A*01 animals. In stark contrast, no changes in the levels of PMN death were observed in the nonpathogenic model of SIVagm-sab (sabaeus) infection of AGMs despite similarly high viral replication. PMN death was a Bax and Bak-independent mitochondrial insult, which is prevented by inhibiting calpain activation but not caspases. We found that BOB/GPR15, a SIV coreceptor, is expressed on the PMN surface of RMs at a much higher levels than AGMs and its ligation induced PMN death, suggesting that SIV particle binding to the cell surface is sufficient to induce PMN death. Taken together, our results suggest that species-specific differences in BOB/GPR15 receptor expression on PMN can lead to increased acute phase PMN death. This may account for the decline in PMN numbers that occurs during primary SIV infection in pathogenic SIV infection and may have important implications for subsequent viral replication and disease progression.
Factor H Binding as a Complement Evasion Mechanism for an Anaerobic Pathogen, Fusobacterium necrophorum
Authors: Friberg Nathalie , Carlson Petteri , Kentala Erna , Mattila Petri S. , Kuusela Pentti , Meri Seppo , Jarva Hanna
Published: April 2014

Fusobacterium necrophorum subspecies funduliforme is an obligate anaerobic Gram-negative rod causing invasive infections such as the life-threatening Lemierre’s syndrome (sore throat, septicemia, jugular vein thrombosis, and disseminated infection). The aim of our study was to understand if and how F. necrophorum avoids C activation. We studied 12 F. necrophorum subsp. funduliforme strains isolated from patients with sepsis. All strains were resistant to serum killing after a 1-h incubation in 20% serum. The bacteria bound, at different levels, the C inhibitor factor H (fH). Binding was ionic and specific in nature and occurred via sites on both the N terminus and the C terminus of fH. Bound fH remained functionally active as a cofactor for factor I in the cleavage of C3b. Interestingly, patients with the most severe symptoms carried strains with the strongest ability to bind fH. An increased C3b deposition and membrane attack complex formation on the surface of a weakly fH-binding strain was observed and its survival in serum at 3.5 h was impaired. This strain had not caused a typical Lemierre’s syndrome. These data, and the fact that fH-binding correlated with the severity of disease, suggest that the binding of fH contributes to virulence and survival of F. necrophorum subsp. funduliforme in the human host. Our data show, for the first time, that an anaerobic bacterium is able to bind the C inhibitor fH to evade C attack.
The 15-Deoxy-Δ12,14-Prostaglandin J2 Suppresses Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 Expression in IFN-γ-Stimulated Astrocytes through Induction of MAPK Phosphatase-1
Authors: Lee Jee Hoon , Woo Joo Hong , Woo Sang Uk , Kim Kwang Soo , Park Sang Myun , Joe Eun-hye , Jou Ilo
Published: April 2014

The 15-deoxy-Δ12,14-PGJ2 (15d-PGJ2) is a cyclopentene PG generated from PGD2. It is an endogenous ligand of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ that is primarily involved in adipocyte differentiation and lipid metabolism. Its anti-inflammatory actions have recently attracted considerable research attention, although the precise role and underlying mechanisms of these actions are largely unknown. In the present study, we focused on the inhibitory action of 15d-PGJ2 on the chemokine MCP-1, which plays a key role in the initiation and progression of inflammation by recruiting inflammatory cells to lesion sites. We found that 15d-PGJ2 suppressed MCP-1 transcription and protein secretion in IFN-γ-stimulated brain astrocytes. The inhibitory effects of 15d-PGJ2 on MCP-1 resulted from its actions on the transcription factors, AP-1 and specificity protein-1, which play key roles in IFN-γ-induced MCP-1 expression in astrocytes. Of interest, the negative effects of 15d-PGJ2 on AP-1/specificity protein-1 signaling and the resulting inhibition of MCP-1 expression were mediated by MAPK phosphatase (MKP)-1 activity, which was induced by 15d-PGJ2 in a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-independent manner. Thus, our data demonstrate a novel anti-inflammatory mechanism of 15d-PGJ2 involving MKP-1. Considering the importance of MCP-1 in inflammatory processes, our results suggest that 15d-PGJ2 analogues may have therapeutic potential to attenuate inflammatory brain diseases by inducing MKP-1 expression.
Antagonism of Airway Tolerance by Endotoxin/Lipopolysaccharide through Promoting OX40L and Suppressing Antigen-Specific Foxp3+ T Regulatory Cells
Authors: Duan Wei , So Takanori , Croft Michael
Published: April 2014

