In this study,we investigated the effects of major royal jelly proteins(MRJPs)on the estrogen,gut microbiota,and immunological responses in mice.Mice given 250 or 500 mg/kg,not 125 mg/kg of MRJPs,enhanced the prolifer...In this study,we investigated the effects of major royal jelly proteins(MRJPs)on the estrogen,gut microbiota,and immunological responses in mice.Mice given 250 or 500 mg/kg,not 125 mg/kg of MRJPs,enhanced the proliferation of splenocytes in response to mitogens.The splenocytes and mesenteric lymphocytes activated by T-cell mitogens(Con A and anti-CD3/CD28 antibodies)released high levels of IL-2 but low levels of IFN-γand IL-17A.The release of IL-4 was unaffected by MRJPs.Additionally,splenocytes and mesenteric lymphocytes activated by LPS were prevented by MRJPs at the same dose as that required for producing IL-1βand IL-6,two pro-inflammatory cytokines.The production of IL-1β,IL-6,and IFN-γwas negatively associated with estrogen levels,which were higher in the MRJP-treated animals than in the control group.Analysis of the gut microbiota revealed that feeding mice 250 mg/kg of MRJPs maintained the stability of the natural intestinal microflora of mice.Additionally,the LEf Se analysis identified biomarkers in the MRJP-treated mice,including Prevotella,Bacillales,Enterobacteriales,Gammaproteobacteria,Candidatus_Arthromitus,and Shigella.Our results showed that MRJPs are important components of royal jelly that modulate host immunity and hormone levels and help maintain gut microbiota stability.展开更多
[Objectives]To explore the effects of Guizhi Shaoyao Zhimu Decoction on laboratory indicators and immune functions of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.[Methods]A total of 110 patients with rheumatoid arthritis admit...[Objectives]To explore the effects of Guizhi Shaoyao Zhimu Decoction on laboratory indicators and immune functions of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.[Methods]A total of 110 patients with rheumatoid arthritis admitted to the Second Department of Orthopedics,the Affiliated Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital of Nanjing,Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine from December 2014 to December 2016 were selected as the research objects and divided into a control group and an observation group using the random number table method,with 55 cases in each group.The control group was treated with conventional western medicine,and the observation group was treated with Guizhi Shaoyao Zhimu Decoction on the basis of the control group.Both groups were treated for one month.The clinical effects,improvement of clinical symptoms,laboratory indicators and immune function indicator levels between the two groups were compared;the incidence of adverse reactions in the two groups was counted.[Results]The total effective rate of the observation group was 92.73%,higher than that of the control group(78.18%)(P<0.05).Compared with that before treatment,after one month of treatment,the grip strength of the two groups increased,and the observation group was greater than the control group(P<0.05);the morning stiffness time and 20 m walking time of both groups were shortened,and the observation group was shorter than the control group(P<0.05);the number of joint tenderness,joint swelling,ESR,MPV,PDW,serum CRP,plasma IgA,IgG,IgM,RF levels in both groups decreased,and the observation group was lower than the control group(P<0.05);the serum C3 levels in both groups increased,and the observation group was higher than the control group(P<0.05).During the treatment,the incidence of adverse reactions in the observation group was 0.00%,which was lower than that in the control group(10.91%,P<0.05).[Conclusions]Using Guizhi Shaoyao Zhimu Decoction to treat rheumatoid arthritis can improve the laboratory indicators of patients,and enhance their immune functions,improve the curative effect,and the safety is high.展开更多
AIM: To explore the effects of liniment levamisole on cellular immune functions of patients with chronic hepatitis B. METHODS: The levels of T lymphocyte subsets and mlL-2R in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs...AIM: To explore the effects of liniment levamisole on cellular immune functions of patients with chronic hepatitis B. METHODS: The levels of T lymphocyte subsets and mlL-2R in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were measured by biotin-streptavidin (BSA) technique in patients with chronic hepatitis B before and after the treatment with liniment levamisole. RESULTS: After one course of treatment with liniment levamisole, the levels of CD3+, CD4+, and the ratio of CD4+/CD8+ increased as compared to those before the treatment but the level of CD8+ decreased. The total expression level of mIL-2R in PBMCs increased before and after the treatment with liniment levamisole. CONCLUSION: Liniment levamisole may reinforce cellular immune functions of patients with chronic hepatitis B.展开更多
Background Dendritic cells(DCs)are the most important antigen-presenting cells due to their professional and extremely efficient antigen-presenting function.The dynamics of cytoskeleton plays crucial regulated roles o...Background Dendritic cells(DCs)are the most important antigen-presenting cells due to their professional and extremely efficient antigen-presenting function.The dynamics of cytoskeleton plays crucial regulated roles on DCs’immune functions and biophysical properties.Several evidences show that tumor-derived suppressive cytokines deteriorate DCs’immune functions through remodeling their F-actin cytoskeleton.But the underlying mechanism is still elusive.Tropomodulin1(Tmod1),a cytoskeleton-binding protein,regulates and stabilizes actin filaments lengths and cytoskeleton architecture,which involves in the regulations of the morphology,formation of neural dendrites and biophysical properties of cells.Our previous studies found that mature DCs(mDCs)had a higher expression of Tmod1 than immature DCs(imDCs). Therefore,it’s hypothesized that Tmod1 maybe involve in the modification of DCs’functions.Objective The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of Tmodl on the immune functions and biophysical properties of DCs and the underlying mechanisms in order to further understand the biological behaviors of DCs.Methods Bone marrow-derived cells were harvested from wild type(C57BL/6 J)mice and Tmod1 knockout mice(Tmod1 overexpressing transgenic(TOT)/Tmod1-/-)and differentiated to immature dendritic cells(imDCs)by rmGM-CSF and rmIL-4.imDCs were then matured by lipopolysaccharides(LPS)treatment.The expressions of the surface markers in DCs,including CD80,CD86,CD40,MHC-Ⅱand CCR7,were detected by flow cytometry,Western blot and qRT-PCR.The inflammation cytokines such as IL-6,IFN-γ,IFN-βand IL-10 were also detected by flow cytometry.The immune functions and the biophysical properties of DCs were compared between the wild type and Tmod1 knockout mice.The F-actin content and dendritic pseudopodia of these two kinds of DCs were detected by flow cytometry and laser scanning confocal microscope respectively.Finally,we detected the MyD88 dependent and independent signaling pathway to discover the molecular mechanisms.Results We found that Tmod1-deficient mDCs showed deficient antigen-presenting ability and they failed to express enough MHC-Ⅱ,co-stimulated molecules(CD80/86,CD40)and CCR7 on their cell surface.The secretions of the inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IFN-γwere decreased while the anti-inflammatory cytokines IFN-βand IL-10 were increased in the supernatant of Tmod1-deficient mDCs.As compared to DCs of wild type mice,the migration ability of DCs from Tmod1 knockout mice were dramatically damaged including their free migration and CCL19 mediated chemotaxis migration.However,we found that Tmod1 knockout had no effects on the imDCs’endocytosis ability.Furthermore,Tmod1 knockout DCs showed higher osmotic fragility,lower Young’s modulus,less F-actin content and shorter dendritic pseudopodia.Under LPS stimulation,the phosphorylation level of p65 and p38 were significantly downregulated in Tmod1 knockout mice while the expression of p-IRF3 was upregulated.Conclusions These results indicated that Tmodl knockout leads to deficient antigen-presenting ability and impaired migration of DCs as well as their biophysical properties.The underlying mechanisms are due to the inhibitions of the TLR4-mediated NF-κB and p38 MAPK singling pathway and the activation of the IRF3 signaling pathway,as well as the disturbed reorganization of the F-actin cytoskeleton.Our results provide a new insight on the functions of Tmod1 which can affect the DCs’immune functions and biophysical properties through regulating the TLR4-mediated singling pathways and cytoskeleton remodeling.展开更多
