Objective This study aimed to investigate the changes of follicular helper T(TFH)and follicular regulatory T(TFR)cell subpopulations in patients with non-small cell lung cancer(NSCLC)and their significance.Methods Per...Objective This study aimed to investigate the changes of follicular helper T(TFH)and follicular regulatory T(TFR)cell subpopulations in patients with non-small cell lung cancer(NSCLC)and their significance.Methods Peripheral blood was collected from 58 NSCLC patients at different stages and 38 healthy controls.Flow cytometry was used to detect TFH cell subpopulation based on programmed death 1(PD-1)and inducible co-stimulator(ICOS),and TFR cell subpopulation based on cluster determinant 45RA(CD45RA)and forkhead box protein P3(FoxP3).The levels of interleukin-10(IL-10),interleukin-17a(IL-17a),interleukin-21(IL-21),and transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β)in the plasma were measured,and changes in circulating B cell subsets and plasma IgG levels were also analyzed.The correlation between serum cytokeratin fragment antigen 21-1(CYFRA 21-1)levels and TFH,TFR,or B cell subpopulations was further explored.Results The TFR/TFH ratio increased significantly in NSCLC patients.The CD45RA^(+)FoxP3^(int) TFR subsets were increased,with their proportions increasing in stages Ⅱ to Ⅲ and decreasing in stage IV.PD-1^(+)ICOS+TFH cells showed a downward trend with increasing stages.Plasma IL-21 and TGF-β concentrations were increased in NSCLC patients compared with healthy controls.Plasmablasts,plasma IgG levels,and CD45RA^(+)FoxP3^(int) TFR cells showed similar trends.TFH numbers and plasmablasts were positively correlated with CYFRA 21-1 in stages Ⅰ-Ⅲ and negatively correlated with CYFRA 21-1 in stage IV.Conclusion Circulating TFH and TFR cell subpopulations and plasmablasts dynamically change in different stages of NSCLC,which is associated with serum CYFRA 21-1 levels and reflects disease progression.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the effect of T helper(Th)17/T regulatory(Treg)cells on hepatic fibrosis in mice and its possible mechanism.METHODS:Hepatic fibrosis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride....AIM:To investigate the effect of T helper(Th)17/T regulatory(Treg)cells on hepatic fibrosis in mice and its possible mechanism.METHODS:Hepatic fibrosis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride.Hepatic pathological changes were observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining;the protein levels of interleukin(IL)-6,transforming growth factor(TGF)-βandα-smooth muscle actin(SMA)in liver tissue were determined by Western blotting;and the frequency of Th17 and Treg cells in the liver was estimated by flow cytometry.In addition,hepatic stellate cells were isolated from healthy mouse liver and co-cultured with Th17 or Treg cells.Immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting were performed to determine the change in HSC activation.RESULTS:In the model group,there were different degrees of fibroplasia,degeneration and necrosis.The protein levels of IL-6,TGF-βandα-SMA in liver tissue were significantly higher than those in the control group at 12 wk(P<0.05).Compared with the control group,the frequency of Th17 cells in the model group was increased but the frequency of Treg cells decreased gradually.Furthermore,at 4,8 and 12 wk,there were significant differences in the number of Th17 cells(0.52%±0.16%,1.46%±0.24%,and2.60%±0.41%,respectively,P<0.05)and Treg cells(2.99%±0.40%,2.16%±0.50%,and 1.49%±0.34%,respectively,P<0.05).In vitro,Th17 cells promoted,whereas Treg cells inhibited the expression ofα-SMA,both in a dose-dependent manner,compared with the control group.CONCLUSION:Th17/Treg imbalance exists in mice with liver fibrosis,which potentially promotes liver fibrosis via HSC activation.展开更多
The mechanism of action of ribavirin(RBV) as an immunomodulatory and antiviral agent and its clinical significance in the future treatment of patients with hepatitis C virus(HCV) infection are reviewed.RBV up-regulate...The mechanism of action of ribavirin(RBV) as an immunomodulatory and antiviral agent and its clinical significance in the future treatment of patients with hepatitis C virus(HCV) infection are reviewed.RBV up-regulates type 1 and/or 2 cytokines to modulate the T helper(Th) 1/2 cell balance to Th1 dominance.Examination of co-stimulatory signaling indicated that RBV down-modulates inducible co-stimulator on Th cells,which contributes to differentiating na?ve Th cells into Th2 cells while reducing their interleukin-10 production.The effects on T-regulatory(Treg) cells were also investigated,and RBV inhibited the differentiation of na?ve Th cells into adaptive Treg cells by downmodulating forkhead box-P3.These findings indicate that RBV mainly down-regulates the activity of Th2 cells,resulting in the maintenance of Th1 activity that contributes to abrogating HCV-infected hepatocytes.Although an interferon-free treatment regimen exhibits almost the same efficacy without serious complications,regimens with RBV will be still be used because of their ability to facilitate the cellular immune response,which may contribute to reducing the development of hepatocellular carcinogenesis in patients infected with HCV.展开更多
Clinical trials have shown beneficial effects of probiotics on inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), although the exact mechanism remains unknown. VSL#3, a mixture of 8 probiotic bacteria, has been confirmed to have adju...Clinical trials have shown beneficial effects of probiotics on inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), although the exact mechanism remains unknown. VSL#3, a mixture of 8 probiotic bacteria, has been confirmed to have adjunctive therapeutic effects on colitis. T follicular helper (Tfh) cells, a new separate subset of CD4+ T helper cells, have been proved to play a vital role in autoimmunity. The present study aimed to identify the beneficial effect of the probiotic mixture VSL#3 on the mouse model of colitis by regulating Tfh cells. Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) was used to induce chronic colitis in C57BL/6 mice. VSL#3 (3x109 live bacteria) was given to C57BL/6 mice every other day for 60 days by gavage. The disease activity index (DAI), histological activity index (HAI), colon length and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were detected. Immunofluorescence was used to visualize the location of Tfh cells. Immunoglobulins, Tfh cells and plasma cells were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), flow cytometry, real-time PCR or Western blotting. The results showed that after DSS treatment, the humoral immunity was disordered in C57BL/6 mice, with increased IgM, IgG and IgA levels in colonic mucus and increased Tfh cells in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN). VSL#3 treatment showed anti-inflammatory effects as evidenced by reduced DAI score, HAI score and MPO activity. IgM, IgG and IgA levels were significantly reduced in colon mucus, and the number of Tfh cells was markedly decreased in MLN after VSL#3 treatment. It was concluded that VSL#3 alleviates DSS-induced colitis by downregulating Tfh cells, and Tfh cells may become a potential therapeutic target for IBD.展开更多
