Regulation of inflammatory chemokine receptors on blood T cells associated to the circulating versus liver chemokines in dengue fever.

PubMed

de-Oliveira-Pinto, Luzia Maria; Marinho, Cíntia Ferreira; Povoa, Tiago Fajardo; de Azeredo, Elzinandes Leal; de Souza, Luiza Assed; Barbosa, Luiza Damian Ribeiro; Motta-Castro, Ana Rita C; Alves, Ada M B; Ávila, Carlos André Lins; de Souza, Luiz José; da Cunha, Rivaldo Venâncio; Damasco, Paulo Vieira; Paes, Marciano Viana; Kubelka, Claire Fernandes

2012-01-01

Little is known about the role of chemokines/chemokines receptors on T cells in natural DENV infection. Patients from DENV-2 and -3- outbreaks were studied prospectively during the acute or convalescent phases. Expression of chemokine receptor and activation markers on lymphocyte subpopulations were determined by flow cytometry analysis, plasma chemokine ligands concentrations were measured by ELISA and quantification of CCL5/RANTES(+) cells in liver tissues from fatal dengue cases was performed by immunochemistry. In the acute DENV-infection, T-helper/T-cytotoxic type-1 cell (Th1/Tc1)-related CCR5 is significantly higher expressed on both CD4 and CD8 T cells. The Th1-related CXCR3 is up-regulated among CD4 T cells and Tc2-related CCR4 is up-regulated among CD8 T cells. In the convalescent phase, all chemokine receptor or chemokine ligand expression tends to reestablish control healthy levels. Increased CCL2/MCP-1 and CCL4/MIP-1β but decreased CCL5/RANTES levels were observed in DENV-patients during acute infection. Moreover, we showed an increased CD107a expression on CCR5 or CXCR3-expressing T cells and higher expression of CD29, CD44(HIGH) and CD127(LOW) markers on CCR4-expressing CD8 T cells in DENV-patients when compared to controls. Finally, liver from dengue fatal patients showed increased number of cells expressing CCL5/RANTES in three out of four cases compared to three death from a non-dengue patient. In conclusion, both Th1-related CCR5 and CXCR3 among CD4 T cells have a potential ability to exert cytotoxicity function. Moreover, Tc1-related CCR5 and Tc2-related CCR4 among CD8 T cells have a potential ability to exert effector function and migration based on cell markers evaluated. The CCR5 expression would be promoting an enhanced T cell recruitment into liver, a hypothesis that is corroborated by the CCL5/RANTES increase detected in hepatic tissue from dengue fatal cases. The balance between protective and pathogenic immune response mediated by

Regulation of Inflammatory Chemokine Receptors on Blood T Cells Associated to the Circulating Versus Liver Chemokines in Dengue Fever

PubMed Central

Povoa, Tiago Fajardo; de Azeredo, Elzinandes Leal; de Souza, Luiza Assed; Barbosa, Luiza Damian Ribeiro; Motta-Castro, Ana Rita C.; Alves, Ada M. B.; Ávila, Carlos André Lins; de Souza, Luiz José; da Cunha, Rivaldo Venâncio; Damasco, Paulo Vieira; Paes, Marciano Viana; Kubelka, Claire Fernandes

2012-01-01

Little is known about the role of chemokines/chemokines receptors on T cells in natural DENV infection. Patients from DENV-2 and -3- outbreaks were studied prospectively during the acute or convalescent phases. Expression of chemokine receptor and activation markers on lymphocyte subpopulations were determined by flow cytometry analysis, plasma chemokine ligands concentrations were measured by ELISA and quantification of CCL5/RANTES+ cells in liver tissues from fatal dengue cases was performed by immunochemistry. In the acute DENV-infection, T-helper/T-cytotoxic type-1 cell (Th1/Tc1)-related CCR5 is significantly higher expressed on both CD4 and CD8 T cells. The Th1-related CXCR3 is up-regulated among CD4 T cells and Tc2-related CCR4 is up-regulated among CD8 T cells. In the convalescent phase, all chemokine receptor or chemokine ligand expression tends to reestablish control healthy levels. Increased CCL2/MCP-1 and CCL4/MIP-1β but decreased CCL5/RANTES levels were observed in DENV-patients during acute infection. Moreover, we showed an increased CD107a expression on CCR5 or CXCR3-expressing T cells and higher expression of CD29, CD44HIGH and CD127LOW markers on CCR4-expressing CD8 T cells in DENV-patients when compared to controls. Finally, liver from dengue fatal patients showed increased number of cells expressing CCL5/RANTES in three out of four cases compared to three death from a non-dengue patient. In conclusion, both Th1-related CCR5 and CXCR3 among CD4 T cells have a potential ability to exert cytotoxicity function. Moreover, Tc1-related CCR5 and Tc2-related CCR4 among CD8 T cells have a potential ability to exert effector function and migration based on cell markers evaluated. The CCR5 expression would be promoting an enhanced T cell recruitment into liver, a hypothesis that is corroborated by the CCL5/RANTES increase detected in hepatic tissue from dengue fatal cases. The balance between protective and pathogenic immune response mediated by chemokines

Sea Buckthorn (Hippophaë rhamnoides L.) Oil Improves Atopic Dermatitis-Like Skin Lesions via Inhibition of NF-κB and STAT1 Activation.

PubMed

Hou, Dian-Dong; Di, Zheng-Hong; Qi, Rui-Qun; Wang, He-Xiao; Zheng, Song; Hong, Yu-Xiao; Guo, Hao; Chen, Hong-Duo; Gao, Xing-Hua

2017-01-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the topical effects of sea buckthorn (SBT) oil on atopic dermatitis (AD)-like lesions in a mouse model generated by repeated topical administration of DNCB in BALB/c mice. DNCB was applied repeatedly on the dorsal skin of mice to induce AD-like lesions. Following AD induction, SBT oil was applied daily on the dorsal skin for 4 weeks. The severity of skin lesions was examined macroscopically and histologically. We further measured the production of MDC/CCL22 and TARC/CCL17 in IFN-γ/TNF-α activated HaCaT cells. Topically applied SBT oil in DNCB-treated mice ameliorated the severity score of dermatitis, decreased epidermal thickness, reduced spleen and lymph node weights, and prevented mast cell infiltration. In addition, SBT oil suppressed the Th2 chemokines TARC and MDC via dose-dependent inhibition of NF-κB, JAK2/STAT1, and p38-MAPK signaling pathways in IFN-γ/TNF-α-activated HaCaT cells. These results suggest that SBT oil had a beneficial effect on AD-like skin lesions, partially via inhibition of the Th2 chemokines TARC and MDC in inflamed skin. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Active Shaping of Chemokine Gradients by Atypical Chemokine Receptors: A 4D Live-Cell Imaging Migration Assay.

PubMed

Werth, Kathrin; Förster, Reinhold

2016-01-01

Diffusion of chemokines away from their site of production results in the passive formation of chemokine gradients. We have recently shown that chemokine gradients can also be formed in an active manner, namely by atypical chemokine receptors (ACKRs) that scavenge chemokines locally. Here, we describe an advanced method that allows the visualization of leukocyte migration in a three-dimensional environment along a chemokine gradient that is actively established by cells expressing an ACKR. Initially developed to visualize the migration of dendritic cells along gradients of CCL19 or CCL21 that were actively shaped by an ACKR4-expressing cell line, we expect that this chamber system can be exploited to study many other combinations of atypical and conventional chemokine receptor-expressing cells. © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of isosecotanapartholide isolated from Artemisia princeps Pampanini on IL‑33 production and STAT‑1 activation in HaCaT keratinocytes.

PubMed

Oh, Chang Taek; Jang, Yu-Jin; Kwon, Tae-Rin; Im, Songi; Kim, Soon Re; Seok, Joon; Kim, Gun-Yong; Kim, Young-Heui; Mun, Seog Kyun; Kim, Beom Joon

2017-05-01

The present study aimed to investigate the anti‑inflammatory effect and mechanism of action of isosecotanapartholide (ISTP), isolated from Artemisia princeps Pampanini extract (APE). The effects of ISTP and APE on the proliferation of human keratinocytes following stimulation by tumor necrosis factor‑α/interferon‑γ were assessed. ISTP and APE downregulated the expression levels of signal transducer and activator of transcription‑1 (STAT‑1), and reduced interleukin‑33 (IL‑33) production. ISTP and APE inhibited the mRNA expression levels of thymus and activation‑regulated chemokine (TARC/CCL17) in a dose‑dependent manner. Western blot analysis demonstrated that ISTP and APE dose‑dependently inhibited protein expression levels of intercellular adhesion molecule‑1 and phosphorylation of STAT‑1. The results of the present study indicate that ISTP may inhibit TARC/CCL17 production in human epidermal keratinocytes via the STAT‑1 signaling pathway and may be associated with the inhibition of IL‑33 production. The current study indicated that ISTP is an active component in APE and may be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of inflammatory skin disorders.

Chemokine Signaling in Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Toward Targeted Therapies.

PubMed

Smith, Jeffrey S; Rajagopal, Sudarshan; Atwater, Amber Reck

2018-06-22

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is a common skin disease that results in significant cost and morbidity. Despite its high prevalence, therapeutic options are limited. Allergic contact dermatitis is regulated primarily by T cells within the adaptive immune system, but also by natural killer and innate lymphoid cells within the innate immune system. The chemokine receptor system, consisting of chemokine peptides and chemokine G protein-coupled receptors, is a critical regulator of inflammatory processes such as ACD. Specific chemokine signaling pathways are selectively up-regulated in ACD, most prominently CXCR3 and its endogenous chemokines CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11. Recent research demonstrates that these 3 chemokines are not redundant and indeed activate distinct intracellular signaling profiles such as those activated by heterotrimeric G proteins and β-arrestin adapter proteins. Such differential signaling provides an attractive therapeutic target for novel ACD therapies and other inflammatory diseases.

Platelet-Derived CCL5 Regulates CXC Chemokine Formation and Neutrophil Recruitment in Acute Experimental Colitis.

PubMed

Yu, Changhui; Zhang, Songen; Wang, Yongzhi; Zhang, Su; Luo, Lingtao; Thorlacius, Henrik

2016-02-01

Accumulating data suggest that platelets not only regulate thrombosis and haemostasis but also inflammatory processes. Platelets contain numerous potent pro-inflammatory compounds, including the chemokines CCL5 and CXCL4, although their role in acute colitis remains elusive. The aim of this study is to examine the role of platelets and platelet-derived chemokines in acute colitis. Acute colitis is induced in female Balb/c mice by administration of 5% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) for 5 days. Animals receive a platelet-depleting, anti-CCL5, anti-CXCL4, or a control antibody prior to DSS challenge. Colonic tissue is collected for quantification of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, CXCL5, CXCL2, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and CCL5 levels as well as morphological analyses. Platelet depletion reduce tissue damage and clinical disease activity index in DSS-exposed animals. Platelet depletion not only reduces levels of CXCL2 and CXCL5 but also levels of CCL5 in the inflamed colon. Immunoneutralization of CCL5 but not CXCL4 reduces tissue damage, CXC chemokine expression, and neutrophil recruitment in DSS-treated animals. These findings show that platelets play a key role in acute colitis by regulating CXC chemokine generation, neutrophil infiltration, and tissue damage in the colon. Moreover, our results suggest that platelet-derived CCL5 is an important link between platelet activation and neutrophil recruitment in acute colitis. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Reduced locomotor activity and exploratory behavior in CC chemokine receptor 4 deficient mice.

PubMed

Ambrée, Oliver; Klassen, Irene; Förster, Irmgard; Arolt, Volker; Scheu, Stefanie; Alferink, Judith

2016-11-01

Chemokines and their receptors are key regulators of immune cell trafficking and activation. Recent findings suggest that they may also play pathophysiological roles in psychiatric diseases like depression and anxiety disorders. The CC chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4) and its two ligands, CCL17 and CCL22, are functionally involved in neuroinflammation as well as anti-infectious and autoimmune responses. However, their influence on behavior remains unknown. Here we characterized the functional role of the CCR4-CCL17 chemokine-receptor axis in the modulation of anxiety-related behavior, locomotor activity, and object exploration and recognition. Additionally, we investigated social exploration of CCR4 and CCL17 knockout mice and wild type (WT) controls. CCR4 knockout (CCR4(-/-)) mice exhibited fewer anxiety-related behaviors in the elevated plus-maze, diminished locomotor activity, exploratory behavior, and social exploration, while their recognition memory was not affected. In contrast, CCL17 deficient mice did not show an altered behavior compared to WT mice regarding locomotor activity, anxiety-related behavior, social exploration, and object recognition memory. In the dark-light and object recognition tests, CCL17(-/-) mice even covered longer distances than WT mice. These data demonstrate a mechanistic or developmental role of CCR4 in the regulation of locomotor and exploratory behaviors, whereas the ligand CCL17 appears not to be involved in the behaviors measured here. Thus, either CCL17 and the alternative ligand CCL22 may be redundant, or CCL22 is the main activator of CCR4 in these processes. Taken together, these findings contribute to the growing evidence regarding the involvement of chemokines and their receptors in the regulation of behavior. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of operational models of receptor activation including constitutive receptor activity and their use to determine the efficacy of the chemokine CCL17 at the CC chemokine receptor CCR4

PubMed Central

Slack, RJ; Hall, DA

2012-01-01

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The operational model provides a key conceptual framework for the analysis of pharmacological data. However, this model does not include constitutive receptor activity, a frequent phenomenon in modern pharmacology, particularly in recombinant systems. Here, we developed extensions of the operational model which include constitutive activity and applied them to effects of agonists at the chemokine receptor CCR4. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The effects of agonists of CCR4 on [35S]GTPγS binding to recombinant cell membranes and on the filamentous (F-) actin content of human CD4+ CCR4+ T cells were determined. The basal [35S]GTPγS binding was changed by varying the GDP concentration whilst the basal F-actin contents of the higher expressing T cell populations were elevated, suggesting constitutive activity of CCR4. Both sets of data were analysed using the mathematical models. RESULTS The affinity of CCL17 (also known as TARC) derived from analysis of the T cell data (pKa= 9.61 ± 0.17) was consistent with radioligand binding experiments (9.50 ± 0.11) while that from the [35S]GTPγS binding experiments was lower (8.27 ± 0.09). Its intrinsic efficacy differed between the two systems (110 in T cells vs. 11). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The presence of constitutive receptor activity allows the absolute intrinsic efficacy of agonists to be determined without a contribution from the signal transduction system. Intrinsic efficacy estimated in this way is consistent with Furchgott's definition of this property. CCL17 may have a higher intrinsic efficacy at CCR4 in human T cells than that expressed recombinantly in CHO cells. PMID:22335621

Retention of CXCR4 in the endoplasmic reticulum blocks dissemination of a T cell hybridoma

PubMed Central

Zeelenberg, Ingrid S.; Stalle, Lisette Ruuls-Van; Roos, Ed

2001-01-01

The dissemination of T cell hybridomas to multiple nonhematopoietic tissues is blocked by pertussis toxin, suggesting the involvement of a chemokine. To study whether this chemokine is SDF-1, we employed a strategy proposed previously for gene therapy of AIDS, whereby the SDF-1 receptor CXCR4 (also a coreceptor for HIV) is retained in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and fails to reach the cell surface. We transfected SDF-1, carrying an ER retention sequence, into a T cell hybridoma. This altered chemokine is retained in the ER, where it binds CXCR4 and prevents the latter protein from reaching the surface. These cells failed to migrate toward SDF-1 or to invade fibroblast monolayers, although they could still migrate toward thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC) and invade TARC-treated monolayers. Furthermore, the ability of the transfected cells to disseminate to multiple organs upon intravenous injection into mice was abolished. This dissemination reflects the in vivo migration patterns of activated and memory T cells into nonhematopoietic tissues, which is thus likely to depend on CXCR4. Attempts to block CXCR4 function as a therapy for AIDS may affect this migration with consequences for T cell function. Our results also suggest a decisive role for CXCR4 in the dissemination of hematopoietic malignancies expressing this receptor. PMID:11457880

Retention of CXCR4 in the endoplasmic reticulum blocks dissemination of a T cell hybridoma.

PubMed

Zeelenberg, I S; Ruuls-Van Stalle, L; Roos, E

2001-07-01

The dissemination of T cell hybridomas to multiple nonhematopoietic tissues is blocked by pertussis toxin, suggesting the involvement of a chemokine. To study whether this chemokine is SDF-1, we employed a strategy proposed previously for gene therapy of AIDS, whereby the SDF-1 receptor CXCR4 (also a coreceptor for HIV) is retained in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and fails to reach the cell surface. We transfected SDF-1, carrying an ER retention sequence, into a T cell hybridoma. This altered chemokine is retained in the ER, where it binds CXCR4 and prevents the latter protein from reaching the surface. These cells failed to migrate toward SDF-1 or to invade fibroblast monolayers, although they could still migrate toward thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC) and invade TARC-treated monolayers. Furthermore, the ability of the transfected cells to disseminate to multiple organs upon intravenous injection into mice was abolished. This dissemination reflects the in vivo migration patterns of activated and memory T cells into nonhematopoietic tissues, which is thus likely to depend on CXCR4. Attempts to block CXCR4 function as a therapy for AIDS may affect this migration with consequences for T cell function. Our results also suggest a decisive role for CXCR4 in the dissemination of hematopoietic malignancies expressing this receptor.

Differential chemokine, chemokine receptor and cytokine expression in Epstein-Barr virus-associated lymphoproliferative diseases.

PubMed

Ohshima, Koichi; Karube, Kennosuke; Hamasaki, Makoto; Tutiya, Takeshi; Yamaguchi, Takahiro; Suefuji, Hiroaki; Suzuki, Keiko; Suzumiya, Junji; Ohga, Shouichi; Kikuchi, Masahiro

2003-08-01

T cell immunity plays an important role in the clinicopathology of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated diseases. Acute EBV-induced infectious mononucleosis (IM) is a common self-limiting disease, however, other EBV-associated diseases, including chronic active EBV infection (CAEBV), NK cell lymphoma (NKL), and Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL), exhibit distinct clinical features. Chemokines are members of a family of small-secreted proteins. The relationships between chemokines and the chemokine receptor (R) are thought to be important for selectivity of local immunity. Some chemokines, chemokine R and cytokines closely associate with the T cell subtypes, Th1 and Th2 T cells and cytotoxic cells. To clarify the role of T cell immunity in EBV-associated diseases, we conducted gene expression profiling, using chemokine, chemokine R and cytokine DNA chips. Compared to EBV negative non-specific lymphadenitis, CAEBV and NKL exhibited diffuse down- and up-regulation, respectively, of these gene profiles. IM had a predominantly Th1-type profile, whereas HL had a mixed Th1/Th2-type profile. Reduction of the Th1-type cytokine interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) in CAEBV was confirmed by Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, whereas IFN-gamma expression was markedly enhanced in NKL, and moderately enhanced in IM. Compared to IM, CAEBV showed slight elevation of "regulated upon activation, normal T expressed and secreted" (RANTES), but almost all other genes assayed were down-regulated. NKL exhibited elevated expression of numerous genes, particularly IFN-gamma-inducible-10 (IP-10) and monokine induced by IFN-gamma (MIG). HL showed variable elevated and reduced expression of various genes, with increased expression of IL-13 receptor and MIG. Our study demonstrated the enormous potential of gene expression profiling for clarifying the pathogenesis of EBV-associated diseases.

Critical roles of chemokine receptor CCR5 in regulating glioblastoma proliferation and invasion.

PubMed

Zhao, Lanfu; Wang, Yuan; Xue, Yafei; Lv, Wenhai; Zhang, Yufu; He, Shiming

2015-11-01

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most prevalent malignant primary brain tumor in adults and exhibits a spectrum of aberrantly aggressive phenotype. Tumor cell proliferation and invasion are critically regulated by chemokines and their receptors. Recent studies have shown that the chemokine CCL5 and its receptor CCR5 play important roles in tumor invasion and metastasis. Nonetheless, the roles of the CCR5 in GBM still remain unclear. The present study provides the evidence that the chemokine receptor CCR5 is highly expressed and associated with poor prognosis in human GBM. Mechanistically, CCL5-CCR5 mediates activation of Akt, and subsequently induces proliferation and invasive responses in U87 and U251 cells. Moreover, down-regulation of CCR5 significantly inhibited the growth of glioma in U87 tumor xenograft mouse model. Finally, high CCR5 expression in GBM is correlated with increased p-Akt expression in patient samples. Together, these findings suggest that the CCR5 is a critical molecular event associated with gliomagenesis. © The Author 2015. Published by ABBS Editorial Office in association with Oxford University Press on behalf of the Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Development of operational models of receptor activation including constitutive receptor activity and their use to determine the efficacy of the chemokine CCL17 at the CC chemokine receptor CCR4.

PubMed

Slack, R J; Hall, D A

2012-07-01

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The operational model provides a key conceptual framework for the analysis of pharmacological data. However, this model does not include constitutive receptor activity, a frequent phenomenon in modern pharmacology, particularly in recombinant systems. Here, we developed extensions of the operational model which include constitutive activity and applied them to effects of agonists at the chemokine receptor CCR4. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The effects of agonists of CCR4 on [(35) S]GTPγS binding to recombinant cell membranes and on the filamentous (F-) actin content of human CD4(+) CCR4(+) T cells were determined. The basal [(35) S]GTPγS binding was changed by varying the GDP concentration whilst the basal F-actin contents of the higher expressing T cell populations were elevated, suggesting constitutive activity of CCR4. Both sets of data were analysed using the mathematical models. RESULTS The affinity of CCL17 (also known as TARC) derived from analysis of the T cell data (pK(a) = 9.61 ± 0.17) was consistent with radioligand binding experiments (9.50 ± 0.11) while that from the [(35) S]GTPγS binding experiments was lower (8.27 ± 0.09). Its intrinsic efficacy differed between the two systems (110 in T cells vs. 11). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The presence of constitutive receptor activity allows the absolute intrinsic efficacy of agonists to be determined without a contribution from the signal transduction system. Intrinsic efficacy estimated in this way is consistent with Furchgott's definition of this property. CCL17 may have a higher intrinsic efficacy at CCR4 in human T cells than that expressed recombinantly in CHO cells. © 2012 GSK Services Unlimited. British Journal of Pharmacology © 2012 The British Pharmacological Society.

E-cadherin Is Critical for Collective Sheet Migration and Is Regulated by the Chemokine CXCL12 Protein During Restitution*

PubMed Central

Hwang, Soonyean; Zimmerman, Noah P.; Agle, Kimberle A.; Turner, Jerrold R.; Kumar, Suresh N.; Dwinell, Michael B.

2012-01-01

Chemokines and other immune mediators enhance epithelial barrier repair. The intestinal barrier is established by highly regulated cell-cell contacts between epithelial cells. The goal of these studies was to define the role for the chemokine CXCL12 in regulating E-cadherin during collective sheet migration during epithelial restitution. Mechanisms regulating E-cadherin were investigated using Caco2BBE and IEC-6 model epithelia. Genetic knockdown confirmed a critical role for E-cadherin in in vitro restitution and in vivo wound repair. During restitution, both CXCL12 and TGF-β1 tightened the monolayer by decreasing the paracellular space between migrating epithelial cells. However, CXCL12 differed from TGF-β1 by stimulating the significant increase in E-cadherin membrane localization during restitution. Chemokine-stimulated relocalization of E-cadherin was paralleled by an increase in barrier integrity of polarized epithelium during restitution. CXCL12 activation of its cognate receptor CXCR4 stimulated E-cadherin localization and monolayer tightening through Rho-associated protein kinase activation and F-actin reorganization. These data demonstrate a key role for E-cadherin in intestinal epithelial restitution. PMID:22549778

Atorvastatin therapy reduces interferon-regulated chemokine CXCL9 plasma levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

PubMed

Ferreira, G A; Teixeira, A L; Sato, E I

2010-07-01

A recent study showed transcriptional levels of interferon-inducible chemokines in peripheral blood cells were associated with disease activity and organ damage in systemic lupus erythematosus, and may be useful in monitoring disease activity and prognosis. Our objective was to evaluate the capacity of atorvastatin to reduce plasma levels of interferon-regulated chemokines (CCL2, CCL3 and CXCL9) and to study the correlation between these chemokines and disease activity in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Eighty-eight female patients with systemic lupus erythematosus were divided into two groups: 64 receiving 20 mg/day of atorvastatin (intervention group) and 24 without atorvastatin (control group). All patients were followed for 8 weeks. At baseline and after 8 weeks laboratory tests were performed for all patients. Plasma levels of chemokines were measured by ELISA using commercial kits (DuoSet, R&D Systems, Minneapolis, USA). In a univariate analysis we found correlation between CCL2, CCL3 and CXCL9 plasma levels and SLEDAI score. In the intervention group we observed a significant decrease in CXCL9 plasma levels comparing baseline and levels at the end of the study (p = 0.04); however, no differences were observed regarding CCL2 or CCL3 plasma levels in this study. No significant difference was observed in the plasma levels of these chemokines in the control group. We conclude that treatment with atorvastatin was associated with a significant decrease in the plasma levels of CXCL9 in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. As the plasma levels of CXCL9 correlated with the SLEDAI score, we ask whether reducing levels of this chemokine could help to control systemic lupus erythematosus activity.