Respiratory exposure to allergens can lead to airway tolerance. Factors that antagonize tolerance mechanisms in the lung might result in susceptibility to diseases such as asthma. We show that inhalation of endotoxin/LPS with Ag prevented airway tolerance and abolished protection from T cell-driven asthmatic lung inflammation. Under conditions leading to tolerance, adaptive Ag-specific CD4+Foxp3+ T regulatory cells (Treg) were generated following exposure to intranasal Ag and outnumbered IL-4- and IFN-γ-producing CD4 T cells by 100:1 or greater. Inhaled LPS altered the ratio of Treg to IL-4+ or IFN-γ+ T cells by concomitantly suppressing Treg generation and promoting effector T cell generation. LPS induced OX40L expression on dendritic cells and B cells that resulted in a synergistic activity between TLR4 and OX40 signals, leading to production of IL-4, IFN-γ, and IL-6, which blocked Treg development. Furthermore, inhibiting OX40/OX40L interactions prevented LPS from suppressing tolerance, and resulted in the generation of greater numbers of adaptive Treg. Thus, cooperation between TLR4 and OX40 controls susceptibility to developing airway disease via modulating the balance between adaptive Treg and IL-4+ or IFN-γ+ T cells. Targeting OX40L then has the potential to improve the efficacy of Ag immunotherapy to promote tolerance.
Transmigration of Neutrophils across Inflamed Endothelium Is Signaled through LFA-1 and Src Family Kinase
Authors: Sarantos Melissa R. , Zhang Hong , Schaff Ulrich Y. , Dixit Neha , Hayenga Heather N. , Lowell Clifford A. , Simon Scott I.
Published: April 2014

Leukocyte capture on inflamed endothelium is facilitated by a shift in LFA-1 from low to high affinity that supports binding to ICAM-1. LFA-1 bonds help anchor polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) to inflamed endothelium in shear flow, and their redistribution to the leading edge guides pseudopod formation, migration, and extravasation. These events can be disrupted at the plasma membrane by stabilizing LFA-1 in a low- or intermediate-affinity state with allosteric small molecules. We hypothesized that a minimum dimeric bond formation between high-affinity LFA-1 and ICAM-1 under shear stress is necessary to catalyze transmembrane signaling of directed cell migration. Microspheres and substrates were derivatized with monomeric or dimeric ICAM-1 to simulate the surface of inflamed endothelium under defined ligand valence. Binding to dimeric ICAM-1, and not monomeric ICAM-1, was sufficient to elicit assembly of F-actin and phosphorylation of Src family kinases that colocalized with LFA-1 on adherent PMN. Genetic deletion or small molecule inhibition of Src family kinases disrupted their association with LFA-1 that correlated with diminished polarization of arrested PMN and abrogation of transmigration on inflamed endothelium. We conclude that dimeric bond clusters of LFA-1/ICAM-1 provide a key outside-in signal for orienting cytoskeletal dynamics that direct PMN extravasation at sites of inflammation.
Chemokine Receptor CCR1 Regulates Inflammatory Cell Infiltration after Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Furuichi Kengo , Gao Ji-Liang , Horuk Richard , Wada Takashi , Kaneko Shuichi , Murphy Philip M.
Published: April 2014

