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Frontiers in Immunology 2023The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic triggered an unprecedented concentration of economic and research efforts to generate knowledge at unequalled speed on...
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic triggered an unprecedented concentration of economic and research efforts to generate knowledge at unequalled speed on deregulated interferon type I signalling and nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer in B-cells (NF-κB)-driven interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-18 secretion causing cytokine storms. The translation of the knowledge on how the resulting systemic inflammation can lead to life-threatening complications into novel treatments and vaccine technologies is underway. Nevertheless, previously existing knowledge on the role of cytoplasmatic or circulating self-DNA as a pro-inflammatory damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) was largely ignored. Pathologies reported '' for patients infected with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2 to be outcomes of self-DNA-driven inflammation in fact had been linked earlier to self-DNA in different contexts, e.g., the infection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-1, sterile inflammation, and autoimmune diseases. I highlight particularly how synergies with other DAMPs can render immunogenic properties to normally non-immunogenic extracellular self-DNA, and I discuss the shared features of the gp41 unit of the HIV-1 envelope protein and the SARS-CoV 2 Spike protein that enable HIV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 to interact with cell or nuclear membranes, trigger syncytia formation, inflict damage to their host's DNA, and trigger inflammation - likely for their own benefit. These similarities motivate speculations that similar mechanisms to those driven by gp41 can explain how inflammatory self-DNA contributes to some of most frequent adverse events after vaccination with the BNT162b2 mRNA (Pfizer/BioNTech) or the mRNA-1273 (Moderna) vaccine, i.e., myocarditis, herpes zoster, rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune nephritis or hepatitis, new-onset systemic lupus erythematosus, and flare-ups of psoriasis or lupus. The hope is to motivate a wider application of the lessons learned from the experiences with COVID-19 and the new mRNA vaccines to combat future non-COVID-19 diseases.
Topics: Humans; COVID-19; BNT162 Vaccine; SARS-CoV-2; Inflammation; Vaccination; Alarmins; Cell-Free Nucleic Acids
PubMed: 38439942
DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1259879 -
Turkish Journal of Haematology :... May 2024Calprotectin (CLP), S100A6, and high mobility group nucleosome-binding protein 1 (HMGN1), known as alarmins, are involved in the pathogenesis of many tumors. In this...
OBJECTIVE
Calprotectin (CLP), S100A6, and high mobility group nucleosome-binding protein 1 (HMGN1), known as alarmins, are involved in the pathogenesis of many tumors. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationships of serum CLP, S100A6, and HMGN1 levels with the clinical and laboratory findings of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) and their roles in the pathogenesis of MM.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We measured the serum CLP, S100A6, and HMGN1 levels of 55 newly diagnosed patients and 32 healthy controls using the sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. The medical records of the patients were also reviewed.
RESULTS
Serum CLP, S100A6, and HMGN1 levels were significantly decreased in MM patients compared to the control group (p=0.012, p=0.001, and p=0.030, respectively). Receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to determine diagnostic cut-off values for serum CLP, S100A6, and HMGN1 of <98 ng/mL (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.663, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.554-0.761, p=0.009), <1174.5 pg/mL (AUC: 0.706, 95% CI: 0.598-0.799, p=0.001), and <440.18 pg/mL (AUC: 0.640, 95% CI: 0.530-0.740, p=0.03), respectively. CLP levels were found to be statistically significantly higher in patients with light chain MM (91.58±22.57 ng/mL) compared to heavy chain MM (79.42±15.83 ng/mL) (p=0.03). A negative correlation was observed between CLP and M protein, immunoglobulin G, globulin, and beta-2 microglobulin (correlation coefficients: -0.361, -0.370, -0.279, -0.300, respectively; p=0.024, p=0.06, p=0.04, p=0.0033).