Regulation of MMP-3 expression and secretion by the chemokine eotaxin-1 in human chondrocytes

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by the degradation of articular cartilage, marked by the breakdown of matrix proteins. Studies demonstrated the involvement of chemokines in this process, and some may potentially serve as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets; however, the underlying signal transductions are not well understood. Methods We investigated the effects of the CC chemokine eotaxin-1 (CCL11) on the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression and secretion in the human chondrocyte cell line SW1353 and primary chondrocytes. Results Eotaxin-1 significantly induced MMP-3 mRNA expression in a dose-dependent manner. Inhibitors of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 kinase were able to repress eotaxin-1-induced MMP-3 expression. On the contrary, Rp-adenosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate (Rp-cAMPs), a competitive cAMP antagonist for cAMP receptors, and H-89, a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor, markedly enhanced eotaxin-1-induced MMP-3 expression. These results suggest that MMP-3 expression is specifically mediated by the G protein-coupled eotaxin-1 receptor activities. Interestingly, little amount of MMP-3 protein was detected in the cell lysates of eotaxin-1-treated SW1353 cells, and most of MMP-3 protein was in the culture media. Furthermore we found that the eotaxin-1-dependent MMP-3 protein secretion was regulated by phospholipase C (PLC)-protein kinase C (PKC) cascade and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathways. These data indicate a specific regulation of MMP-3 secretion also by eotaxin-1 receptor activities. Conclusions Eotaxin-1 not only induces MMP-3 gene expression but also promotes MMP-3 protein secretion through G protein-coupled eotaxin-1 receptor activities. Chemokines, such as eotaxin-1, could be a potential candidate in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis. PMID:22114952

Regulation of MMP-3 expression and secretion by the chemokine eotaxin-1 in human chondrocytes.

PubMed

Chao, Pin-Zhir; Hsieh, Ming-Shium; Cheng, Chao-Wen; Lin, Yung-Feng; Chen, Chien-Ho

2011-11-25

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by the degradation of articular cartilage, marked by the breakdown of matrix proteins. Studies demonstrated the involvement of chemokines in this process, and some may potentially serve as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets; however, the underlying signal transductions are not well understood. We investigated the effects of the CC chemokine eotaxin-1 (CCL11) on the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression and secretion in the human chondrocyte cell line SW1353 and primary chondrocytes. Eotaxin-1 significantly induced MMP-3 mRNA expression in a dose-dependent manner. Inhibitors of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 kinase were able to repress eotaxin-1-induced MMP-3 expression. On the contrary, Rp-adenosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate (Rp-cAMPs), a competitive cAMP antagonist for cAMP receptors, and H-89, a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor, markedly enhanced eotaxin-1-induced MMP-3 expression. These results suggest that MMP-3 expression is specifically mediated by the G protein-coupled eotaxin-1 receptor activities. Interestingly, little amount of MMP-3 protein was detected in the cell lysates of eotaxin-1-treated SW1353 cells, and most of MMP-3 protein was in the culture media. Furthermore we found that the eotaxin-1-dependent MMP-3 protein secretion was regulated by phospholipase C (PLC)-protein kinase C (PKC) cascade and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathways. These data indicate a specific regulation of MMP-3 secretion also by eotaxin-1 receptor activities. Eotaxin-1 not only induces MMP-3 gene expression but also promotes MMP-3 protein secretion through G protein-coupled eotaxin-1 receptor activities. Chemokines, such as eotaxin-1, could be a potential candidate in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis.

CREB- and NF-κB-Regulated CXC Chemokine Gene Expression in Lung Carcinogenesis

PubMed Central

Sun, Hongxia; Chung, Wen-Cheng; Ryu, Seung-Hee; Ju, Zhenlin; Tran, Hai T.; Kim, Edward; Kurie, Jonathan M.; Koo, Ja Seok

2009-01-01

The recognition of the importance of angiogenesis in tumor progression has led to the development of antiangiogenesis as a new strategy for cancer treatment and prevention. By modulating tumor microenvironment and inducing angiogenesis, the proinflammatory cytokine interleukine (IL)-1 β has been reported to promote tumor development. However, the factors mediating IL-1β-induced angiogenesis in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and the regulation of these angiogenic factors by IL-1β are less clear. Here, we report that IL-1β upregulated an array of proangiogenic CXC chemokine genes in NSCLC cell line A549 and in normal human tracheobronchial epithelium (NHTBE) cells, as determined by microarray analysis. Further analysis revealed that IL-1β induced much higher protein levels of CXC chemokines in NSCLC cells than in NHTBE cells. Conditioned medium from IL-1β treated A549 cells markedly increased endothelial cell migration, which was suppressed by neutralizing antibodies against CXCL5 and CXCR2. We also found that IL-1β-induced CXC chemokine gene overexpression in NSCLC cells was abrogated with the knockdown of CREB or NF-κB. Moreover, the expression of the CXC chemokine genes as well as CREB and NF-κB activities were greatly increased in tumorigenic NSCLC cell line compared with normal, premalignant immortalized or non-tumorigenic cell lines. A disruptor of the interaction between CREB-binding protein (CBP) and transcription factors such as CREB and NF-κB, 2-naphthol-AS-E-phosphate (KG-501), inhibited IL-1β-induced CXC chemokine gene expression and angiogenic activity in NSCLC. We propose that targeting CREB or NF-κB using small molecule inhibitors, such as KG-501, holds promise as a preventive and/or therapeutic approach for NSCLC. PMID:19138976

The CC chemokine receptor 5 regulates olfactory and social recognition in mice.

PubMed

Kalkonde, Y V; Shelton, R; Villarreal, M; Sigala, J; Mishra, P K; Ahuja, S S; Barea-Rodriguez, E; Moretti, P; Ahuja, S K

2011-12-01

Chemokines are chemotactic cytokines that regulate cell migration and are thought to play an important role in a broad range of inflammatory diseases. The availability of chemokine receptor blockers makes them an important therapeutic target. In vitro, chemokines are shown to modulate neurotransmission. However, it is not very clear if chemokines play a role in behavior and cognition. Here we evaluated the role of CC chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) in various behavioral tasks in mice using Wt (Ccr5⁺/⁺) and Ccr5-null (Ccr5⁻/⁻)mice. Ccr5⁻/⁻ mice showed enhanced social recognition. Administration of CC chemokine ligand 3 (CCL3), one of the CCR5-ligands, impaired social recognition. Since the social recognition task is dependent on the sense of olfaction, we tested olfactory recognition for social and non-social scents in these mice. Ccr5⁻/⁻ mice had enhanced olfactory recognition for both these scents indicating that enhanced performance in social recognition task could be due to enhanced olfactory recognition in these mice. Spatial memory and aversive memory were comparable in Wt and Ccr5⁻/⁻ mice. Collectively, these results suggest that chemokines/chemokine receptors might play an important role in olfactory recognition tasks in mice and to our knowledge represents the first direct demonstration of an in vivo role of CCR5 in modulating social behavior in mice. These studies are important as CCR5 blockers are undergoing clinical trials and can potentially modulate behavior. Copyright © 2011 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of mitogen-activated protein kinases on chemokine synthesis induced by substance P in mouse pancreatic acinar cells

PubMed Central

Ramnath, Raina Devi; Sun, Jia; Adhikari, Sharmila; Bhatia, Madhav

2007-01-01

Abstract Substance P, acting via its neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1 R), plays an important role in mediating a variety of inflammatory processes. Its interaction with chemokines is known to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis. In pancreatic acinar cells, substance P stimulates the release of NFκB-driven chemokines. However, the signal transduction pathways by which substance P-NK1 R interaction induces chemokine production are still unclear. To that end, we went on to examine the participation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in substance P-induced synthesis of pro-inflammatory chemokines, monocyte chemoanractant protein-1 (MCP-I), macrophage inflammatory protein-lα (MIP-lα) and macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2), in pancreatic acini. In this study, we observed a time-dependent activation of ERK1/2, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), NFκB and activator protein-1 (AP-1) when pancreatic acini were stimulated with substance P. Moreover, substance P-induced ERK 1/2, JNK, NFκB and AP-1 activation as well as chemokine synthesis were blocked by pre-treatment with either extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase kinase 1 (MEK1) inhibitor or JNK inhibitor. In addition, substance P-induced activation of ERK 112, JNK, NFκB and AP-1-driven chemokine production were attenuated by CP96345, a selective NK1 R antagonist, in pancreatic acinar cells. Taken together, these results suggest that substance P-NK1 R induced chemokine production depends on the activation of MAPKs-mediated NFκB and AP-1 signalling pathways in mouse pancreatic acini. PMID:18205703

Therapeutic activities of intravenous immunoglobulins in multiple sclerosis involve modulation of chemokine expression.

PubMed

Pigard, Nadine; Elovaara, Irina; Kuusisto, Hanna; Paalavuo, Raija; Dastidar, Prasun; Zimmermann, Klaus; Schwarz, Hans-Peter; Reipert, Birgit

2009-04-30

The objective of this study was to identify genes that are differentially expressed in peripheral T cells of patients with MS exacerbation receiving treatment with IVIG. Using microarray analysis, we identified 360 genes that were at least two-fold up- or down-regulated. The expression of four representative genes (PTGER4, CXCL5, IL11 and CASP2) was confirmed by quantitative PCR. Four of the differentially expressed genes encode chemokines (CXCL3, CXCL5, CCL13 and XCL2) that are involved in directing leukocyte migration. We suggest that the modulation of chemokine expression in peripheral T cells contributes to the beneficial activity of IVIG in patients with MS exacerbation.

Defective chemokine signal integration in leukocytes lacking activator of G protein signaling 3 (AGS3).

PubMed

Branham-O'Connor, Melissa; Robichaux, William G; Zhang, Xian-Kui; Cho, Hyeseon; Kehrl, John H; Lanier, Stephen M; Blumer, Joe B

2014-04-11

Activator of G-protein signaling 3 (AGS3, gene name G-protein signaling modulator-1, Gpsm1), an accessory protein for G-protein signaling, has functional roles in the kidney and CNS. Here we show that AGS3 is expressed in spleen, thymus, and bone marrow-derived dendritic cells, and is up-regulated upon leukocyte activation. We explored the role of AGS3 in immune cell function by characterizing chemokine receptor signaling in leukocytes from mice lacking AGS3. No obvious differences in lymphocyte subsets were observed. Interestingly, however, AGS3-null B and T lymphocytes and bone marrow-derived dendritic cells exhibited significant chemotactic defects as well as reductions in chemokine-stimulated calcium mobilization and altered ERK and Akt activation. These studies indicate a role for AGS3 in the regulation of G-protein signaling in the immune system, providing unexpected venues for the potential development of therapeutic agents that modulate immune function by targeting these regulatory mechanisms.

Positive and negative regulation by SLP-76/ADAP and Pyk2 of chemokine-stimulated T-lymphocyte adhesion mediated by integrin α4β1

PubMed Central

Dios-Esponera, Ana; Isern de Val, Soledad; Sevilla-Movilla, Silvia; García-Verdugo, Rosa; García-Bernal, David; Arellano-Sánchez, Nohemí; Cabañas, Carlos; Teixidó, Joaquin

2015-01-01

Stimulation by chemokines of integrin α4β1–dependent T-lymphocyte adhesion is a crucial step for lymphocyte trafficking. The adaptor Vav1 is required for chemokine-activated T-cell adhesion mediated by α4β1. Conceivably, proteins associating with Vav1 could potentially modulate this adhesion. Correlating with activation by the chemokine CXCL12 of T-lymphocyte attachment to α4β1 ligands, a transient stimulation in the association of Vav1 with SLP-76, Pyk2, and ADAP was observed. Using T-cells depleted for SLP-76, ADAP, or Pyk2, or expressing Pyk2 kinase–inactive forms, we show that SLP-76 and ADAP stimulate chemokine-activated, α4β1-mediated adhesion, whereas Pyk2 opposes T-cell attachment. While CXCL12-promoted generation of high-affinity α4β1 is independent of SLP-76, ADAP, and Pyk2, the strength of α4β1-VCAM-1 interaction and cell spreading on VCAM-1 are targets of regulation by these three proteins. GTPase assays, expression of activated or dominant-negative Rac1, or combined ADAP and Pyk2 silencing indicated that Rac1 activation by CXCL12 is a common mediator response in SLP-76–, ADAP-, and Pyk2-regulated cell adhesion involving α4β1. Our data strongly suggest that chemokine-stimulated associations between Vav1, SLP-76, and ADAP facilitate Rac1 activation and α4β1-mediated adhesion, whereas Pyk2 opposes this adhesion by limiting Rac1 activation. PMID:26202465

Differential activity of pro-angiogenic CXC chemokines

PubMed Central

Moldobaeva, Aigul; Baek, Amy; Eldridge, Lindsey; Wagner, Elizabeth M.

2010-01-01

We showed previously in a mouse model of lung ischemia-induced angiogenesis, enhanced expression of the three ELR+ CXC chemokines (KC, LIX, and MIP-2 ) and that blockade of the ligand receptor CXCR2 limited neovascularization. The present study was undertaken to determine the relative abundance and angiogenic potential of the three CXC chemokines and whether RhoA activation explained the measured differences in potencies. We found that LIX showed the greatest absolute amount in the in vivo model 4 hrs after left pulmonary artery obstruction (LIX>KC>MIP-2; p<0.05). In vitro, LIX induced the greatest degree of arterial endothelial cell chemotaxis and KC was without effect. A significant increase (~40%) in active RhoA was observed with both LIX and MIP-2 compared with vehicle control (p<0.05). On average, LIX induced the greatest amount of tube formation within pleural tissue in culture. Thus, the results of the present study suggest that among the three ELR+ CXC chemokines, LIX predominates in eliciting a pro-angiogenic phenotype. PMID:20144627

Mutational analysis of the extracellular disulphide bridges of the atypical chemokine receptor ACKR3/CXCR7 uncovers multiple binding and activation modes for its chemokine and endogenous non-chemokine agonists.

PubMed

Szpakowska, Martyna; Meyrath, Max; Reynders, Nathan; Counson, Manuel; Hanson, Julien; Steyaert, Jan; Chevigné, Andy

2018-07-01

The atypical chemokine receptor ACKR3/CXCR7 plays crucial roles in numerous physiological processes but also in viral infection and cancer. ACKR3 shows strong propensity for activation and, unlike classical chemokine receptors, can respond to chemokines from both the CXC and CC families as well as to the endogenous peptides BAM22 and adrenomedullin. Moreover, despite belonging to the G protein coupled receptor family, its function appears to be mainly dependent on β-arrestin. ACKR3 has also been shown to continuously cycle between the plasma membrane and the endosomal compartments, suggesting a possible role as a scavenging receptor. So far, the molecular basis accounting for these atypical binding and signalling properties remains elusive. Noteworthy, ACKR3 extracellular domains bear three disulphide bridges. Two of them lie on top of the two main binding subpockets and are conserved among chemokine receptors, and one, specific to ACKR3, forms an intra-N terminus four-residue-loop of so far unknown function. Here, by mutational and functional studies, we examined the impact of the different disulphide bridges for ACKR3 folding, ligand binding and activation. We showed that, in contrast to most classical chemokine receptors, none of the extracellular disulphide bridges was essential for ACKR3 function. However, the disruption of the unique ACKR3 N-terminal loop drastically reduced the binding of CC chemokines whereas it only had a mild impact on CXC chemokine binding. Mutagenesis also uncovered that chemokine and endogenous non-chemokine ligands interact and activate ACKR3 according to distinct binding modes characterized by different transmembrane domain subpocket occupancy and N-terminal loop contribution, with BAM22 mimicking the binding mode of CC chemokine N terminus. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Neuropeptides activate human mast cell degranulation and chemokine production

PubMed Central

Kulka, Marianna; Sheen, Cecilia H; Tancowny, Brian P; Grammer, Leslie C; Schleimer, Robert P

2008-01-01

During neuronal-induced inflammation, mast cells may respond to stimuli such as neuropeptides in an FcεRI-independent manner. In this study, we characterized human mast cell responses to substance P (SP), nerve growth factor (NGF), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) and compared these responses to human mast cell responses to immunoglobulin E (IgE)/anti-IgE and compound 48/80. Primary cultured mast cells, generated from CD34+ progenitors in the presence of stem cell factor and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and human cultured mast cells (LAD2) were stimulated with these and other stimuli (gastrin, concanavalin A, radiocontrast media, and mannitol) and their degranulation and chemokine production was assessed. VIP and SP stimulated primary human mast cells and LAD cells to degranulate; gastrin, concanavalin A, radiocontrast media, mannitol, CGRP and NGF did not activate degranulation. While anti-IgE stimulation did not induce significant production of chemokines, stimulation with VIP, SP or compound 48/80 potently induced production of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, inducible protein-10, monokine induced by interferon-γ (MIG), RANTES (regulated on activation, normal, T-cell expressed, and secreted) and IL-8. VIP, SP and compound 48/80 also activated release of tumour necrosis factor, IL-3 and granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor, but not IL-4, interferon-γ or eotaxin. Human mast cells expressed surface neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1R), NK2R, NK3R and VIP receptor type 2 (VPAC2) but not VPAC1 and activation of human mast cells by IgE/anti-IgE up-regulated expression of VPAC2, NK2R, and NK3R. These studies demonstrate the pattern of receptor expression and activation of mast cell by a host of G-protein coupled receptor ligands and suggest that SP and VIP activate a unique signalling pathway in human mast cells. These results are likely to have direct relevance to neuronally induced inflammatory diseases. PMID

Positive and negative regulation by SLP-76/ADAP and Pyk2 of chemokine-stimulated T-lymphocyte adhesion mediated by integrin α4β1.

PubMed

Dios-Esponera, Ana; Isern de Val, Soledad; Sevilla-Movilla, Silvia; García-Verdugo, Rosa; García-Bernal, David; Arellano-Sánchez, Nohemí; Cabañas, Carlos; Teixidó, Joaquin

2015-09-15

Stimulation by chemokines of integrin α4β1-dependent T-lymphocyte adhesion is a crucial step for lymphocyte trafficking. The adaptor Vav1 is required for chemokine-activated T-cell adhesion mediated by α4β1. Conceivably, proteins associating with Vav1 could potentially modulate this adhesion. Correlating with activation by the chemokine CXCL12 of T-lymphocyte attachment to α4β1 ligands, a transient stimulation in the association of Vav1 with SLP-76, Pyk2, and ADAP was observed. Using T-cells depleted for SLP-76, ADAP, or Pyk2, or expressing Pyk2 kinase-inactive forms, we show that SLP-76 and ADAP stimulate chemokine-activated, α4β1-mediated adhesion, whereas Pyk2 opposes T-cell attachment. While CXCL12-promoted generation of high-affinity α4β1 is independent of SLP-76, ADAP, and Pyk2, the strength of α4β1-VCAM-1 interaction and cell spreading on VCAM-1 are targets of regulation by these three proteins. GTPase assays, expression of activated or dominant-negative Rac1, or combined ADAP and Pyk2 silencing indicated that Rac1 activation by CXCL12 is a common mediator response in SLP-76-, ADAP-, and Pyk2-regulated cell adhesion involving α4β1. Our data strongly suggest that chemokine-stimulated associations between Vav1, SLP-76, and ADAP facilitate Rac1 activation and α4β1-mediated adhesion, whereas Pyk2 opposes this adhesion by limiting Rac1 activation. © 2015 Dios-Esponera, Isern de Val, et al. This article is distributed by The American Society for Cell Biology under license from the author(s). Two months after publication it is available to the public under an Attribution–Noncommercial–Share Alike 3.0 Unported Creative Commons License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0).

Murine lung eosinophil activation and chemokine production in allergic airway inflammation

PubMed Central

Rose, C Edward; Lannigan, Joanne A; Kim, Paul; Lee, James J; Fu, Shu Man; Sung, Sun-sang J

2010-01-01

Eosinophils play important roles in asthma and lung infections. Murine models are widely used for assessing the functional significance and mechanistic basis for eosinophil involvements in these diseases. However, little is known about tissue eosinophils in homeostasis. In addition, little data on eosinophil chemokine production during allergic airway inflammation are available. In this study, the properties and functions of homeostatic and activated eosinophils were compared. Eosinophils from normal tissues expressed costimulation and adhesion molecules B7-1, B7-2 and ICAM-1 for Ag presentation but little major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II, and were found to be poor stimulators of T-cell proliferation. However, these eosinophils expressed high levels of chemokine mRNA including C10, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1α, MIP-1γ, MIP-2, eotaxin and monocyte chemoattractant protein-5 (MCP-5), and produced chemokine proteins. Eosinophil intracellular chemokines decreased rapidly with concomitant surface marker downregulation upon in vitro culturing consistent with piecemeal degranulation. Lung eosinophils from mice with induced allergic airway inflammation exhibited increased chemokines mRNA expression and chemokines protein production and upregulated MHC class II and CD11c expression. They were also found to be the predominant producers of the CCR1 ligands CCL6/C10 and CCL9/MIP-1γ in inflamed lungs. Eosinophil production of C10 and MIP-1γ correlated with the marked influx of CD11bhigh lung dendritic cells during allergic airway inflammation and the high expression of CCR1 on these dendritic cells (DCs). The study provided baseline information on tissue eosinophils, documented the upregulation of activation markers and chemokine production in activated eosinophils, and indicated that eosinophils were a key chemokine-producing cell type in allergic lung inflammation. PMID:20622891

Selectins and chemokines use shared and distinct signals to activate β2 integrins in neutrophils

PubMed Central

Yago, Tadayuki; Zhang, Nan; Zhao, Liang; Abrams, Charles S.

2018-01-01

Rolling neutrophils receive signals while engaging P- and E-selectin and chemokines on inflamed endothelium. Selectin signaling activates β2 integrins to slow rolling velocities. Chemokine signaling activates β2 integrins to cause arrest. Despite extensive study, key aspects of these signaling cascades remain unresolved. Using complementary in vitro and in vivo assays, we found that selectin and chemokine signals in neutrophils triggered Rap1a-dependent and phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate 5-kinase γ (PIP5Kγ90)–dependent pathways that induce integrin-dependent slow rolling and arrest. Interruption of both pathways, but not either pathway alone, blocked talin-1 recruitment to and activation of integrins. An isoform of PIP5Kγ90 lacking the talin-binding domain (PIP5Kγ87) could not activate integrins. Chemokines, but not selectins, used phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase γ (PI3Kγ) in cooperation with Rap1a to mediate integrin-dependent slow rolling (at low chemokine concentrations), as well as arrest (at high chemokine concentrations). High levels of chemokines activated β2 integrins without selectin signals. When chemokines were limiting, they synergized with selectins to activate β2 integrins. PMID:29592875

Selectins and chemokines use shared and distinct signals to activate β2 integrins in neutrophils.

PubMed

Yago, Tadayuki; Zhang, Nan; Zhao, Liang; Abrams, Charles S; McEver, Rodger P

2018-04-10

Rolling neutrophils receive signals while engaging P- and E-selectin and chemokines on inflamed endothelium. Selectin signaling activates β2 integrins to slow rolling velocities. Chemokine signaling activates β2 integrins to cause arrest. Despite extensive study, key aspects of these signaling cascades remain unresolved. Using complementary in vitro and in vivo assays, we found that selectin and chemokine signals in neutrophils triggered Rap1a-dependent and phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate 5-kinase γ (PIP5Kγ90)-dependent pathways that induce integrin-dependent slow rolling and arrest. Interruption of both pathways, but not either pathway alone, blocked talin-1 recruitment to and activation of integrins. An isoform of PIP5Kγ90 lacking the talin-binding domain (PIP5Kγ87) could not activate integrins. Chemokines, but not selectins, used phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase γ (PI3Kγ) in cooperation with Rap1a to mediate integrin-dependent slow rolling (at low chemokine concentrations), as well as arrest (at high chemokine concentrations). High levels of chemokines activated β2 integrins without selectin signals. When chemokines were limiting, they synergized with selectins to activate β2 integrins. © 2018 by The American Society of Hematology.

AhR and Arnt differentially regulate NF-κB signaling and chemokine responses in human bronchial epithelial cells

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) has gradually emerged as a regulator of inflammation in the lung and other tissues. AhR may interact with the p65-subunit of the nuclear factor (NF)-κB transcription factors, but reported outcomes of AhR/NF-κB-interactions are conflicting. Some studies suggest that AhR possess pro-inflammatory activities while others suggest that AhR may be anti-inflammatory. The present study explored the impact of AhR and its binding partner AhR nuclear translocator (Arnt) on p65-activation and two differentially regulated chemokines, CXCL8 (IL-8) and CCL5 (RANTES), in human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B). Results Cells were exposed to CXCL8- and CCL5-inducing chemicals, 1-nitropyrene (1-NP) and 1-aminopyrene (1-AP) respectively, or the synthetic double-stranded RNA analogue, polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C) which induced both chemokines. Only CXCL8, and not CCL5, appeared to be p65-dependent. Yet, constitutively active unligated AhR suppressed both CXCL8 and CCL5, as shown by siRNA knock-down and the AhR antagonist α-naphthoflavone. Moreover, AhR suppressed activation of p65 by TNF-α and Poly I:C as assessed by luciferase-assay and p65-phosphorylation at serine 536, without affecting basal p65-activity. In contrast, Arnt suppressed only CXCL8, but did not prevent the p65-activation directly. However, Arnt suppressed expression of the NF-κB-subunit RelB which is under transcriptional regulation by p65. Furthermore, AhR-ligands alone at high concentrations induced a moderate CXCL8-response, without affecting CCL5, but suppressed both CXCL8 and CCL5-responses by Poly I:C. Conclusion AhR and Arnt may differentially and independently regulate chemokine-responses induced by both inhaled pollutants and pulmonary infections. Constitutively active, unligated AhR suppressed the activation of p65, while Arnt may possibly interfere with the action of activated p65. Moreover, ligand-activated AhR suppressed CXCL8 and CCL5

Phloretin ameliorates chemokines and ICAM-1 expression via blocking of the NF-κB pathway in the TNF-α-induced HaCaT human keratinocytes.