The transcription factor forkhead box protein A2(FOXA2, also known as hepatocyte nuclear factor 3β or transcription factor 3β), has been found to play pivotal roles in multiple phases of mammalian life, from the ear...The transcription factor forkhead box protein A2(FOXA2, also known as hepatocyte nuclear factor 3β or transcription factor 3β), has been found to play pivotal roles in multiple phases of mammalian life, from the early development to the organofaction, and subsequently in homeostasis and metabolism in the adult. In the embryonic development period, FOXA2 is require d for the formation of the primitive node and notochord, and its absence results in embryonic lethality. Moreover, FOXA2 plays an important role not only in lung development, but also in T helper type 2(Th2)-mediated pulmonary inflammation and goblet cell hyperplasia. In this article, the role of FOXA2 in lung development and Th2-mediated pulmonary inflammation, as well as in goblet cell hyperplasia, is reviewed. FOXA2 deletion in airway epithelium results into Th2-mediated pulmonary inflammation and goblet cell hyperplasia in developing lung. Leukotriene pathway and signal transducers and activators of transcription 6 pathway may mediate this inflammation through recruitment and activation of denditric cell during lung developments. FOXA2 is a potential treatment target for lung diseases with Th2 inflammation and goblet cell hyperplasia, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.展开更多
AIM:To investigate T helper 17/regulatory T cell alterations in early severe hepatitis B and the effect of glucocorticoids.METHODS:The study included 20 patients in the early stage of severe hepatitis B(SHB)and 11 hea...AIM:To investigate T helper 17/regulatory T cell alterations in early severe hepatitis B and the effect of glucocorticoids.METHODS:The study included 20 patients in the early stage of severe hepatitis B(SHB)and 11 healthy controls.All patients had elevated T helper 17(Th17)levels,decreased regulatory T(Treg)cell levels,and significant Th17/Treg ratios.RESULTS:After glucocorticoid treatment,16 patients showed improvement with significant decreases in Th17 levels,increases in Treg,and rebalanced Th17/Treg ratios.The four patients who showed no improvement had increases in both Th17 and Treg levels andan even higher Th17/Treg ratio than before.CONCLUSION:Glucocorticoid treatment can rectify Th17/Treg dysregulation in patients with SHB.展开更多
BACKGROUND Post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome(PI-IBS)is generally regarded as a functional disease.Several recent studies have reported the involvement of lowgrade inflammation and immunological dysfunction in P...BACKGROUND Post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome(PI-IBS)is generally regarded as a functional disease.Several recent studies have reported the involvement of lowgrade inflammation and immunological dysfunction in PI-IBS.T helper 17(Th17)polarization occurs in IBS.Adenosine and its receptors participate in intestinal inflammation and immune regulation.AIM To investigate the role of Th17 polarization of CD4+T cells regulated by adenosine 2A receptor(A2AR)in PI-IBS.METHODS A PI-IBS model was established by infecting mice with Trichinella spiralis.The intestinal A2AR and CD4+T lymphocytes were detected by immunohistochemistry,and the inflammatory cytokines were detected by enzyme-linked immunoassay.CD4+T lymphocytes present in the animal’s spleen were separated and cultured with or without A2AR agonist and antagonist.Western blotting and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction were performed to determine the effect of A2AR on the cells and intestinal tissue.Cytokine production was determined.The protein and mRNA levels of A2AR associated signaling pathway molecules were also evaluated.Furthermore,A2AR agonist and antagonist were injected into the mouse model and the clinical features were observed.RESULTS The PI-IBS mouse model showed increased expression of ATP and A2AR(P<0.05),and inhibition of A2AR improved the clinical features in PI-IBS,including the abdominal withdrawal reflex and colon transportation test(P<0.05).The number of intestinal CD4+T cells and interleukin-17(IL-17)protein levels increased during PI-IBS,which was reversed by administration of the A2AR antagonist(P<0.05).CD4+T cells expressed A2AR and produced IL-17 in vitro,which was regulated by the A2AR agonist and antagonist.The A2AR antagonist increased the production of IL-17 by CD4+T cells via the Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcriptionreceptor-related orphan receptorγsignaling pathway.CONCLUSION The results of the present study suggested that the upregulation of A2AR increases PI-IBS by promoting the Th17 polarization of CD4+T cells.展开更多
BACKGROUND Advanced glycation end products(AGE)are a marker of various diseases including diabetes,in which they participate to vascular damages such as retinopathy,nephropathy and coronaropathy.Besides those vascular...BACKGROUND Advanced glycation end products(AGE)are a marker of various diseases including diabetes,in which they participate to vascular damages such as retinopathy,nephropathy and coronaropathy.Besides those vascular complications,AGE are involved in altered metabolism in many tissues,including adipose tissue(AT)where they contribute to reduced glucose uptake and attenuation of insulin sensitivity.AGE are known to contribute to type 1 diabetes(T1D)through promotion of interleukin(IL)-17 secreting T helper(Th17)cells.AIM To investigate whether lean adipose-derived stem cells(ASC)could be able to induce IL-17A secretion,with the help of AGE.METHODS As we have recently demonstrated that ASC are involved in Th17 cell promotion when they are harvested from obese AT,we used the same co-culture model to measure the