Neutrophils and macrophages rapidly infiltrate the kidney after renal ischemia-reperfusion injury, however specific molecular recruitment mechanisms have not been fully delineated for these cell types. Here we provide genetic and pharmacologic evidence supporting a positive role for the chemokine receptor CCR1 in macrophage and neutrophil infiltration in a 7 day mouse model of renal ischemia-reperfusion injury. By day 7, injured kidneys from mice lacking CCR1 contained 35% fewer neutrophils and 45% fewer macrophages than injured kidneys from wild-type control mice. Pretreatment of wild-type mice with the specific CCR1 antagonist BX471 also suppressed neutrophil and macrophage infiltration in the model. Injured kidneys from mice lacking CCR1 also had reduced content of the CCR1 ligands CCL3 (MIP-1α) and CCL5 (RANTES) compared with injured kidneys from wild-type controls, suggesting a leukocyte source for these inflammatory chemokines and existence of a CCR1-dependent positive feedback loop for leukocyte infiltration in the model. Local leukocyte proliferation and apoptosis were detected after injury, but were not dependent on CCR1. Also, the extent of necrotic and fibrotic damage and decline in renal function in injured kidneys was similar in wild-type and CCR1-deficient mice. Thus, CCR1 appears to regulate trafficking of macrophages and neutrophils to kidney in a mouse model of renal ischemia-reperfusion injury, however this activity does not appear to affect tissue injury.
T-bet and Eomesodermin Play Critical Roles in Directing T Cell Differentiation to Th1 versus Th17
Authors: Yang Yu , Xu Jiangnan , Niu Yanyan , Bromberg Jonathan S. , Ding Yaozhong
Published: April 2014

Th1 and Th17 cells are crucial in immune regulation and autoimmune disease development. By adding Stat6 deficiency to T-bet deficiency, and thus negating effects from elevated levels of IL-4/Stat6/GATA3 Th2 signals in T-bet-deficient cells, we investigated the signals important for Th1 and Th17 cell differentiation and their role in colitis development. The data reveal that Eomesodermin compensates T-bet deficiency for IFN-γ and Th1 development. However, without T-bet, IFN-γ production and Th1 differentiation are susceptible to inhibition by IL-6 and TGFβ. As a result, Th17 development is strongly favored, the threshold for TGFβ requirement is lowered, and IL-6 drives Th17 differentiation, elucidating a critical role for T-bet in directing T cell differentiation to Th1 vs Th17. In contrast to IL-6 plus TGFβ-driven Th17, IL-6-driven Th17 cells do not express IL-10 and they induce a more intense colitis. Naive CD4 T cells deficient in Stat6 and T-bet also induce a Th17-dominant colitis development in vivo. Our data provide new insights into the choice between Th1 and Th17 development and their roles in autoimmunity.
Alveolar Macrophages from Septic Mice Promote Polymorphonuclear Leukocyte Transendothelial Migration via an Endothelial Cell Src Kinase/NADPH Oxidase Pathway
Authors: Wang Zhanfei , Rui Tao , Yang Min , Valiyeva Fatima , Kvietys Peter R.
Published: April 2014

Alveolar macrophages (AMφ) have been implicated in the polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) recruitment to the lungs during sepsis. Using an in vivo murine model of sepsis (feces in the peritoneum), we show that peritonitis leads to increased activation of AMφ and PMN migration into pulmonary alveoli. To assess cellular mechanisms, an in vitro construct of the pulmonary vascular-interstitial interface (murine AMφ, pulmonary endothelial cells, and PMN) and a chimera approach were used. Using immunologic (Abs) and genetic blockade (CXCR2-deficient AMφ), we show that CXC chemokines in septic plasma are responsible for the activation of AMφ. The activated AMφ can promote PMN transendothelial migration, even against a concentration gradient of septic plasma, by generating platelet-activating factor and H2O2. Platelet-activating factor/H2O2 induce an oxidant stress in the adjacent endothelial cells, an event that appears to be a prerequisite for PMN transendothelial migration, since PMN migration is abrogated across Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase overexpressing endothelial cells. Using gp91-deficient endothelial cells, we show that NADPH oxidase plays an important role in the AMφ-induced PMN transendothelial migration. Pharmacologic/small interfering RNA blockade of Src kinase inhibits AMφ-induced endothelial NADPH oxidase activation and PMN migration. Collectively, our findings indicate that the PMN transendothelial migration induced by septic AMφ is dependent on the generation of superoxide in endothelial cells via the Src kinase/NADPH oxidase signaling pathway.
FcγRIII and FcγRIV Are Indispensable for Acute Glomerular Inflammation Induced by Switch Variant Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Giorgini Angela , Brown Heather J. , Lock Helen R. , Nimmerjahn Falk , Ravetch Jeffrey V. , Verbeek J. Sjef , Sacks Steven H. , Robson Michael G.
Published: April 2014