PubMed

Huang, Wen-Chung; Dai, Yi-Wen; Peng, Hui-Ling; Kang, Chiao-Wei; Kuo, Chun-Yu; Liou, Chian-Jiun

2015-07-01

Previous studies found that phloretin had anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. In this study, we investigated whether phloretin could suppress the production of the intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 and chemokines through downregulation of the nuclear transcription factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways in TNF-α-stimulated HaCaT human keratinocytes. HaCaT cells were treated with phloretin and then the cells were stimulated by TNF-α. Phloretin treatment decreased the production of IL-6, IL-8, CCL5, MDC, and TARC. Phloretin decreased ICAM-1 protein and mRNA expression, and also suppressed the adhesion of monocyte THP-1 cells to inflammatory HaCaT cells. Phloretin inhibited NF-κB translocation into the nucleus and also suppressed the phosphorylation of Akt and MAPK signal. In addition, phloretin increased heme oxygenase-1 production in a concentration-dependent manner. These results demonstrated that phloretin has anti-inflammatory effects to inhibit chemokines and ICAM-1 expressions through suppression of the NF-κB and MAPK pathways in human keratinocytes. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of fibroblast growth factor-2 on the expression and regulation of chemokines in human dental pulp cells.

PubMed

Kim, Young-Suk; Min, Kyung-San; Jeong, Dong-Ho; Jang, Jun-Hyeog; Kim, Hae-Won; Kim, Eun-Cheol

2010-11-01

Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) participates in both hematopoiesis and osteogenesis; however, the effects of FGF-2 on chemokines during odontoblastic differentiation have not been reported. This study investigated whether human dental pulp cells (HDPCs) treated with FGF-2 could express chemokines during differentiation into odontoblastic cells and sought to identify its underlying mechanism of action. To analyze differentiation, we measured alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, calcified nodule formation by alizarin red staining, and marker RNA (mRNA) expression by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Expression of chemokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-8, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), macrophage inflammatory protein-1α (MIP-1α), and MIP-3α, were evaluated by RT-PCR. ALP activity, the mineralization, and mRNA expression for odontoblastic markers were enhanced by FGF-2 in HDPCs. FGF-2 also up-regulated the expression of IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, MIP-1α, and MIP-3α mRNAs, which were attenuated by inhibitors of p38, ERK1/2 and p38 MAP kinases, protein kinase C, phosphoinositide-3 kinase, and NF-κB. Taken together, these data suggest that FGF-2 plays a role not only as a differentiation inducing factor in the injury repair processes of pulpal tissue but also as a positive regulator of chemokine expression, which may help in tissue engineering and pulp regeneration using HDPCs. However, the fate of odontoblastic or osteoblastic differentiation, effective local delivery for FGF-2, interaction of chemotatic and odontogenic factors, and other limitations will need to be overcome before a major modality for the treatment of pulp disease. Copyright © 2010 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

PI3K{gamma} activation by CXCL12 regulates tumor cell adhesion and invasion

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Monterrubio, Maria; Mellado, Mario; Carrera, Ana C.

Tumor dissemination is a complex process, in which certain steps resemble those in leukocyte homing. Specific chemokine/chemokine receptor pairs have important roles in both processes. CXCL12/CXCR4 is the most commonly expressed chemokine/chemokine receptor pair in human cancers, in which it regulates cell adhesion, extravasation, metastatic colonization, angiogenesis, and proliferation. All of these processes require activation of signaling pathways that include G proteins, phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K), JAK kinases, Rho GTPases, and focal adhesion-associated proteins. We analyzed these pathways in a human melanoma cell line in response to CXCL12 stimulation, and found that PI3K{gamma} regulates tumor cell adhesion through mechanisms different frommore » those involved in cell invasion. Our data indicate that, following CXCR4 activation after CXCL12 binding, the invasion and adhesion processes are regulated differently by distinct downstream events in these signaling cascades.« less

The effect of wasabi rhizome extract on atopic dermatitis-like symptoms in HR-1 hairless mice.

PubMed

Nagai, Masashi; Okunishi, Isao

2009-04-01

We investigated the effect of wasabi rhizome extract on atopic dermatitis (AD) model mice. The wasabi extract was fed to the HR-1 hairless mice, which develop AD-like symptoms with a special diet (HR-AD diet). The extract was expected to reduce the symptoms induced. Wasabi rhizome-containing HR-AD diet (5% and 10%) reduced the scratching behavior, and the 10% wasabi rhizome HR-AD diet significantly reduced scratching behavior on days 28, 35 and 42. Plasma components (histamine, eotaxin, IgE and thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC)) were decreased in the 10% wasabi rhizome HR-AD diet. In histopathological examinations (toluidine blue (T.B.), major basic protein (MBP), CD4, IL-4, IL-5, eotaxin, TARC and IgE), the wasabi rhizome-containing HR-AD diet (5% and 10%) significantly reduced the number of positive stained cells. These results suggested that the wasabi rhizome extract improved the AD-like symptoms of HR-1 hairless mice.

Clinical and atopic parameters and airway inflammatory markers in childhood asthma: a factor analysis

PubMed Central

Leung, T; Wong, G; Ko, F; Lam, C; Fok, T

2005-01-01

Background: Recent studies have repeatedly shown weak correlations among lung function parameters, atopy, exhaled nitric oxide level (FeNO), and airway inflammatory markers, suggesting that they are non-overlapping characteristics of asthma in adults. A study was undertaken to determine, using factor analysis, whether the above features represent separate dimensions of childhood asthma. Methods: Clinically stable asthmatic patients aged 7–18 years underwent spirometric testing, methacholine bronchial challenge, blood sampling for atopy markers and chemokine levels (macrophage derived chemokine (MDC), thymus and activation regulated chemokine (TARC), and eotaxin), FeNO, and chemokines (MDC and eotaxin) and leukotriene B4 measurements in exhaled breath condensate (EBC). Results: The mean (SD) forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and FeNO of 92 patients were 92.1 (15.9)% predicted and 87.3 (65.7) ppb, respectively. 59% of patients received inhaled corticosteroids. Factor analysis selected four different factors, explaining 55.5% of total variance. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin measure of sampling adequacy was 0.587. Plasma total and specific IgE levels, peripheral blood eosinophil percentage, and FeNO loaded on factor 1; plasma TARC and MDC concentrations on factor 2; MDC, eotaxin and leukotriene B4 concentrations in EBC on factor 3; and plasma eotaxin concentration together with clinical indices including body mass index and disease severity score loaded on factor 4. Post hoc factor analyses revealed similar results when outliers were excluded. Conclusions: The results suggest that atopy related indices and airway inflammation are separate dimensions in the assessment of childhood asthma, and inflammatory markers in peripheral blood and EBC are non-overlapping factors of asthma. PMID:16055623

Impact of genetic variations in C-C chemokine receptors and ligands on infectious diseases.

PubMed

Qidwai, Tabish; Khan, M Y

2016-10-01

Chemokine receptors and ligands are crucial for extensive immune response against infectious diseases such as malaria, leishmaniasis, HIV and tuberculosis and a wide variety of other diseases. Role of chemokines are evidenced in the activation and regulation of immune cell migration which is important for immune response against diseases. Outcome of disease is determined by complex interaction among pathogen, host genetic variability and surrounding milieu. Variation in expression or function of chemokines caused by genetic polymorphisms could be associated with attenuated immune responses. Exploration of chemokine genetic polymorphisms in therapeutic response, gene regulation and disease outcome is important. Infectious agents in human host alter the expression of chemokines via epigenetic alterations and thus contribute to disease pathogenesis. Although some fragmentary data are available on chemokine genetic variations and their contribution in diseases, no unequivocal conclusion has been arrived as yet. We therefore, aim to investigate the association of CCR5-CCL5 and CCR2-CCL2 genetic polymorphisms with different infectious diseases, transcriptional regulation of gene, disease severity and response to therapy. Furthermore, the role of epigenetics in genes related to chemokines and infectious disease are also discussed. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A study of chemokines, chemokine receptors and interleukin-6 in patients with panic disorder, personality disorders and their co-morbidity.

PubMed

Ogłodek, Ewa A; Szota, Anna M; Just, Marek J; Szromek, Adam R; Araszkiewicz, Aleksander

2016-08-01

Stress may induce inflammatory changes in the immune system and activate pro-inflammatory cytokines and their receptors by activating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. 460 hospitalized patients with panic disorders (PD) and/or personality disorders (P) were studied. The study group comprised subjects with PD, avoidant personality disorder (APD), borderline personality disorder (BPD), obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), and concomitant (PD+APD; PD+BPD; PD+OCPD). Each study group consisted of 60 subjects (30 females and 30 males). The control group included 20 females and 20 males without any history of mental disorder. ELISA was used to assess the levels of chemokines: CCL-5/RANTES (regulated on activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted), CXCL-12/SDF-1 (stromal derived factor), their receptors CXCR-5 (C-C chemokine receptor type-5), CXCR-4 (chemokine C-X-C motif receptor-4), and IL-6. Statistically significant differences in the levels of CCL-5 and CCR-5 were revealed between all study groups. The greatest differences were found between the groups with PD+OCPD and PD+APD. Moreover, concomitance of PD with P significantly increased the level of chemokines and their receptors in all study groups versus the subjects with P alone. The results of the study show differences between the groups. To be specific, inflammatory markers were more elevated in the study groups than the controls. Therefore, chemokines and chemokine receptors may be used as inflammatory markers in patients with PD co-existent with P to indicate disease severity. PD was found to be a factor in maintaining inflammatory activity in the immune system in patients with P. Copyright © 2016 Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier Urban & Partner Sp. z o.o. All rights reserved.

Airway epithelial cell PPARγ modulates cigarette smoke-induced chemokine expression and emphysema susceptibility in mice.

PubMed

Solleti, Siva Kumar; Simon, Dawn M; Srisuma, Sorachai; Arikan, Meltem C; Bhattacharya, Soumyaroop; Rangasamy, Tirumalai; Bijli, Kaiser M; Rahman, Arshad; Crossno, Joseph T; Shapiro, Steven D; Mariani, Thomas J

2015-08-01

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a highly prevalent, chronic inflammatory lung disease with limited existing therapeutic options. While modulation of peroxisome proliferator-activating receptor (PPAR)-γ activity can modify inflammatory responses in several models of lung injury, the relevance of the PPARG pathway in COPD pathogenesis has not been previously explored. Mice lacking Pparg specifically in airway epithelial cells displayed increased susceptibility to chronic cigarette smoke (CS)-induced emphysema, with excessive macrophage accumulation associated with increased expression of chemokines, Ccl5, Cxcl10, and Cxcl15. Conversely, treatment of mice with a pharmacological PPARγ activator attenuated Cxcl10 and Cxcl15 expression and macrophage accumulation in response to CS. In vitro, CS increased lung epithelial cell chemokine expression in a PPARγ activation-dependent fashion. The ability of PPARγ to regulate CS-induced chemokine expression in vitro was not specifically associated with peroxisome proliferator response element (PPRE)-mediated transactivation activity but was correlated with PPARγ-mediated transrepression of NF-κB activity. Pharmacological or genetic activation of PPARγ activity abrogated CS-dependent induction of NF-κB activity. Regulation of NF-κB activity involved direct PPARγ-NF-κB interaction and PPARγ-mediated effects on IKK activation, IκBα degradation, and nuclear translocation of p65. Our data indicate that PPARG represents a disease-relevant pathophysiological and pharmacological target in COPD. Its activation state likely contributes to NF-κB-dependent, CS-induced chemokine-mediated regulation of inflammatory cell accumulation.

Chemokine Involvement in Fetal and Adult Wound Healing

PubMed Central

Balaji, Swathi; Watson, Carey L.; Ranjan, Rajeev; King, Alice; Bollyky, Paul L.; Keswani, Sundeep G.

2015-01-01

Significance: Fetal wounds heal with a regenerative phenotype that is indistinguishable from surrounding skin with restored skin integrity. Compared to this benchmark, all postnatal wound healing is impaired and characterized by scar formation. The biologic basis of the fetal regenerative phenotype can serve as a roadmap to recapitulating regenerative repair in adult wounds. Reduced leukocyte infiltration, likely mediated, in part, through changes in the chemokine milieu, is a fundamental feature of fetal wound healing. Recent Advances: The contributions of chemokines to wound healing are a topic of active investigation. Recent discoveries have opened the possibility of targeting chemokines therapeutically to treat disease processes and improve healing capability, including the possibility of achieving a scarless phenotype in postnatal wounds. Critical Issues: Successful wound healing is a complex process, in which there is a significant interplay between multiple cell types, signaling molecules, growth factors, and extracellular matrix. Chemokines play a crucial role in this interplay and have been shown to have different effects in various stages of the healing process. Understanding how these chemokines are locally produced and regulated during wound healing and how the chemokine milieu differs in fetal versus postnatal wounds may help us identify ways in which we can target chemokine pathways. Future Directions: Further studies on the role of chemokines and their role in the healing process will greatly advance the potential for using these molecules as therapeutic targets. PMID:26543680

Processing of natural and recombinant CXCR3-targeting chemokines and implications for biological activity.

PubMed

Hensbergen, P J; van der Raaij-Helmer, E M; Dijkman, R; van der Schors, R C; Werner-Felmayer, G; Boorsma, D M; Scheper, R J; Willemze, R; Tensen, C P

2001-09-01

Chemokines comprise a class of peptides with chemotactic activity towards leukocytes. The potency of different chemokines for the same receptor often varies as a result of differences in primary structure. In addition, post-translational modifications have been shown to affect the effectiveness of chemokines. Although in several studies, natural CXCR3-targeting chemokines have been isolated, detailed information about the proteins and their possible modifications is lacking. Using a combination of liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry we studied the protein profile of CXCR3-targeting chemokines expressed by interferon-gamma-stimulated human keratinocytes. The biological implications of one of the identified modifications was studied in more detail using calcium mobilization and chemotaxis assays. We found that the primary structure of human CXCL10 is different from the generally accepted sequence. In addition we identified a C-terminally truncated CXCL10, lacking the last four amino acids. Native CXCL11 was primarily found in its intact mature form but we also found a mass corresponding to an N-terminally truncated human CXCL11, lacking the first two amino acids FP, indicating that this chemokine is a substrate for dipeptidylpeptidase IV. Interestingly, this same truncation was found when we expressed human CXCL11 in Drosophila S2 cells. The biological activity of this truncated form of CXCL11 was greatly reduced, both in calcium mobilization (using CXCR3 expressing CHO cells) as well as its chemotactic activity for CXCR3-expressing T-cells. It is concluded that detailed information on chemokines at the protein level is important to characterize the exact profile of these chemotactic peptides as modifications can severely alter their biological activity.

Interferon-γ regulates chemokine expression and release in the human mast cell line HMC1: role of nitric oxide

PubMed Central

Gilchrist, M; Befus, A D

2008-01-01

Mast cells (MCs) are critical immune effector cells that release cytokines and chemokines involved in both homeostasis and disease. Interferon-γ (IFN-γ) is a pleiotropic cytokine that regulates multiple cellular activities. IFN-γ modulates rodent MC responsiveness via production of nitric oxide (NO), although the effects in human MC populations is unknown. We sought to investigate the effects of IFN-γ on expression of the chemokines interleukin-8 (IL-8) and CCL1 (I-309) in a human mast cell line (HMC1) and to determine the underlying regulatory mechanism. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS), IL-8 and CCL1 expression was determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). NOS protein expression was analysed using western blot. NOS activity was determined using the citrulline assay. IL-8 and CCL1 release was measured by specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). IFN-γ inhibited phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-induced release of IL-8 and CCL1 (by 47 and 38%). Real-time PCR analysis of IFN-γ-treated HMC1 showed a significant (P < 0·05) time-dependent increase in NOS1 and NOS3 mRNA. NOS3 protein was significantly increased at 18 hr, which correlated with a significant (P < 0·05) increase in constitutive NOS (cNOS) activity. IFN-γ-induced inhibition of chemokine expression and release was NO dependent, as treatment with the NOS inhibitor NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) reduced the IFN-γ inhibitory effect on IL-8 and CCL1 mRNA expression. NO donors mimicked the IFN-γ effect. IFN-γ inhibited PMA-induced cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation and DNA-binding activity. Our observations indicate for the first time that IFN-γ enhances endogenous NO formation through NOS3 activity, and that NO regulates the transcription and release of IL-8 and CCL1 in a human MC line. PMID:17662042

Mechanisms Regulating the Secretion of the Promalignancy Chemokine CCL5 by Breast Tumor Cells: CCL5's 40s Loop and Intracellular Glycosaminoglycans12

PubMed Central

Soria, Gali; Lebel-Haziv, Yaeli; Ehrlich, Marcelo; Meshel, Tsipi; Suez, Adva; Avezov, Edward; Rozenberg, Perri; Ben-Baruch, Adit

2012-01-01

The chemokine CCL5 (RANTES) plays active promalignancy roles in breast malignancy. The secretion of CCL5 by breast tumor cells is an important step in its tumor-promoting activities; therefore, inhibition of CCL5 secretion may have antitumorigenic effects. We demonstrate that, in breast tumor cells, CCL5 secretion necessitated the trafficking of CCL5-containing vesicles on microtubules from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the post-Golgi stage, and CCL5 release was regulated by the rigidity of the actin cytoskeleton. Focusing on the 40s loop of CCL5, we found that the 43TRKN46 sequence of CCL5 was indispensable for its inclusion in motile vesicles, and for its secretion. The TRKN-mutated chemokine reached the Golgi, but trafficked along the ER-to-post-Golgi route differently than the wild-type (WT) chemokine. Based on the studies showing that the 40s loop of CCL5 mediates its binding to glycosaminoglycans (GAG), we analyzed the roles of GAG in regulating CCL5 secretion. TRKN-mutated CCL5 had lower propensity for colocalization with GAG in the Golgi compared to the WT chemokine. Secretion of WT CCL5 was significantly reduced in CHO mutant cells deficient in GAG synthesis, and the WT chemokine acquired an ER-like distribution in these cells, similar to that of TRKN-mutated CCL5 in GAG-expressing cells. The release of WT CCL5 was also reduced after inhibition of GAG presence/synthesis by intracellular expression of heparanase, inhibition of GAG sulfation, and sulfate deprivation. The need for a 43TRKN46 motif and for a GAG-mediated process in CCL5 secretion may enable the future design of modalities that prevent CCL5 release by breast tumor cells. PMID:22355269

Structural biology. Structural basis for chemokine recognition and activation of a viral G protein-coupled receptor.

PubMed

Burg, John S; Ingram, Jessica R; Venkatakrishnan, A J; Jude, Kevin M; Dukkipati, Abhiram; Feinberg, Evan N; Angelini, Alessandro; Waghray, Deepa; Dror, Ron O; Ploegh, Hidde L; Garcia, K Christopher

2015-03-06

Chemokines are small proteins that function as immune modulators through activation of chemokine G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Several viruses also encode chemokines and chemokine receptors to subvert the host immune response. How protein ligands activate GPCRs remains unknown. We report the crystal structure at 2.9 angstrom resolution of the human cytomegalovirus GPCR US28 in complex with the chemokine domain of human CX3CL1 (fractalkine). The globular body of CX3CL1 is perched on top of the US28 extracellular vestibule, whereas its amino terminus projects into the central core of US28. The transmembrane helices of US28 adopt an active-state-like conformation. Atomic-level simulations suggest that the agonist-independent activity of US28 may be due to an amino acid network evolved in the viral GPCR to destabilize the receptor's inactive state. Copyright © 2015, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Chemokines and chemokine receptors in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL): from understanding the basics towards therapeutic targeting.

PubMed

Burger, Jan A

2010-12-01

Chemokines and their receptors organize the recruitment and positioning of cells at each stage of the immune response, a system critically dependent upon coordination to get the right cells to the right place at the right time. Chemokine receptors expressed on CLL B cells are thought to function in a similar fashion, regulating the trafficking of the leukemia cells between blood, lymphoid organs, and the bone marrow, and within sub compartments within these tissues, in concert with adhesion molecules and other guidance cues. CLL cells not only respond to chemokines secreted in the microenvironment, the leukemia cells also secrete chemokines in response to external signals, such as B cell receptor engagement. These CLL cell-derived chemokines facilitate interactions between CLL cells, T cells, and other immune cells that shape the CLL microenvironment. CXCR4, the most prominent chemokine receptor in CLL, is now targeted in a first clinical trial, emphasizing that chemokines and their receptors have become a highly dynamic translational research field. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

EBI1/CCR7 is a new member of dendritic cell chemokine receptor that is up-regulated upon maturation.

PubMed

Yanagihara, S; Komura, E; Nagafune, J; Watarai, H; Yamaguchi, Y

1998-09-15

Dendritic cells (DC) that are stimulated with inflammatory mediators can maturate and migrate from nonlymphoid tissues to lymphoid organs to initiate T cell-mediated immune responses. This migratory step is closely related to the maturation of the DC. In an attempt to identify chemokine receptors that might influence migration and are selectively expressed in mature DC, we have discovered that the chemokine receptor, EBI1/CCR7, is strikingly up-regulated upon maturation in three distinct culture systems: 1) mouse bone marrow-derived DC, 2) mouse epidermal Langerhans cells, and 3) human monocyte-derived DC. The EBI1/CCR7 expressed in mature DC is functional because ELC/MIP-3beta, recently identified as a ligand of EBI1/CCR7, induces a rise in intracellular free calcium concentrations and directional migration of human monocyte-derived mature DC (HLA-DRhigh, CD1a(low), CD14-, CD25+, CD83+, and CD86high) in a dose-dependent manner, but not of immature DC (HLA-DRlow, CD1a(high), CD14-, CD25-, CD83-, and CD86-). In contrast, macrophage inflammatory protein-1alpha (MIP-1alpha), monocyte chemotactic protein-3 (MCP-3), and RANTES are active on immature DC but not on mature DC. Thus, it seems likely that MIP-1alpha, MCP-3, and RANTES can mediate the migration of immature DC located in peripheral sites, whereas ELC/MIP-3beta can direct the migration of Ag-carrying DC from peripheral inflammatory sites, where DC are stimulated to up-regulate the expression of EBI1/CCR7, to lymphoid organs. It is postulated that different chemokines and chemokine receptors are involved in DC migration in vivo, depending on the maturation state of DC.

CC-chemokine class inhibition attenuates pathological angiogenesis while preserving physiological angiogenesis.

PubMed

Ridiandries, Anisyah; Tan, Joanne T M; Ravindran, Dhanya; Williams, Helen; Medbury, Heather J; Lindsay, Laura; Hawkins, Clare; Prosser, Hamish C G; Bursill, Christina A

2017-03-01

Increasing evidence shows that CC-chemokines promote inflammatory-driven angiogenesis, with little to no effect on hypoxia-mediated angiogenesis. Inhibition of the CC-chemokine class may therefore affect angiogenesis differently depending on the pathophysiological context. We compared the effect of CC-chemokine inhibition in inflammatory and physiological conditions. In vitro , the broad-spectrum CC-chemokine inhibitor "35K" inhibited inflammatory-induced endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and tubulogenesis, with more modest effects in hypoxia. In vivo , adenoviruses were used to overexpress 35K (Ad35K) and GFP (AdGFP, control virus). Plasma chemokine activity was suppressed by Ad35K in both models. In the periarterial femoral cuff model of inflammatory-driven angiogenesis, overexpression of 35K inhibited adventitial neovessel formation compared with control AdGFP-infused mice. In contrast, 35K preserved neovascularization in the hindlimb ischemia model and had no effect on physiological neovascularization in the chick chorioallantoic membrane assay. Mechanistically, 2 key angiogenic proteins (VEGF and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α) were conditionally regulated by 35K, such that expression was inhibited in inflammation but was unchanged in hypoxia. In conclusion, CC-chemokine inhibition by 35K suppresses inflammatory-driven angiogenesis while preserving physiological ischemia-mediated angiogenesis via conditional regulation of VEGF and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α. CC-chemokine inhibition may be an alternative therapeutic strategy for suppressing diseases associated with inflammatory angiogenesis without inducing the side effects caused by global inhibition.- Ridiandries, A., Tan, J. T. M., Ravindran, D., Williams, H., Medbury, H. J., Lindsay, L., Hawkins, C., Prosser, H. C. G., Bursill, C. A. CC-chemokine class inhibition attenuates pathological angiogenesis while preserving physiological angiogenesis. © FASEB.

Neutrophil-derived chemokines on the road to immunity.

PubMed

Tecchio, Cristina; Cassatella, Marco A

2016-04-01

During recent years, it has become clear that polymorphonuclear neutrophils are remarkably versatile cells, whose functions go far beyond phagocytosis and killing. In fact, besides being involved in primary defense against infections-mainly through phagocytosis, generation of toxic molecules, release of toxic enzymes and formation of extracellular traps-neutrophils have been shown to play a role in finely regulating the development and the evolution of inflammatory and immune responses. These latter neutrophil-mediated functions occur by a variety of mechanisms, including the production of newly manufactured cytokines. Herein, we provide a general overview of the chemotactic cytokines/chemokines that neutrophils can potentially produce, either under inflammatory/immune reactions or during their activation in more prolonged processes, such as in tumors. We highlight recent observations generated from studying human or rodent neutrophils in vitro and in vivo models. We also discuss the biological significance of neutrophil-derived chemokines in the context of infectious, neoplastic and immune-mediated diseases. The picture that is emerging is that, given their capacity to produce and release chemokines, neutrophils exert essential functions in recruiting, activating and modulating the activities of different leukocyte populations. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Up-regulation of CCL17, CCL22 and CCR4 in drug-induced maculopapular exanthema.

PubMed

Tapia, B; Morel, E; Martín-Díaz, M-A; Díaz, R; Alves-Ferreira, J; Rubio, P; Padial, A; Bellón, T

2007-05-01

Maculopapular exanthema has been reported to be the most frequently drug-induced cutaneous reaction. Although T lymphocytes are involved in the pathomechanism of this disease, little is know about the recruitment of these cells to the skin. The aim of this work is to study the role of the chemokines TARC/CCL17 and MDC/CCL22 in the lymphocyte trafficking to affected skin in drug-induced exanthemas. Real-time PCR was performed to quantify gene expression levels of CCL17, CCL22 and their receptor CCR4 in lesional skin biopsies and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients. CCL27 and CCL22 proteins were detected in the skin by immunochemistry. Protein expression of CCR4 was determined by flow cytometry in peripheral blood lymphocytes. Functional migration assays to CCL17 and CCL22 were assessed to compare the migratory responses of peripheral blood lymphocytes from patients and healthy subjects. CCL17 and CCL22 were up-regulated in maculopapular exanthema-affected skin. CCR4 mRNA levels and protein expression were increased in peripheral blood mononuclear cells during the acute phase of the disease. The increased expression of the receptor was consistent with a higher response of peripheral blood lymphocytes to CCL17 and CCL22 compared with the migratory response in healthy donors. TARC/CCL17 and MDC/CCL22 might cooperate in attracting T lymphocytes to skin in drug-induced maculopapular exanthemas.