impact of glycated human serum albumin(G-HSA)on human lean ASC interacting with blood mononuclear cells.IL-17A and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion were measured by ELISA.Receptor of AGE(RAGE)together with intercellular adhesion molecule 1(ICAM-1),human leukocyte Antigen(HLA)-DR,cluster of differentiation(CD)41,and CD62P surface expressions were measured by cytofluorometry.Anti-RAGE specific monoclonal antibody was added to co-cultures in order to evaluate the role of RAGE in IL-17A production.RESULTS Results showed that whereas 1%G-HSA only weakly potentiated the production of IL-17A by T cells interacting with ASC harvested from obese subjects,it markedly increased IL-17A,but also interferon gamma and tumor necrosis factor alpha production in the presence of ASC harvested from lean individuals.This was associated with increased expression of RAGE and HLA-DR molecule by cocultured cells.Moreover,RAGE blockade experiments demonstrated RAGE specific involvement in lean ASC-mediated Th-17 cell activation.Finally,platelet aggregation and ICAM-1,which are known to be induced by AGE,were not involved in these processes.CONCLUSION Thus,our results demonstrated that G-HSA potentiated lean ASC-mediated IL-17A production in AT,suggesting a new mechanism by which AGE could contribute to T1D pathophysiology.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the temporal onset and dynamic interplay of CD4+ T helper cell subsets in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis(EAE).METHODS: EAE was induced in C57BL/6 mice by immunization with myelin oligode...AIM: To investigate the temporal onset and dynamic interplay of CD4+ T helper cell subsets in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis(EAE).METHODS: EAE was induced in C57BL/6 mice by immunization with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein peptide p35-55. The clinical signs were scored and the tissue samples and immune cells isolated for analysis at different phases of EAE. The expression levels of inflammatory cytokines and related transcription factors were detected by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction(PCR) and enzyme linked immunosorbant assay(ELISA). The percentages of Th1, Th17, Th2, Treg and memory T cell subsets in EAE were analyzed by immunostaining and flow cytometry.The data were analyzed by statistical techniques.RESULTS: Quantitative real-time PCR analysis showedthat EAE mice express elevated levels of Th1 [interferon gamma(IFNγ), interleukin(IL)-12p40 ], Th17 [IL-17, related orphan receptor gamma(RORγ), IL-12p40] and Treg [Foxp3, Epstein-Barr virus induced gene 3(EBI3), IL-10 ] genes in the central nervous system at the peak of the disease. Whereas, the expression of Th1(IFNγ, T-bet, IL-12p35, IL-12p40), Th17(RORγ, IL-12p40), Th2(IL-4) and Treg(Foxp3, EBI3) response genes was reduced in the spleen during pre-disease but gradually recovered at the later phases of EAE. ELISA and flow cytometry analyses showed an increase in Th17 response in the periphery, while Th1 response remained unchanged at the peak of disease. The m RNA levels of IFNγ, IL-17 and IL-12p40 in the brain were increased by 23(P < 0.001), 9(P < 0.05) and 14(P < 0.01) fold, respectively, on day 21 of EAE. Conversely, the mR NA expression of IL-10 was increased by 2 fold(P < 0.05) in the spleen on day 21. CD4+CD25+Foxp3+Treg response was reduced at pre-disease but recovered to naíve levels by disease onset. The percentage of CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells decreased from 7.7% in the naíve to 3.2%(P < 0.05) on day 7 of EAE, which then increased to 8.4% by day 28. Moreover, the CD4+CD127+CD44high memory T cell response was increased during the onset and recovery phases of EAE. The memory and effector cells showed an inverse relationship in EAE, where the memory T cells increased from 12.3% in naive to 20% by day 21, and the effector cells decreased from 32% in naíve to 21%(P < 0.01) by day 21. The wild type C57BL/6 mice with EAE showed elevated levels of effector-memory T cells(TEM) with concomitant reduction in central-memory T cells(TCM), but the EAE-resistant IL-7R deficient mice showed elevated TCM with no effect on TEM cells in EAE.CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight the temporal onset and dynamic interplay of effector, memory and regulatory CD4+ T cell subsets and its significance to clinical outcome in EAE and other autoimmune diseases.展开更多
A correct antibody response requires the participation of both B and T lymphocytes and antigen presenting cells. In this review we address the role of follicular helper T lymphocytes(T FH) in this reaction. We shall f...A correct antibody response requires the participation of both B and T lymphocytes and antigen presenting cells. In this review we address the role of follicular helper T lymphocytes(T FH) in this reaction. We shall focus on the regulation of their development and function in health and disease. T FH can be characterized on the basis of their phenotype and the pattern of secretion of cytokines. This fact is useful to study their participation in the generation of antibody deficiency in primary immunodeficiency diseases such as common variable immunodeficiency, X-linked hyper Ig M syndrome orX-linked lymphoproliferative disease. Increased numbers of T FH have been demonstrated in several autoimmune diseases and are thought to play a role in the development of autoantibodies. In chronic viral infections caused by the human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B or C virus, increased circulating T FH have been observed, but their role in the protective immune response to these agents is under discussion. Likewise, an important role of T FH in the control of some experimental protozoan infections has been proposed, and it will be important to assess their relevance in order to design effective vaccination strategies.