The relative ability of IgG subclasses to cause acute inflammation and the roles of specific effector mechanisms in this process are not clear. We explored this in an in vivo model of glomerular inflammation in the mouse. Trinitrophenol was planted on the glomerular basement membrane after conjugation to nephrotoxic Ab. The relative nephritogenicity of anti-trinitrophenol switch variant mAbs was then explored and shown to be IgG2a > IgG2b, with no disease caused by IgG1. Using knockout mice, we showed that FcγRIII was necessary for both neutrophil influx and glomerular damage induced by IgG2a and IgG2b. Surprisingly, IgG1 did not cause disease although it binds to FcγRIII. Using blocking Abs, we showed that this was explained by an additional requirement for FcγRIV, which does not bind to IgG1. IgG2a- or IgG2b-induced neutrophil influx was not affected by deficiency of either FcγRI or C3. Bone marrow chimeras were constructed to test the effect of combined deficiency of FcγRI and C3, and there was no effect on IgG2a- or IgG2b-mediated neutrophil influx. However, IgG2b-induced albuminuria and thrombosis were reduced in C3-deficient mice, showing an additional role for complement in IgG2b-mediated glomerular damage. The results show that IgG2a and IgG2b are the pathogenic subclasses in acute neutrophil-mediated glomerular inflammation, with an indispensable role for both FcγRIII and FcγRIV. Additionally, complement contributes to IgG2b-induced glomerular injury.
Targeting of Myelin Protein Zero in a Spontaneous Autoimmune Polyneuropathy
Authors: Kim Hye-Jung , Jung Cha-Gyun , Jensen Mark A. , Dukala Danuta , Soliven Betty
Published: April 2014

Elimination of the costimulatory molecule B7-2 prevents autoimmune diabetes in NOD mice, but leads to the development of a spontaneous autoimmune polyneuropathy (SAP), which resembles the human disease chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). In this study, we examined the immunopathogenic mechanisms in this model, including identification of SAP Ags. We found that B7-2-deficient NOD mice exhibit changes in cytokine and chemokine gene expression in spleens over time. There was an increase in IL-17 and a decrease in IL-10 transcript levels at 4 mo (preclinical phase), whereas IFN-γ expression peaked at 8 mo (clinical phase). There was also an increase in transcript levels of Th1 cytokines, CXCL10, and RANTES in sciatic nerves of mice that developed SAP. Splenocytes from SAP mice exhibited proliferative and Th1 cytokine responses to myelin P0 (180–199), but not to other P0 peptides or P2 (53–78). Adoptive transfer of P0-reactive T cells generated from SAP mice induced neuropathy in four of six NOD.SCID mice. Data from i.v. tolerance studies indicate that myelin P0 is one of the autoantigens targeted by T cells in SAP in this model. The expression of P0 by peri-islet Schwann cells provides a potential mechanism linking islet autoimmunity and inflammatory neuropathy.
Expanded Double Negative T Cells in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Produce IL-17 and Infiltrate the Kidneys
Authors: Crispín José C. , Oukka Mohamed , Bayliss George , Cohen Robert A. , Van Beek Christine A. , Stillman Isaac E. , Kyttaris Vasileios C. , Juang Yuang-Taung , Tsokos George C.
Published: April 2014

Double negative (DN) T cells are expanded in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and stimulate autoantibody production as efficiently as CD4+ T cells. In this study, we demonstrate that DN T cells from patients with SLE produce significant amounts of IL-17 and IFN-γ, and expand when stimulated in vitro with an anti-CD3 Ab in the presence of accessory cells. Furthermore, IL-17+ and DN T cells are found in kidney biopsies of patients with lupus nephritis. Our findings establish that DN T cells produce the inflammatory cytokines IL-17 and IFN-γ, and suggest that they contribute to the pathogenesis of kidney damage in patients with SLE.
Comparison of Biological Activity of Human Anti-Apical Membrane Antigen-1 Antibodies Induced by Natural Infection and Vaccination
Authors: Miura Kazutoyo , Zhou Hong , Moretz Samuel E. , Diouf Ababacar , Thera Mahamadou A. , Dolo Amagana , Doumbo Ogobara , Malkin Elissa , Diemert David , Miller Louis H. , Mullen Gregory E. D. , Long Carole A.
Published: April 2014