Dynamic conformational switching in the chemokine ligand is essential for G-protein-coupled receptor activation

PubMed Central

Joseph, Prem Raj B.; Sawant, Kirti V.; Isley, Angela; Pedroza, Mesias; Garofalo, Roberto P.; Richardson, Ricardo M.; Rajarathnam, Krishna

2014-01-01

Chemokines mediate diverse functions from organogenesis to mobilizing leucocytes, and are unusual agonists for class-A GPCRs (G-protein-coupled receptors) because of their large size and multi-domain structure. The current model for receptor activation, which involves interactions between chemokine N-loop and receptor N-terminal residues (Site-I) and between chemokine N-terminal and receptor extracellular loop/transmembrane residues (Site-II), fails to describe differences in ligand/receptor selectivity and the activation of multiple signalling pathways. In the present study, we show in neutrophil-activating chemokine CXCL8 that the highly conserved GP (glycine-proline) motif located distal to both N-terminal and N-loop residues couples Site-I and Site-II interactions. Mutations in the GP motif caused various differences from native-like function to complete loss of activity that could not be correlated with the specific mutation, receptor affinity or subtype, or a specific signalling pathway. NMR studies indicated that the GP motif does not influence Site-I interactions, but molecular dynamics simulations suggested that this motif dictates substates of the CXCL8 conformational ensemble. We conclude that the GP motif enables diverse receptor functions by controlling cross-talk between Site-I and Site-II, and further propose that the repertoire of chemokine functions is best described by a conformational ensemble model in which a network of long-range coupled indirect interactions mediate receptor activity. PMID:24032673

Chemokines: novel targets for breast cancer metastasis

PubMed Central

Ali, Simi; Lazennec, Gwendal

2007-01-01

Recent studies have highlighted the possible involvement of chemokines and their receptors in breast cancer progression and metastasis. Chemokines and their receptors constitute a superfamily of signalling factors whose prognosis value in breast cancer progression remains unclear. We will examine here the expression pattern of chemokines and their receptors in mammary gland physiology and carcinogenesis. The nature of the cells producing chemokines or harboring chemokine receptors appears to be crucial in certain conditions for example, the infiltration of the primary tumor by leukocytes and angiogenesis. In addition, chemokines, their receptors and the interaction with glycosaminoglycan (GAGs) are key players in the homing of cancer cells to distant metastasis sites. Several lines of evidence, including in vitro and in vivo models, suggest that the mechanism of action of chemokines in cancer development involves the modulation of proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, leukocyte recruitment or angiogenesis. Furthermore, we will discuss the regulation of chemokine network in tumor neovascularity by decoy receptors. The reasons accounting for the deregulation of chemokines and chemokine receptors expression in breast cancer are certainly crucial for the comprehension of chemokine role in breast cancer and are in several cases linked to estrogen receptor status. The targeting of chemokines and chemokine receptors by antibodies, small molecule antagonists, viral chemokine binding proteins and heparins appears as promising tracks to develop therapeutic strategies. Thus there is significant interest in developing strategies to antagonize the chemokine function, and an opportunity to interfere with metastasis, the leading cause of death in most patients. PMID:17717637

Apigenin suppresses migration and invasion of transformed cells through down-regulation of C-X-C chemokine receptor 4 expression

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, Lei; Kuang, Lisha; Hitron, John Andrew

Environmental exposure to arsenic is known to cause various cancers. There are some potential relationships between cell malignant transformation and C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) expressions. Metastasis, one of the major characteristics of malignantly transformed cells, contributes to the high mortality of cells. CXCR4 and its natural chemokine ligand C-X-C motif ligand 12 (CXCL12) play a critical role in metastasis. Therefore, identification of nutritional factors which are able to inhibit CXCR4 is important for protection from environmental arsenic-induced carcinogenesis and for abolishing metastasis of malignantly transformed cells. The present study demonstrates that apigenin (4′,5,7-trihydroxyflavone), a natural dietary flavonoid, suppressedmore » CXCR4 expression in arsenic-transformed Beas-2B cells (B-AsT) and several other types of transformed/cancer cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Neither proteasome nor lysosome inhibitor had any effect in reducing the apigenin-induced down-regulation of CXCR4, indicating that apigenin-induced down-regulation of CXCR4 is not due to proteolytic degradation. The down-regulation of CXCR4 is mainly due to the inhibition of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) transcriptional activity. Apigenin also abolished migration and invasion of transformed cells induced by CXCL12. In a xenograft mouse model, apigenin down-regulated CXCR4 expression and suppressed tumor growth. Taken together, our results show that apigenin is a novel inhibitor of CXCR4 expression. This dietary flavonoid has the potential to suppress migration and invasion of transformed cells and prevent environmental arsenic-induced carcinogenesis. - Highlights: • Apigenin has a potential in preventing environmental arsenic induced carcinogenesis. • Apigenin suppresses CXCR4 in malignant transformed cells in vitro and in vivo. • The down-regulation of CXCR4 is mainly due to inhibition of NF-κB activity.« less

Environmental Factors Impacting Bone-Relevant Chemokines

PubMed Central

Smith, Justin T.; Schneider, Andrew D.; Katchko, Karina M.; Yun, Chawon; Hsu, Erin L.

2017-01-01

Chemokines play an important role in normal bone physiology and the pathophysiology of many bone diseases. The recent increased focus on the individual roles of this class of proteins in the context of bone has shown that members of the two major chemokine subfamilies—CC and CXC—support or promote the formation of new bone and the remodeling of existing bone in response to a myriad of stimuli. These chemotactic molecules are crucial in orchestrating appropriate cellular homing, osteoblastogenesis, and osteoclastogenesis during normal bone repair. Bone healing is a complex cascade of carefully regulated processes, including inflammation, progenitor cell recruitment, differentiation, and remodeling. The extensive role of chemokines in these processes and the known links between environmental contaminants and chemokine expression/activity leaves ample opportunity for disruption of bone healing by environmental factors. However, despite increased clinical awareness, the potential impact of many of these environmental factors on bone-related chemokines is still ill defined. A great deal of focus has been placed on environmental exposure to various endocrine disruptors (bisphenol A, phthalate esters, etc.), volatile organic compounds, dioxins, and heavy metals, though mainly in other tissues. Awareness of the impact of other less well-studied bone toxicants, such as fluoride, mold and fungal toxins, asbestos, and chlorine, is also reviewed. In many cases, the literature on these toxins in osteogenic models is lacking. However, research focused on their effects in other tissues and cell lines provides clues for where future resources could be best utilized. This review aims to serve as a current and exhaustive resource detailing the known links between several classes of high-interest environmental pollutants and their interaction with the chemokines relevant to bone healing. PMID:28261155

Chemokines in neuron-glial cell interaction and pathogenesis of neuropathic pain.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhi-Jun; Jiang, Bao-Chun; Gao, Yong-Jing

2017-09-01

Neuropathic pain resulting from damage or dysfunction of the nervous system is a highly debilitating chronic pain state and is often resistant to currently available treatments. It has become clear that neuroinflammation, mainly mediated by proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, plays an important role in the establishment and maintenance of neuropathic pain. Chemokines were originally identified as regulators of peripheral immune cell trafficking and were also expressed in neurons and glial cells in the central nervous system. In recent years, accumulating studies have revealed the expression, distribution and function of chemokines in the spinal cord under chronic pain conditions. In this review, we provide evidence showing that several chemokines are upregulated after peripheral nerve injury and contribute to the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain via different forms of neuron-glia interaction in the spinal cord. First, chemokine CX3CL1 is expressed in primary afferents and spinal neurons and induces microglial activation via its microglial receptor CX3CR1 (neuron-to-microglia signaling). Second, CCL2 and CXCL1 are expressed in spinal astrocytes and act on CCR2 and CXCR2 in spinal neurons to increase excitatory synaptic transmission (astrocyte-to-neuron signaling). Third, we recently identified that CXCL13 is highly upregulated in spinal neurons after spinal nerve ligation and induces spinal astrocyte activation via receptor CXCR5 (neuron-to-astrocyte signaling). Strategies that target chemokine-mediated neuron-glia interactions may lead to novel therapies for the treatment of neuropathic pain.

Altered expression of glial markers, chemokines, and opioid receptors in the spinal cord of type 2 diabetic monkeys.

PubMed

Kiguchi, Norikazu; Ding, Huiping; Peters, Christopher M; Kock, Nancy D; Kishioka, Shiroh; Cline, J Mark; Wagner, Janice D; Ko, Mei-Chuan

2017-01-01

Neuroinflammation is a pathological condition that underlies diabetes and affects sensory processing. Given the high prevalence of pain in diabetic patients and crosstalk between chemokines and opioids, it is pivotal to know whether neuroinflammation-associated mediators are dysregulated in the central nervous system of diabetic primates. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate whether mRNA expression levels of glial markers, chemokines, and opioid receptors are altered in the spinal cord and thalamus of naturally occurring type 2 diabetic monkeys (n=7) compared with age-matched non-diabetic monkeys (n=6). By using RT-qPCR, we found that mRNA expression levels of both GFAP and IBA1 were up-regulated in the spinal dorsal horn (SDH) of diabetic monkeys compared with non-diabetic monkeys. Among all chemokines, expression levels of three chemokine ligand-receptor systems, i.e., CCL2-CCR2, CCL3-CCR1/5, and CCL4-CCR5, were up-regulated in the SDH of diabetic monkeys. Moreover, in the SDH, seven additional chemokine receptors, i.e., CCR4, CCR6, CCR8, CCR10, CXCR3, CXCR5, and CXCR6, were also up-regulated in diabetic monkeys. In contrast, expression levels of MOP, KOP, and DOP, but not NOP receptors, were down-regulated in the SDH of diabetic monkeys, and the thalamus had fewer changes in the glial markers, chemokines and opioids. These findings indicate that neuroinflammation, manifested as glial activation and simultaneous up-regulation of multiple chemokine ligands and receptors, seems to be permanent in type 2 diabetic monkeys. As chemokines and opioids are important pain modulators, this first-in-primate study provides a translational bridge for determining the functional efficacy of spinal drugs targeting their signaling cascades. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Chemokines in teleost fish species.

PubMed

Alejo, Alí; Tafalla, Carolina

2011-12-01

Chemokines are chemoattractant cytokines defined by the presence of four conserved cysteine residues which in mammals can be divided into four subfamilies depending on the arrangement of the first two conserved cysteines in their sequence: CXC (α), CC (β), C and CX(3)C classes. Evolutionarily, fish can be considered as an intermediate step between species which possess only innate immunity (invertebrates) and species with a fully developed acquired immune network such as mammals. Therefore, the functionality of their different immune cell types and molecules is sometimes also intermediate between innate and acquired responses. The first chemokine gene identified in a teleost was a rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) chemokine designated as CK1 in 1998. Since then, many different chemokine genes have been identified in several fish species, but their role in homeostasis and immune response remains largely unknown. Extensive genomic duplication events and the fact that chemokines evolve more quickly than other immune genes, make it very difficult to establish true orthologues between fish and mammalian chemokines that would help us with the ascription of immune roles. In this review, we describe the current state of knowledge of chemokine biology in teleost fish, focusing mainly on which genes have been identified so far and highlighting the most important aspects of their expression regulation, due to the great lack of functional information available for them. As the number of chemokine genes begins to close down for some teleost species, there is an important need for functional assays that may elucidate the role of each of these molecules within the fish immune response. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Impact of periodontitis on chemokines in smokers.

PubMed

Haytural, O; Yaman, D; Ural, E C; Kantarci, A; Demirel, Korkud

2015-06-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the chemokine expression profiles in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and serum in patients with advanced chronic periodontitis and to assess the impact of smoking on local and systemic levels of chemokines. Thirty patients with chronic periodontitis (CP; 20 smokers and 10 non-smokers) and 20 periodontally healthy subjects (10 smokers and 10 non-smokers) were recruited. Clinical parameters included the plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and bleeding on probing (BOP). Macrophage inflammatory protein-1 alpha (MIP-1α), macrophage inflammatory protein-1 beta (MIP-1β), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted chemokine (RANTES) were measured in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and serum using a multiplex immunoassay. MIP-1α levels were significantly lower (10.15 ± 1.48; p = 0.039) while MIP-1β levels were significantly higher (42.05 ± 8.21; p = 0.005) in sera from non-smoker patients with CP compared to non-smoker healthy subjects. MCP-1 concentration in sera was significantly higher in smoker periodontitis patients (8.89 ± 1.65) compared to non-smoker patients with periodontitis (8.14 ± 0.97; p = 0.004). MIP-1α and RANTES were significantly higher in GCF of the patients with CP (p = 0.001) while there were no statistically significant correlations between the GCF levels of these analytes and the smoking status. Periodontal inflammation increases the chemokine concentrations in the GCF while smoking suppresses chemokine levels in serum suggesting that different local and systemic mechanisms are involved during the response to periodontitis in smokers. Understanding the local and systemic chemokine responses in smokers will enable the development of biologically-based treatment methods for chronic periodontitis.

Structural Analysis of Chemokine Receptor–Ligand Interactions

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

This review focuses on the construction and application of structural chemokine receptor models for the elucidation of molecular determinants of chemokine receptor modulation and the structure-based discovery and design of chemokine receptor ligands. A comparative analysis of ligand binding pockets in chemokine receptors is presented, including a detailed description of the CXCR4, CCR2, CCR5, CCR9, and US28 X-ray structures, and their implication for modeling molecular interactions of chemokine receptors with small-molecule ligands, peptide ligands, and large antibodies and chemokines. These studies demonstrate how the integration of new structural information on chemokine receptors with extensive structure–activity relationship and site-directed mutagenesis data facilitates the prediction of the structure of chemokine receptor–ligand complexes that have not been crystallized. Finally, a review of structure-based ligand discovery and design studies based on chemokine receptor crystal structures and homology models illustrates the possibilities and challenges to find novel ligands for chemokine receptors. PMID:28165741

Human Mas-Related G Protein-Coupled Receptors-X1 Induce Chemokine Receptor 2 Expression in Rat Dorsal Root Ganglia Neurons and Release of Chemokine Ligand 2 from the Human LAD-2 Mast Cell Line

PubMed Central

Solinski, Hans Jürgen; Petermann, Franziska; Rothe, Kathrin; Boekhoff, Ingrid; Gudermann, Thomas; Breit, Andreas

2013-01-01

Primate-specific Mas-related G protein-coupled receptors-X1 (MRGPR-X1) are highly enriched in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons and induce acute pain. Herein, we analyzed effects of MRGPR-X1 on serum response factors (SRF) or nuclear factors of activated T cells (NFAT), which control expression of various markers of chronic pain. Using HEK293, DRG neuron-derived F11 cells and cultured rat DRG neurons recombinantly expressing human MRGPR-X1, we found activation of a SRF reporter gene construct and induction of the early growth response protein-1 via extracellular signal-regulated kinases-1/2 known to play a significant role in the development of inflammatory pain. Furthermore, we observed MRGPR-X1-induced up-regulation of the chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) via NFAT, which is considered as a key event in the onset of neuropathic pain and, so far, has not yet been described for any endogenous neuropeptide. Up-regulation of CCR2 is often associated with increased release of its endogenous agonist chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2). We also found MRGPR-X1-promoted release of CCL2 in a human connective tissue mast cell line endogenously expressing MRGPR-X1. Thus, we provide first evidence to suggest that MRGPR-X1 induce expression of chronic pain markers in DRG neurons and propose a so far unidentified signaling circuit that enhances chemokine signaling by acting on two distinct yet functionally co-operating cell types. Given the important role of chemokine signaling in pain chronification, we propose that interruption of this signaling circuit might be a promising new strategy to alleviate chemokine-promoted pain. PMID:23505557

A Novel Computational Model Predicts Key Regulators of Chemokine Gradient Formation in Lymph Nodes and Site-Specific Roles for CCL19 and ACKR4

PubMed Central

Brook, Bindi S.

2017-01-01

The chemokine receptor CCR7 drives leukocyte migration into and within lymph nodes (LNs). It is activated by chemokines CCL19 and CCL21, which are scavenged by the atypical chemokine receptor ACKR4. CCR7-dependent navigation is determined by the distribution of extracellular CCL19 and CCL21, which form concentration gradients at specific microanatomical locations. The mechanisms underpinning the establishment and regulation of these gradients are poorly understood. In this article, we have incorporated multiple biochemical processes describing the CCL19–CCL21–CCR7–ACKR4 network into our model of LN fluid flow to establish a computational model to investigate intranodal chemokine gradients. Importantly, the model recapitulates CCL21 gradients observed experimentally in B cell follicles and interfollicular regions, building confidence in its ability to accurately predict intranodal chemokine distribution. Parameter variation analysis indicates that the directionality of these gradients is robust, but their magnitude is sensitive to these key parameters: chemokine production, diffusivity, matrix binding site availability, and CCR7 abundance. The model indicates that lymph flow shapes intranodal CCL21 gradients, and that CCL19 is functionally important at the boundary between B cell follicles and the T cell area. It also predicts that ACKR4 in LNs prevents CCL19/CCL21 accumulation in efferent lymph, but does not control intranodal gradients. Instead, it attributes the disrupted interfollicular CCL21 gradients observed in Ackr4-deficient LNs to ACKR4 loss upstream. Our novel approach has therefore generated new testable hypotheses and alternative interpretations of experimental data. Moreover, it acts as a framework to investigate gradients at other locations, including those that cannot be visualized experimentally or involve other chemokines. PMID:28807994

Molecular Basis of Chemokine CXCL5-Glycosaminoglycan Interactions*

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Chemokines, a large family of highly versatile small soluble proteins, play crucial roles in defining innate and adaptive immune responses by regulating the trafficking of leukocytes, and also play a key role in various aspects of human physiology. Chemokines share the characteristic feature of reversibly existing as monomers and dimers, and their functional response is intimately coupled to interaction with glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Currently, nothing is known regarding the structural basis or molecular mechanisms underlying CXCL5-GAG interactions. To address this missing knowledge, we characterized the interaction of a panel of heparin oligosaccharides to CXCL5 using solution NMR, isothermal titration calorimetry, and molecular dynamics simulations. NMR studies indicated that the dimer is the high-affinity GAG binding ligand and that lysine residues from the N-loop, 40s turn, β3 strand, and C-terminal helix mediate binding. Isothermal titration calorimetry indicated a stoichiometry of two oligosaccharides per CXCL5 dimer. NMR-based structural models reveal that these residues form a contiguous surface within a monomer and, interestingly, that the GAG-binding domain overlaps with the receptor-binding domain, indicating that a GAG-bound chemokine cannot activate the receptor. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that the roles of the individual lysines are not equivalent and that helical lysines play a more prominent role in determining binding geometry and affinity. Further, binding interactions and GAG geometry in CXCL5 are novel and distinctly different compared with the related chemokines CXCL1 and CXCL8. We conclude that a finely tuned balance between the GAG-bound dimer and free soluble monomer regulates CXCL5-mediated receptor signaling and function. PMID:27471273

The heterodimerization of platelet-derived chemokines.

PubMed

Carlson, James; Baxter, Sarah A; Dréau, Didier; Nesmelova, Irina V

2013-01-01

Chemokines encompass a large family of proteins that act as chemoattractants and are involved in many biological processes. In particular, chemokines guide the migration of leukocytes during normal and inflammatory conditions. Recent studies reveal that the heterophilic interactions between chemokines significantly affect their biological activity, possibly representing a novel regulatory mechanism of the chemokine activities. The co-localization of platelet-derived chemokines in vivo allows them to interact. Here, we used nano-spray ionization mass spectrometry to screen eleven different CXC and CC platelet-derived chemokines for possible interactions with the two most abundant chemokines present in platelets, CXCL4 and CXCL7. Results indicate that many screened chemokines, although not all of them, form heterodimers with CXCL4 and/or CXCL7. In particular, a strong heterodimerization was observed between CXCL12 and CXCL4 or CXCL7. Compared to other chemokines, the main structural difference of CXCL12 is in the orientation and packing of the C-terminal alpha-helix in relation to the beta-sheet. The analysis of one possible structure of the CXCL4/CXCL12 heterodimer, CXC-type structure, using molecular dynamics (MD) trajectory reveals that CXCL4 may undergo a conformational transition to alter the alpha helix orientation. In this new orientation, the alpha-helix of CXCL4 aligns in parallel with the CXCL12 alpha-helix, an energetically more favorable conformation. Further, we determined that CXCL4 and CXCL12 physically interact to form heterodimers by co-immunoprecipitations from human platelets. Overall, our results highlight that many platelet-derived chemokines are capable of heterophilic interactions and strongly support future studies of the biological impact of these interactions. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Furin is a chemokine-modifying enzyme: in vitro and in vivo processing of CXCL10 generates a C-terminally truncated chemokine retaining full activity.

PubMed

Hensbergen, Paul J; Verzijl, Dennis; Balog, Crina I A; Dijkman, Remco; van der Schors, Roel C; van der Raaij-Helmer, Elizabeth M H; van der Plas, Mariena J A; Leurs, Rob; Deelder, André M; Smit, Martine J; Tensen, Cornelis P

2004-04-02

Chemokines comprise a class of structurally related proteins that are involved in many aspects of leukocyte migration under basal and inflammatory conditions. In addition to the large number of genes, limited processing of these proteins by a variety of enzymes enhances the complexity of the total spectrum of chemokine variants. We have recently shown that the native chemokine CXCL10 is processed at the C terminus, thereby shedding the last four amino acids. The present study was performed to elucidate the mechanism in vivo and in vitro and to study the biological activity of this novel isoform of CXCL10. Using a combination of protein purification and mass spectrometric techniques, we show that the production of C-terminally truncated CXCL10 by primary keratinocytes is inhibited in vivo by a specific inhibitor of pro-protein convertases (e.g. furin) but not by inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases. Moreover, CXCL10 is processed by furin in vitro, which is abrogated by a mutation in the furin recognition site. Using GTPgammaS binding, Ca(2+) mobilization, and chemotaxis assays, we demonstrate that the C-terminally truncated CXCL10 variant is a potent ligand for CXCR3. Moreover, the inverse agonist activity on the virally encoded receptor ORF74 and the direct antibacterial activity of CXCL10 are fully retained. Hence, we have identified furin as a novel chemokine-modifying enzyme in vitro and most probably also in vivo, generating a C-terminally truncated CXCL10, which fully retains its (inverse) agonistic properties.

Chemokines and chemokine receptors: new insights into cancer-related inflammation

PubMed Central

Lazennec, Gwendal; Richmond, Ann

2010-01-01

Chemokines are involved in cellular interactions and tropism in situations frequently associated with inflammation. Recently, the importance of chemokines and chemokine receptors in inflammation associated with carcinogenesis has been highlighted. Increasing evidence suggests that chemokines are produced by tumor cells and also by cells of the tumor microenvironment including cancer-associated fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells, endothelial cells, tumor-associated macrophages and more recently tumor-associated neutrophils. In addition to having effects on tumor cell proliferation, angiogenesis and metastasis, chemokines also appear to modulate senescence and cell survival. Here, we review recent progress on the roles of chemokines and chemokine receptors in cancer-related inflammation, and we discuss the mechanisms underlying chemokine action in cancer that might facilitate the development of novel therapies in the future. PMID:20163989

Macrophage Transactivation for Chemokine Production Identified as a Negative Regulator of Granulomatous Inflammation Using Agent-Based Modeling.

PubMed

Moyo, Daniel; Beattie, Lynette; Andrews, Paul S; Moore, John W J; Timmis, Jon; Sawtell, Amy; Hoehme, Stefan; Sampson, Adam T; Kaye, Paul M

2018-01-01

Cellular activation in trans by interferons, cytokines, and chemokines is a commonly recognized mechanism to amplify immune effector function and limit pathogen spread. However, an optimal host response also requires that collateral damage associated with inflammation is limited. This may be particularly so in the case of granulomatous inflammation, where an excessive number and/or excessively florid granulomas can have significant pathological consequences. Here, we have combined transcriptomics, agent-based modeling, and in vivo experimental approaches to study constraints on hepatic granuloma formation in a murine model of experimental leishmaniasis. We demonstrate that chemokine production by non-infected Kupffer cells in the Leishmania donovani -infected liver promotes competition with infected KCs for available iNKT cells, ultimately inhibiting the extent of granulomatous inflammation. We propose trans-activation for chemokine production as a novel broadly applicable mechanism that may operate early in infection to limit excessive focal inflammation.

Target-locking acquisition with real-time confocal (TARC) microscopy.

PubMed

Lu, Peter J; Sims, Peter A; Oki, Hidekazu; Macarthur, James B; Weitz, David A

2007-07-09

We present a real-time target-locking confocal microscope that follows an object moving along an arbitrary path, even as it simultaneously changes its shape, size and orientation. This Target-locking Acquisition with Realtime Confocal (TARC) microscopy system integrates fast image processing and rapid image acquisition using a Nipkow spinning-disk confocal microscope. The system acquires a 3D stack of images, performs a full structural analysis to locate a feature of interest, moves the sample in response, and then collects the next 3D image stack. In this way, data collection is dynamically adjusted to keep a moving object centered in the field of view. We demonstrate the system's capabilities by target-locking freely-diffusing clusters of attractive colloidal particles, and activelytransported quantum dots (QDs) endocytosed into live cells free to move in three dimensions, for several hours. During this time, both the colloidal clusters and live cells move distances several times the length of the imaging volume.