Objective To evaluate the effects of ethyl-acetate fraction (EAF) of extracts from Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et. Gilg (TDG) on immune functions of ICR mice. Methods ICR mice were exposed to different doses of EAF ...Objective To evaluate the effects of ethyl-acetate fraction (EAF) of extracts from Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et. Gilg (TDG) on immune functions of ICR mice. Methods ICR mice were exposed to different doses of EAF for 15 or 30 days and then their immune functions were analyzed, including ConA-induced splenic lymphocyte transformation, SRBC- induced delayed type hypersensitivity response, serum hemolysin analysis, antibody-producing cells, peritoneal macrophage phagocytized chicken red blood cells, natural killer cell activity, and serum level of cytokines. Results EAF of extracts from TDG at different doses had various effects on immune functions of ICR mice. As compared with the controls, it increased the mouse spleen lymphocyte transformation induced by ConA, the left-hind voix pedis thickness and the number of plague forming cells (PFCs) at the dose of 1.82 mg/mL, 5.48 mg/mL, and 9.12 mg/mL, respectively; increased the ink clearance ability at the dose of 0.91 mg/mL, 1.82 mg/mL, 5.48 mg/mL, and 9.12 mg/mL, respectively; increased the phagocytosis index of mononuclear-macrophages and production of serum interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) at the dose of 5.48 mg/mL; and could promote the production of serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) at the dose of 9.12 mg/mL. Conclusion EAF of extracts from TDG can regulate mouse immune functions in vivo.展开更多
Background:Predicting the possibility of severe effects of global warming on animals is important for understanding the ecological consequences of climate change on ecosystem.Spring is the season during which birds ha...Background:Predicting the possibility of severe effects of global warming on animals is important for understanding the ecological consequences of climate change on ecosystem.Spring is the season during which birds have to physiologically prepare for the subsequent breeding period,and unusual spring temperature rising probably becomes a heat stress to the birds which have adapted to the low spring temperature.Therefore,it is necessary to understand the physiological effect of spring warming on the temperate birds.Methods:Using the activities of blood anti-oxidative enzymes(SOD,CAT,GPx)and the concentrations of serum immunogloblins(IgA,IgY,IgM)as indicators,we compared the anti-oxidative and immune functions of Asian Shorttoed Larks(Calandrella cheleensis)captured between 10 and 15 March,2015 and housed under conditions of 21°C and 16°C.Results:The SOD activities of birds in 21°C group were significantly lower than those in 16°C group on all the treatment days.The CAT activities of the birds in 21°C group were significantly lower than those in 16°C group on the 1 st,5 th,13 th,17 treatment days.The GPx activities of the birds in 21°C group were signifthicantly lower than those in 16°C group on the 1 st,13 th and 17 th,but significantly higher on the 21 st treatment day.The IgA,IgY and IgM concentrations of birds in 21°C group were significantly lower than those in 16°C group on all the treatment days.Conclusions:This study shows that spring temperature rising negatively influences antioxibative and humoral immune functions,which indicates that spring climate warming might reduce the fitness of the temperate passerine birds which have adapted to the low spring temperature.展开更多
The polysaccharide,adenosine and mannitol components of Cordyceps taii collected from the wild were determined,and the effects of aqueous C.taii extracts on immune functions in mice were investigated using carbon clea...The polysaccharide,adenosine and mannitol components of Cordyceps taii collected from the wild were determined,and the effects of aqueous C.taii extracts on immune functions in mice were investigated using carbon clearance and delayed-type hypersensitivity testing(DTH),and by determining thymic and splenic indices.Polysaccharide,adenosine and mannitol levels in C.taii were 36.20 mg/g,0.27 mg/g and 80.20 mg/g,respectively.Aqueous C.taii extracts partially alleviated the suppressive effects on the thymic and splenic indices caused by cyclophosphamide,and increased nonspecific immunity and cellular immune functions.Toxicity tests revealed that the LD50 for aqueous C.taii extract on oral administration was >69.42 g/kg.展开更多
BACKGROUND Immune cells play an important role in regulating the behavior of tumor cells.According to emerging evidence,six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of the prostate 4(STEAP4)performs a crucial part in tumor mi...BACKGROUND Immune cells play an important role in regulating the behavior of tumor cells.According to emerging evidence,six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of the prostate 4(STEAP4)performs a crucial part in tumor microenvironmental immune response and tumorigenesis,and serves as the potential target for cellular and antibody immunotherapy.However,the immunotherapeutic role of STEAP4 in gastric cancer(GC)remains unclear.AIM To investigate the expression of STEAP4 in GC and its relationship with immune infiltrating cells,and explore the potential value of STEAP4 as an immune prognostic indicator in GC.METHODS The expression level of STEAP4 was characterized by immunohistochemistry in tumors and adjacent non-cancerous samples in 96 GC patients.Tumor Immune Estimation Resource was used to study the correlation between STEAP4 and tumor immune infiltration level and immune infiltration gene signature.R package was used to analyze the relationship between STEAP4 expression and immune and stromal scores in GC(GSE62254)by the ESTIMATE algorithm,and Kaplan-Meier Plotter and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis were applied to analyze the effect of STEAP4 on clinical prognosis.RESULTS Immunohistochemistry analysis showed that STEAP4 expression was higher in GC tissues than in adjacent tissues,and STEAP4 expression was positively correlated with the clinical stage of GC.In GC,the expression of STEAP4 was positively correlated with the infiltration levels of B cells,CD4+T cells,macrophages,neutrophils,and dendritic cells.The expression level of STEAP4 was strongly correlated with most of the immune markers.In addition,STEAP4 expression was inversely correlated with tumor purity,but correlated with stromal score(r=0.43,P<0.001),immune score(r=0.29,P<0.001)and estimate score(r=0.39,P<0.001).Moreover,stromal,immune,and estimate scores were higher in the STEAP4 high expression group,whereas tumor purity was higher in the STEAP4 Low expression group.The relationship between STEAP4 expression and prognosis of patients with GC was further investigated,and the results showed that high STEAP4 expression was associated with poor overall survival and disease-free survival.In addition,Kaplan-Meier Plotter showed that high expression of STEAP4 was significantly correlated with poor survival of patients with GC.CONCLUSION The current findings suggest an oncogenic role for STEAP4 in GC,with significantly high levels being associated with poor prognosis.Investigation of the GC tumor microenvironment suggests the potential function of STEAP4 is connected with the infiltration of diverse immune cells,which may contribute to the regulation of the tumor microenvironment.In conclusion,STEAP4 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for GC to improve the immune infiltration,as well as serve as a prognostic biomarker for judging the prognosis and immune infiltration status of GC.展开更多
Local ischemia often causes a series of inflammatory reactions when both brain immune cells and the peripheral immune response are activated.In the human body,the gut and lung are regarded as the key reactional target...Local ischemia often causes a series of inflammatory reactions when both brain immune cells and the peripheral immune response are activated.In the human body,the gut and lung are regarded as the key reactional targets that are initiated by brain ischemic attacks.Mucosal microorganisms play an important role in immune regulation and metabolism and affect blood-brain barrier permeability.In addition to the relationship between peripheral organs and central areas and the intestine and lung also interact among each other.Here,we review the molecular and cellular immune mechanisms involved in the pathways of inflammation across the gut-brain axis and lung-brain axis.We found that abnormal intestinal flora,the intestinal microenvironment,lung infection,chronic diseases,and mechanical ventilation can worsen the outcome of ischemic stroke.This review also introduces the influence of the brain on the gut and lungs after stroke,highlighting the bidirectional feedback effect among the gut,lungs,and brain.展开更多