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the expression and impact of helper T cell type 17 and CD4^(+)CD25^(+)regulatory T(Treg)cells in anti-mitochondrial M2 antibody(AMA-M2)positive primary biliary cholangitis(PBC)patients.Methods...Objective:To investigate the expression and impact of helper T cell type 17 and CD4^(+)CD25^(+)regulatory T(Treg)cells in anti-mitochondrial M2 antibody(AMA-M2)positive primary biliary cholangitis(PBC)patients.Methods:Thirty PBC patients with positive AMA(M2 type)(antibody titer above 1:320)by indirect immunofluorescence assay under the Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University from November 2021 to August 2022 were selected as the experimental group,while 30 healthy individuals were selected as controls.The subjects were observed and analyzed for AFP-L3 and immunoglobulin expression.Results:The levels of Th17,Treg,Th17/Treg,interleukin(IL)-17A,IL-2,IL-10,and transforming growth factor(TGF)-β1 cytokines of the experimental group were 2.61±0.48,1.15±0.54,2.41±0.47,310.94±21.14,276.36±36.12,317.89±28.97,and 197.48±31.04,respectively,while those of the control group were 1.14±0.58,0.88±0.29,1.47±0.25,9.69±1.26,57.69±2.45,154.01±19.87,and 514.36±36.12,respectively,wherein P<0.05;the CD4^(+),CD8^(+),and CD4^(+)/CD8^(+)of the experimental group were 39.48±4.19,20.12±4.41,and 1.76±0.14,respectively,while those of the control group were 35.78±4.21,22.01±4.16,and 1.51±0.13,respectively,wherein P<0.05.Conclusion:In patients with PBC,there is a significant imbalance in Th17/Treg cells.Il-17A,IL-2,IL-10,and TGF-β1 cytokines play important roles in the differentiation and functional expression of both Th17 and Treg cells.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the impact of different anesthetic techniques on T-helper(Th) cell subsets in hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) patients undergoing hepatectomy.METHODS:Sixty-one HCC patients who received hepatectomies ...AIM:To investigate the impact of different anesthetic techniques on T-helper(Th) cell subsets in hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) patients undergoing hepatectomy.METHODS:Sixty-one HCC patients who received hepatectomies were randomized into an epidural combined general anesthesia(G + E;n = 31) or a general anesthesia(G;n = 30) group.Blood samples were obtained the morning before the operation(d0),and on the second(d2) and seventh(d7) day after the operation.Th cell contents were evaluated using flow cytometry,realtime reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.RESULTS:In all 61 patients,Th1 and Th2 cell frequencies,and interferon-(IFN-) mRNA expression markedly increased on d2,compared to d0.They recovered slightly on d7,and the Th1/Th2 ratio increased markedly on d7,compared with d2.In contrast,Th17,regulatory T cell(Treg),and interleukin-17(IL-17) levels and FOXP3 mRNA expression showed no significant change on d2,and then markedly decreased on d7.Similarly,plasma IFN-concentration on d2 was much higher than that on d0,and then partly recovered on d7.As compared with the G group,in the G + E group,Th1 cell frequencies and the Th1/Th2 ratio were slightly higher on d2 and significantly higher on d7,while Th2,Th17,and Treg cell frequencies were slightly lower on d2,and significantly lower on d7.Consistently,on d7,IFN-mRNA and protein levels and the IFN-/IL-4 ratio in the G + E group were higher than those in the G group.In contrast,the IL-17 mRNA level,and IL-17 and transforming growth factor-1 concentrations in the G + E group were lower than those in the G group.CONCLUSION:G + E is superior to G in shifting the Th1/Th2 balance towards Th1,while decreasing Th17 and Treg,potentially benefiting HCC patients by promoting anti-tumor Th polarization.展开更多
Interleukin (IL)-8 is a potent neutrophil chemotactic factor and a crucial mediator in neutrophil-dependent inflammation.Various cell types produce IL-8, either in response to external stimuli such as cytokines or bac...Interleukin (IL)-8 is a potent neutrophil chemotactic factor and a crucial mediator in neutrophil-dependent inflammation.Various cell types produce IL-8, either in response to external stimuli such as cytokines or bacterial infection, or aftermalignant transformation. Anti-IL-8 strategies have been considered for anti-inflammatory therapy. In this paper wedemonstrate that the RNA interference technique can be used to efficiently down-regulate IL-8 protein expression inairway epithelial cells. We used a helper-dependent adenoviral vector to express a small hairpin (sh)RNA targetinghuman IL-8 in cultured airway epithelial cells (IB3-1, Cftr-/-; C38, Cftr-corrected) stimulated with TNF-α, IL-1β orheat-inactivated Burkholderia cenocepacia. Stimulated IL-8 expression in IB3-1 and C38 cells was significantly reducedby shRNA expression. The shRNA targeting IL-8 had no effect on the activation of NF-κB, or on the protein levels ofIκB or IL-6, suggesting that this anti-IL-8 strategy was highly specific, and therefore may offer potential for thetreatment of inflammatory diseases.展开更多
Objective: To investigate and compare the effects of different concentrations of morphine, fentanyl and tramadol on the differentiation of human adult helper T cells in vitro. Methods: Twenty out-patients without immu...Objective: To investigate and compare the effects of different concentrations of morphine, fentanyl and tramadol on the differentiation of human adult helper T cells in vitro. Methods: Twenty out-patients without immune disease were selected and their peripheral blood was collected. Then the whole blood of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were pretreated with different concentration of morphine, fentanyl and tramadol for 24 h. The level of CD4+IFN-γ+IL-2+/CD4+IL-4+IL-10+ was analyzed by three-color flow cytometry, and the CD4+CCR5+ and CD4+CCR3+ cells were counted to observe the imbalance of Th2/Th2. Results: The number of Th2 increased significantly and the ratio of Th2/Th2 decreased dramatically compared with the control group, and there was a dose-dependent fashion in all drugs. Conclusion: Morphine, fentanyl and tramadol can direct Th0 cells toward Th2 differentiation, especially morphine and fentanyl.展开更多
To obtain the helper plasmids for a reverse genetics system of rabies virus, the cDNAs of the complete open reading frames of the N, P, G, and L genes of rabies street virus stain HN10 were each cloned into expression...To obtain the helper plasmids for a reverse genetics system of rabies virus, the cDNAs of the complete open reading frames of the N, P, G, and L genes of rabies street virus stain HN10 were each cloned into expression vector pVAX1, These four plasmids were identified by restriction enzyme digestion and gene sequencing. The plasmid encoding the N protein was selected to determine the expression effect of these plasmids in NA cells. The results showed that the helper plasmids for a reverse genetics system of rabies street virus strain HN10 had been successfully constructed.展开更多
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82271755,No.81871230)Peking University People's Hospital Scientific Research Development Funds(RZ 2022-06).