Chlorella vulgaris Attenuates Dermatophagoides Farinae-Induced Atopic Dermatitis-Like Symptoms in NC/Nga Mice

PubMed Central

Kang, Heerim; Lee, Chang Hyung; Kim, Jong Rhan; Kwon, Jung Yeon; Seo, Sang Gwon; Han, Jae Gab; Kim, Byung Gon; Kim, Jong-Eun; Lee, Ki Won

2015-01-01

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic and inflammatory skin disease that can place a significant burden on quality of life for patients. AD most frequently appears under the age of six and although its prevalence is increasing worldwide, therapeutic treatment options are limited. Chlorella vulgaris (CV) is a species of the freshwater green algae genus chlorella, and has been reported to modulate allergy-inducible factors when ingested. Here, we examined the effect of CV supplementation on AD-like symptoms in NC/Nga mice. CV was orally administrated for six weeks while AD-like symptoms were induced via topical application of Dermatophagoides farinae extract (DFE). CV treatment reduced dermatitis scores, epidermal thickness, and skin hydration. Histological analysis also revealed that CV treatment reduced DFE-induced eosinophil and mast cell infiltration into the skin, while analysis of serum chemokine levels indicated that CV treatment downregulated thymus- and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC) and macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC) levels. In addition, CV treatment downregulated mRNA expression levels of IL-4 and IFN-γ. Taken together, these results suggest that CV extract may have potential as a nutraceutical ingredient for the prevention of AD. PMID:26404252

Structural insights into the interaction between a potent anti-inflammatory protein, viral CC chemokine inhibitor (vCCI), and the human CC chemokine, Eotaxin-1.

PubMed

Kuo, Nai-Wei; Gao, Yong-Guang; Schill, Megan S; Isern, Nancy; Dupureur, Cynthia M; Liwang, Patricia J

2014-03-07

Chemokines play important roles in the immune system, not only recruiting leukocytes to the site of infection and inflammation but also guiding cell homing and cell development. The soluble poxvirus-encoded protein viral CC chemokine inhibitor (vCCI), a CC chemokine inhibitor, can bind to human CC chemokines tightly to impair the host immune defense. This protein has no known homologs in eukaryotes and may represent a potent method to stop inflammation. Previously, our structure of the vCCI·MIP-1β (macrophage inflammatory protein-1β) complex indicated that vCCI uses negatively charged residues in β-sheet II to interact with positively charged residues in the MIP-1β N terminus, 20s region and 40s loop. However, the interactions between vCCI and other CC chemokines have not yet been fully explored. Here, we used NMR and fluorescence anisotropy to study the interaction between vCCI and eotaxin-1 (CCL11), a CC chemokine that is an important factor in the asthma response. NMR results reveal that the binding pattern is very similar to the vCCI·MIP-1β complex and suggest that electrostatic interactions provide a major contribution to binding. Fluorescence anisotropy results on variants of eotaxin-1 further confirm the critical roles of the charged residues in eotaxin-1. In addition, the binding affinity between vCCI and other wild type CC chemokines, MCP-1 (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1), MIP-1β, and RANTES (regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted), were determined as 1.1, 1.2, and 0.22 nm, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first work quantitatively measuring the binding affinity between vCCI and multiple CC chemokines.

Structural Insights into the Interaction between a Potent Anti-inflammatory Protein, Viral CC Chemokine Inhibitor (vCCI), and the Human CC Chemokine, Eotaxin-1*

PubMed Central

Kuo, Nai-Wei; Gao, Yong-Guang; Schill, Megan S.; Isern, Nancy; Dupureur, Cynthia M.; LiWang, Patricia J.

2014-01-01

Chemokines play important roles in the immune system, not only recruiting leukocytes to the site of infection and inflammation but also guiding cell homing and cell development. The soluble poxvirus-encoded protein viral CC chemokine inhibitor (vCCI), a CC chemokine inhibitor, can bind to human CC chemokines tightly to impair the host immune defense. This protein has no known homologs in eukaryotes and may represent a potent method to stop inflammation. Previously, our structure of the vCCI·MIP-1β (macrophage inflammatory protein-1β) complex indicated that vCCI uses negatively charged residues in β-sheet II to interact with positively charged residues in the MIP-1β N terminus, 20s region and 40s loop. However, the interactions between vCCI and other CC chemokines have not yet been fully explored. Here, we used NMR and fluorescence anisotropy to study the interaction between vCCI and eotaxin-1 (CCL11), a CC chemokine that is an important factor in the asthma response. NMR results reveal that the binding pattern is very similar to the vCCI·MIP-1β complex and suggest that electrostatic interactions provide a major contribution to binding. Fluorescence anisotropy results on variants of eotaxin-1 further confirm the critical roles of the charged residues in eotaxin-1. In addition, the binding affinity between vCCI and other wild type CC chemokines, MCP-1 (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1), MIP-1β, and RANTES (regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted), were determined as 1.1, 1.2, and 0.22 nm, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first work quantitatively measuring the binding affinity between vCCI and multiple CC chemokines. PMID:24482230

Chemokines and chemokine receptors: new insights into cancer-related inflammation.

PubMed

Lazennec, Gwendal; Richmond, Ann

2010-03-01

Chemokines are involved in cellular interactions and tropism in situations frequently associated with inflammation. Recently, the importance of chemokines and chemokine receptors in inflammation associated with carcinogenesis has been highlighted. Increasing evidence suggests that chemokines are produced by tumor cells as well as by cells of the tumor microenvironment including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), endothelial cells, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and more recently tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs). In addition to affecting tumor cell proliferation, angiogenesis and metastasis, chemokines also seem to modulate senescence and cell survival. Here, we review recent progress on the roles of chemokines and chemokine receptors in cancer-related inflammation, and discuss the mechanisms underlying chemokine action in cancer that might facilitate the development of novel therapies in the future. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

T cell costimulation by chemokine receptors.

PubMed

Molon, Barbara; Gri, Giorgia; Bettella, Monica; Gómez-Moutón, Concepción; Lanzavecchia, Antonio; Martínez-A, Carlos; Mañes, Santos; Viola, Antonella

2005-05-01

Signals mediated by chemokine receptors may compete with T cell receptor stop signals and determine the duration of T cell-antigen-presenting cell interactions. Here we show that during T cell stimulation by antigen-presenting cells, T cell chemokine receptors coupled to G(q) and/or G(11) protein were recruited to the immunological synapse by a G(i)-independent mechanism. When chemokine receptors were sequestered at the immunological synapse, T cells became insensitive to chemotactic gradients, formed more stable conjugates and finally responded with enhanced proliferation and cytokine production. We suggest that chemokine receptor trapping at the immunological synapse enhances T cell activation by improving T cell-antigen-presenting cell attraction and impeding the 'distraction' of successfully engaged T cells by other chemokine sources.

Evidence for chemokine synergy during neutrophil migration in ARDS

PubMed Central

Williams, Andrew E; José, Ricardo J; Mercer, Paul F; Brealey, David; Parekh, Dhruv; Thickett, David R; O'Kane, Cecelia; McAuley, Danny F; Chambers, Rachel C

2017-01-01

Background Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening condition characterised by pulmonary oedema, respiratory failure and severe inflammation. ARDS is further characterised by the recruitment of neutrophils into the lung interstitium and alveolar space. Objectives The factors that regulate neutrophil infiltration into the inflamed lung and our understanding of the pathomechanisms in ARDS remain incomplete. This study aimed at determining the role of the chemokine (C-C motif) ligand (CCL)2 and CCL7 in ARDS. Methods CCL2 and CCL7 protein levels were measured in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid obtained from lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-challenged human volunteers and two separate cohorts of patients with ARDS. Neutrophil chemotaxis to ARDS BAL fluid was evaluated and the contribution of each was assessed and compared with chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 8 (CXCL8). Chemokine receptor expression on neutrophils from blood or BAL fluid of patients with ARDS was analysed by flow cytometry. Results CCL2 and CCL7 were significantly elevated in BAL fluid recovered from LPS-challenged volunteers and patients with ARDS. BAL fluid from patients with ARDS was highly chemotactic for human neutrophils and neutralising either CCL2 or CCL7 attenuated the neutrophil chemotactic response. Moreover, CCL2 and CCL7 synergised with CXCL8 to promote neutrophil migration. Furthermore, neutrophils isolated from the blood or BAL fluid differentially regulated the cell surface expression of chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 1 and C-C chemokine receptor type 2 during ARDS. Conclusion This study highlights important inflammatory chemokines involved in regulating neutrophil migration, which may have potential value as therapeutic targets for the treatment of ARDS. PMID:27496101

A Potential Contribution of Chemokine Network Dysfunction to the Depressive Disorders

PubMed Central

Ślusarczyk, Joanna; Trojan, Ewa; Chwastek, Jakub; Głombik, Katarzyna; Basta-Kaim, Agnieszka

2016-01-01

In spite of many years of research, the pathomechanism of depression has not yet been elucidated. Among many hypotheses, the immune theory has generated a substantial interest. Up till now, it has been thought that depression is accompanied by the activation of inflammatory response and increase in pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. However, recently this view has become controversial, mainly due to the family of small proteins called chemokines. They play a key role in the modulation of peripheral function of the immune system by controlling immune reactions, mediating immune cell communication, and regulating chemotaxis and cell adhesion. Last studies underline significance of chemokines in the central nervous system, not only in the neuromodulation but also in the regulation of neurodevelopmental processes, neuroendocrine functions and in mediating the action of classical neurotransmitters. Moreover, it was demonstrated that these proteins are responsible for maintaining interactions between neuronal and glial cells both in the developing and adult brain also in the course of diseases. This review outlines the role of chemokine in the central nervous system under physiological and pathological conditions and their involvement in processes underlying depressive disorder. It summarizes the most important data from experimental and clinical studies. PMID:26893168

Chemokines and skin diseases.

PubMed

Sugaya, Makoto

2015-04-01

Chemokines are small molecules that induce chemotaxis and activation of certain subsets of leukocytes. The expression patterns of chemokines and chemokine receptors are specific to certain organs and cells. Therefore, chemokines are important to elucidate the mechanism of organ-specific human diseases. CCL17 expressed by Langerhans cells, blood endothelial cells, and fibroblasts plays a key role in attracting Th2 cells and tumor cells of adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma and mycosis fungoides/Sézary syndrome into the skin, developing various Th2-type inflammatory skin diseases as well as cutaneous lymphoma. CCL11 and CCL26 expressed by skin-resident cells, such as fibroblasts, blood endothelial cells, and keratinocytes, induce infiltration of CCR3-expressing cells such as Th2 cells and eosinophils. CCL11 may also serve as an autocrine as well as a paracrine in anaplastic large cell lymphoma. CX3CL1 expressed on blood endothelial cells leads to infiltration of CX3CR1(+) immune cells, such as mast cells, neutrophils, and macrophages, playing important roles in wound healing, tumor immunity, and vasculitis. Biologics targeting chemokines and their receptors are promising strategies for various skin diseases that are resistant to the current therapy.

Atypical chemokine receptor ACKR2 controls branching morphogenesis in the developing mammary gland

PubMed Central

Hewit, Kay D.; Pallas, Kenneth J.; Cairney, Claire J.; Lee, Kit M.; Hansell, Christopher A.; Stein, Torsten

2017-01-01

Macrophages are important regulators of branching morphogenesis during development and postnatally in the mammary gland. Regulation of macrophage dynamics during these processes can therefore have a profound impact on development. We demonstrate here that the developing mammary gland expresses high levels of inflammatory CC-chemokines, which are essential in vivo regulators of macrophage migration. We further demonstrate that the atypical chemokine receptor ACKR2, which scavenges inflammatory CC-chemokines, is differentially expressed during mammary gland development. We have previously shown that ACKR2 regulates macrophage dynamics during lymphatic vessel development. Here, we extend these observations to reveal a novel role for ACKR2 in regulating the postnatal development of the mammary gland. Specifically, we show that Ackr2−/− mice display precocious mammary gland development. This is associated with increased macrophage recruitment to the developing gland and increased density of the ductal epithelial network. These data demonstrate that ACKR2 is an important regulator of branching morphogenesis in diverse biological contexts and provide the first evidence of a role for chemokines and their receptors in postnatal development processes. PMID:27888192

Up-regulation of brain cytokines and chemokines mediates neurotoxicity in early acute liver failure by a mechanism independent of microglial activation.

PubMed

Faleiros, Bruno E; Miranda, Aline S; Campos, Alline C; Gomides, Lindisley F; Kangussu, Lucas M; Guatimosim, Cristina; Camargos, Elizabeth R S; Menezes, Gustavo B; Rachid, Milene A; Teixeira, Antônio L

2014-08-26

The neurological involvement in acute liver failure (ALF) is characterized by arousal impairment with progression to coma. There is a growing body of evidence that neuroinflammatory mechanisms play a role in this process, including production of inflammatory cytokines and microglial activation. However, it is still uncertain whether brain-derived cytokines and glial cells are crucial to the pathophysiology of ALF at the early stage, before coma development. Here, we investigated the influence of cytokines and microglia in ALF-induced encephalopathy in mice as soon as neurological symptoms were identifiable. Behavior was assessed at 12, 24, 36 and 48 h post-injection of thioacetamide, a hepatotoxic drug, through locomotor activity by an open field test. Brain concentration of cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β) and chemokines (CXCL1, CCL2, CCL3 and CCL5) were assessed by ELISA. Microglial activation in brain sections was investigated through immunohistochemistry, and cellular ultrastructural changes were observed by transmission electron microscopy. We found that ALF-induced animals presented a significant decrease in locomotor activity at 24 h, which was accompanied by an increase in IL-1β, CXCL1, CCL2, CCL3 and CCL5 in the brain. TNF-α level was significantly increased only at 36 h. Despite marked morphological changes in astrocytes and brain endothelial cells, no microglial activation was observed. These findings suggest an involvement of brain-derived chemokines and IL-1β in early pathophysiology of ALF by a mechanism independent of microglial activation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Evidence for chemokine synergy during neutrophil migration in ARDS.

PubMed

Williams, Andrew E; José, Ricardo J; Mercer, Paul F; Brealey, David; Parekh, Dhruv; Thickett, David R; O'Kane, Cecelia; McAuley, Danny F; Chambers, Rachel C

2017-01-01

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening condition characterised by pulmonary oedema, respiratory failure and severe inflammation. ARDS is further characterised by the recruitment of neutrophils into the lung interstitium and alveolar space. The factors that regulate neutrophil infiltration into the inflamed lung and our understanding of the pathomechanisms in ARDS remain incomplete. This study aimed at determining the role of the chemokine (C-C motif) ligand (CCL)2 and CCL7 in ARDS. CCL2 and CCL7 protein levels were measured in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid obtained from lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-challenged human volunteers and two separate cohorts of patients with ARDS. Neutrophil chemotaxis to ARDS BAL fluid was evaluated and the contribution of each was assessed and compared with chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 8 (CXCL8). Chemokine receptor expression on neutrophils from blood or BAL fluid of patients with ARDS was analysed by flow cytometry. CCL2 and CCL7 were significantly elevated in BAL fluid recovered from LPS-challenged volunteers and patients with ARDS. BAL fluid from patients with ARDS was highly chemotactic for human neutrophils and neutralising either CCL2 or CCL7 attenuated the neutrophil chemotactic response. Moreover, CCL2 and CCL7 synergised with CXCL8 to promote neutrophil migration. Furthermore, neutrophils isolated from the blood or BAL fluid differentially regulated the cell surface expression of chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 1 and C-C chemokine receptor type 2 during ARDS. This study highlights important inflammatory chemokines involved in regulating neutrophil migration, which may have potential value as therapeutic targets for the treatment of ARDS. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Hydrocarbon potential of the Early Oligocene Menilite shales in the Eastern Outer Carpathians (Tarcău and Vrancea Nappes, Romania)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wendorff, Małgorzata; Rospondek, Mariusz; Kluska, Bartosz; Marynowski, Leszek

2017-04-01

During Oligocene to early Miocene time an extensive accumulation of organic-rich sedimentary rocks occurred in entire Paratethyan Basin, including its central part, i.e. the Carpathian Foredeep basin. Rocks of so-called Menilite facies formed there, burying significant amounts of organic matter (OM). These Menilite shales are now widely considered as a source of hydrocarbons throughout the Carpathian region. For the purpose of presented study, rock samples of the Menilite facies (mainly of the Lower Menilite and Bituminous Marl Members) were collected from two sections located in the different tectonic units (the Tarcău and Vrancea Nappes, Romania) of the Outer Carpathians. The main goal of the study was to assess and compare their hydrocarbon potential by examination of bulk geochemistry (total organic carbon content, pyrolysis Rock-Eval), vitrinite reflectance (Ro) and application of lipid biomarker parameters. The data show high variability in OM quantity and quality. Total organic carbon (TOC) content reaches peak values in the siliceous facies of the Lower Menilite Member (up to 8.6 wt% TOC), which contains type II kerogen represented by mainly marine OM type. Such results are confirmed by the presence of short-chain n-alkanes and hopanes. Mixed type II/III kerogen gains importance together with increasing contribution of turbiditic sedimentation. Terrigenous input is marked by occurrence of conifer aromatic biomarkers (such as simonellite, retene and 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroretene) and odd over even long chain n-alkanes predominance, characteristic for epicuticular leaf waxes. The analysed source rocks can be classified as oil-prone and subordinately mixed oil/gas-prone. OM in the inner tectonic unit (Tarcău Nappe; Tmax 430° C, Ro 0.5%) reaches onset of hydrocarbon generation, while in the outer unit (Vrancea Nappe) OM is immature (Tmax 425° C, Ro 0.4%). This maturity trend may be an effect of different burial histories of these units, as well as variation in

Mapping Interaction Sites on Human Chemokine Receptors by Deep Mutational Scanning.

PubMed

Heredia, Jeremiah D; Park, Jihye; Brubaker, Riley J; Szymanski, Steven K; Gill, Kevin S; Procko, Erik

2018-06-01

Chemokine receptors CXCR4 and CCR5 regulate WBC trafficking and are engaged by the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein gp120 during infection. We combine a selection of human CXCR4 and CCR5 libraries comprising nearly all of ∼7000 single amino acid substitutions with deep sequencing to define sequence-activity landscapes for surface expression and ligand interactions. After consideration of sequence constraints for surface expression, known interaction sites with HIV-1-blocking Abs were appropriately identified as conserved residues following library sorting for Ab binding, validating the use of deep mutational scanning to map functional interaction sites in G protein-coupled receptors. Chemokine CXCL12 was found to interact with residues extending asymmetrically into the CXCR4 ligand-binding cavity, similar to the binding surface of CXCR4 recognized by an antagonistic viral chemokine previously observed crystallographically. CXCR4 mutations distal from the chemokine binding site were identified that enhance chemokine recognition. This included disruptive mutations in the G protein-coupling site that diminished calcium mobilization, as well as conservative mutations to a membrane-exposed site (CXCR4 residues H79 2.45 and W161 4.50 ) that increased ligand binding without loss of signaling. Compared with CXCR4-CXCL12 interactions, CCR5 residues conserved for gp120 (HIV-1 BaL strain) interactions map to a more expansive surface, mimicking how the cognate chemokine CCL5 makes contacts across the entire CCR5 binding cavity. Acidic substitutions in the CCR5 N terminus and extracellular loops enhanced gp120 binding. This study demonstrates how comprehensive mutational scanning can define functional interaction sites on receptors, and novel mutations that enhance receptor activities can be found simultaneously. Copyright © 2018 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.

Hydrogen water ameliorates the severity of atopic dermatitis-like lesions and decreases interleukin-1β, interleukin-33, and mast cell infiltration in NC/Nga mice.

PubMed

Kajisa, Takuya; Yamaguchi, Takuji; Hu, Ailing; Suetake, Nobuhiro; Kobayashi, Hiroyuki

2017-09-01

To examine the effect of hydrogen water (HW) on the severity of atopic dermatitis (AD) and elucidate the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. For this experimental study between March 2015 and December 2015, NC/Nga mice characterized by mild AD severity were given either HW (n=11) or purified water (PW) (n=9) ad libitum; specific-pathogen-free mice (n=9) were used as AD-free control. Atopic dermatitis severity score and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) were examined at baseline (0 week), and after 4 weeks of HW/PW treatment. Levels of serum thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC) and cytokines in the AD lesion were measured by ELISA; and mRNA expression of TARC  and aquaporin (AQP-3) genes in the skin was examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: Mice treated with HW for 4 weeks demonstrated a significant decrease in the AD severity score compared with PW-treated mice (p less than 0.01). Hydrogen water administration also significantly reduced TEWL and serum TARC levels (p less than 0.01), infiltration of mast cells (p less than 0.05), and secretion of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-33 (p less than 0.05) in skin lesions compared with PW. However, no difference was observed between PW and HW groups in interferon-γ secretion and expression of AQP-3 and TARC genes. Conclusion: Hydrogen water suppressed inflammation in AD mice, leading to amelioration of disease severity, which suggests the therapeutic potential of HW in AD treatment.

Platelet chemokines in vascular disease

PubMed Central

Gleissner, Christian A.; von Hundelshausen, Philipp; Ley, Klaus

2009-01-01

Platelets are a rich source of different chemokines and express chemokine receptors. CXCL4 is highly abundant in platelets and involved in promoting monocyte arrest from rolling and monocyte differentiation to macrophages. CXCL4 can also associate with CCL5 and amplify its effect on monocytes. The megakaryocyte CXCL7 gene product is proteolytically cleaved into the strong neutrophil chemoattractant, NAP-2, which has also been implicated in repair cell homing to vascular lesions. Platelet adhesion can induce release of CCL2 and CXCL8 from endothelial cells. Conversely, the chemokines CCL17, CCL22 and CXCL12 made by other cells amplify platelet activation. Platelet chemokines enhance recruitment of various hematopoietic cells to the vascular wall, fostering processes such as neointima formation, atherosclerosis, and thrombosis but also vessel repair and regeneration after vascular injury. PMID:18723831

A Central Role for Heme Oxygenase-1 in the Control of Intestinal Epithelial Chemokine Expression.

PubMed

Onyiah, Joseph C; Schaefer, Rachel E M; Colgan, Sean P

2018-05-23

In mucosal inflammatory disorders, the protective influence of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and its metabolic byproducts, carbon monoxide (CO) and biliverdin, is a topic of significant interest. Mechanisms under investigation include the regulation of macrophage function and mucosal cytokine expression. While there is an increasing recognition of the importance of epithelial-derived factors in the maintenance of intestinal mucosal homeostasis, the contribution of intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) HO-1 on inflammatory responses has not previously been investigated. We examined the influence of modulating HO-1 expression on the inflammatory response of human IECs. Engineered deficiency of HO-1 in Caco-2 and T84 IECs led to increased proinflammatory chemokine expression in response to pathogenic bacteria and inflammatory cytokine stimulation. Crosstalk with activated leukocytes also led to increased chemokine expression in HO-1-deficient cells in an IL-1β dependent manner. Treatment of Caco-2 cells with a pharmacological inducer of HO-1 led to the inhibition of chemokine expression. Mechanistic studies suggest that HO-1 and HO-1-related transcription factors, but not HO-1 metabolic products, are partly responsible for the influence of HO-1 on chemokine expression. In conclusion, our data identify HO-1 as a central regulator of IEC chemokine expression that may contribute to homeo-stasis in the intestinal mucosa. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Profiling Heparin-Chemokine Interactions Using Synthetic Tools

PubMed Central

de Paz, Jose L.; Moseman, E. Ashley; Noti, Christian; Polito, Laura; von Andrian, Ulrich H.; Seeberger, Peter H.

2009-01-01

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), such as heparin or heparan sulfate, are required for the in vivo function of chemokines. Chemokines play a crucial role in the recruitment of leukocyte subsets to sites of inflammation and lymphocytes trafficking. GAG-chemokine interactions mediate cell migration and determine which leukocyte subsets enter tissues. Identifying the exact GAC sequences that bind to particular chemokines is key to understand chemokine function at the molecular level and develop strategies to interfere with chemokine-mediated processes. Here, we characterize the heparin binding profiles of eight chemokines (CCL21, IL-8, CXCL12, CXCL13, CCL19, CCL25, CCL28, and CXCL16) by employing heparin microarrays containing a small library of synthetic heparin oligosaccharides. The chemokines differ significantly in their interactions with heparin oligosaccharides: While some chemokines, (e.g., CCL21) strongly bind to a hexasaccharide containing the GlcNSO3(6-OSO3)-IdoA(2-OSO3) repeating unit, CCL19 does not bind and CXCL12 binds only weakly. The carbohydrate microarray binding results were validated by surface plasmon resonance experiments. In vitro chemotaxis assays revealed that dendrimers coated with the fully sulfated heparin hexasaccharide inhibit lymphocyte migration toward CCL21. Migration toward CXCL12 or CCL19 was not affected. These in vitro homing assays indicate that multivalent synthetic heparin dendrimers inhibit the migration of lymphocytes toward certain chemokine gradients by blocking the formation of a chemokine concentration gradient on GAG endothelial chains. These findings are in agreement with preliminary in vivo measurements of circulating lymphocytes. The results presented here contribute to the understanding of GAG-chemokine interactions, a first step toward the design of novel drugs that modulate chemokine activity. PMID:18030990

Chemokine receptors CXCR2 and CX3CR1 differentially regulate functional responses of bone-marrow endothelial progenitors during atherosclerotic plaque regression

PubMed Central

Herlea-Pana, Oana; Yao, Longbiao; Heuser-Baker, Janet; Wang, Qiongxin; Wang, Qilong; Georgescu, Constantin; Zou, Ming-Hui; Barlic-Dicen, Jana

2015-01-01

Aims Atherosclerosis manifests itself as arterial plaques, which lead to heart attacks or stroke. Treatments supporting plaque regression are therefore aggressively pursued. Studies conducted in models in which hypercholesterolaemia is reversible, such as the Reversa mouse model we have employed in the current studies, will be instrumental for the development of such interventions. Using this model, we have shown that advanced atherosclerosis regression occurs when lipid lowering is used in combination with bone-marrow endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) treatment. However, it remains unclear how EPCs home to regressing plaques and how they augment atherosclerosis reversal. Here we identify molecules that support functional responses of EPCs during plaque resolution. Methods and results Chemokines CXCL1 and CX3CL1 were detected in the vascular wall of atheroregressing Reversa mice, and their cognate receptors CXCR2 and CX3CR1 were observed on adoptively transferred EPCs in circulation. We tested whether CXCL1–CXCR2 and CX3CL1–CX3CR1 axes regulate functional responses of EPCs during plaque reversal. We show that pharmacological inhibition of CXCR2 or CX3CR1, or genetic inactivation of these two chemokine receptors interfered with EPC-mediated advanced atherosclerosis regression. We also demonstrate that CXCR2 directs EPCs to regressing plaques while CX3CR1 controls a paracrine function(s) of these cells. Conclusion CXCR2 and CX3CR1 differentially regulate EPC functional responses during atheroregression. Our study improves understanding of how chemokines and chemokine receptors regulate plaque resolution, which could determine the effectiveness of interventions reducing complications of atherosclerosis. PMID:25765938

I-309/T cell activation gene-3 chemokine protects murine T cell lymphomas against dexamethasone-induced apoptosis.