CONCLUSION
In this study, we found that serum CLP, S100A6, and HMGN1 levels were statistically lower in patients with newly diagnosed MM compared to the control group. These results suggest that CLP may bind to the paraprotein produced by heavy chain MM in the blood, causing its blood levels to be low. Additionally, low levels of HMGN1, which is involved in DNA repair, suggest that HMGN1 may contribute to the complex genetic abnormalities found in cases of MM.
Topics: Humans; Multiple Myeloma; Female; Male; Middle Aged; Alarmins; Aged; Leukocyte L1 Antigen Complex; ROC Curve; Biomarkers, Tumor; Case-Control Studies; HMGN1 Protein; Adult; S100 Calcium Binding Protein A6; Cell Cycle Proteins
PubMed: 38426298
DOI: 10.4274/tjh.galenos.2024.2023.0469 -
Frontiers in Immunology 2024Heterogeneity characterises inflammatory diseases and different phenotypes and endotypes have been identified. Both innate and adaptive immunity contribute to the...
Heterogeneity characterises inflammatory diseases and different phenotypes and endotypes have been identified. Both innate and adaptive immunity contribute to the immunopathological mechanism of these diseases and barrier damage plays a prominent role triggering type 2 inflammation through the alarmins system, such as anti-Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin (TSLP). Treatment with anti-TSLP monoclonal antibodies showed efficacy in severe asthma and clinical trials for other eosinophilic diseases are ongoing. The aim of this perspective review is to analyse current advances and future applications of TSLP inhibition to control barrier damage.
Topics: Humans; Cytokines; Asthma; Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin; Adaptive Immunity; Inflammation
PubMed: 38415254
DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1354556 -
Biomedicines Feb 2024Sulfurous thermal waters (STWs) are used as a complementary treatment for allergic rhinitis. However, there is scant data on the effects of STW on nasal epithelial...
Sulfurous thermal waters (STWs) are used as a complementary treatment for allergic rhinitis. However, there is scant data on the effects of STW on nasal epithelial cells, and in vitro models are warranted. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the dose and time effects of exposure to 3D nasal inserts (MucilAir-HF allergic rhinitis model) with STW or isotonic sodium chloride solution (ISCS) aerosols. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and histology were assessed before and after nebulizations. Chemokine/cytokine levels in the basal supernatants were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results showed that more than four daily nebulizations of four or more minutes compromised the normal epithelial integrity. In contrast, 1 or 2 min of STW or ISCS nebulizations had no toxic effect up to 3 days. No statistically significant changes in release of inflammatory chemokines MCP-1/CCL2 > IL-8/CXCL8 > MIP-1α/CCL3, no meaningful release of "alarmins" (IL-1α, IL-33), nor of anti-inflammatory IL-10 cytokine were observed. We have characterized safe time and dose conditions for aerosol nebulizations using a novel in vitro 3D nasal epithelium model of allergic rhinitis patients. This may be a suitable in vitro setup to mimic in vivo treatments of chronic rhinitis with STW upon triggering an inflammatory stimulus in the future.
PubMed: 38398010
DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020408 -
International Journal of Molecular... Feb 2024This study delves into the critical role of alarmins in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), focusing on their impact on disease severity and the quality of life (QoL)...
This study delves into the critical role of alarmins in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), focusing on their impact on disease severity and the quality of life (QoL) of patients. We investigated the alterations in alarmin levels in CSU patients and their correlations with the Urticaria Activity Score (UAS7) and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). We analyzed serum levels of interleukin-25 (IL-25), interleukin-33 (IL-33), and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) in 50 CSU patients, comparing these to 38 healthy controls. The study examined the relationship between alarmin levels and clinical outcomes, including disease severity and QoL. Elevated levels of IL-33 and TSLP in CSU patients ( < 0.0001) highlight their potential role in CSU pathogenesis. Although IL-25 showed higher levels in CSU patients, this did not reach statistical significance ( = 0.0823). Crucially, IL-33's correlation with both UAS7 and DLQI scores underscores its potential as a biomarker for CSU diagnosis and severity assessment. Of the alarmins analyzed, IL-33 emerges as particularly significant for further exploration as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in CSU. Its substantial correlation with disease severity and impact on QoL makes it a compelling candidate for future research, potentially serving as a target for therapeutic interventions. Given these findings, IL-33 deserves additional investigation to confirm its role and effectiveness as a biomarker and therapeutic target in CSU.