文摘Objective This study aimed to investigate the changes of follicular helper T(TFH)and follicular regulatory T(TFR)cell subpopulations in patients with non-small cell lung cancer(NSCLC)and their significance.Methods Peripheral blood was collected from 58 NSCLC patients at different stages and 38 healthy controls.Flow cytometry was used to detect TFH cell subpopulation based on programmed death 1(PD-1)and inducible co-stimulator(ICOS),and TFR cell subpopulation based on cluster determinant 45RA(CD45RA)and forkhead box protein P3(FoxP3).The levels of interleukin-10(IL-10),interleukin-17a(IL-17a),interleukin-21(IL-21),and transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β)in the plasma were measured,and changes in circulating B cell subsets and plasma IgG levels were also analyzed.The correlation between serum cytokeratin fragment antigen 21-1(CYFRA 21-1)levels and TFH,TFR,or B cell subpopulations was further explored.Results The TFR/TFH ratio increased significantly in NSCLC patients.The CD45RA^(+)FoxP3^(int) TFR subsets were increased,with their proportions increasing in stages Ⅱ to Ⅲ and decreasing in stage IV.PD-1^(+)ICOS+TFH cells showed a downward trend with increasing stages.Plasma IL-21 and TGF-β concentrations were increased in NSCLC patients compared with healthy controls.Plasmablasts,plasma IgG levels,and CD45RA^(+)FoxP3^(int) TFR cells showed similar trends.TFH numbers and plasmablasts were positively correlated with CYFRA 21-1 in stages Ⅰ-Ⅲ and negatively correlated with CYFRA 21-1 in stage IV.Conclusion Circulating TFH and TFR cell subpopulations and plasmablasts dynamically change in different stages of NSCLC,which is associated with serum CYFRA 21-1 levels and reflects disease progression.
基金Supported by Grants for Scientific Research Innovation Project of Shanghai Education Committee,China,No.13yz040
文摘AIM:To investigate the effect of T helper(Th)17/T regulatory(Treg)cells on hepatic fibrosis in mice and its possible mechanism.METHODS:Hepatic fibrosis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride.Hepatic pathological changes were observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining;the protein levels of interleukin(IL)-6,transforming growth factor(TGF)-βandα-smooth muscle actin(SMA)in liver tissue were determined by Western blotting;and the frequency of Th17 and Treg cells in the liver was estimated by flow cytometry.In addition,hepatic stellate cells were isolated from healthy mouse liver and co-cultured with Th17 or Treg cells.Immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting were performed to determine the change in HSC activation.RESULTS:In the model group,there were different degrees of fibroplasia,degeneration and necrosis.The protein levels of IL-6,TGF-βandα-SMA in liver tissue were significantly higher than those in the control group at 12 wk(P<0.05).Compared with the control group,the frequency of Th17 cells in the model group was increased but the frequency of Treg cells decreased gradually.Furthermore,at 4,8 and 12 wk,there were significant differences in the number of Th17 cells(0.52%±0.16%,1.46%±0.24%,and2.60%±0.41%,respectively,P<0.05)and Treg cells(2.99%±0.40%,2.16%±0.50%,and 1.49%±0.34%,respectively,P<0.05).In vitro,Th17 cells promoted,whereas Treg cells inhibited the expression ofα-SMA,both in a dose-dependent manner,compared with the control group.CONCLUSION:Th17/Treg imbalance exists in mice with liver fibrosis,which potentially promotes liver fibrosis via HSC activation.
文摘The mechanism of action of ribavirin(RBV) as an immunomodulatory and antiviral agent and its clinical significance in the future treatment of patients with hepatitis C virus(HCV) infection are reviewed.RBV up-regulates type 1 and/or 2 cytokines to modulate the T helper(Th) 1/2 cell balance to Th1 dominance.Examination of co-stimulatory signaling indicated that RBV down-modulates inducible co-stimulator on Th cells,which contributes to differentiating na?ve Th cells into Th2 cells while reducing their interleukin-10 production.The effects on T-regulatory(Treg) cells were also investigated,and RBV inhibited the differentiation of na?ve Th cells into adaptive Treg cells by downmodulating forkhead box-P3.These findings indicate that RBV mainly down-regulates the activity of Th2 cells,resulting in the maintenance of Th1 activity that contributes to abrogating HCV-infected hepatocytes.Although an interferon-free treatment regimen exhibits almost the same efficacy without serious complications,regimens with RBV will be still be used because of their ability to facilitate the cellular immune response,which may contribute to reducing the development of hepatocellular carcinogenesis in patients infected with HCV.
基金This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos.81800984,81170361).