PubMed

Van Snick, J; Houssiau, F; Proost, P; Van Damme, J; Renauld, J C

1996-09-15

We have previously reported that cytokines such as IL-9, IL-4, and IL-6 protect murine thymic lymphoma cell lines against dexamethasone-induced apoptosis. A similar activity, which could not be ascribed to any of these factors, was found in a number of human T cell supernatants that enabled mouse BW5147 thymic lymphoma not only to escape apoptosis but also to maintain proliferation. The protein responsible for this activity was purified to homogeneity from the culture medium of activated leukemic T cells and was found to be identical with the I-309 chemokine. Half-maximal anti-apoptotic activity was obtained with approximately 1 ng/ml, a concentration considerably lower than that required for the monocyte chemotactic activity of this molecule, as measured on THP-1 cells. The purified I-309 also improved the survival of two other mouse thymic lymphoma cell lines. This activity was as potent as that of IL-9, which was the strongest anti-apoptotic factor found to date for these cells. Similar results were obtained for BW5147 cells with recombinant I-309 and with T cell activation gene-3, the murine homologue of I-309, but not with other members of the chemokine family, including IL-8, neutrophil-activating peptide-2, granulocyte chemotactic protein-2, macrophage inflammatory protein-1a, RANTES (regulated upon activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), and MCP-2. MCP-3, however, showed a minor, but significant effect in this model. Unlike that of IL-9, the activity of I-309 was completely inhibited in the presence of pertussis toxin, indicating the involvement of a G protein in this process.

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists modulate neuropathic pain: a link to chemokines?

PubMed Central

Freitag, Caroline M.; Miller, Richard J.

2014-01-01

Chronic pain presents a widespread and intractable medical problem. While numerous pharmaceuticals are used to treat chronic pain, drugs that are safe for extended use and highly effective at treating the most severe pain do not yet exist. Chronic pain resulting from nervous system injury (neuropathic pain) is common in conditions ranging from multiple sclerosis to HIV-1 infection to type II diabetes. Inflammation caused by neuropathy is believed to contribute to the generation and maintenance of neuropathic pain. Chemokines are key inflammatory mediators, several of which (MCP-1, RANTES, MIP-1α, fractalkine, SDF-1 among others) have been linked to chronic, neuropathic pain in both human conditions and animal models. The important roles chemokines play in inflammation and pain make them an attractive therapeutic target. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are a family of nuclear receptors known for their roles in metabolism. Recent research has revealed that PPARs also play a role in inflammatory gene repression. PPAR agonists have wide-ranging effects including inhibition of chemokine expression and pain behavior reduction in animal models. Experimental evidence suggests a connection between the pain ameliorating effects of PPAR agonists and suppression of inflammatory gene expression, including chemokines. In early clinical research, one PPARα agonist, palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), shows promise in relieving chronic pain. If this link can be better established, PPAR agonists may represent a new drug therapy for neuropathic pain. PMID:25191225

The prevention of TNF-α/IFN-γ mixture-induced inflammation in human keratinocyte and atopic dermatitis-like skin lesions in Nc/Nga mice by mineral-balanced deep sea water.

PubMed

Lee, Kyu-Shik; Chun, So-Young; Lee, Min-Gu; Kim, Soyoung; Jang, Tae-Jung; Nam, Kyung-Soo

2018-01-01

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease caused by environmental and chemical allergens. Despite the complexity of its pathogenesis, many investigations have shown that substances having anti-inflammatory activities alleviated the pathology of AD. Here, we evaluated the effects of mineral-balanced deep sea water (DSW) on AD-like skin damage in both in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that mineral-balanced DSW regressed inflammatory chemokines, such as macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC), thymus- and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC) and regulated on activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), and cytokines, interleukin (IL)-6 and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) mRNA expression in HaCaT immortal human keratinocyte treated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α/ interferon (IFN)-γ mixture. Furthermore, increased cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 protein expressions were also reversed, filaggrin gene expression was enhanced and decreased involucrin transcriptions was recovered by mineral-balanced DSW in TNF-α/IFN-γ mixture-treated HaCaT human keratinocyte. Moreover, we revealed that the inhibitory effects of mineral-balanced DSW were mediated with the suppression of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 1 phosphorylation. In animal experiments, we showed that hardness 2000 of mineral-balanced DSW decreased the serum levels of IgE, IL-4, and histamine, and alleviated the severity score and numbers of scratching in dinitrochlorobezene (DNCB)-treated Nc/Nga mice. Furthermore, increased epidermal thickness and mast cell infiltration by DNCB treatment were reversed by the application of hardness 2000 mineral-balanced DSW. Taken together, the present investigation indicates that mineral-balanced DSW is a potent substance with anti-atopic dermatitis activity. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

Citrullinated Chemokines in Rheumatoid Arthritis

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

1 AWARD NUMBER: W81XWH-13-1-0210 TITLE: Citrullinated Chemokines in Rheumatoid Arthritis PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: David A. Fox CONTRACTING...CONTRACT NUMBER Citrullinated Chemokines in Rheumatoid Arthritis 5b. GRANT NUMBER W81XWH-13-1-0210 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S) David A. Fox...citrulline, which contributes to the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We show that citrullinated epithelial- derived neutrophil-activating peptide 78

Chemokine receptors CXCR2 and CX3CR1 differentially regulate functional responses of bone-marrow endothelial progenitors during atherosclerotic plaque regression.

PubMed

Herlea-Pana, Oana; Yao, Longbiao; Heuser-Baker, Janet; Wang, Qiongxin; Wang, Qilong; Georgescu, Constantin; Zou, Ming-Hui; Barlic-Dicen, Jana

2015-05-01

Atherosclerosis manifests itself as arterial plaques, which lead to heart attacks or stroke. Treatments supporting plaque regression are therefore aggressively pursued. Studies conducted in models in which hypercholesterolaemia is reversible, such as the Reversa mouse model we have employed in the current studies, will be instrumental for the development of such interventions. Using this model, we have shown that advanced atherosclerosis regression occurs when lipid lowering is used in combination with bone-marrow endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) treatment. However, it remains unclear how EPCs home to regressing plaques and how they augment atherosclerosis reversal. Here we identify molecules that support functional responses of EPCs during plaque resolution. Chemokines CXCL1 and CX3CL1 were detected in the vascular wall of atheroregressing Reversa mice, and their cognate receptors CXCR2 and CX3CR1 were observed on adoptively transferred EPCs in circulation. We tested whether CXCL1-CXCR2 and CX3CL1-CX3CR1 axes regulate functional responses of EPCs during plaque reversal. We show that pharmacological inhibition of CXCR2 or CX3CR1, or genetic inactivation of these two chemokine receptors interfered with EPC-mediated advanced atherosclerosis regression. We also demonstrate that CXCR2 directs EPCs to regressing plaques while CX3CR1 controls a paracrine function(s) of these cells. CXCR2 and CX3CR1 differentially regulate EPC functional responses during atheroregression. Our study improves understanding of how chemokines and chemokine receptors regulate plaque resolution, which could determine the effectiveness of interventions reducing complications of atherosclerosis. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2015. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

International Union of Pharmacology. LXXXIX. Update on the Extended Family of Chemokine Receptors and Introducing a New Nomenclature for Atypical Chemokine Receptors

PubMed Central

Bachelerie, Francoise; Ben-Baruch, Adit; Burkhardt, Amanda M.; Combadiere, Christophe; Farber, Joshua M.; Graham, Gerard J.; Horuk, Richard; Sparre-Ulrich, Alexander Hovard; Locati, Massimo; Luster, Andrew D.; Mantovani, Alberto; Matsushima, Kouji; Nibbs, Robert; Nomiyama, Hisayuki; Power, Christine A.; Proudfoot, Amanda E. I.; Rosenkilde, Mette M.; Rot, Antal; Sozzani, Silvano; Thelen, Marcus; Yoshie, Osamu; Zlotnik, Albert

2014-01-01

Sixteen years ago, the Nomenclature Committee of the International Union of Pharmacology approved a system for naming human seven-transmembrane (7TM) G protein-coupled chemokine receptors, the large family of leukocyte chemoattractant receptors that regulates immune system development and function, in large part by mediating leukocyte trafficking. This was announced in Pharmacological Reviews in a major overview of the first decade of research in this field [Murphy PM, Baggiolini M, Charo IF, Hébert CA, Horuk R, Matsushima K, Miller LH, Oppenheim JJ, and Power CA (2000) Pharmacol Rev 52:145–176]. Since then, several new receptors have been discovered, and major advances have been made for the others in many areas, including structural biology, signal transduction mechanisms, biology, and pharmacology. New and diverse roles have been identified in infection, immunity, inflammation, development, cancer, and other areas. The first two drugs acting at chemokine receptors have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), maraviroc targeting CCR5 in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/AIDS, and plerixafor targeting CXCR4 for stem cell mobilization for transplantation in cancer, and other candidates are now undergoing pivotal clinical trials for diverse disease indications. In addition, a subfamily of atypical chemokine receptors has emerged that may signal through arrestins instead of G proteins to act as chemokine scavengers, and many microbial and invertebrate G protein-coupled chemokine receptors and soluble chemokine-binding proteins have been described. Here, we review this extended family of chemokine receptors and chemokine-binding proteins at the basic, translational, and clinical levels, including an update on drug development. We also introduce a new nomenclature for atypical chemokine receptors with the stem ACKR (atypical chemokine receptor) approved by the Nomenclature Committee of the International Union of Pharmacology and the Human

Hypereosinophilia with abnormal T cells, trisomy 7 and elevated TARC serum level.

PubMed

Roumier, A S; Grardel, N; Laï, J L; Becqueriaux, I; Ghomari, K; de Lavareille, A; Roufosse, F; Prin, L; Capron, M

2003-07-01

The idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) is a rare heterogeneous disorder, characterized by persistent blood eosinophilia with possible organ involvement. We describe here the case of a 20-year-old atopic male presenting chronic hypereosinophilia and eczema since childhood. Biological findings included hypereosinophilia (9.5 x 10(9)/L), hyperlymphocytosis (10.9 x 10(9)/L), polyclonal hypergammaglobulinemia and elevated IgE serum level. Flow cytometric analysis of blood lymphoid cells showed a population of CD2+CD3-CD4+TCRab-TCRgd- lymphocytes. These cells displayed a Th0/Th2 cytokine profile, and a clonal TCR rearrangement pattern. A high serum TARC level was observed. Karyotype studies on blood stimulated culture or lymph nodes revealed a cellular hyperdiploïd clone 47, XY, +7. To our knowledge, this chromosomal aberration has never been reported in such case.

Dual-Color Luciferase Complementation for Chemokine Receptor Signaling.

PubMed

Luker, Kathryn E; Luker, Gary D

2016-01-01

Chemokine receptors may share common ligands, setting up potential competition for ligand binding, and association of activated receptors with downstream signaling molecules such as β-arrestin. Determining the "winner" of competition for shared effector molecules is essential for understanding integrated functions of chemokine receptor signaling in normal physiology, disease, and response to therapy. We describe a dual-color click beetle luciferase complementation assay for cell-based analysis of interactions of two different chemokine receptors, CXCR4 and ACKR3, with the intracellular scaffolding protein β-arrestin 2. This assay provides real-time quantification of receptor activation and signaling in response to chemokine CXCL12. More broadly, this general imaging strategy can be applied to quantify interactions of any set of two proteins that interact with a common binding partner. © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of interleukin-8 and RANTES on the Gardos channel activity in sickle human red blood cells: role of the Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines.

PubMed

Durpès, Marie-Claude; Nebor, Danitza; du Mesnil, Pierre Couespel; Mougenel, Danièle; Decastel, Monique; Elion, Jacques; Hardy-Dessources, Marie-Dominique

2010-04-15

We investigated the effects of the chemokines IL-8 and RANTES on the activity of the Gardos channel (GC) of sickle red blood cells (SSRBCs). SSRBCs expressing the Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines (DARC) incubated under oxygenated conditions exhibit GC activation. The deoxygenation-stimulated K(+) loss via the GC is activated by the chemokines in the Duffy-positive SSRBCs. The percentage of cells with high density is 17 times higher in the Duffy-positive group. These findings are consistent with a greater susceptibility of Duffy-positive SSRBCs to inflammatory chemokines leading to GC activation and cellular dehydration and suggest a coupling, promoted by the sickling process, between DARC and the GC.

Chemokines in the cancer microenvironment and their relevance in cancer immunotherapy

PubMed Central

Nagarsheth, Nisha; Wicha, Max S.; Zou, Weiping

2017-01-01

The tumour microenvironment is the primary location in which tumour cells and the host immune system interact. Different immune cell subsets are recruited into the tumour microenvironment via interactions between chemokines and chemokine receptors, and these populations have distinct effects on tumour progression and therapeutic outcomes. In this Review, we focus on the main chemokines that are found in the human tumour microenvironment; we elaborate on their patterns of expression, their regulation and their roles in immune cell recruitment and in cancer and stromal cell biology, and we consider how they affect cancer immunity and tumorigenesis. We also discuss the potential of targeting chemokine networks, in combination with other immunotherapies, for the treatment of cancer. PMID:28555670

Heme oxygenase-1 induction alters chemokine regulation and ameliorates human immunodeficiency virus-type-1 infection in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhou, Zhao-Hua; Kumari, Namita; Nekhai, Sergei

2013-06-07

Highlights: •Lipopolysaccharide stimulation of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) ameliorated HIV-1 infection of primary human macrophages. •The partial protection by HO-1 against HIV infection was associated with induction of chemokines such as MIP1α and MIP1β. •This mechanism explains lipopolysaccharide-stimulated HO-1-mediated inhibition of HIV-1 infection of macrophages. -- Abstract: We have elucidated a putative mechanism for the host resistance against HIV-1 infection of primary human monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We show that LPS-activated MDM both inhibited HIV-1 entry into the cells and were refractory to post-entry productive viral replication. LPS-treated cells were virtually negative for mature virions as revealed bymore » transmission electron microscopy. LPS activation of MDM markedly enhanced the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), a potent inducible cytoprotective enzyme. Increased HO-1 expression was accompanied by elevated production of macrophage inflammatory chemokines (MIP1α and MIP1β) by LPS-activated MDM, significantly decreased surface chemokine receptor-5 (CCR-5) expression, and substantially reduced virus replication. Treatment of cells with HO-1 inhibitor SnPP IX (tin protoporphyrin IX) attenuated the LPS-mediated responses, HIV-1 replication and secretion of MIP1α, MIP1β, and LD78β chemokines with little change in surface CCR-5 expression. These results identify a novel role for HO-1 in the modulation of host immune response against HIV infection of MDM.« less

Transforming growth factor-β stimulates the expression of eotaxin/CC chemokine ligand 11 and its promoter activity through binding site for nuclear factor-κB in airway smooth muscle cells

PubMed Central

Matsukura, S.; Odaka, M.; Kurokawa, M.; Kuga, H.; Homma, T.; Takeuchi, H.; Notomi, K.; Kokubu, F.; Kawaguchi, M.; Schleimer, R. P.; Johnson, M. W.; Adachi, M.

2013-01-01

Summary Background Chemokines ligands of CCR3 including eotaxin/CC chemokine ligand 11 (CCL11) may contribute to the pathogenesis of asthma. These chemokines and a growth factor (TGF-β) may be involved in the process of airway remodelling. Objective We analysed the effects of TGF-β on the expression of CCR3 ligands in human airway smooth muscle (HASM) cells and investigated the mechanisms. Methods HASM cells were cultured and treated with TGF-β and Th2 cytokines IL-4 or IL-13. Expression of mRNA was analysed by real-time PCR. Secretion of CCL11 into the culture medium was analysed by ELISA. Transcriptional regulation of CCL11 was analysed by luciferase assay using CCL11 promoter-luciferase reporter plasmids. Results IL-4 or IL-13 significantly up-regulated the expression of mRNAs for CCL11 and CCL26. TGF-β alone did not increase the expression of chemokine mRNAs, but enhanced the induction of only CCL11 by IL-4 or IL-13 among CCR3 ligands. Activity of the CCL11 promoter was stimulated by IL-4, and this activity was enhanced by TGF-β. Activation by IL-4 or IL-4 plus TGF-β was lost by mutation of the binding site for signal transducers and activators of transcription-6 (STAT6) in the promoter. Cooperative activation by IL-4 and TGF-β was inhibited by mutation of the binding site for nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in the promoter. Pretreatment with an inhibitor of NF-κB and glucocorticoid fluticasone propionate significantly inhibited the expression of CCL11 mRNA induced by IL-4 plus TGF-β, indicating the importance of NF-κB in the cooperative activation of CCL11 transcription by TGF-β and IL-4. Conclusion These results indicate that Th2 cytokines and TGF-β may contribute to the pathogenesis of asthma by stimulating expression of CCL11. The transcription factors STAT6 and NF-κB may play pivotal roles in this process. PMID:20214667

Transforming growth factor-β stimulates the expression of eotaxin/CC chemokine ligand 11 and its promoter activity through binding site for nuclear factor-κβ in airway smooth muscle cells.

PubMed

Matsukura, S; Odaka, M; Kurokawa, M; Kuga, H; Homma, T; Takeuchi, H; Notomi, K; Kokubu, F; Kawaguchi, M; Schleimer, R P; Johnson, M W; Adachi, M

2010-05-01

Chemokines ligands of CCR3 including eotaxin/CC chemokine ligand 11 (CCL11) may contribute to the pathogenesis of asthma. These chemokines and a growth factor (TGF-beta) may be involved in the process of airway remodelling. We analysed the effects of TGF-beta on the expression of CCR3 ligands in human airway smooth muscle (HASM) cells and investigated the mechanisms. HASM cells were cultured and treated with TGF-beta and Th2 cytokines IL-4 or IL-13. Expression of mRNA was analysed by real-time PCR. Secretion of CCL11 into the culture medium was analysed by ELISA. Transcriptional regulation of CCL11 was analysed by luciferase assay using CCL11 promoter-luciferase reporter plasmids. IL-4 or IL-13 significantly up-regulated the expression of mRNAs for CCL11 and CCL26. TGF-beta alone did not increase the expression of chemokine mRNAs, but enhanced the induction of only CCL11 by IL-4 or IL-13 among CCR3 ligands. Activity of the CCL11 promoter was stimulated by IL-4, and this activity was enhanced by TGF-beta. Activation by IL-4 or IL-4 plus TGF-beta was lost by mutation of the binding site for signal transducers and activators of transcription-6 (STAT6) in the promoter. Cooperative activation by IL-4 and TGF-beta was inhibited by mutation of the binding site for nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) in the promoter. Pretreatment with an inhibitor of NF-kappaB and glucocorticoid fluticasone propionate significantly inhibited the expression of CCL11 mRNA induced by IL-4 plus TGF-beta, indicating the importance of NF-kappaB in the cooperative activation of CCL11 transcription by TGF-beta and IL-4. These results indicate that Th2 cytokines and TGF-beta may contribute to the pathogenesis of asthma by stimulating expression of CCL11. The transcription factors STAT6 and NF-kappaB may play pivotal roles in this process.

Chemokines, costimulatory molecules and fusion proteins for the immunotherapy of solid tumors.

PubMed

Lechner, Melissa G; Russell, Sarah M; Bass, Rikki S; Epstein, Alan L

2011-11-01

In this article, the role of chemokines and costimulatory molecules in the immunotherapy of experimental murine solid tumors and immunotherapy used in ongoing clinical trials are presented. Chemokine networks regulate physiologic cell migration that may be disrupted to inhibit antitumor immune responses or co-opted to promote tumor growth and metastasis in cancer. Recent studies highlight the potential use of chemokines in cancer immunotherapy to improve innate and adaptive cell interactions and to recruit immune effector cells into the tumor microenvironment. Another critical component of antitumor immune responses is antigen priming and activation of effector cells. Reciprocal expression and binding of costimulatory molecules and their ligands by antigen-presenting cells and naive lymphocytes ensures robust expansion, activity and survival of tumor-specific effector cells in vivo. Immunotherapy approaches using agonist antibodies or fusion proteins of immunomodulatory molecules significantly inhibit tumor growth and boost cell-mediated immunity. To localize immune stimulation to the tumor site, a series of fusion proteins consisting of a tumor-targeting monoclonal antibody directed against tumor necrosis and chemokines or costimulatory molecules were generated and tested in tumor-bearing mice. While several of these reagents were initially shown to have therapeutic value, combination therapies with methods to delete suppressor cells had the greatest effect on tumor growth. In conclusion, a key conclusion that has emerged from these studies is that successful immunotherapy will require both advanced methods of immunostimulation and the removal of immunosuppression in the host.

Chemokines, costimulatory molecules and fusion proteins for the immunotherapy of solid tumors

PubMed Central

Lechner, Melissa G; Russell, Sarah M; Bass, Rikki S; Epstein, Alan L

2011-01-01

In this article, the role of chemokines and costimulatory molecules in the immunotherapy of experimental murine solid tumors and immunotherapy used in ongoing clinical trials are presented. Chemokine networks regulate physiologic cell migration that may be disrupted to inhibit antitumor immune responses or coopted to promote tumor growth and metastasis in cancer. Recent studies highlight the potential use of chemokines in cancer immunotherapy to improve innate and adaptive cell interactions and to recruit immune effector cells into the tumor microenvironment. Another critical component of antitumor immune responses is antigen priming and activation of effector cells. Reciprocal expression and binding of costimulatory molecules and their ligands by antigen-presenting cells and naive lymphocytes ensures robust expansion, activity and survival of tumor-specific effector cells in vivo. Immunotherapy approaches using agonist antibodies or fusion proteins of immunomodulatory molecules significantly inhibit tumor growth and boost cell-mediated immunity. To localize immune stimulation to the tumor site, a series of fusion proteins consisting of a tumor-targeting monoclonal antibody directed against tumor necrosis and chemokines or costimulatory molecules were generated and tested in tumor-bearing mice. While several of these reagents were initially shown to have therapeutic value, combination therapies with methods to delete suppressor cells had the greatest effect on tumor growth. In conclusion, a key conclusion that has emerged from these studies is that successful immunotherapy will require both advanced methods of immunostimulation and the removal of immunosuppression in the host. PMID:22053884

The Chemokine Receptor CCR1 Is Constitutively Active, Which Leads to G Protein-independent, β-Arrestin-mediated Internalization*

PubMed Central

Gilliland, C. Taylor; Salanga, Catherina L.; Kawamura, Tetsuya; Trejo, JoAnn; Handel, Tracy M.

2013-01-01

Activation of G protein-coupled receptors by their associated ligands has been extensively studied, and increasing structural information about the molecular mechanisms underlying ligand-dependent receptor activation is beginning to emerge with the recent expansion in GPCR crystal structures. However, some GPCRs are also able to adopt active conformations in the absence of agonist binding that result in the initiation of signal transduction and receptor down-modulation. In this report, we show that the CC-type chemokine receptor 1 (CCR1) exhibits significant constitutive activity leading to a variety of cellular responses. CCR1 expression is sufficient to induce inhibition of cAMP formation, increased F-actin content, and basal migration of human and murine leukocytes. The constitutive activity leads to basal phosphorylation of the receptor, recruitment of β-arrestin-2, and subsequent receptor internalization. CCR1 concurrently engages Gαi and β-arrestin-2 in a multiprotein complex, which may be accommodated by homo-oligomerization or receptor clustering. The data suggest the presence of two functional states for CCR1; whereas receptor coupled to Gαi functions as a canonical GPCR, albeit with high constitutive activity, the CCR1·β-arrestin-2 complex is required for G protein-independent constitutive receptor internalization. The pertussis toxin-insensitive uptake of chemokine by the receptor suggests that the CCR1·β-arrestin-2 complex may be related to a potential scavenging function of the receptor, which may be important for maintenance of chemokine gradients and receptor responsiveness in complex fields of chemokines during inflammation. PMID:24056371

Suppressor of cytokine signalling (SOCS) 1 and 3 enhance cell adhesion and inhibit migration towards the chemokine eotaxin/CCL11.