Topics: Humans; Alarmins; Biomarkers; Chronic Disease; Chronic Urticaria; Cytokines; Interleukin-17; Interleukin-33; Quality of Life; Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin; Urticaria
PubMed: 38396704
DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042026 -
The EMBO Journal Apr 2024Ferroptosis is a regulated form of necrotic cell death caused by iron-dependent accumulation of oxidized phospholipids in cellular membranes, culminating in plasma...
Ferroptosis is a regulated form of necrotic cell death caused by iron-dependent accumulation of oxidized phospholipids in cellular membranes, culminating in plasma membrane rupture (PMR) and cell lysis. PMR is also a hallmark of other types of programmed necrosis, such as pyroptosis and necroptosis, where it is initiated by dedicated pore-forming cell death-executing factors. However, whether ferroptosis-associated PMR is also actively executed by proteins or driven by osmotic pressure remains unknown. Here, we investigate a potential ferroptosis role of ninjurin-1 (NINJ1), a recently identified executor of pyroptosis-associated PMR. We report that NINJ1 oligomerizes during ferroptosis, and that Ninj1-deficiency protects macrophages and fibroblasts from ferroptosis-associated PMR. Mechanistically, we find that NINJ1 is dispensable for the initial steps of ferroptosis, such as lipid peroxidation, channel-mediated calcium influx, and cell swelling. In contrast, NINJ1 is required for early loss of plasma membrane integrity, which precedes complete PMR. Furthermore, NINJ1 mediates the release of cytosolic proteins and danger-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) molecules from ferroptotic cells, suggesting that targeting NINJ1 could be a therapeutic option to reduce ferroptosis-associated inflammation.
Topics: Humans; Alarmins; Ferroptosis; Necrosis; Cell Death; Cell Membrane; Nerve Growth Factors; Cell Adhesion Molecules, Neuronal
PubMed: 38396301
DOI: 10.1038/s44318-024-00055-y -
Cells Feb 2024Cancer immunotherapy is a novel pillar of cancer treatment that harnesses the immune system to fight tumors and generally results in robust antitumor immunity. Although... (Review)
Review
Cancer immunotherapy is a novel pillar of cancer treatment that harnesses the immune system to fight tumors and generally results in robust antitumor immunity. Although immunotherapy has achieved remarkable clinical success for some patients, many patients do not respond, underscoring the need to develop new strategies to promote antitumor immunity. Pyroptosis is an immunostimulatory type of regulated cell death that activates the innate immune system. A hallmark of pyroptosis is the release of intracellular contents such as cytokines, alarmins, and chemokines that can stimulate adaptive immune activation. Recent studies suggest that pyroptosis promotes antitumor immunity. Here, we review the mechanisms by which pyroptosis can be induced and highlight new strategies to induce pyroptosis in cancer cells for antitumor defense. We discuss how pyroptosis modulates the tumor microenvironment to stimulate adaptive immunity and promote antitumor immunity. We also suggest research areas to focus on for continued development of pyroptosis as an anticancer treatment. Pyroptosis-based anticancer therapies offer a promising new avenue for treating immunologically 'cold' tumors.
Topics: Humans; Pyroptosis; Immunotherapy; Immunization; Adaptive Immunity; Neoplasms; Tumor Microenvironment
PubMed: 38391959
DOI: 10.3390/cells13040346 -
Cell Reports Mar 2024Adipose tissue homeostasis relies on the interplay between several regulatory lineages, such as type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s), T helper 2 (Th2) cells, regulatory...