文摘Clinical trials have shown beneficial effects of probiotics on inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), although the exact mechanism remains unknown. VSL#3, a mixture of 8 probiotic bacteria, has been confirmed to have adjunctive therapeutic effects on colitis. T follicular helper (Tfh) cells, a new separate subset of CD4+ T helper cells, have been proved to play a vital role in autoimmunity. The present study aimed to identify the beneficial effect of the probiotic mixture VSL#3 on the mouse model of colitis by regulating Tfh cells. Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) was used to induce chronic colitis in C57BL/6 mice. VSL#3 (3x109 live bacteria) was given to C57BL/6 mice every other day for 60 days by gavage. The disease activity index (DAI), histological activity index (HAI), colon length and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were detected. Immunofluorescence was used to visualize the location of Tfh cells. Immunoglobulins, Tfh cells and plasma cells were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), flow cytometry, real-time PCR or Western blotting. The results showed that after DSS treatment, the humoral immunity was disordered in C57BL/6 mice, with increased IgM, IgG and IgA levels in colonic mucus and increased Tfh cells in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN). VSL#3 treatment showed anti-inflammatory effects as evidenced by reduced DAI score, HAI score and MPO activity. IgM, IgG and IgA levels were significantly reduced in colon mucus, and the number of Tfh cells was markedly decreased in MLN after VSL#3 treatment. It was concluded that VSL#3 alleviates DSS-induced colitis by downregulating Tfh cells, and Tfh cells may become a potential therapeutic target for IBD.
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.30871118,30971325,81270129 and 81470268(FL)grants from Department of Science and Technology of Sichuan Province,Nos.09ZQ026-020 and 2009SZ0190(FL)
文摘The transcription factor forkhead box protein A2(FOXA2, also known as hepatocyte nuclear factor 3β or transcription factor 3β), has been found to play pivotal roles in multiple phases of mammalian life, from the early development to the organofaction, and subsequently in homeostasis and metabolism in the adult. In the embryonic development period, FOXA2 is require d for the formation of the primitive node and notochord, and its absence results in embryonic lethality. Moreover, FOXA2 plays an important role not only in lung development, but also in T helper type 2(Th2)-mediated pulmonary inflammation and goblet cell hyperplasia. In this article, the role of FOXA2 in lung development and Th2-mediated pulmonary inflammation, as well as in goblet cell hyperplasia, is reviewed. FOXA2 deletion in airway epithelium results into Th2-mediated pulmonary inflammation and goblet cell hyperplasia in developing lung. Leukotriene pathway and signal transducers and activators of transcription 6 pathway may mediate this inflammation through recruitment and activation of denditric cell during lung developments. FOXA2 is a potential treatment target for lung diseases with Th2 inflammation and goblet cell hyperplasia, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
基金Supported by 12 5-year Plan National Science and Technology Key Project of China,No.2012ZX10002-004
文摘AIM:To investigate T helper 17/regulatory T cell alterations in early severe hepatitis B and the effect of glucocorticoids.METHODS:The study included 20 patients in the early stage of severe hepatitis B(SHB)and 11 healthy controls.All patients had elevated T helper 17(Th17)levels,decreased regulatory T(Treg)cell levels,and significant Th17/Treg ratios.RESULTS:After glucocorticoid treatment,16 patients showed improvement with significant decreases in Th17 levels,increases in Treg,and rebalanced Th17/Treg ratios.The four patients who showed no improvement had increases in both Th17 and Treg levels andan even higher Th17/Treg ratio than before.CONCLUSION:Glucocorticoid treatment can rectify Th17/Treg dysregulation in patients with SHB.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81160057,No.81860102,and No.82060102.
文摘BACKGROUND Post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome(PI-IBS)is generally regarded as a functional disease.Several recent studies have reported the involvement of lowgrade inflammation and immunological dysfunction in PI-IBS.T helper 17(Th17)polarization occurs in IBS.Adenosine and its receptors participate in intestinal inflammation and immune regulation.AIM To investigate the role of Th17 polarization of CD4+T cells regulated by adenosine 2A receptor(A2AR)in PI-IBS.METHODS A PI-IBS model was established by infecting mice with Trichinella spiralis.The intestinal A2AR and CD4+T lymphocytes were detected by immunohistochemistry,and the inflammatory cytokines were detected by enzyme-linked immunoassay.CD4+T lymphocytes present in the animal’s spleen were separated and cultured with or without A2AR agonist and antagonist.Western blotting and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction were performed to determine the effect of A2AR on the cells and intestinal tissue.Cytokine production was determined.The protein and mRNA levels of A2AR associated signaling pathway molecules were also evaluated.Furthermore,A2AR agonist and antagonist were injected into the mouse model and the clinical features were observed.RESULTS The PI-IBS mouse model showed increased expression of ATP and A2AR(P<0.05),and inhibition of A2AR improved the clinical features in PI-IBS,including the abdominal withdrawal reflex and colon transportation test(P<0.05).The number of intestinal CD4+T cells and interleukin-17(IL-17)protein levels increased during PI-IBS,which was reversed by administration of the A2AR antagonist(P<0.05).CD4+T cells expressed A2AR and produced IL-17 in vitro,which was regulated by the A2AR agonist and antagonist.The A2AR antagonist increased the production of IL-17 by CD4+T cells via the Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcriptionreceptor-related orphan receptorγsignaling pathway.CONCLUSION The results of the present study suggested that the upregulation of A2AR increases PI-IBS by promoting the Th17 polarization of CD4+T cells.