Advanced mesenchymal stromal cell-based therapies for neurodegenerative diseases are widely investigated in preclinical models.Mesenchymal stromal cells are well positioned as therapeutics because they address the und...Advanced mesenchymal stromal cell-based therapies for neurodegenerative diseases are widely investigated in preclinical models.Mesenchymal stromal cells are well positioned as therapeutics because they address the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration,namely trophic factor deprivation and neuroinflammation.Most studies have focused on the beneficial effects of mesenchymal stromal cell transplantation on neuronal survival or functional improvement.However,little attention has been paid to the interaction between mesenchymal stromal cells and the host immune system due to the immunomodulatory properties of mesenchymal stromal cells and the long-held belief of the immunoprivileged status of the central nervous system.Here,we review the crosstalk between mesenchymal stromal cells and the immune system in general and in the context of the central nervous system,focusing on recent work in the retina and the importance of the type of transplantation.展开更多
Objective: DNA damage response(DDR) deficiency has emerged as a prominent determinant of tumor immunogenicity. This study aimed to construct a DDR-related immune activation(DRIA) signature and evaluate the predictive ...Objective: DNA damage response(DDR) deficiency has emerged as a prominent determinant of tumor immunogenicity. This study aimed to construct a DDR-related immune activation(DRIA) signature and evaluate the predictive accuracy of the DRIA signature for response to immune checkpoint inhibitor(ICI) therapy in gastrointestinal(GI) cancer.Methods: A DRIA signature was established based on two previously reported DNA damage immune response assays. Clinical and gene expression data from two published GI cancer cohorts were used to assess and validate the association between the DRIA score and response to ICI therapy. The predictive accuracy of the DRIA score was validated based on one ICI-treated melanoma and three pan-cancer published cohorts.Results: The DRIA signature includes three genes(CXCL10, IDO1, and IFI44L). In the discovery cancer cohort, DRIA-high patients with gastric cancer achieved a higher response rate to ICI therapy than DRIA-low patients(81.8% vs. 8.8%;P < 0.001), and the predictive accuracy of the DRIA score [area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC) = 0.845] was superior to the predictive accuracy of PD-L1 expression, tumor mutational burden, microsatellite instability, and Epstein–Barr virus status. The validation cohort demonstrated that the DRIA score identified responders with microsatellite-stable colorectal and pancreatic adenocarcinoma who received dual PD-1 and CTLA-4 blockade with radiation therapy. Furthermore, the predictive performance of the DRIA score was shown to be robust through an extended validation in melanoma, urothelial cancer, and pan-cancer.Conclusions: The DRIA signature has superior and robust predictive accuracy for the efficacy of ICI therapy in GI cancer and pancancer, indicating that the DRIA signature may serve as a powerful biomarker for guiding ICI therapy decisions.展开更多
Background Four-chambered stomach including the forestomachs(rumen,reticulum,and omasum)and abomasum allows ruminants convert plant fiber into high-quality animal products.The early development of this four-chambered ...Background Four-chambered stomach including the forestomachs(rumen,reticulum,and omasum)and abomasum allows ruminants convert plant fiber into high-quality animal products.The early development of this four-chambered stomach is crucial for the health and well-being of young ruminants,especially the immune development.However,the dynamics of immune development are poorly understood.Results We investigated the early gene expression patterns across the four-chambered stomach in Hu sheep,at 5,10,15,and 25 days of age.We found that forestomachs share similar gene expression patterns,all four stomachs underwent widespread activation of both innate and adaptive immune responses from d 5 to 25,whereas the metabolic function were significantly downregulated with age.We constructed a cell landscape of the four-chambered stomach using single-cell sequencing.Integrating transcriptomic and single-cell transcriptomic analyses revealed that the immune-associated module hub genes were highly expressed in T cells,monocytes and macrophages,as well as the defense-associated module hub genes were highly expressed in endothelial cells in the four-stomach tissues.Moreover,the non-immune cells such as epithelial cells play key roles in immune maturation.Cell communication analysis predicted that in addition to immune cells,non-immune cells recruit immune cells through macrophage migration inhibitory factor signaling in the forestomachs.Conclusions Our results demonstrate that the immune and defense responses of four stomachs are quickly developing with age in lamb's early life.We also identified the gene expression patterns and functional cells associated with immune development.Additionally,we identified some key receptors and signaling involved in immune regulation.These results help to understand the early life immune development at single-cell resolution,which has implications to develop nutritional manipulation and health management strategies based on specific targets including key receptors and signaling pathways.展开更多
Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is the most common primary tumor of the liver and has a high mortality rate.The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system in addition to tumor staging also links the modality of treatme...Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is the most common primary tumor of the liver and has a high mortality rate.The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system in addition to tumor staging also links the modality of treatment available to a particular stage.The recent description of the tumor microenvironment(TME)in HCC has provided a new concept of immunogenicity within the HCC.Virusrelated HCC has been shown to be more immunogenic with higher expression of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and decreased elements for immunosuppression such as regulatory T cells.This immunogenic milieu provides a better response to immunotherapy especially immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs).In addition,the recent data on combining locoregional therapies and other strategies may convert the less immunogenic state of the TME towards higher immunogenicity.Therefore,data are emerging on the use of combinations of locoregional therapy and ICIs in unresectable or advanced HCC and has shown better survival outcomes in this difficult population.展开更多
Immune checkpoint blockade(ICB)therapy for cancer has achieved great success both in clinical results and on the market.At the same time,success drives more attention from scientists to improve it.However,only a small...Immune checkpoint blockade(ICB)therapy for cancer has achieved great success both in clinical results and on the market.At the same time,success drives more attention from scientists to improve it.However,only a small portion of patients are responsive to this therapy,and it comes with a unique spectrum of side effects termed immunerelated adverse events(irAEs).The use of nanotechnology could improve ICBs’delivery to the tumor,assist them in penetrating deeper into tumor tissues and alleviate their irAEs.Liposomal nanomedicine has been investigated and used for decades,and is well-recognized as the most successful nano-drug delivery system.The successful combination of ICB with liposomal nanomedicine could help improve the efficacy of ICB therapy.In this review,we highlighted recent studies using liposomal nanomedicine(including new emerging exosomes and their inspired nanovesicles)in associating ICB therapy.展开更多
Parasitoids are key regulators in ecological communities and widely used as agents in biocontrol programmes.The fall armyworm,Spodoptera frugiperda,recently invaded multiple continents and caused substantial economic ...Parasitoids are key regulators in ecological communities and widely used as agents in biocontrol programmes.The fall armyworm,Spodoptera frugiperda,recently invaded multiple continents and caused substantial economic losses in agriculture.Pyemotes zhonghuajia,a newly identified mite parasitoid,has shown potential for controlling various agricultural insect pests.Therefore,this study tested the performance of P.zhonghuajia in parasitising S.frugiperda.We also investigated the sublethal effects of parasitism by P.zhonghuajia on host fitness traits,transgenerational impacts,and cellular and humoral immunity.Our result showed that the fifth-instar larvae of S.frugiperda parasitised by 40 P.zhonghuajia were all dead(i.e.,a lethal effect),while parasitism by 5 or 10 P.zhonghuajia was considered sublethal since many S.frugiperda survived to adulthood and produced offspring after mating.The sublethal influences from parasitism by P.zhonghuajia resulted in reduced pupal weight,adult emergence rate and fecundity,but increased developmental time and longevity.Parasitism at both lethal(40 mites)and sublethal(10 mites)levels impaired the cellular and humoral immunity of S.frugiperda.This study presents the first empirical evidence that mite parasitoids can negatively influence host immunity.Moreover,it provides insights into the biocontrol potential of mite parasitoids and their interactions with hosts.展开更多