PubMed

Stevenson, Nigel J; McFarlane, Cheryl; Ong, Seow Theng; Nahlik, Krystyna; Kelvin, Alyson; Addley, Mark R; Long, Aideen; Greaves, David R; O'Farrelly, Cliona; Johnston, James A

2010-11-05

Suppressors of cytokine signalling (SOCS) proteins regulate signal transduction, but their role in responses to chemokines remains poorly understood. We report that cells expressing SOCS1 and 3 exhibit enhanced adhesion and reduced migration towards the chemokine CCL11. Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and the GTPase RhoA, control cell adhesion and migration and we show the presence of SOCS1 or 3 regulates expression and tyrosine phosphorylation of FAK, while also enhancing activation of RhoA. Our novel findings suggest that SOCS1 and 3 may control chemotaxis and adhesion by significantly enhancing both FAK and RhoA activity, thus localizing immune cells to the site of allergic inflammation. Copyright © 2010 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor {alpha} agonists modulate Th1 and Th2 chemokine secretion in normal thyrocytes and Graves' disease

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Antonelli, Alessandro, E-mail: a.antonelli@med.unipi.it; Ferrari, Silvia Martina, E-mail: sm.ferrari@int.med.unipi.it; Frascerra, Silvia, E-mail: lafrasce@gmail.com

2011-07-01

Until now, no data are present about the effect of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR){alpha} activation on the prototype Th1 [chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand (CXCL)10] (CXCL10) and Th2 [chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2] (CCL2) chemokines secretion in thyroid cells. The role of PPAR{alpha} and PPAR{gamma} activation on CXCL10 and CCL2 secretion was tested in Graves' disease (GD) and control primary thyrocytes stimulated with interferon (IFN){gamma} and tumor necrosis factor (TNF){alpha}. IFN{gamma} stimulated both CXCL10 and CCL2 secretion in primary GD and control thyrocytes. TNF{alpha} alone stimulated CCL2 secretion, while had no effect on CXCL10. The combination of IFN{gamma} and TNF{alpha} hadmore » a synergistic effect both on CXCL10 and CCL2 chemokines in GD thyrocytes at levels comparable to those of controls. PPAR{alpha} activators inhibited the secretion of both chemokines (stimulated with IFN{gamma} and TNF{alpha}) at a level higher (for CXCL10, about 60-72%) than PPAR{gamma} agonists (about 25-35%), which were confirmed to inhibit CXCL10, but not CCL2. Our data show that CCL2 is modulated by IFN{gamma} and TNF{alpha} in GD and normal thyrocytes. Furthermore we first show that PPAR{alpha} activators inhibit the secretion of CXCL10 and CCL2 in thyrocytes, suggesting that PPAR{alpha} may be involved in the modulation of the immune response in the thyroid.« less

Chemokine interactome mapping enables tailored intervention in acute and chronic inflammation.

PubMed

von Hundelshausen, Philipp; Agten, Stijn M; Eckardt, Veit; Blanchet, Xavier; Schmitt, Martin M; Ippel, Hans; Neideck, Carlos; Bidzhekov, Kiril; Leberzammer, Julian; Wichapong, Kanin; Faussner, Alexander; Drechsler, Maik; Grommes, Jochen; van Geffen, Johanna P; Li, He; Ortega-Gomez, Almudena; Megens, Remco T A; Naumann, Ronald; Dijkgraaf, Ingrid; Nicolaes, Gerry A F; Döring, Yvonne; Soehnlein, Oliver; Lutgens, Esther; Heemskerk, Johan W M; Koenen, Rory R; Mayo, Kevin H; Hackeng, Tilman M; Weber, Christian

2017-04-05

Chemokines orchestrate leukocyte trafficking and function in health and disease. Heterophilic interactions between chemokines in a given microenvironment may amplify, inhibit, or modulate their activity; however, a systematic evaluation of the chemokine interactome has not been performed. We used immunoligand blotting and surface plasmon resonance to obtain a comprehensive map of chemokine-chemokine interactions and to confirm their specificity. Structure-function analyses revealed that chemokine activity can be enhanced by CC-type heterodimers but inhibited by CXC-type heterodimers. Functional synergism was achieved through receptor heteromerization induced by CCL5-CCL17 or receptor retention at the cell surface via auxiliary proteoglycan binding of CCL5-CXCL4. In contrast, inhibitory activity relied on conformational changes (in CXCL12), affecting receptor signaling. Obligate CC-type heterodimers showed high efficacy and potency and drove acute lung injury and atherosclerosis, processes abrogated by specific CCL5-derived peptide inhibitors or knock-in of an interaction-deficient CXCL4 variant. Atheroprotective effects of CCL17 deficiency were phenocopied by a CCL5-derived peptide disrupting CCL5-CCL17 heterodimers, whereas a CCL5 α-helix peptide mimicked inhibitory effects on CXCL12-driven platelet aggregation. Thus, formation of specific chemokine heterodimers differentially dictates functional activity and can be exploited for therapeutic targeting. Copyright © 2017, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Antimicrobial activity and regulation of CXCL9 and CXCL10 in oral keratinocytes.

PubMed

Marshall, Alison; Celentano, Antonio; Cirillo, Nicola; Mignogna, Michele D; McCullough, Michael; Porter, Stephen

2016-10-01

Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand (CXCL)9 and CXCL10 are dysregulated in oral inflammatory conditions, and it is not known if these chemokines target microorganisms that form oral biofilm. The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial activity of CXCL9 and CXCL10 on oral microflora and their expression profiles in oral keratinocytes following exposure to inflammatory and infectious stimuli. Streptococcus sanguinis was used as a model and Escherichia coli as a positive control. The antimicrobial effect of CXCL9/CXCL10 was tested using a radial diffusion assay. mRNA transcripts were isolated from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated and untreated (control) oral keratinocyte cell lines at 2-, 4-, 6-, and 8-h time-points of culture. The CXCL9/10 expression profile in the presence or absence of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) was assessed using semiquantitative PCR. Although both chemokines demonstrated antimicrobial activity, CXCL9 was the most effective chemokine against both S. sanguinis and E coli. mRNA for CXCL10 was expressed in control cells and its production was enhanced at all time-points following stimulation with LPS. Conversely, CXCL9 mRNA was not expressed in control or LPS-stimulated cells. Finally, stimulation with IFN-γ enhanced basal expression of both CXCL9 and CXCL10 in oral keratinocytes. Chemokines derived from oral epithelium, particularly CXCL9, demonstrate antimicrobial properties. Bacterial and inflammatory-stimulated up-regulation of CXCL9/10 could represent a key element in oral bacterial colonization homeostasis and host-defense mechanisms. © 2016 Eur J Oral Sci.

C-Terminal Clipping of Chemokine CCL1/I-309 Enhances CCR8-Mediated Intracellular Calcium Release and Anti-Apoptotic Activity

PubMed Central

Denis, Catherine; Deiteren, Kathleen; Mortier, Anneleen; Tounsi, Amel; Fransen, Erik; Proost, Paul; Renauld, Jean-Christophe; Lambeir, Anne-Marie

2012-01-01

Carboxypeptidase M (CPM) targets the basic amino acids arginine and lysine present at the C-terminus of peptides or proteins. CPM is thought to be involved in inflammatory processes. This is corroborated by CPM-mediated trimming and modulation of inflammatory factors, and expression of the protease in inflammatory environments. Since the function of CPM in and beyond inflammation remains mainly undefined, the identification of natural substrates can aid in discovering the (patho)physiological role of CPM. CCL1/I-309, with its three C-terminal basic amino acids, forms a potential natural substrate for CPM. CCL1 plays a role not only in inflammation but also in apoptosis, angiogenesis and tumor biology. Enzymatic processing differently impacts the biological activity of chemokines thereby contributing to the complex regulation of the chemokine system. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether (i) CCL1/I-309 is prone to trimming by CPM, and (ii) the biological activity of CCL1 is altered after C-terminal proteolytic processing. CCL1 was identified as a novel substrate for CPM in vitro using mass spectrometry. C-terminal clipping of CCL1 augmented intracellular calcium release mediated by CCR8 but reduced the binding of CCL1 to CCR8. In line with the higher intracellular calcium release, a pronounced increase of the anti-apoptotic activity of CCL1 was observed in the BW5147 cellular model. CCR8 signaling, CCR8 binding and anti-apoptotic activity were unaffected when CPM was exposed to the carboxypeptidase inhibitor DL-2-mercaptomethyl-3-guanidino-ethylthiopropanoic acid. The results of this study suggest that CPM is a likely candidate for the regulation of biological processes relying on the CCL1-CCR8 system. PMID:22479563

Chemokine and Chemokine Receptor Profiles in Metastatic Salivary Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma.

PubMed

Mays, Ashley C; Feng, Xin; Browne, James D; Sullivan, Christopher A

2016-08-01

To characterize the chemokine pattern in metastatic salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (SACC). Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to compare chemokine and chemokine receptor gene expression in two SACC cell lines: SACC-83 and SACC-LM (lung metastasis). Chemokines and receptor genes were then screened and their expression pattern characterized in human tissue samples of non-recurrent SACC and recurrent SACC with perineural invasion. Expression of chemokine receptors C5AR1, CCR1, CCR3, CCR6, CCR7, CCR9, CCR10, CXCR4, CXCR6, CXCR7, CCRL1 and CCRL2 were higher in SACC-83 compared to SACC-LM. CCRL1, CCBP2, CMKLR1, XCR1 and CXCR2 and 6 chemokine genes (CCL13, CCL27, CXCL14, CMTM1, CMTM2, CKLF) were more highly expressed in tissues of patients without tumor recurrence/perineural invasion compared to those with tumor recurrence. CCRL1 (receptor), CCL27, CMTM1, CMTM2, and CKLF (chemokine) genes were more highly expressed in SACC-83 and human tissues of patients without tumor recurrence/perineural invasion. CCRL1, CCL27, CMTM1, CMTM2 and CKLF may play important roles in the development of tumor metastases in SACC. Copyright© 2016 International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. John G. Delinassios), All rights reserved.

Shiga Toxin 2 and Lipopolysaccharide Induce Human Microvascular Endothelial Cells To Release Chemokines and Factors That Stimulate Platelet Function

PubMed Central

Guessous, Fadila; Marcinkiewicz, Marek; Polanowska-Grabowska, Renata; Kongkhum, Sudawadee; Heatherly, Daniel; Obrig, Tom; Gear, Adrian R. L.

2005-01-01

Shiga toxins (Stxs) produced by Shigella dysenteriae type 1 and enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli are the most common cause of hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS). It is well established that vascular endothelial cells, mainly those located in the renal microvasculature, are targets for Stxs. The aim of the present research was to evaluate whether E. coli-derived Shiga toxin 2 (Stx2) incubated with human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1) induces release of chemokines and other factors that might stimulate platelet function. HMEC-1 were exposed for 24 h in vitro to Stx2, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), or the Stx2-LPS combination, and chemokine production was assessed by immunoassay. More interleukin-8 was released than stromal cell-derived factor 1α (SDF-1α) or SDF-1β and RANTES. The Stx2-LPS combination potentiated chemokine release, but Stx2 alone caused more release of SDF-1α at 24 h than LPS or Stx2-LPS did. In the presence of low ADP levels, HMEC-1 supernatants activated platelet function assessed by classical aggregometry, single-particle counting, granule secretion, P-selectin exposure, and the formation of platelet-monocyte aggregates. Supernatants from HMEC-1 exposed only to Stx2 exhibited enhanced exposure of platelet P-selectin and platelet-THP-1 cell interactions. Blockade of platelet cyclooxygenase by indomethacin prevented functional activation. The chemokine RANTES enhanced platelet aggregation induced by SDF-1α, macrophage-derived chemokine, or thymus and activation-regulated chemokine in the presence of very low ADP levels. These data support the hypothesis that microvascular endothelial cells exposed to E. coli O157:H7-derived Stx2 and LPS release chemokines and other factors, which when combined with low levels of primary agonists, such as ADP, cause platelet activation and promote the renal thrombosis associated with HUS. PMID:16299328

Virus-encoded chemokine receptors--putative novel antiviral drug targets.

PubMed

Rosenkilde, Mette M

2005-01-01

Large DNA viruses, in particular herpes- and poxviruses, have evolved proteins that serve as mimics or decoys for endogenous proteins in the host. The chemokines and their receptors serve key functions in both innate and adaptive immunity through control of leukocyte trafficking, and have as such a paramount role in the antiviral immune responses. It is therefore not surprising that viruses have found ways to exploit and subvert the chemokine system by means of molecular mimicry. By ancient acts of molecular piracy and by induction and suppression of endogenous genes, viruses have utilized chemokines and their receptors to serve a variety of roles in viral life-cycle. This review focuses on the pharmacology of virus-encoded chemokine receptors, yet also the family of virus-encoded chemokines and chemokine-binding proteins will be touched upon. Key properties of the virus-encoded receptors, compared to their closest endogenous homologs, are interactions with a wider range of chemokines, which can act as agonists, antagonists and inverse agonists, and the exploitation of many signal transduction pathways. High constitutive activity is another key property of some--but not all--of these receptors. The chemokine receptors belong to the superfamily of G-protein coupled 7TM receptors that per se are excellent drug targets. At present, non-peptide antagonists have been developed against many chemokine receptors. The potentials of the virus-encoded chemokine receptors as drug targets--ie. as novel antiviral strategies--will be highlighted here together with the potentials of the virus-encoded chemokines and chemokine-binding proteins as novel anti-inflammatory biopharmaceutical strategies.

Internalization of the chemokine receptor CCR4 can be evoked by orthosteric and allosteric receptor antagonists

PubMed Central

Ajram, Laura; Begg, Malcolm; Slack, Robert; Cryan, Jenni; Hall, David; Hodgson, Simon; Ford, Alison; Barnes, Ashley; Swieboda, Dawid; Mousnier, Aurelie; Solari, Roberto

2014-01-01

The chemokine receptor CCR4 has at least two natural agonist ligands, MDC (CCL22) and TARC (CCL17) which bind to the same orthosteric site with a similar affinity. Both ligands are known to evoke chemotaxis of CCR4-bearing T cells and also elicit CCR4 receptor internalization. A series of small molecule allosteric antagonists have been described which displace the agonist ligand, and inhibit chemotaxis. The aim of this study was to determine which cellular coupling pathways are involved in internalization, and if antagonists binding to the CCR4 receptor could themselves evoke receptor internalization. CCL22 binding coupled CCR4 efficiently to β-arrestin and stimulated GTPγS binding however CCL17 did not couple to β-arrestin and only partially stimulated GTPγS binding. CCL22 potently induced internalization of almost all cell surface CCR4, while CCL17 showed only weak effects. We describe four small molecule antagonists that were demonstrated to bind to two distinct allosteric sites on the CCR4 receptor, and while both classes inhibited agonist ligand binding and chemotaxis, one of the allosteric sites also evoked receptor internalization. Furthermore, we also characterize an N-terminally truncated version of CCL22 which acts as a competitive antagonist at the orthosteric site, and surprisingly also evokes receptor internalization without demonstrating any agonist activity. Collectively this study demonstrates that orthosteric and allosteric antagonists of the CCR4 receptor are capable of evoking receptor internalization, providing a novel strategy for drug discovery against this class of target. PMID:24534492

Angiopoietin-like 4 Mediates Colonic Inflammation by Regulating Chemokine Transcript Stability via Tristetraprolin

PubMed Central

Phua, Terri; Sng, Ming Keat; Tan, Eddie Han Pin; Chee, Dickson Shao Liang; Li, Yinliang; Wee, Jonathan Wei Kiat; Teo, Ziqiang; Chan, Jeremy Soon Kiat; Lim, Maegan Miang Kee; Tan, Chek Kun; Zhu, Pengcheng; Arulampalam, Velmurugesan; Tan, Nguan Soon

2017-01-01

Many gastrointestinal diseases exhibit a protracted and aggravated inflammatory response that can lead to hypercytokinaemia, culminating in extensive tissue damage. Recently, angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) has been implicated in many inflammation-associated diseases. However, how ANGPTL4 regulates colonic inflammation remains unclear. Herein, we show that ANGPTL4 deficiency in mice (ANGPTL4−/−) exacerbated colonic inflammation induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) or stearic acid. Microbiota was similar between the two genotypes prior DSS challenge. A microarray gene expression profile of the colon from DSS-treated ANGPTL4−/− mice was enriched for genes involved in leukocyte migration and infiltration, and showed a close association to inflamed ulcerative colitis (UC), whereas the profile from ANGPTL4+/+ littermates resembled that of non-inflamed UC biopsies. Bone marrow transplantation demonstrates the intrinsic role of colonic ANGPTL4 in regulating leukocyte infiltration during DSS-induced inflammation. Using immortalized human colon epithelial cells, we revealed that the ANGPTL4-mediated upregulation of tristetraprolin expression operates through CREB and NF-κB transcription factors, which in turn, regulates the stability of chemokines. Together, our findings suggest that ANGPTL4 protects against acute colonic inflammation and that its absence exacerbates the severity of inflammation. Our findings emphasize the importance of ANGPTL4 as a novel target for therapy in regulating and attenuating inflammation. PMID:28287161

Role of chemokine network in the development and progression of ovarian cancer: a potential novel pharmacological target.

PubMed

Barbieri, Federica; Bajetto, Adriana; Florio, Tullio

2010-01-01

Ovarian cancer is the most common type of gynecologic malignancy. Despite advances in surgery and chemotherapy, the survival rate is still low since most ovarian cancers relapse and become drug-resistant. Chemokines are small chemoattractant peptides mainly involved in the immune responses. More recently, chemokines were also demonstrated to regulate extra-immunological functions. It was shown that the chemokine network plays crucial functions in the tumorigenesis in several tissues. In particular the imbalanced or aberrant expression of CXCL12 and its receptor CXCR4 strongly affects cancer cell proliferation, recruitment of immunosuppressive cells, neovascularization, and metastasization. In the last years, several molecules able to target CXCR4 or CXCL12 have been developed to interfere with tumor growth, including pharmacological inhibitors, antagonists, and specific antibodies. This chemokine ligand/receptor pair was also proposed to represent an innovative therapeutic target for the treatment of ovarian cancer. Thus, a thorough understanding of ovarian cancer biology, and how chemokines may control these different biological activities might lead to the development of more effective therapies. This paper will focus on the current biology of CXCL12/CXCR4 axis in the context of understanding their potential role in ovarian cancer development.

Role of Chemokine Network in the Development and Progression of Ovarian Cancer: A Potential Novel Pharmacological Target

PubMed Central

Barbieri, Federica; Bajetto, Adriana; Florio, Tullio

2010-01-01

Ovarian cancer is the most common type of gynecologic malignancy. Despite advances in surgery and chemotherapy, the survival rate is still low since most ovarian cancers relapse and become drug-resistant. Chemokines are small chemoattractant peptides mainly involved in the immune responses. More recently, chemokines were also demonstrated to regulate extra-immunological functions. It was shown that the chemokine network plays crucial functions in the tumorigenesis in several tissues. In particular the imbalanced or aberrant expression of CXCL12 and its receptor CXCR4 strongly affects cancer cell proliferation, recruitment of immunosuppressive cells, neovascularization, and metastasization. In the last years, several molecules able to target CXCR4 or CXCL12 have been developed to interfere with tumor growth, including pharmacological inhibitors, antagonists, and specific antibodies. This chemokine ligand/receptor pair was also proposed to represent an innovative therapeutic target for the treatment of ovarian cancer. Thus, a thorough understanding of ovarian cancer biology, and how chemokines may control these different biological activities might lead to the development of more effective therapies. This paper will focus on the current biology of CXCL12/CXCR4 axis in the context of understanding their potential role in ovarian cancer development. PMID:20049170

Differential subnetwork of chemokines/cytokines in human, mouse, and rat brain cells after oxygen-glucose deprivation.

PubMed

Du, Yang; Deng, Wenjun; Wang, Zixing; Ning, MingMing; Zhang, Wei; Zhou, Yiming; Lo, Eng H; Xing, Changhong

2017-04-01

Mice and rats are the most commonly used animals for preclinical stroke studies, but it is unclear whether targets and mechanisms are always the same across different species. Here, we mapped the baseline expression of a chemokine/cytokine subnetwork and compared responses after oxygen-glucose deprivation in primary neurons, astrocytes, and microglia from mouse, rat, and human. Baseline profiles of chemokines (CX3CL1, CXCL12, CCL2, CCL3, and CXCL10) and cytokines (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and TNFα) showed significant differences between human and rodents. The response of chemokines/cytokines to oxygen-glucose deprivation was also significantly different between species. After 4 h oxygen-glucose deprivation and 4 h reoxygenation, human and rat neurons showed similar changes with a downregulation in many chemokines, whereas mouse neurons showed a mixed response with up- and down-regulated genes. For astrocytes, subnetwork response patterns were more similar in rats and mice compared to humans. For microglia, rat cells showed an upregulation in all chemokines/cytokines, mouse cells had many down-regulated genes, and human cells showed a mixed response with up- and down-regulated genes. This study provides proof-of-concept that species differences exist in chemokine/cytokine subnetworks in brain cells that may be relevant to stroke pathophysiology. Further investigation of differential gene pathways across species is warranted.

Scleroderma dermal microvascular endothelial cells exhibit defective response to pro-angiogenic chemokines

PubMed Central

Rabquer, Bradley J.; Ohara, Ray A.; Stinson, William A.; Campbell, Phillip L.; Amin, M. Asif; Balogh, Beatrix; Zakhem, George; Renauer, Paul A.; Lozier, Ann; Arasu, Eshwar; Haines, G. Kenneth; Kahaleh, Bashar; Schiopu, Elena; Khanna, Dinesh; Koch, Alisa E.

2016-01-01

Objectives. Angiogenesis plays a critical role in SSc (scleroderma). The aim of this study was to examine the expression of growth-regulated protein-γ (Gro-γ/CXCL3), granulocyte chemotactic protein 2 (GCP-2/CXCL6) and their receptor CXCR2 in endothelial cells (ECs) isolated from SSc skin and determine whether these cells mount an angiogenic response towards pro-angiogenic chemokines. The downstream signalling pathways as well as the pro-angiogenic transcription factor inhibitor of DNA-binding protein 1 (Id-1) were also examined. Methods. Skin biopsies were obtained from patients with dcSSc. ECs were isolated via magnetic positive selection. Angiogenesis was measured by EC chemotaxis assay. Results. Gro-γ/CXCL3 and GCP-2/CXCL6 were minimally expressed in both skin types but elevated in SSc serum. Pro-angiogenic chemokine mRNA was greater in SSc ECs than in normal ECs. SSc ECs did not migrate to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Gro-γ/CXCL3, GCP-2/CXCL6 or CXCL16. The signalling pathways stimulated by these chemokines were also dysregulated. Id-1 mRNA in SSc ECs was lower compared with normal ECs, and overexpression of Id-1 in SSc ECs increased their ability to migrate towards VEGF and CXCL16. Conclusion. Our results show that SSc ECs are unable to respond to pro-angiogenic chemokines despite their increased expression in serum and ECs. This might be due to the differences in the signalling pathways activated by these chemokines in normal vs SSc ECs. In addition, the lower expression of Id-1 also decreases the angiogenic response. The inability of pro-angiogenic chemokines to promote EC migration provides an additional mechanism for the impaired angiogenesis that characterizes SSc. PMID:26705326

Lack of Interferon and Proinflammatory Cyto/chemokines in Serologically Active Clinically Quiescent Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

PubMed

Steiman, Amanda J; Gladman, Dafna D; Ibañez, Dominique; Noamani, Babak; Landolt-Marticorena, Carolina; Urowitz, Murray B; Wither, Joan E

2015-12-01

Serologically active clinically quiescent (SACQ) patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) remain clinically quiescent for prolonged periods despite anti-dsDNA antibodies and/or low complements, indicating the presence of immune complexes. The immune mechanisms leading to this quiescence are unknown. However, in addition to activating complement, immune complex uptake by various cells leads to the production of interferon (IFN)-α and other proinflammatory factors that are also involved in tissue damage. Here we investigate whether production of these factors is reduced in SACQ patients. The levels of 5 IFN-induced genes and 19 cyto/chemokines were measured in SACQ patients and were compared with those in serologically and clinically active (SACA) and serologically and clinically quiescent (SQCQ) patients. SACQ and SQCQ were defined as ≥ 2 years without clinical activity, with/without persistent serologic activity, respectively, and off corticosteroids/immunosuppressives. SACA was defined as disease activity compelling immunosuppression. Levels of OAS1, IFIT1, MX1, LY6E, and ISG15 were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and a composite score (IFN-5) derived from this. Plasma cyto/chemokines were measured by Luminex assay. Nonparametric univariate and logistic regression analyses were conducted. There were no differences in gene expression or cyto/chemokine levels between SACQ and SQCQ patients. The SACQ IFN-5 score was significantly lower than that of SACA (p = 0.003) and was driven by SACQ status, not by autoantibody profile or disease duration. Levels of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, interleukin (IL) 6, IL-10, IFN-γ-inducible protein 10, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, and tumor necrosis factor-α were significantly lower in SACQ than SACA. The levels of proinflammatory factors in SACQ mirror those of SQCQ patients, indicating reduced production of these factors despite the presence of immune

Chemokines and their receptors: insights from molecular modeling and crystallography.

PubMed

Kufareva, Irina

2016-10-01

Chemokines are small secreted proteins that direct cell migration in development, immunity, inflammation, and cancer. They do so by binding and activating specific G protein coupled receptors on the surface of migrating cells. Despite the importance of receptor:chemokine interactions, their structural basis remained unclear for a long time. In 2015, the first atomic resolution insights were obtained with the publication of X-ray structures for two distantly related receptors bound to chemokines. In conjunction with experiment-guided molecular modeling, the structures suggest a conserved receptor:chemokine complex architecture, while highlighting the diverse details and functional roles of individual interaction epitopes. Novel findings promote the development and detailed structural interpretation of the canonical two-site hypothesis of receptor:chemokine recognition, and suggest new avenues for pharmacological modulation of chemokine receptors. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Inhibition of pulmonary fibrosis by the chemokine IP-10/CXCL10.