Vaccines represent a significant potential means of decreasing global morbidity and mortality due to malaria. Clinical trials in the United States with Plasmodium falciparum Apical Membrane Antigen 1 (AMA1) showed that the vaccine induced biologically active Abs judged by an in vitro parasite growth inhibition assay (GIA). However, the same vaccine in Malian adults did not increase biological activity, although it elevated ELISA titers. Because GIA has been used to evaluate the biological activity of Abs induced by blood stage malarial vaccine candidates, we explored this discrepancy in this study. We affinity purified AMA1-specific Abs from both U.S. vaccinees and nonvaccinated individuals living in a malaria-endemic area of Mali and performed ELISA and GIA. Both AMA1-specifc Abs induced by vaccination (U.S.) and by natural infection (Mali) have comparable biological activity in GIA when the ELISA titer is normalized. However, a fraction of Malians’ IgG that did not bind to AMA1 protein (Mali-non-AMA1 IgG) reduced the biological activity of the AMA1 Abs from U.S. vaccinees; in contrast, U.S.-non-AMA1 IgGs did not show a reduction of the biological activity. Further investigation revealed that the reduction was due to malaria-specific IgGs in the Mali-non-AMA1 IgGs. The fact that both U.S.- and Mali-AMA1-specific Abs showed comparable biological activity supports further development of AMA1-based vaccines. However, the reduction of biological activity of AMA1-specific Ab by other malaria-specific IgGs likely explains the limited effect on growth-inhibitory activity of Abs induced by AMA1 vaccination in Malian adults and may complicate efforts to develop a blood stage malaria vaccine.
Immune Opsonins Modulate BLyS/BAFF Release in a Receptor-Specific Fashion
Authors: Li Xinrui , Su Kaihong , Ji Chuanyi , Szalai Alexander J. , Wu Jianming , Zhang Yan , Zhou Tong , Kimberly Robert P. , Edberg Jeffrey C.
Published: April 2014

TNF ligand superfamily member 13B (B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS), B cell activating factor (BAFF)) promotes primary B cell proliferation and Ig production. While the soluble form of BLyS/BAFF is thought to be the primary biologically active form, little is known about the regulation of its cleavage and processing. We provide evidence that Fcγ receptor cross-linking triggers a rapid release of soluble, biologically active BLyS/BAFF from myeloid cells. Surprisingly, this function is primarily mediated by FcγRI, but not FcγRIIa as defined by specific mAb, and can be initiated by both IgG and C reactive protein as ligands. The generation of a B cell proliferation and survival factor by both innate and adaptive immune opsonins through engagement of an Fcγ receptor, which can also enhance Ag uptake and presentation, provides a unique opportunity to facilitate Ab production. These results provide a mechanism by which Fcγ receptors can elevate circulating BLyS levels and promote autoantibody production in immune complex-mediated autoimmune diseases.
IFN-α Induces Transcription of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α to Inhibit Proliferation of Human Endothelial Cells
Authors: Gerber Scott A. , Pober Jordan S.
Published: April 2014