For a set S of real numbers, we introduce the concept of S-almost automorphic functions valued in a Banach space. It generalizes in particular the space of Z-almost automorphic functions. Considering the space of S-al...For a set S of real numbers, we introduce the concept of S-almost automorphic functions valued in a Banach space. It generalizes in particular the space of Z-almost automorphic functions. Considering the space of S-almost automorphic functions, we give sufficient conditions of the existence and uniqueness of almost automorphic solutions of a differential equation with a piecewise constant argument of generalized type. This is done using the Banach fixed point theorem.展开更多
BACKGROUND Metadherin(MTDH)is a key oncogene in most cancer types,including hepato-cellular carcinoma(HCC).Notably,MTDH does not affect the stemness pheno-type or immune infiltration of HCC.AIM To explore the role of ...BACKGROUND Metadherin(MTDH)is a key oncogene in most cancer types,including hepato-cellular carcinoma(HCC).Notably,MTDH does not affect the stemness pheno-type or immune infiltration of HCC.AIM To explore the role of MTDH on stemness and immune infiltration in HCC.METHODS MTDH expression in HCC tissues was detected using TCGA and GEO databases.Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze the tissue samples.MTDH was stably knocked down or overexpressed by lentiviral transfection in the two HCC cell lines.The invasion and migration abilities of HCC cells were evaluated using Matrigel invasion and wound healing assays.Next,we obtained liver cancer stem cells from the spheroids by culturing them in a serum-free medium.Gene expression was determined by western blotting and quantitative reverse transcri-ption PCR.Flow cytometry,immunofluorescence,and tumor sphere formation assays were used to characterize stem-like cells.The effects of MTDH inhibition on tumor growth were evaluated in vivo.The correlation of MTDH with immune cells,immunomodulators,and chemokines was analyzed using ssGSEA and TISIDB databases.RESULTS HCC tissues expressed higher levels of MTDH than normal liver tissues.High MTDH expression was associated with a poor prognosis.HCC cells overex-pressing MTDH exhibited stronger invasion and migration abilities,exhibited a stem cell-like phenotype,and formed spheres;however,MTDH inhibition attenuated these effects.MTDH inhibition suppressed HCC progression and CD133 expression in vivo.MTDH was positively correlated with immature dendritic,T helper 2 cells,central memory CD8^(+)T,memory B,activated dendritic,natural killer(NK)T,NK,activated CD4^(+)T,and central memory CD4^(+)T cells.MTDH was negatively correlated with activated CD8^(+)T cells,eosinophils,activated B cells,monocytes,macrophages,and mast cells.A positive correlation was observed between the MTDH level and CXCL2 expression,whereas a negative correlation was observed between the MTDH level and CX3CL1 and CXCL12 expression.CONCLUSION High levels of MTDH expression in patients with HCC are associated with poor prognosis,promoting tumor stemness,immune infiltration,and HCC progression.展开更多
Turbot Scophthalmus maximus is an important mariculture fish species with high economic value.However,the bacterial diseases caused by Vibrio anguillarum infection bring huge economic losses to the turbot aquaculture ...Turbot Scophthalmus maximus is an important mariculture fish species with high economic value.However,the bacterial diseases caused by Vibrio anguillarum infection bring huge economic losses to the turbot aquaculture industry.To understand the immune response of the turbot against V.anguillarum infection and to explore novel immune-related genes,the transcriptome analysis of turbot spleen and gills were conducted after V.anguillarum infection.Differentially expressed genes(DEGs)were identified in spleen and gill of the turbot amounted to 17261 and 16436,respectively.A large number of immunerelated DEGs were enriched in cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction signaling pathway,and the others by the kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes(KEGG)enrichment.The gene ontology(GO)classification analysis revealed that V.anguillarum infection had the greatest effect on biological processes and cellular components.Twelve immune-related DEGs were identified in the spleen(cstl.1,egfl6,lamb21,v2rx4,calcr,and gpr78a)and gills(ghra,sh3gl2a,cst12,inhbaa,cxcl8,and il-1b)by heat map.The proteinprotein interaction(PPI)networks were constructed to analyze the immune mechanism.The results demonstrate that the maturation and antigen processing of major histocompatibility complex(MHC)class II molecule,and calcitonin-or adrenomedullin-regulated physiological activity were important events in the immunity of turbot against V.anguillarum infection.In the gills,the protein interactions in TGF-βsignaling pathway,production of inflammatory factors,and endocytosis regulation were most significant.Our research laid a foundation for discovering novel immune-related genes and enriching the knowledge of immune mechanisms of turbot against V.anguillarum infection.展开更多
Finding biomarkers for immunotherapy is an urgent issue in cancer treatment.Cellular retinoic acid-binding protein 2(CRABP2)is a controversial factor in the occurrence and development of human tumors.However,there is ...Finding biomarkers for immunotherapy is an urgent issue in cancer treatment.Cellular retinoic acid-binding protein 2(CRABP2)is a controversial factor in the occurrence and development of human tumors.However,there is limited research on the relationship between CRABP2 and immunotherapy response.This study found that negative correlations of CRABP2 and immune checkpoint markers(PD-1,PD-L1,and CTLA-4)were observed in breast invasive carcinoma(BRCA),skin cutaneous melanoma(SKCM),stomach adenocarcinoma(STAD)and testicular germ cell tumors(TGCT).In particular,in SKCM patients who were treated with PD-1 inhibitors,high levels of CRABP2 predicted poor prognosis.Additionally,CRABP2 expression was elevated in cancer-associated fibroblasts(CAFs)at the single-cell level.The expression of CRABP2 was positively correlated with markers of CAFs,such as MFAP5,PDPN,ITGA11,PDGFRα/βand THY1 in SKCM.To validate the tumor-promoting effect of CRABP2 in vivo,SKCM xenograft mice models with CRABP2 overexpression have been constructed.These models showed an increase in tumor weight and volume.Enrichment analysis indicated that CRABP2 may be involved in immunerelated pathways of SKCM,such as extracellular matrix(ECM)receptor interaction and epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT).The study suggests that CRABP2 may regulate immunotherapy in SKCM patients by influencing infiltration of CAFs.In conclusion,this study provides new insights into the role of CRABP2 in immunotherapy response.The findings suggest that CRABP2 may be a promising biomarker for PD-1 inhibitors in SKCM patients.Further research is needed to confirm these findings and to explore the clinical implications of CRABP2 in immunotherapy.展开更多
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(U2004104)the Natural Science Foundation of Henan Province(202300410080)+2 种基金the Key Project of Henan Education Committee(21A310005)the Internal Fund of Hebei University of Economics and Business(2020ZD10)the Postgraduate“Talent Program”of Henan University(SYL20060187 and SYL20060189)。
文摘In this study,we investigated the effects of major royal jelly proteins(MRJPs)on the estrogen,gut microbiota,and immunological responses in mice.Mice given 250 or 500 mg/kg,not 125 mg/kg of MRJPs,enhanced the proliferation of splenocytes in response to mitogens.The splenocytes and mesenteric lymphocytes activated by T-cell mitogens(Con A and anti-CD3/CD28 antibodies)released high levels of IL-2 but low levels of IFN-γand IL-17A.The release of IL-4 was unaffected by MRJPs.Additionally,splenocytes and mesenteric lymphocytes activated by LPS were prevented by MRJPs at the same dose as that required for producing IL-1βand IL-6,two pro-inflammatory cytokines.The production of IL-1β,IL-6,and IFN-γwas negatively associated with estrogen levels,which were higher in the MRJP-treated animals than in the control group.Analysis of the gut microbiota revealed that feeding mice 250 mg/kg of MRJPs maintained the stability of the natural intestinal microflora of mice.Additionally,the LEf Se analysis identified biomarkers in the MRJP-treated mice,including Prevotella,Bacillales,Enterobacteriales,Gammaproteobacteria,Candidatus_Arthromitus,and Shigella.Our results showed that MRJPs are important components of royal jelly that modulate host immunity and hormone levels and help maintain gut microbiota stability.