文摘BACKGROUND Advanced glycation end products(AGE)are a marker of various diseases including diabetes,in which they participate to vascular damages such as retinopathy,nephropathy and coronaropathy.Besides those vascular complications,AGE are involved in altered metabolism in many tissues,including adipose tissue(AT)where they contribute to reduced glucose uptake and attenuation of insulin sensitivity.AGE are known to contribute to type 1 diabetes(T1D)through promotion of interleukin(IL)-17 secreting T helper(Th17)cells.AIM To investigate whether lean adipose-derived stem cells(ASC)could be able to induce IL-17A secretion,with the help of AGE.METHODS As we have recently demonstrated that ASC are involved in Th17 cell promotion when they are harvested from obese AT,we used the same co-culture model to measure the impact of glycated human serum albumin(G-HSA)on human lean ASC interacting with blood mononuclear cells.IL-17A and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion were measured by ELISA.Receptor of AGE(RAGE)together with intercellular adhesion molecule 1(ICAM-1),human leukocyte Antigen(HLA)-DR,cluster of differentiation(CD)41,and CD62P surface expressions were measured by cytofluorometry.Anti-RAGE specific monoclonal antibody was added to co-cultures in order to evaluate the role of RAGE in IL-17A production.RESULTS Results showed that whereas 1%G-HSA only weakly potentiated the production of IL-17A by T cells interacting with ASC harvested from obese subjects,it markedly increased IL-17A,but also interferon gamma and tumor necrosis factor alpha production in the presence of ASC harvested from lean individuals.This was associated with increased expression of RAGE and HLA-DR molecule by cocultured cells.Moreover,RAGE blockade experiments demonstrated RAGE specific involvement in lean ASC-mediated Th-17 cell activation.Finally,platelet aggregation and ICAM-1,which are known to be induced by AGE,were not involved in these processes.CONCLUSION Thus,our results demonstrated that G-HSA potentiated lean ASC-mediated IL-17A production in AT,suggesting a new mechanism by which AGE could contribute to T1D pathophysiology.
基金Supported by Methodist Research Institute,Indiana University Health
文摘AIM: To investigate the temporal onset and dynamic interplay of CD4+ T helper cell subsets in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis(EAE).METHODS: EAE was induced in C57BL/6 mice by immunization with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein peptide p35-55. The clinical signs were scored and the tissue samples and immune cells isolated for analysis at different phases of EAE. The expression levels of inflammatory cytokines and related transcription factors were detected by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction(PCR) and enzyme linked immunosorbant assay(ELISA). The percentages of Th1, Th17, Th2, Treg and memory T cell subsets in EAE were analyzed by immunostaining and flow cytometry.The data were analyzed by statistical techniques.RESULTS: Quantitative real-time PCR analysis showedthat EAE mice express elevated levels of Th1 [interferon gamma(IFNγ), interleukin(IL)-12p40 ], Th17 [IL-17, related orphan receptor gamma(RORγ), IL-12p40] and Treg [Foxp3, Epstein-Barr virus induced gene 3(EBI3), IL-10 ] genes in the central nervous system at the peak of the disease. Whereas, the expression of Th1(IFNγ, T-bet, IL-12p35, IL-12p40), Th17(RORγ, IL-12p40), Th2(IL-4) and Treg(Foxp3, EBI3) response genes was reduced in the spleen during pre-disease but gradually recovered at the later phases of EAE. ELISA and flow cytometry analyses showed an increase in Th17 response in the periphery, while Th1 response remained unchanged at the peak of disease. The m RNA levels of IFNγ, IL-17 and IL-12p40 in the brain were increased by 23(P < 0.001), 9(P < 0.05) and 14(P < 0.01) fold, respectively, on day 21 of EAE. Conversely, the mR NA expression of IL-10 was increased by 2 fold(P < 0.05) in the spleen on day 21. CD4+CD25+Foxp3+Treg response was reduced at pre-disease but recovered to naíve levels by disease onset. The percentage of CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells decreased from 7.7% in the naíve to 3.2%(P < 0.05) on day 7 of EAE, which then increased to 8.4% by day 28. Moreover, the CD4+CD127+CD44high memory T cell response was increased during the onset and recovery phases of EAE. The memory and effector cells showed an inverse relationship in EAE, where the memory T cells increased from 12.3% in naive to 20% by day 21, and the effector cells decreased from 32% in naíve to 21%(P < 0.01) by day 21. The wild type C57BL/6 mice with EAE showed elevated levels of effector-memory T cells(TEM) with concomitant reduction in central-memory T cells(TCM), but the EAE-resistant IL-7R deficient mice showed elevated TCM with no effect on TEM cells in EAE.CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight the temporal onset and dynamic interplay of effector, memory and regulatory CD4+ T cell subsets and its significance to clinical outcome in EAE and other autoimmune diseases.
基金Supported by Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas,CONICET,PIP Nos.0032 and 11220120100619CO
文摘A correct antibody response requires the participation of both B and T lymphocytes and antigen presenting cells. In this review we address the role of follicular helper T lymphocytes(T FH) in this reaction. We shall focus on the regulation of their development and function in health and disease. T FH can be characterized on the basis of their phenotype and the pattern of secretion of cytokines. This fact is useful to study their participation in the generation of antibody deficiency in primary immunodeficiency diseases such as common variable immunodeficiency, X-linked hyper Ig M syndrome orX-linked lymphoproliferative disease. Increased numbers of T FH have been demonstrated in several autoimmune diseases and are thought to play a role in the development of autoantibodies. In chronic viral infections caused by the human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B or C virus, increased circulating T FH have been observed, but their role in the protective immune response to these agents is under discussion. Likewise, an important role of T FH in the control of some experimental protozoan infections has been proposed, and it will be important to assess their relevance in order to design effective vaccination strategies.
基金supported by Baoding Science and Technology Planning Project(Grant Number:2141ZF316).