Adipose tissue homeostasis relies on the interplay between several regulatory lineages, such as type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s), T helper 2 (Th2) cells, regulatory T cells, eosinophils, and type 2 macrophages. Among them, ILC2s are numerically the dominant source of type 2 cytokines and are considered as major regulators of adiposity. Despite the overlap in immune effector molecules and sensitivity to alarmins (thymic stromal lymphopoietin and interleukin-33) between ILC2s and resident memory Th2 lymphocytes, the role of the adaptive axis of type 2 immunity remains unclear. We show that mice deficient in CD27, a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, are more resistant to obesity and associated disorders. A comparative analysis of the CD4 compartment of both strains revealed higher numbers of fat-resident memory Th2 cells in the adipose tissue of CD27 knockout mice, which correlated with decreased programmed cell death protein 1-induced apoptosis. Our data point to a non-redundant role for Th2 lymphocytes in obesogenic conditions.
Topics: Animals; Mice; Cytokines; Homeostasis; Immunity, Innate; Interleukin-33; Intra-Abdominal Fat; Lymphocytes; Th2 Cells; Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily, Member 7
PubMed: 38386557
DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113824 -
Veterinary Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) 2024Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory and pruritic allergic skin disease in humans and dogs worldwide. The pathogenesis of AD is multifactorial,... (Review)
Review
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory and pruritic allergic skin disease in humans and dogs worldwide. The pathogenesis of AD is multifactorial, immunologically complex, and may involve genetic factors, epidermal barrier dysfunction, microbiome changes, immune dysregulation, and allergic sensitization. Across species, prevalence of AD is on the rise. At present, there is no cure for canine AD (CAD). The treatment for CAD is multifaceted and aimed at controlling the pruritus, associated inflammation, and infections, repairing the skin barrier function, and dietary management. This review presents data on prevalence, impact, and complex immunological interactions in AD with a focus on subsequent management of the disease in the canine population. A multimodal approach for management of CAD to address varying clinical signs and responses to therapies is discussed.
PubMed: 38371487
DOI: 10.2147/VMRR.S412570 -
Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta.... Apr 2024Type 2 inflammation in asthma develops with exposure to stimuli to include inhaled allergens from house dust mites (HDM). Features include mucus hypersecretion and the...
Type 2 inflammation in asthma develops with exposure to stimuli to include inhaled allergens from house dust mites (HDM). Features include mucus hypersecretion and the formation of pro-secretory ion transport characterised by elevated basal Cl current. Studies using human sinonasal epithelial cells treated with HDM extract report a higher protease activated receptor-2 (PAR-2) agonist-induced calcium mobilisation that may be related to airway sensitisation by allergen-associated proteases. Herein, this study aimed to investigate the effect of HDM on Ca signalling and inflammatory responses in asthmatic airway epithelial cells. Primary bronchial epithelial cells (hPBECs) from asthma donors cultured at air-liquid interface were used to assess electrophysiological, Ca signalling and inflammatory responses. Differences were observed regarding Ca signalling in response to PAR-2 agonist 2-Furoyl-LIGRLO-amide (2-FLI), and equivalent short-circuit current (I) in response to trypsin and 2-FLI, in ALI-asthma and healthy hPBECs. HDM treatment led to increased levels of intracellular cations (Ca, Na) and significantly reduced the 2-FLI-induced change of I in asthma cells. Apical HDM-induced Ca mobilisation was found to mainly involve the activation of PAR-2 and PAR-4-associated store-operated Ca influx and TRPV1. In contrast, PAR-2, PAR-4 antagonists and TRPV1 antagonist only showed slight impact on basolateral HDM-induced Ca mobilisation. HDM trypsin-like serine proteases were the main components leading to non-amiloride sensitive I and also increased interleukin-33 (IL-33) and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) from asthma hPBECs. These studies add further insight into the complex mechanisms associated with HDM-induced alterations in cell signalling and their relevance to pathological changes within asthma.
Topics: Humans; Animals; Alarmins; Trypsin; Asthma; Epithelial Cells; Allergens; Pyroglyphidae
PubMed: 38367901
DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167079