基金Supported by the 12th Five-Year TCM Key Discipline Construction Project of Jiangsu Province(Su Zhong Yi Zheng[2013]No.30).
文摘[Objectives]To explore the effects of Guizhi Shaoyao Zhimu Decoction on laboratory indicators and immune functions of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.[Methods]A total of 110 patients with rheumatoid arthritis admitted to the Second Department of Orthopedics,the Affiliated Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital of Nanjing,Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine from December 2014 to December 2016 were selected as the research objects and divided into a control group and an observation group using the random number table method,with 55 cases in each group.The control group was treated with conventional western medicine,and the observation group was treated with Guizhi Shaoyao Zhimu Decoction on the basis of the control group.Both groups were treated for one month.The clinical effects,improvement of clinical symptoms,laboratory indicators and immune function indicator levels between the two groups were compared;the incidence of adverse reactions in the two groups was counted.[Results]The total effective rate of the observation group was 92.73%,higher than that of the control group(78.18%)(P<0.05).Compared with that before treatment,after one month of treatment,the grip strength of the two groups increased,and the observation group was greater than the control group(P<0.05);the morning stiffness time and 20 m walking time of both groups were shortened,and the observation group was shorter than the control group(P<0.05);the number of joint tenderness,joint swelling,ESR,MPV,PDW,serum CRP,plasma IgA,IgG,IgM,RF levels in both groups decreased,and the observation group was lower than the control group(P<0.05);the serum C3 levels in both groups increased,and the observation group was higher than the control group(P<0.05).During the treatment,the incidence of adverse reactions in the observation group was 0.00%,which was lower than that in the control group(10.91%,P<0.05).[Conclusions]Using Guizhi Shaoyao Zhimu Decoction to treat rheumatoid arthritis can improve the laboratory indicators of patients,and enhance their immune functions,improve the curative effect,and the safety is high.
文摘AIM: To explore the effects of liniment levamisole on cellular immune functions of patients with chronic hepatitis B. METHODS: The levels of T lymphocyte subsets and mlL-2R in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were measured by biotin-streptavidin (BSA) technique in patients with chronic hepatitis B before and after the treatment with liniment levamisole. RESULTS: After one course of treatment with liniment levamisole, the levels of CD3+, CD4+, and the ratio of CD4+/CD8+ increased as compared to those before the treatment but the level of CD8+ decreased. The total expression level of mIL-2R in PBMCs increased before and after the treatment with liniment levamisole. CONCLUSION: Liniment levamisole may reinforce cellular immune functions of patients with chronic hepatitis B.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China ( 31660258,31771014, 31860262,31570938,31260227)the Science and Technology Foundation of Guizhou Province ( 2019-2787,2018-1412, 2016-5676,2017-5718)+2 种基金the Science and Technology Innovative Talent Team of Guizhou Province ( 2015-4021)the 2011 Collaborative Innovation Program of Guizhou Province ( 2015-04 )the Cell and Gene Engineering Innovative Research Groups of Guizhou Province ( KY-2016-031)
文摘Background Dendritic cells(DCs)are the most important antigen-presenting cells due to their professional and extremely efficient antigen-presenting function.The dynamics of cytoskeleton plays crucial regulated roles on DCs’immune functions and biophysical properties.Several evidences show that tumor-derived suppressive cytokines deteriorate DCs’immune functions through remodeling their F-actin cytoskeleton.But the underlying mechanism is still elusive.Tropomodulin1(Tmod1),a cytoskeleton-binding protein,regulates and stabilizes actin filaments lengths and cytoskeleton architecture,which involves in the regulations of the morphology,formation of neural dendrites and biophysical properties of cells.Our previous studies found that mature DCs(mDCs)had a higher expression of Tmod1 than immature DCs(imDCs). Therefore,it’s hypothesized that Tmod1 maybe involve in the modification of DCs’functions.Objective The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of Tmodl on the immune functions and biophysical properties of DCs and the underlying mechanisms in order to further understand the biological behaviors of DCs.Methods Bone marrow-derived cells were harvested from wild type(C57BL/6 J)mice and Tmod1 knockout mice(Tmod1 overexpressing transgenic(TOT)/Tmod1-/-)and differentiated to immature dendritic cells(imDCs)by rmGM-CSF and rmIL-4.imDCs were then matured by lipopolysaccharides(LPS)treatment.The expressions of the surface markers in DCs,including CD80,CD86,CD40,MHC-Ⅱand CCR7,were detected by flow cytometry,Western blot and qRT-PCR.The inflammation cytokines such as IL-6,IFN-γ,IFN-βand IL-10 were also detected by flow cytometry.The immune functions and the biophysical properties of DCs were compared between the wild type and Tmod1 knockout mice.The F-actin content and dendritic pseudopodia of these two kinds of DCs were detected by flow cytometry and laser scanning confocal microscope respectively.Finally,we detected the MyD88 dependent and independent signaling pathway to discover the molecular mechanisms.Results We found that Tmod1-deficient mDCs showed deficient antigen-presenting ability and they failed to express enough MHC-Ⅱ,co-stimulated molecules(CD80/86,CD40)and CCR7 on their cell surface.The secretions of the inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IFN-γwere decreased while the anti-inflammatory cytokines IFN-βand IL-10 were increased in the supernatant of Tmod1-deficient mDCs.As compared to DCs of wild type mice,the migration ability of DCs from Tmod1 knockout mice were dramatically damaged including their free migration and CCL19 mediated chemotaxis migration.However,we found that Tmod1 knockout had no effects on the imDCs’endocytosis ability.Furthermore,Tmod1 knockout DCs showed higher osmotic fragility,lower Young’s modulus,less F-actin content and shorter dendritic pseudopodia.Under LPS stimulation,the phosphorylation level of p65 and p38 were significantly downregulated in Tmod1 knockout mice while the expression of p-IRF3 was upregulated.Conclusions These results indicated that Tmodl knockout leads to deficient antigen-presenting ability and impaired migration of DCs as well as their biophysical properties.The underlying mechanisms are due to the inhibitions of the TLR4-mediated NF-κB and p38 MAPK singling pathway and the activation of the IRF3 signaling pathway,as well as the disturbed reorganization of the F-actin cytoskeleton.Our results provide a new insight on the functions of Tmod1 which can affect the DCs’immune functions and biophysical properties through regulating the TLR4-mediated singling pathways and cytoskeleton remodeling.