Expression of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α, a transcription factor subunit increased by protein stabilization in response to hypoxia, is increased in human endothelial cells (ECs) by IFN-α under normoxic conditions. IFN-α increases HIF-1α transcript levels within 2 h by up to 50% and doubles HIF-1α protein expression. Based on pharmacological inhibition studies, the increase in HIF-1α mRNA involves new transcription, is independent of new protein synthesis, and requires JAK signaling. Protein knockdown by small interfering RNA confirms the involvement of JAK1 and TYK2, as well of IFN-stimulated gene factor 3 (ISGF3). IFN-γ does not significantly induce HIF-1α mRNA, but increases the magnitude and duration of the IFN-α effect. IFN-α-induced HIF-1α protein translocates to the nucleus and can bind to hypoxia response elements in DNA. However, IFN-α treatment fails to induce transcription of several prototypic HIF-responsive genes (VEGF-A, PPARγ, and prostacyclin synthase) due to an insufficient increase in HIF-1α protein levels. Although certain other HIF-responsive genes (PHD3 and VEGF-C) are induced following IFN-α and/or IFN-γ treatment, these responses are not inhibited by siRNA knockdown of HIF-1α. Additionally, IFN-α induction of ISGF3-dependent genes involved in innate immunity (viperin, OAS2, and CXCL10) are also unaffected by knockdown of HIF-1α. Interestingly, knockdown of HIF-1α significantly reduces the capacity of IFN-α to inhibit endothelial cell proliferation. We conclude that IFN-α induces the transcription of HIF-1α in human endothelial cells though a JAK-ISGF3 pathway under normoxic conditions, and that this response contributes to the antiproliferative activity of this cytokine.
CD27 Instructs CD4+ T Cells to Provide Help for the Memory CD8+ T Cell Response after Protein Immunization
Authors: Xiao Yanling , Peperzak Victor , Keller Anna M. , Borst Jannie
Published: April 2014

For optimal quality, memory CD8+ T cells require CD4+ T cell help. We have examined whether CD4+ T cells require CD27 to deliver this help, in a model of intranasal OVA protein immunization. CD27 deficiency reduced the capacity of CD4+ T cells to support Ag-specific CD8+ T cell accumulation at the tissue site after primary and secondary immunization. CD27-dependent CD4+ T cell help for the memory CD8+ T cell response was delivered during priming. It did not detectably affect formation of CD8+ memory T cells, but promoted their secondary expansion. CD27 improved survival of primed CD4+ T cells, but its contribution to the memory CD8+ T cell response relied on altered CD4+ T cell quality rather than quantity. CD27 induced a Th1-diagnostic gene expression profile in CD4+ T cells, which included the membrane molecule MS4A4B. Accordingly, CD27 increased the frequency of IFN-γ- and IL-2-producing CD4+ T cells. It did not affect CD40L expression. Strikingly, MS4A4B was also identified as a unique marker of CD8+ memory T cells that had received CD27-proficient CD4+ T cell help during the primary response. This apparent imprinting effect suggests a role for MS4A4B as a downstream effector in CD27-dependent help for CD8+ T cell memory.
Microbial Challenge Promotes the Regenerative Process of the Injured Central Nervous System of the Medicinal Leech by Inducing the Synthesis of Antimicrobial Peptides in Neurons and Microglia
Authors: Schikorski David , Cuvillier-Hot Virginie , Leippe Matthias , Boidin-Wichlacz Céline , Slomianny Christian , Macagno Eduardo , Salzet Michel , Tasiemski Aurélie
Published: April 2014

Following trauma, the CNS of the medicinal leech, unlike the mammalian CNS, has a strong capacity to regenerate neurites and synaptic connections that restore normal function. In this study, we show that this regenerative process is enhanced by a controlled bacterial infection, suggesting that induction of regeneration of normal CNS function may depend critically upon the coinitiation of an immune response. We explore the interaction between the activation of a neuroimmune response and the process of regeneration by assaying the potential roles of two newly characterized antimicrobial peptides. Our data provide evidence that microbial components differentially induce the transcription, by microglial cells, of both antimicrobial peptide genes, the products of which accumulate rapidly at sites in the CNS undergoing regeneration following axotomy. Using a preparation of leech CNS depleted of microglial cells, we also demonstrate the production of antimicrobial peptides by neurons. Interestingly, in addition to exerting antibacterial properties, both peptides act as promoters of the regenerative process of axotomized leech CNS. These data are the first to report the neuronal synthesis of antimicrobial peptides and their participation in the immune response and the regeneration of the CNS. Thus, the leech CNS appears as an excellent model for studying the implication of immune molecules in neural repair.
Critical Role of CD4 Help in CD154 Blockade-Resistant Memory CD8 T Cell Activation and Allograft Rejection in Sensitized Recipients
Authors: Wu Zheng , Wang Yue , Gao Feng , Shen Xiuda , Zhai Yuan , Kupiec-Weglinski Jerzy W.
Published: April 2014