文摘Objective:To investigate the expression and impact of helper T cell type 17 and CD4^(+)CD25^(+)regulatory T(Treg)cells in anti-mitochondrial M2 antibody(AMA-M2)positive primary biliary cholangitis(PBC)patients.Methods:Thirty PBC patients with positive AMA(M2 type)(antibody titer above 1:320)by indirect immunofluorescence assay under the Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University from November 2021 to August 2022 were selected as the experimental group,while 30 healthy individuals were selected as controls.The subjects were observed and analyzed for AFP-L3 and immunoglobulin expression.Results:The levels of Th17,Treg,Th17/Treg,interleukin(IL)-17A,IL-2,IL-10,and transforming growth factor(TGF)-β1 cytokines of the experimental group were 2.61±0.48,1.15±0.54,2.41±0.47,310.94±21.14,276.36±36.12,317.89±28.97,and 197.48±31.04,respectively,while those of the control group were 1.14±0.58,0.88±0.29,1.47±0.25,9.69±1.26,57.69±2.45,154.01±19.87,and 514.36±36.12,respectively,wherein P<0.05;the CD4^(+),CD8^(+),and CD4^(+)/CD8^(+)of the experimental group were 39.48±4.19,20.12±4.41,and 1.76±0.14,respectively,while those of the control group were 35.78±4.21,22.01±4.16,and 1.51±0.13,respectively,wherein P<0.05.Conclusion:In patients with PBC,there is a significant imbalance in Th17/Treg cells.Il-17A,IL-2,IL-10,and TGF-β1 cytokines play important roles in the differentiation and functional expression of both Th17 and Treg cells.
基金Supported by The State 863 High Technology R and D Project of China,No.2007AA02Z479National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.30972949+3 种基金Shanghai Rising-Star Program, No.10QA1401300FANEDD,No.201183Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality,No.114119a4400Shanghai "Chen Guang" Project,No.11CG02
文摘AIM:To investigate the impact of different anesthetic techniques on T-helper(Th) cell subsets in hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) patients undergoing hepatectomy.METHODS:Sixty-one HCC patients who received hepatectomies were randomized into an epidural combined general anesthesia(G + E;n = 31) or a general anesthesia(G;n = 30) group.Blood samples were obtained the morning before the operation(d0),and on the second(d2) and seventh(d7) day after the operation.Th cell contents were evaluated using flow cytometry,realtime reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.RESULTS:In all 61 patients,Th1 and Th2 cell frequencies,and interferon-(IFN-) mRNA expression markedly increased on d2,compared to d0.They recovered slightly on d7,and the Th1/Th2 ratio increased markedly on d7,compared with d2.In contrast,Th17,regulatory T cell(Treg),and interleukin-17(IL-17) levels and FOXP3 mRNA expression showed no significant change on d2,and then markedly decreased on d7.Similarly,plasma IFN-concentration on d2 was much higher than that on d0,and then partly recovered on d7.As compared with the G group,in the G + E group,Th1 cell frequencies and the Th1/Th2 ratio were slightly higher on d2 and significantly higher on d7,while Th2,Th17,and Treg cell frequencies were slightly lower on d2,and significantly lower on d7.Consistently,on d7,IFN-mRNA and protein levels and the IFN-/IL-4 ratio in the G + E group were higher than those in the G group.In contrast,the IL-17 mRNA level,and IL-17 and transforming growth factor-1 concentrations in the G + E group were lower than those in the G group.CONCLUSION:G + E is superior to G in shifting the Th1/Th2 balance towards Th1,while decreasing Th17 and Treg,potentially benefiting HCC patients by promoting anti-tumor Th polarization.
文摘Interleukin (IL)-8 is a potent neutrophil chemotactic factor and a crucial mediator in neutrophil-dependent inflammation.Various cell types produce IL-8, either in response to external stimuli such as cytokines or bacterial infection, or aftermalignant transformation. Anti-IL-8 strategies have been considered for anti-inflammatory therapy. In this paper wedemonstrate that the RNA interference technique can be used to efficiently down-regulate IL-8 protein expression inairway epithelial cells. We used a helper-dependent adenoviral vector to express a small hairpin (sh)RNA targetinghuman IL-8 in cultured airway epithelial cells (IB3-1, Cftr-/-; C38, Cftr-corrected) stimulated with TNF-α, IL-1β orheat-inactivated Burkholderia cenocepacia. Stimulated IL-8 expression in IB3-1 and C38 cells was significantly reducedby shRNA expression. The shRNA targeting IL-8 had no effect on the activation of NF-κB, or on the protein levels ofIκB or IL-6, suggesting that this anti-IL-8 strategy was highly specific, and therefore may offer potential for thetreatment of inflammatory diseases.
文摘Objective: To investigate and compare the effects of different concentrations of morphine, fentanyl and tramadol on the differentiation of human adult helper T cells in vitro. Methods: Twenty out-patients without immune disease were selected and their peripheral blood was collected. Then the whole blood of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were pretreated with different concentration of morphine, fentanyl and tramadol for 24 h. The level of CD4+IFN-γ+IL-2+/CD4+IL-4+IL-10+ was analyzed by three-color flow cytometry, and the CD4+CCR5+ and CD4+CCR3+ cells were counted to observe the imbalance of Th2/Th2. Results: The number of Th2 increased significantly and the ratio of Th2/Th2 decreased dramatically compared with the control group, and there was a dose-dependent fashion in all drugs. Conclusion: Morphine, fentanyl and tramadol can direct Th0 cells toward Th2 differentiation, especially morphine and fentanyl.
基金National High Technology Research and Development Program of China (2006AA02Z110, 2007AA02Z402)Major Program of the National Natural Science Foundation of China (30630049)
文摘To obtain the helper plasmids for a reverse genetics system of rabies virus, the cDNAs of the complete open reading frames of the N, P, G, and L genes of rabies street virus stain HN10 were each cloned into expression vector pVAX1, These four plasmids were identified by restriction enzyme digestion and gene sequencing. The plasmid encoding the N protein was selected to determine the expression effect of these plasmids in NA cells. The results showed that the helper plasmids for a reverse genetics system of rabies street virus strain HN10 had been successfully constructed.