基金the Scientific Research Foundation of Health Bureau of Zhejiang Province (No. 2006c151)
文摘Objective To evaluate the effects of ethyl-acetate fraction (EAF) of extracts from Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et. Gilg (TDG) on immune functions of ICR mice. Methods ICR mice were exposed to different doses of EAF for 15 or 30 days and then their immune functions were analyzed, including ConA-induced splenic lymphocyte transformation, SRBC- induced delayed type hypersensitivity response, serum hemolysin analysis, antibody-producing cells, peritoneal macrophage phagocytized chicken red blood cells, natural killer cell activity, and serum level of cytokines. Results EAF of extracts from TDG at different doses had various effects on immune functions of ICR mice. As compared with the controls, it increased the mouse spleen lymphocyte transformation induced by ConA, the left-hind voix pedis thickness and the number of plague forming cells (PFCs) at the dose of 1.82 mg/mL, 5.48 mg/mL, and 9.12 mg/mL, respectively; increased the ink clearance ability at the dose of 0.91 mg/mL, 1.82 mg/mL, 5.48 mg/mL, and 9.12 mg/mL, respectively; increased the phagocytosis index of mononuclear-macrophages and production of serum interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) at the dose of 5.48 mg/mL; and could promote the production of serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) at the dose of 9.12 mg/mL. Conclusion EAF of extracts from TDG can regulate mouse immune functions in vivo.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.31872246)。
文摘Background:Predicting the possibility of severe effects of global warming on animals is important for understanding the ecological consequences of climate change on ecosystem.Spring is the season during which birds have to physiologically prepare for the subsequent breeding period,and unusual spring temperature rising probably becomes a heat stress to the birds which have adapted to the low spring temperature.Therefore,it is necessary to understand the physiological effect of spring warming on the temperate birds.Methods:Using the activities of blood anti-oxidative enzymes(SOD,CAT,GPx)and the concentrations of serum immunogloblins(IgA,IgY,IgM)as indicators,we compared the anti-oxidative and immune functions of Asian Shorttoed Larks(Calandrella cheleensis)captured between 10 and 15 March,2015 and housed under conditions of 21°C and 16°C.Results:The SOD activities of birds in 21°C group were significantly lower than those in 16°C group on all the treatment days.The CAT activities of the birds in 21°C group were significantly lower than those in 16°C group on the 1 st,5 th,13 th,17 treatment days.The GPx activities of the birds in 21°C group were signifthicantly lower than those in 16°C group on the 1 st,13 th and 17 th,but significantly higher on the 21 st treatment day.The IgA,IgY and IgM concentrations of birds in 21°C group were significantly lower than those in 16°C group on all the treatment days.Conclusions:This study shows that spring temperature rising negatively influences antioxibative and humoral immune functions,which indicates that spring climate warming might reduce the fitness of the temperate passerine birds which have adapted to the low spring temperature.
基金the Foundation of Guangdong Province(No.2005B33701016 and No.2006B20201038)
文摘The polysaccharide,adenosine and mannitol components of Cordyceps taii collected from the wild were determined,and the effects of aqueous C.taii extracts on immune functions in mice were investigated using carbon clearance and delayed-type hypersensitivity testing(DTH),and by determining thymic and splenic indices.Polysaccharide,adenosine and mannitol levels in C.taii were 36.20 mg/g,0.27 mg/g and 80.20 mg/g,respectively.Aqueous C.taii extracts partially alleviated the suppressive effects on the thymic and splenic indices caused by cyclophosphamide,and increased nonspecific immunity and cellular immune functions.Toxicity tests revealed that the LD50 for aqueous C.taii extract on oral administration was >69.42 g/kg.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82273457 and No.81501539Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation,No.2023A1515012762 and No.2021A1515012180+1 种基金Special Grant for Key Area Programs of Guangdong Department of Education,No.2021ZDZX2040Science and Technology Special Project of Guangdong Province,No.210715216902829.
文摘BACKGROUND Immune cells play an important role in regulating the behavior of tumor cells.According to emerging evidence,six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of the prostate 4(STEAP4)performs a crucial part in tumor microenvironmental immune response and tumorigenesis,and serves as the potential target for cellular and antibody immunotherapy.However,the immunotherapeutic role of STEAP4 in gastric cancer(GC)remains unclear.AIM To investigate the expression of STEAP4 in GC and its relationship with immune infiltrating cells,and explore the potential value of STEAP4 as an immune prognostic indicator in GC.METHODS The expression level of STEAP4 was characterized by immunohistochemistry in tumors and adjacent non-cancerous samples in 96 GC patients.Tumor Immune Estimation Resource was used to study the correlation between STEAP4 and tumor immune infiltration level and immune infiltration gene signature.R package was used to analyze the relationship between STEAP4 expression and immune and stromal scores in GC(GSE62254)by the ESTIMATE algorithm,and Kaplan-Meier Plotter and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis were applied to analyze the effect of STEAP4 on clinical prognosis.RESULTS Immunohistochemistry analysis showed that STEAP4 expression was higher in GC tissues than in adjacent tissues,and STEAP4 expression was positively correlated with the clinical stage of GC.In GC,the expression of STEAP4 was positively correlated with the infiltration levels of B cells,CD4+T cells,macrophages,neutrophils,and dendritic cells.The expression level of STEAP4 was strongly correlated with most of the immune markers.In addition,STEAP4 expression was inversely correlated with tumor purity,but correlated with stromal score(r=0.43,P<0.001),immune score(r=0.29,P<0.001)and estimate score(r=0.39,P<0.001).Moreover,stromal,immune,and estimate scores were higher in the STEAP4 high expression group,whereas tumor purity was higher in the STEAP4 Low expression group.The relationship between STEAP4 expression and prognosis of patients with GC was further investigated,and the results showed that high STEAP4 expression was associated with poor overall survival and disease-free survival.In addition,Kaplan-Meier Plotter showed that high expression of STEAP4 was significantly correlated with poor survival of patients with GC.CONCLUSION The current findings suggest an oncogenic role for STEAP4 in GC,with significantly high levels being associated with poor prognosis.Investigation of the GC tumor microenvironment suggests the potential function of STEAP4 is connected with the infiltration of diverse immune cells,which may contribute to the regulation of the tumor microenvironment.In conclusion,STEAP4 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for GC to improve the immune infiltration,as well as serve as a prognostic biomarker for judging the prognosis and immune infiltration status of GC.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82204663the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province,No.ZR2022QH058(both to TZ).