Allograft rejection in sensitized recipients remains the major problem in clinical organ transplantation. We have developed a donor-type skin-sensitized mouse cardiac allograft model (BALB/c→C57BL/6) in which both rejection (<5 days) and alloreactive CD8 activation are resistant to CD154 blockade. First, we attempted to elucidate why CD154 blockade fails to protect cardiac grafts in sensitized recipients. The gene array analysis has revealed that treatment with anti-CD154 mAb (MR1) had distinctive impact on host immunity in naive vs sensitized animals. Unlike in naive counterparts, host sensitization mitigated the impact of CD154 blockade on critical immune signaling pathways. Indeed, we identified 3234 genes in cardiac grafts that were down-regulated by MR1 in naive (at least 5-fold), but remained unaffected in sensitized hosts. Moreover, MR1 treatment failed to prevent accumulation of CD4 T cells in cardiac allografts of sensitized recipients. Then, to determine the role of CD4 help in CD154 blockade-resistant immune response, we used CD4-depleting and CD4-blocking Ab, in conjunction with MR1 treatment. Our data revealed that CD154 blockade-resistant CD8 activation in sensitized mice was dependent on CD4 T cells. In the absence of CD4 help, CD154 blockade prevented differentiation of alloreactive CD8 T cells into CTL effector/memory cells and abrogated acute rejection (cardiac graft survival for >30 days), paralleled by selective target gene depression at the graft site. These results provide the rationale to probe potential synergy of adjunctive therapy targeting CD4 and CD154 to overcome graft rejection in sensitized recipients.
Epidermal Receptor Activator of NF-κB Ligand Controls Langerhans Cells Numbers and Proliferation
Authors: Barbaroux Jean-Baptiste O. , Beleut Manfred , Brisken Cathrin , Mueller Christopher G. , Groves Richard W.
Published: April 2014

Langerhans cells (LC) are the dendritic APC population of the epidermis, where they reside for long periods and are self-replicating. The molecular signals underlying these characteristics are unknown. The TNF superfamily member receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL, TNFSF11) has been shown to sustain viability of blood dendritic cells in addition to its role in promoting proliferation and differentiation of several cell types, notably osteoclasts. In this study, we have studied expression of the RANKL system in skin and have defined a key role for this molecule in LC homeostasis. In vitro and in vivo, human KC expressed RANKL and epidermal LC expressed cell surface RANK. In vitro, RANKL sustained CD34+ progenitor-derived LC viability following 72-h cultures in cytokine-free medium (79.5 ± 1% vs 55.2 ± 5.7% live cells, respectively; n = 4; p < 0.05). In vivo, RANKL-deficient mice displayed a marked reduction in epidermal LC density (507.1 ± 77.2 vs 873.6 ± 41.6 LC per mm2; n = 9; p < 0.05) and their proliferation was impaired without a detectable effect on apoptosis. These data indicate a key role for the RANKL system in the regulation of LC survival within the skin and suggest a regulatory role for KC in the maintenance of epidermal LC homeostasis.
The Dynamics of Mouse Cytomegalovirus-Specific CD4 T Cell Responses during Acute and Latent Infection
Authors: Walton Senta M. , Wyrsch Philippe , Munks Michael W. , Zimmermann Albert , Hengel Hartmut , Hill Ann B. , Oxenius Annette
Published: April 2014

The dynamics of mouse cytomegalovirus (MCMV)-specific CD4 T cell responses and the mechanisms by which these cells contribute to viral control are not well understood, mainly due to lack of appropriate tools to characterize MCMV-specific CD4 T cells. We therefore generated MCMV-specific CD4 T cell hybridomas, then used an MCMV expression library and overlapping peptides to identify CD4 T cell epitopes. We used these novel tools to study the long-term kinetics and organ distribution of MCMV-specific CD4 T cells in comparison to MCMV-specific CD8 T cell responses. We demonstrate that the overall MCMV-specific CD4 T cell response stabilizes during the latent stage, which stands in contrast to subpopulations of MCMV-specific CD8 T cells and HCMV-specific CD4 T cells which accumulate over the course of CMV latency. Furthermore, MCMV-specific CD4 T cells displayed a Th1 phenotype, secreting high levels of IFN-γ and TNF-α and to some extent IL-2, cytokines which are involved in protection from CMV disease.