文摘Local ischemia often causes a series of inflammatory reactions when both brain immune cells and the peripheral immune response are activated.In the human body,the gut and lung are regarded as the key reactional targets that are initiated by brain ischemic attacks.Mucosal microorganisms play an important role in immune regulation and metabolism and affect blood-brain barrier permeability.In addition to the relationship between peripheral organs and central areas and the intestine and lung also interact among each other.Here,we review the molecular and cellular immune mechanisms involved in the pathways of inflammation across the gut-brain axis and lung-brain axis.We found that abnormal intestinal flora,the intestinal microenvironment,lung infection,chronic diseases,and mechanical ventilation can worsen the outcome of ischemic stroke.This review also introduces the influence of the brain on the gut and lungs after stroke,highlighting the bidirectional feedback effect among the gut,lungs,and brain.
基金funded by the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness,No.PID(2019)-106498GB-100 (to MVS)by the Instituto de Salud CarlosⅢ,Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional"Una manera de hacer Europa",No.PI19/00071 (to MAB)+2 种基金the RETICS subprograms of Spanish Networks OftoRed,Nos.RD16/0008/0026 (to DGB) and RD16/0008/0016 (to DGB)RICORS Terav,No.RD16/0011/0001 (to DGB)from Instituto de Salud CarlosⅢby the Fundacion Seneca,Agencia de Cienciay Tecnologia Región de Murcia,No.19881/GERM/15 (all to MVS)
文摘Advanced mesenchymal stromal cell-based therapies for neurodegenerative diseases are widely investigated in preclinical models.Mesenchymal stromal cells are well positioned as therapeutics because they address the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration,namely trophic factor deprivation and neuroinflammation.Most studies have focused on the beneficial effects of mesenchymal stromal cell transplantation on neuronal survival or functional improvement.However,little attention has been paid to the interaction between mesenchymal stromal cells and the host immune system due to the immunomodulatory properties of mesenchymal stromal cells and the long-held belief of the immunoprivileged status of the central nervous system.Here,we review the crosstalk between mesenchymal stromal cells and the immune system in general and in the context of the central nervous system,focusing on recent work in the retina and the importance of the type of transplantation.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 81972761 and 82202837)the National Key R&D Program of China (Grant Nos. 2016YFC1303200 and 2022YFC2505100)。
文摘Objective: DNA damage response(DDR) deficiency has emerged as a prominent determinant of tumor immunogenicity. This study aimed to construct a DDR-related immune activation(DRIA) signature and evaluate the predictive accuracy of the DRIA signature for response to immune checkpoint inhibitor(ICI) therapy in gastrointestinal(GI) cancer.Methods: A DRIA signature was established based on two previously reported DNA damage immune response assays. Clinical and gene expression data from two published GI cancer cohorts were used to assess and validate the association between the DRIA score and response to ICI therapy. The predictive accuracy of the DRIA score was validated based on one ICI-treated melanoma and three pan-cancer published cohorts.Results: The DRIA signature includes three genes(CXCL10, IDO1, and IFI44L). In the discovery cancer cohort, DRIA-high patients with gastric cancer achieved a higher response rate to ICI therapy than DRIA-low patients(81.8% vs. 8.8%;P < 0.001), and the predictive accuracy of the DRIA score [area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC) = 0.845] was superior to the predictive accuracy of PD-L1 expression, tumor mutational burden, microsatellite instability, and Epstein–Barr virus status. The validation cohort demonstrated that the DRIA score identified responders with microsatellite-stable colorectal and pancreatic adenocarcinoma who received dual PD-1 and CTLA-4 blockade with radiation therapy. Furthermore, the predictive performance of the DRIA score was shown to be robust through an extended validation in melanoma, urothelial cancer, and pan-cancer.Conclusions: The DRIA signature has superior and robust predictive accuracy for the efficacy of ICI therapy in GI cancer and pancancer, indicating that the DRIA signature may serve as a powerful biomarker for guiding ICI therapy decisions.
基金partially supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province(Award number:D21C170001)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Award number:31973000)。
文摘Background Four-chambered stomach including the forestomachs(rumen,reticulum,and omasum)and abomasum allows ruminants convert plant fiber into high-quality animal products.The early development of this four-chambered stomach is crucial for the health and well-being of young ruminants,especially the immune development.However,the dynamics of immune development are poorly understood.Results We investigated the early gene expression patterns across the four-chambered stomach in Hu sheep,at 5,10,15,and 25 days of age.We found that forestomachs share similar gene expression patterns,all four stomachs underwent widespread activation of both innate and adaptive immune responses from d 5 to 25,whereas the metabolic function were significantly downregulated with age.We constructed a cell landscape of the four-chambered stomach using single-cell sequencing.Integrating transcriptomic and single-cell transcriptomic analyses revealed that the immune-associated module hub genes were highly expressed in T cells,monocytes and macrophages,as well as the defense-associated module hub genes were highly expressed in endothelial cells in the four-stomach tissues.Moreover,the non-immune cells such as epithelial cells play key roles in immune maturation.Cell communication analysis predicted that in addition to immune cells,non-immune cells recruit immune cells through macrophage migration inhibitory factor signaling in the forestomachs.Conclusions Our results demonstrate that the immune and defense responses of four stomachs are quickly developing with age in lamb's early life.We also identified the gene expression patterns and functional cells associated with immune development.Additionally,we identified some key receptors and signaling involved in immune regulation.These results help to understand the early life immune development at single-cell resolution,which has implications to develop nutritional manipulation and health management strategies based on specific targets including key receptors and signaling pathways.
文摘Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is the most common primary tumor of the liver and has a high mortality rate.The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system in addition to tumor staging also links the modality of treatment available to a particular stage.The recent description of the tumor microenvironment(TME)in HCC has provided a new concept of immunogenicity within the HCC.Virusrelated HCC has been shown to be more immunogenic with higher expression of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and decreased elements for immunosuppression such as regulatory T cells.This immunogenic milieu provides a better response to immunotherapy especially immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs).In addition,the recent data on combining locoregional therapies and other strategies may convert the less immunogenic state of the TME towards higher immunogenicity.Therefore,data are emerging on the use of combinations of locoregional therapy and ICIs in unresectable or advanced HCC and has shown better survival outcomes in this difficult population.
基金supported by the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars(Overseas).
文摘Immune checkpoint blockade(ICB)therapy for cancer has achieved great success both in clinical results and on the market.At the same time,success drives more attention from scientists to improve it.However,only a small portion of patients are responsive to this therapy,and it comes with a unique spectrum of side effects termed immunerelated adverse events(irAEs).The use of nanotechnology could improve ICBs’delivery to the tumor,assist them in penetrating deeper into tumor tissues and alleviate their irAEs.Liposomal nanomedicine has been investigated and used for decades,and is well-recognized as the most successful nano-drug delivery system.The successful combination of ICB with liposomal nanomedicine could help improve the efficacy of ICB therapy.In this review,we highlighted recent studies using liposomal nanomedicine(including new emerging exosomes and their inspired nanovesicles)in associating ICB therapy.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32060637 and 32260708)the Highlevel Talent Innovation and Entrepreneurship Funding Project in Guizhou Province,China((2021)01)+3 种基金the Guizhou Provincial Science and Technology Innovation Talent Team Project,China(Qian Ke He Pingtai RencaiCXTD(2021)004)the Systematic and Applied Acarology Society International Joint Project,England(2022(01))the Growth Project of Youth Talent in Ordinary Universities in Guizhou Province,China((2021)079)the Natural Science Special Project in Guizhou University,China((2020)02)。
文摘Parasitoids are key regulators in ecological communities and widely used as agents in biocontrol programmes.The fall armyworm,Spodoptera frugiperda,recently invaded multiple continents and caused substantial economic losses in agriculture.Pyemotes zhonghuajia,a newly identified mite parasitoid,has shown potential for controlling various agricultural insect pests.Therefore,this study tested the performance of P.zhonghuajia in parasitising S.frugiperda.We also investigated the sublethal effects of parasitism by P.zhonghuajia on host fitness traits,transgenerational impacts,and cellular and humoral immunity.Our result showed that the fifth-instar larvae of S.frugiperda parasitised by 40 P.zhonghuajia were all dead(i.e.,a lethal effect),while parasitism by 5 or 10 P.zhonghuajia was considered sublethal since many S.frugiperda survived to adulthood and produced offspring after mating.The sublethal influences from parasitism by P.zhonghuajia resulted in reduced pupal weight,adult emergence rate and fecundity,but increased developmental time and longevity.Parasitism at both lethal(40 mites)and sublethal(10 mites)levels impaired the cellular and humoral immunity of S.frugiperda.This study presents the first empirical evidence that mite parasitoids can negatively influence host immunity.Moreover,it provides insights into the biocontrol potential of mite parasitoids and their interactions with hosts.
文摘For a set S of real numbers, we introduce the concept of S-almost automorphic functions valued in a Banach space. It generalizes in particular the space of Z-almost automorphic functions. Considering the space of S-almost automorphic functions, we give sufficient conditions of the existence and uniqueness of almost automorphic solutions of a differential equation with a piecewise constant argument of generalized type. This is done using the Banach fixed point theorem.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82173359Basic Research and Frontier Exploration Project of Chongqing and Technology Commission,No.cstc2018jcyjAX0181Kuanren Talents Program of The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University.
文摘BACKGROUND Metadherin(MTDH)is a key oncogene in most cancer types,including hepato-cellular carcinoma(HCC).Notably,MTDH does not affect the stemness pheno-type or immune infiltration of HCC.AIM To explore the role of MTDH on stemness and immune infiltration in HCC.METHODS MTDH expression in HCC tissues was detected using TCGA and GEO databases.Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze the tissue samples.MTDH was stably knocked down or overexpressed by lentiviral transfection in the two HCC cell lines.The invasion and migration abilities of HCC cells were evaluated using Matrigel invasion and wound healing assays.Next,we obtained liver cancer stem cells from the spheroids by culturing them in a serum-free medium.Gene expression was determined by western blotting and quantitative reverse transcri-ption PCR.Flow cytometry,immunofluorescence,and tumor sphere formation assays were used to characterize stem-like cells.The effects of MTDH inhibition on tumor growth were evaluated in vivo.The correlation of MTDH with immune cells,immunomodulators,and chemokines was analyzed using ssGSEA and TISIDB databases.RESULTS HCC tissues expressed higher levels of MTDH than normal liver tissues.High MTDH expression was associated with a poor prognosis.HCC cells overex-pressing MTDH exhibited stronger invasion and migration abilities,exhibited a stem cell-like phenotype,and formed spheres;however,MTDH inhibition attenuated these effects.MTDH inhibition suppressed HCC progression and CD133 expression in vivo.MTDH was positively correlated with immature dendritic,T helper 2 cells,central memory CD8^(+)T,memory B,activated dendritic,natural killer(NK)T,NK,activated CD4^(+)T,and central memory CD4^(+)T cells.MTDH was negatively correlated with activated CD8^(+)T cells,eosinophils,activated B cells,monocytes,macrophages,and mast cells.A positive correlation was observed between the MTDH level and CXCL2 expression,whereas a negative correlation was observed between the MTDH level and CX3CL1 and CXCL12 expression.CONCLUSION High levels of MTDH expression in patients with HCC are associated with poor prognosis,promoting tumor stemness,immune infiltration,and HCC progression.
基金the National Key Research and Development Program of the Ministry of Science and Technology(CN)(No.2022YFD2400401)the Key Research and Development Plan of Shandong Province(CN)(for Academician Team in Shandong)(No.2023ZLYS02)+1 种基金the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(No.202261029)the Enterprise Authorized Project(No.20200025)。
文摘Turbot Scophthalmus maximus is an important mariculture fish species with high economic value.However,the bacterial diseases caused by Vibrio anguillarum infection bring huge economic losses to the turbot aquaculture industry.To understand the immune response of the turbot against V.anguillarum infection and to explore novel immune-related genes,the transcriptome analysis of turbot spleen and gills were conducted after V.anguillarum infection.Differentially expressed genes(DEGs)were identified in spleen and gill of the turbot amounted to 17261 and 16436,respectively.A large number of immunerelated DEGs were enriched in cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction signaling pathway,and the others by the kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes(KEGG)enrichment.The gene ontology(GO)classification analysis revealed that V.anguillarum infection had the greatest effect on biological processes and cellular components.Twelve immune-related DEGs were identified in the spleen(cstl.1,egfl6,lamb21,v2rx4,calcr,and gpr78a)and gills(ghra,sh3gl2a,cst12,inhbaa,cxcl8,and il-1b)by heat map.The proteinprotein interaction(PPI)networks were constructed to analyze the immune mechanism.The results demonstrate that the maturation and antigen processing of major histocompatibility complex(MHC)class II molecule,and calcitonin-or adrenomedullin-regulated physiological activity were important events in the immunity of turbot against V.anguillarum infection.In the gills,the protein interactions in TGF-βsignaling pathway,production of inflammatory factors,and endocytosis regulation were most significant.Our research laid a foundation for discovering novel immune-related genes and enriching the knowledge of immune mechanisms of turbot against V.anguillarum infection.
基金supported by grants from the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province(2022JJ80044)the Youth Science Foundation of Xiangya Hospital(2019Q13).
文摘Finding biomarkers for immunotherapy is an urgent issue in cancer treatment.Cellular retinoic acid-binding protein 2(CRABP2)is a controversial factor in the occurrence and development of human tumors.However,there is limited research on the relationship between CRABP2 and immunotherapy response.This study found that negative correlations of CRABP2 and immune checkpoint markers(PD-1,PD-L1,and CTLA-4)were observed in breast invasive carcinoma(BRCA),skin cutaneous melanoma(SKCM),stomach adenocarcinoma(STAD)and testicular germ cell tumors(TGCT).In particular,in SKCM patients who were treated with PD-1 inhibitors,high levels of CRABP2 predicted poor prognosis.Additionally,CRABP2 expression was elevated in cancer-associated fibroblasts(CAFs)at the single-cell level.The expression of CRABP2 was positively correlated with markers of CAFs,such as MFAP5,PDPN,ITGA11,PDGFRα/βand THY1 in SKCM.To validate the tumor-promoting effect of CRABP2 in vivo,SKCM xenograft mice models with CRABP2 overexpression have been constructed.These models showed an increase in tumor weight and volume.Enrichment analysis indicated that CRABP2 may be involved in immunerelated pathways of SKCM,such as extracellular matrix(ECM)receptor interaction and epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT).The study suggests that CRABP2 may regulate immunotherapy in SKCM patients by influencing infiltration of CAFs.In conclusion,this study provides new insights into the role of CRABP2 in immunotherapy response.The findings suggest that CRABP2 may be a promising biomarker for PD-1 inhibitors in SKCM patients.Further research is needed to confirm these findings and to explore the clinical implications of CRABP2 in immunotherapy.