PubMed

Tager, Andrew M; Kradin, Richard L; LaCamera, Peter; Bercury, Scott D; Campanella, Gabriele S V; Leary, Carol P; Polosukhin, Vasiliy; Zhao, Long-Hai; Sakamoto, Hideo; Blackwell, Timothy S; Luster, Andrew D

2004-10-01

Pulmonary fibrosis is an enigmatic and devastating disease with few treatment options, now thought to result from abnormal wound healing in the lung in response to injury. We have previously noted a role for the chemokine interferon gamma-inducible protein of 10 kD (IP-10)/CXC chemokine ligand 10 in the regulation of cutaneous wound healing, and consequently investigated whether IP-10 regulates pulmonary fibrosis. We found that IP-10 is highly expressed in a mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin. IP-10-deficient mice exhibited increased pulmonary fibrosis after administration of bleomycin, suggesting that IP-10 limits the development of fibrosis in this model. Substantial fibroblast chemoattractant and proliferative activities were generated in the lung after bleomycin exposure. IP-10 significantly inhibited fibroblast responses to the chemotactic, but not the proliferative activity generated, suggesting that IP-10 may attenuate fibroblast accumulation in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis by limiting fibroblast migration. Consistent with this inhibitory activity of IP-10 on fibroblast migration, fibroblast accumulation in the lung after bleomycin exposure was dramatically increased in IP-10-deficient mice compared with wild-type mice. Conversely, transgenic mice overexpressing IP-10 were protected from mortality after bleomycin exposure, and demonstrated decreased fibroblast accumulation in the lung after challenge compared with wild-type mice. Our findings suggest that interruption of fibroblast recruitment may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for pulmonary fibrosis, which could have applicability to a wide range of fibrotic illnesses.

LPS-induced chemokine expression in both MyD88-dependent and -independent manners is regulated by Cot/Tpl2-ERK axis in macrophages.

PubMed

Bandow, Kenjiro; Kusuyama, Joji; Shamoto, Mitsuo; Kakimoto, Kyoko; Ohnishi, Tomokazu; Matsuguchi, Tetsuya

2012-05-21

LPS signaling is mediated through MyD88-dependent and -independent pathways, activating NF-?B, MAP kinases and IRF3. Cot/Tpl2 is an essential upstream kinase in LPS-mediated activation of ERKs. Here we explore the roles of MyD88 and Cot/Tpl2 in LPS-induced chemokine expression by studying myd88(-/-) and cot/tpl2(-/-) macrophages. Among the nine LPS-responsive chemokines examined, mRNA induction of ccl5, cxcl10, and cxcl13 is mediated through the MyD88-independent pathway. Notably, Cot/Tpl2-ERK signaling axis exerts negative effects on the expression of these three chemokines. In contrast, LPS-induced gene expression of ccl2, ccl7, cxcl2, cxcl3, ccl8, and cxcl9 is mediated in the MyD88-dependent manner. The Cot/Tpl2-ERK axis promotes the expression of the first four and inhibits the expression of the latter two. Thus, LPS induces expression of multiple chemokines through various signaling pathways in macrophages. Copyright © 2012 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Mechanisms and Implications of Air Pollution Particle Associations with Chemokines

PubMed Central

Seagrave, JeanClare

2008-01-01

Inflammation induced by inhalation of air pollutant particles has been implicated as a mechanism for the adverse health effects associated with exposure to air pollution. The inflammatory response is associated with upregulation of various pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. We have previously shown that diesel exhaust particles (DEP), a significant constituent of air pollution particulate matter in many urban areas, bind and concentrate IL-8, an important human neutrophil-attracting chemokine, and that the chemokine remains biologically active. In this report, we examine possible mechanisms of this association and the effects on clearance of the chemokine. The binding appears to be the result of ionic interactions between negatively charged particles and positively charged chemokine molecules, possibly combined with intercalation into small pores in the particles. The association is not limited to diesel exhaust particles and IL-8: several other particle types also adsorb the chemokine and several other cytokines are adsorbed onto the diesel particles. However, there are wide ranges in the effectiveness of various particle types and various cytokines. Finally, male Fisher 344 rats were intratracheally instilled with chemokine alone or combined with diesel exhaust or silica particles under isofluorane anesthesia. In contrast to silica particles, which do not bind the chemokine, the presence of diesel exhaust particles, which bind the chemokine, prolonged the retention of the chemokine. PMID:18755206

Increased cytokine/chemokines in serum from asthmatic and non-asthmatic patients with viral respiratory infection

PubMed Central

Giuffrida, María J; Valero, Nereida; Mosquera, Jesús; Alvarez de Mon, Melchor; Chacín, Betulio; Espina, Luz Marina; Gotera, Jennifer; Bermudez, John; Mavarez, Alibeth

2014-01-01

Background Respiratory viral infections can induce different cytokine/chemokine profiles in lung tissues and have a significant influence on patients with asthma. There is little information about the systemic cytokine status in viral respiratory-infected asthmatic patients compared with non-asthmatic patients. Objectives The aim of this study was to determine changes in circulating cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-5) and chemokines (MCP1: monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and RANTES: regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted) in patients with an asthmatic versus a non-asthmatic background with respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza virus or adenovirus respiratory infection. In addition, human monocyte cultures were incubated with respiratory viruses to determine the cytokine/chemokine profiles. Patients/Methods Patients with asthmatic (n = 34) and non-asthmatic (n = 18) history and respiratory infections with respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza, and adenovirus were studied. Healthy individuals with similar age and sex (n = 10) were used as controls. Cytokine/chemokine content in blood and culture supernatants was determined by ELISA. Monocytes were isolated by Hystopaque gradient and cocultured with each of the above-mentioned viruses. Results Similar increased cytokine concentrations were observed in asthmatic and non-asthmatic patients. However, higher concentrations of chemokines were observed in asthmatic patients. Virus-infected monocyte cultures showed similar cytokine/chemokine profiles to those observed in the patients. Conclusions Circulating cytokine profiles induced by acute viral lung infection were not related to asthmatic status, except for chemokines that were already increased in the asthmatic status. Monocytes could play an important role in the increased circulating concentration of cytokines found during respiratory viral infections. PMID:23962134

The DRF motif of CXCR6 as chemokine receptor adaptation to adhesion.

PubMed

Koenen, Andrea; Babendreyer, Aaron; Schumacher, Julian; Pasqualon, Tobias; Schwarz, Nicole; Seifert, Anke; Deupi, Xavier; Ludwig, Andreas; Dreymueller, Daniela

2017-01-01

The CXC-chemokine receptor 6 (CXCR6) is a class A GTP-binding protein-coupled receptor (GPCRs) that mediates adhesion of leukocytes by interacting with the transmembrane cell surface-expressed chemokine ligand 16 (CXCL16), and also regulates leukocyte migration by interacting with the soluble shed variant of CXCL16. In contrast to virtually all other chemokine receptors with chemotactic activity, CXCR6 carries a DRF motif instead of the typical DRY motif as a key element in receptor activation and G protein coupling. In this work, modeling analyses revealed that the phenylalanine F3.51 in CXCR6 might have impact on intramolecular interactions including hydrogen bonds by this possibly changing receptor function. Initial investigations with embryonic kidney HEK293 cells and further studies with monocytic THP-1 cells showed that mutation of DRF into DRY does not influence ligand binding, receptor internalization, receptor recycling, and protein kinase B (AKT) signaling. Adhesion was slightly decreased in a time-dependent manner. However, CXCL16-induced calcium signaling and migration were increased. Vice versa, when the DRY motif of the related receptor CX3CR1 was mutated into DRF the migratory response towards CX3CL1 was diminished, indicating that the presence of a DRF motif generally impairs chemotaxis in chemokine receptors. Transmembrane and soluble CXCL16 play divergent roles in homeostasis, inflammation, and cancer, which can be beneficial or detrimental. Therefore, the DRF motif of CXCR6 may display a receptor adaptation allowing adhesion and cell retention by transmembrane CXCL16 but reducing the chemotactic response to soluble CXCL16. This adaptation may avoid permanent or uncontrolled recruitment of inflammatory cells as well as cancer metastasis.

S100 chemokines mediate bookmarking of premetastatic niches

PubMed Central

Rafii, Shahin; Lyden, David

2010-01-01

Primary tumours release soluble factors, including VEGF-A, TGFβ and TNFα, which induce expression of the chemokines S100A8 and S100A9 in the myeloid and endothelial cells within the lung before tumour metastasis. These chemokine-activated premetastatic niches support adhesion and invasion of disseminating malignant cells, thereby establishing a fertile habitat for metastatic tumours. PMID:17139281

Signal-activated phospholipase regulation of leukocyte chemotaxis.

PubMed

Cathcart, Martha K

2009-04-01

Signal-activated phospholipases are a recent focus of the rapidly growing field of lipid signaling. The extent of their impact on the pathways regulating diverse cell functions is beginning to be appreciated. A critical step in inflammation is the attraction of leukocytes to injured or diseased tissue. Chemotaxis of leukocytes, a requisite process for monocyte and neutrophil extravasation from the blood into tissues, is a critical step for initiating and maintaining inflammation in both acute and chronic settings. Recent studies have identified new important and required roles for two signal-activated phospholipases A2 (PLA2) in regulating chemotaxis. The two intracellular phospholipases, cPLA2alpha (Group IVA) and iPLA2beta (Group VIA), act in parallel to provide distinct lipid mediators at different intracellular sites that are both required for leukocytes to migrate toward the chemokine monocyte chemoattractant protein-1. This review will summarize the separate roles of these phospholipases as well as what is currently known about the influence of two other classes of intracellular signal-activated phospholipases, phospholipase C and phospholipase D, in regulating chemotaxis in eukaryotic cells, but particularly in human monocytes. The contributions of these phospholipases to chemotaxis both in vitro and in vivo will be highlighted.

Androgen receptor and chemokine receptors 4 and 7 form a signaling axis to regulate CXCL12-dependent cellular motility.

PubMed

Hsiao, Jordy J; Ng, Brandon H; Smits, Melinda M; Wang, Jiahui; Jasavala, Rohini J; Martinez, Harryl D; Lee, Jinhee; Alston, Jhullian J; Misonou, Hiroaki; Trimmer, James S; Wright, Michael E

2015-03-31

Identifying cellular signaling pathways that become corrupted in the presence of androgens that increase the metastatic potential of organ-confined tumor cells is critical to devising strategies capable of attenuating the metastatic progression of hormone-naïve, organ-confined tumors. In localized prostate cancers, gene fusions that place ETS-family transcription factors under the control of androgens drive gene expression programs that increase the invasiveness of organ-confined tumor cells. C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) is a downstream target of ERG, whose upregulation in prostate-tumor cells contributes to their migration from the prostate gland. Recent evidence suggests that CXCR4-mediated proliferation and metastasis of tumor cells is regulated by CXCR7 through its scavenging of chemokine CXCL12. However, the role of androgens in regulating CXCR4-mediated motility with respect to CXCR7 function in prostate-cancer cells remains unclear. Immunocytochemistry, western blot, and affinity-purification analyses were used to study how androgens influenced the expression, subcellular localization, and function of CXCR7, CXCR4, and androgen receptor (AR) in LNCaP prostate-tumor cells. Moreover, luciferase assays and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were used to study how chemokines CXCL11 and CXCL12 regulate androgen-regulated genes (ARGs) in LNCaP prostate-tumor cells. Lastly, cell motility assays were carried out to determine how androgens influenced CXCR4-dependent motility through CXCL12. Here we show that, in the LNCaP prostate-tumor cell line, androgens coordinate the expression of CXCR4 and CXCR7, thereby promoting CXCL12/CXCR4-mediated cell motility. RNA interference experiments revealed functional interactions between AR and CXCR7 in these cells. Co-localization and affinity-purification experiments support a physical interaction between AR and CXCR7 in LNCaP cells. Unexpectedly, CXCR7 resided in the nuclear compartment and modulated AR

Increased Systemic Cytokine/Chemokine Expression in Asthmatic and Non-asthmatic Patients with Bacterial, Viral or Mixed Lung Infection.

PubMed

Giuffrida, M J; Valero, N; Mosquera, J; Duran, A; Arocha, F; Chacín, B; Espina, L M; Gotera, J; Bermudez, J; Mavarez, A; Alvarez-Mon, M

2017-04-01

This study was aimed to determine the profiles of serum cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-5) and chemokines (MCP-1: monocyte chemoattract protein-1 and RANTES: regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted) in individuals with an asthmatic versus a non-asthmatic background with bacterial, viral or mixed acute respiratory infection. Asthmatic (n = 14) and non-asthmatic (n = 29) patients with acute viral, bacterial or mixed (bacterial and viruses) respiratory infection were studied. Patients were also analysed as individuals with pneumonia or bronchitis. Healthy individuals with similar age and sex (n = 10) were used as controls. Cytokine/chemokine content in serum was determined by ELISA. Increased cytokine/chemokine concentration in asthmatic and non-asthmatic patients was observed. However, higher concentrations of chemokines (MCP-1 and RANTES) in asthmatic patients infected by viruses, bacteria or bacteria and viruses (mixed) than in non-asthmatic patients were observed. In general, viral and mixed infections were better cytokine/chemokine inducers than bacterial infection. Cytokine/chemokine expression was similarly increased in both asthmatic and non-asthmatic patients with pneumonia or bronchitis, except that RANTES remained at normal levels in bronchitis. Circulating cytokine profiles induced by acute viral, bacterial or mixed lung infection were not related to asthmatic background, except for chemokines that were increased in asthmatic status. © 2017 The Foundation for the Scandinavian Journal of Immunology.

The CXCR4/SDF-1 chemokine receptor axis: a new target therapeutic for non-small cell lung cancer.

PubMed

Otsuka, Shannon; Bebb, Gwyn

2008-12-01

Chemokines are proinflammatory chemoattractant cytokines that regulate cell trafficking and adhesion. The CXCR4 chemokine receptor and its ligand, stromal cell derived factor (SDF-1), constitute a chemokine/receptor axis that has attracted great interest because of an increasing understanding of its role in cancer, including lung cancer. The CXCR4/SDF-1 complex activates several pathways that mediate chemotaxis, migration and secretion of angiopoietic factors. Neutralization of SDF-1 by anti-SDF-1 or anti-CXCR4 monoclonal antibody in preclinical in vivo studies results in a significant decrease of non-small cell lung cancer metastases. Since anti-SDF-1/CXCR4 strategies have already been developed for use in combating human immunodeficiency virus infections, it is likely that these approaches will be used in clinical trials in non-small cell lung cancer in the very near future.

Genetic polymorphisms in the cytokine and chemokine system: their possible importance in allogeneic stem cell transplantation.

PubMed

Loeffler, Juergen; Ok, Michael; Morton, Oliver C; Mezger, Markus; Einsele, Hermann

2010-01-01

Chemokines represent central players of the innate and adaptive immunity and are involved in the regulation of inflammatory events occurring during infectious complications or during graft vs. host disease (GvHD). Patients after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) are at a high risk for the development of acute GvHD or to suffer from fungal infections. Susceptibility to fungal infections and the course of GvHD can be genetically influenced by single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which regulate expression or biological activity of chemokines, and therefore have an impact on the outcome of invasive aspergillosis and GvHD. High lightened studies of abetting factors for GvHD revealed SNPs in TNFA, IL-6, IL-10, INF-γ, CCL2, CCL5 (RANTES), IL-1Ra, IL-23R, IL-7Ralpha, IL-10RB, and CCR9 genes as prevalent considerable. Furthermore, additional SNPs were described to be significantly associated with fungal infections (Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans), including markers in CCL3, CCL4, CCL20, CXCL2, CXCL8, CXCL10, CCR1, and CCR2. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the growing number of genetic markers in chemokine genes and their relevance for patients after alloSCT.

Platelet-derived chemokines in atherogenesis: what's new?

PubMed

Gleissner, Christian A

2012-09-01

Over the past decade, platelets have been demonstrated to have various functions beyond their role in hemostasis. Platelets possess a rich repertoire of chemokines that are stored in their alpha granules and can be released upon activation. The pro-atherogenic effects of activated platelets are most likely mediated by release of these pro-inflammatory mediators that promote recruitment, activation or differentiation of other cell types including endothelial cells and leukocytes. These effects have been excellently reviewed in the past by various authors. The current review will therefore focus on novel findings. A specific focus will be put on CXCL4, on which a lot of new data have been published since 2008. Thus, the effects of CXCL4 on macrophage differentiation have been studied in detail revealing that CXCL4 induces a specific macrophage phenotype. Furthermore, novel data on CXCL4L1, a protein similar to CXCL4 that is probably transcribed from a duplication of the PF4 gene coding for CXCL4, will be discussed. A very interesting study has recently demonstrated that the inhibition of heterophilic chemokine interactions using a specifically designed small molecule can inhibit atherogenesis in Apoe-/- mice, thereby demonstrating the clinical potential of tackling platelet chemokines as therapeutic targets in atherosclerosis. Finally, novel data on CXCL1 and CCL5 will be discussed. Overall, while our understanding of the role of platelet chemokines in atherogenesis has significantly improved over the past years, it seems that there may still be many buried treasures in this field that could improve disease prevention or lead to novel clinical therapies.

New paradigms in chemokine receptor signal transduction: Moving beyond the two-site model.

PubMed

Kleist, Andrew B; Getschman, Anthony E; Ziarek, Joshua J; Nevins, Amanda M; Gauthier, Pierre-Arnaud; Chevigné, Andy; Szpakowska, Martyna; Volkman, Brian F

2016-08-15

Chemokine receptor (CKR) signaling forms the basis of essential immune cellular functions, and dysregulated CKR signaling underpins numerous disease processes of the immune system and beyond. CKRs, which belong to the seven transmembrane domain receptor (7TMR) superfamily, initiate signaling upon binding of endogenous, secreted chemokine ligands. Chemokine-CKR interactions are traditionally described by a two-step/two-site mechanism, in which the CKR N-terminus recognizes the chemokine globular core (i.e. site 1 interaction), followed by activation when the unstructured chemokine N-terminus is inserted into the receptor TM bundle (i.e. site 2 interaction). Several recent studies challenge the structural independence of sites 1 and 2 by demonstrating physical and allosteric links between these supposedly separate sites. Others contest the functional independence of these sites, identifying nuanced roles for site 1 and other interactions in CKR activation. These developments emerge within a rapidly changing landscape in which CKR signaling is influenced by receptor PTMs, chemokine and CKR dimerization, and endogenous non-chemokine ligands. Simultaneous advances in the structural and functional characterization of 7TMR biased signaling have altered how we understand promiscuous chemokine-CKR interactions. In this review, we explore new paradigms in CKR signal transduction by considering studies that depict a more intricate architecture governing the consequences of chemokine-CKR interactions. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Kruppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) regulates proinflammatory activation of monocytes

PubMed Central

Das, Hiranmoy; Kumar, Ajay; Lin, Zhiyong; Patino, Willmar D.; Hwang, Paul M.; Feinberg, Mark W.; Majumder, Pradip K.; Jain, Mukesh K.

2006-01-01

The mechanisms regulating activation of monocytes remain incompletely understood. Herein we provide evidence that Kruppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) inhibits proinflammatory activation of monocytes. In vitro, KLF2 expression in monocytes is reduced by cytokine activation or differentiation. Consistent with this observation, KLF2 expression in circulating monocytes is reduced in patients with chronic inflammatory conditions such as coronary artery disease. Adenoviral overexpression of KLF2 inhibits the LPS-mediated induction of proinflammatory factors, cytokines, and chemokines and reduces phagocytosis. Conversely, short interfering RNA-mediated reduction in KLF2 increased inflammatory gene expression. Reconstitution of immunodeficient mice with KLF2-overexpressing monocytes significantly reduced carrageenan-induced acute paw edema formation. Mechanistically, KLF2 inhibits the transcriptional activity of both NF-κB and activator protein 1, in part by means of recruitment of transcriptional coactivator p300/CBP-associated factor. These observations identify KLF2 as a novel negative regulator of monocytic activation. PMID:16617118

The DRF motif of CXCR6 as chemokine receptor adaptation to adhesion

PubMed Central

Koenen, Andrea; Babendreyer, Aaron; Schumacher, Julian; Pasqualon, Tobias; Schwarz, Nicole; Seifert, Anke; Deupi, Xavier

2017-01-01

The CXC-chemokine receptor 6 (CXCR6) is a class A GTP-binding protein-coupled receptor (GPCRs) that mediates adhesion of leukocytes by interacting with the transmembrane cell surface-expressed chemokine ligand 16 (CXCL16), and also regulates leukocyte migration by interacting with the soluble shed variant of CXCL16. In contrast to virtually all other chemokine receptors with chemotactic activity, CXCR6 carries a DRF motif instead of the typical DRY motif as a key element in receptor activation and G protein coupling. In this work, modeling analyses revealed that the phenylalanine F3.51 in CXCR6 might have impact on intramolecular interactions including hydrogen bonds by this possibly changing receptor function. Initial investigations with embryonic kidney HEK293 cells and further studies with monocytic THP-1 cells showed that mutation of DRF into DRY does not influence ligand binding, receptor internalization, receptor recycling, and protein kinase B (AKT) signaling. Adhesion was slightly decreased in a time-dependent manner. However, CXCL16-induced calcium signaling and migration were increased. Vice versa, when the DRY motif of the related receptor CX3CR1 was mutated into DRF the migratory response towards CX3CL1 was diminished, indicating that the presence of a DRF motif generally impairs chemotaxis in chemokine receptors. Transmembrane and soluble CXCL16 play divergent roles in homeostasis, inflammation, and cancer, which can be beneficial or detrimental. Therefore, the DRF motif of CXCR6 may display a receptor adaptation allowing adhesion and cell retention by transmembrane CXCL16 but reducing the chemotactic response to soluble CXCL16. This adaptation may avoid permanent or uncontrolled recruitment of inflammatory cells as well as cancer metastasis. PMID:28267793

Expression and regulation of the chemokine CXCL16 in Crohn’s disease and models of intestinal inflammation

PubMed Central

Diegelmann, Julia; Seiderer, Julia; Niess, Jan-Hendrik; Haller, Dirk; Göke, Burkhard; Reinecker, Hans-Christian; Brand, Stephan

2010-01-01

Background/Aims CXCL16 mediates adhesion and phagocytosis of both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and is a strong chemoattractant for CXCR6+ T cells. In this study, we determined the so far unknown expression and signal transduction of the novel CXCL16-CXCR6 chemokine-ligand receptor system in intestinal inflammation in vivo and in vitro. Methods CXCL16 mRNA was measured by quantitative PCR in human colonic biopsies of patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) as well as in the TNFΔARE mouse model of ileitis and in murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV)-induced colitis. CXCL16 serum levels were analyzed by ELISA. CXCL16-induced signal transduction was analyzed in IEC with phospho-specific antibodies for MAP kinases and Akt. Results We found an inverse expression pattern of CXCL16 and CXCR6 with highest CXCL16 mRNA levels in the proximal murine small intestine and highest CXCR6 mRNA expression in the distal colon. CXCL16 and CXCR6 mRNA were expressed in colorectal cancer (CRC)-derived IEC lines. CRC-expressed CXCR6 was functional as demonstrated by CXCL16-induced MAP kinase and Akt activation. Intestinal CXCL16 expression was elevated in the TNFΔARE mouse model of ileitis and in MCMV-induced colitis (p<0.05) and in the sera and colons of patients with CD (p<0.05), where its expression correlated highly with CXCR6 and IL-8 levels (r=0.85 and 0.89, respectively). Conclusion CRC-derived IEC express the functional CXCL16 receptor CXCR6. CXCL16 mRNA and protein expression is up-regulated in intestinal inflammation in vitro and in CD patients, suggesting an important role for this chemokine in intestinal inflammation. PMID:20848509

Molecular mechanisms of pancreatic cancer dissemination: the role of the chemokine system.

PubMed

Marchesi, Federica; Grizzi, Fabio; Laghi, Luigi; Mantovani, Alberto; Allavena, Paola

2012-01-01

Over the last decade it has been established that cancer-associated inflammation affects many aspects of malignancy and in particular endorses tumor cell survival, proliferation and distant spread. Chemokines and their receptors are major players of the cancerrelated inflammation. Our understanding of the chemokine role in tumor biology now ranges from their ability to recruit blood leukocytes within tumors, to direct effects on cancer cell survival, metastatization and regulation of angiogenesis. Chemokines and their receptors are expressed in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma and are involved in its malignant behavior. Notably, the receptor CX3CR1 favors tumor perineural tropism which is typical of this neoplasm and is associated with early recurrence after surgery and with poor patient prognosis.

Synergistic inhibition in vivo of bone marrow myeloid progenitors by myelosuppressive chemokines and chemokine-accelerated recovery of progenitors after treatment of mice with Ara-C.

PubMed

Broxmeyer, Hal E; Pelus, Louis M; Kim, Chang H; Hangoc, Giao; Cooper, Scott; Hromas, Robert

2006-08-01

Selected chemokines suppress proliferation of hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) in vitro; some of these have demonstrated inhibition of myelopoiesis in vivo. Because myelosuppressive chemokines synergize in vitro with other myelosuppressive chemokines, we sought to determine whether additional chemokines active in vitro were myelosuppressive in vivo and whether combinations of myelosuppressive chemokines synergized in vivo to dampen myelopoiesis. We also evaluated three chemokines in vivo for myeloprotection against Ara-C-induced decreases in HPCs. C3H/HeJ mice were used for analysis of in vivo influence of chemokines, with the end points being effects on absolute numbers and cycling status of HPCs. When used alone, CCL2, CCL3, CCL19, CCL20, CXCL4, CXCL5, CXCL8, CXCL9, and XCL1 caused dose-dependent significant decreases in absolute numbers and cycling status of HPCs in vivo. The following combinations of two chemokines resulted in in vivo myelosuppression at concentrations much lower than that induced by each chemokine alone: CCL3 plus either CXCL8 or CXCL4, CXCL8 plus CXCL4, CCL2 plus either CCL20 or CXCL9, CCL20 plus CXCL9, CXCL5 plus either XCL1 or CCL19, XCL1 plus CCL19, and CCL3 plus CCL19. Also, mice injected with CXCL8, CXCL4, or the chimeric CXCL8/CXCL4 protein CXCL8M1 manifested accelerated recovery of absolute numbers of HPCs in response to the toxic effects of Ara-C administration. A number of chemokines shown previously to manifest inhibitory effects in vitro for proliferation of HPCs are now demonstrated to also induce myelosuppression in vivo. Moreover, combinations of low dosages of two myelosuppressive chemokines when administered together demonstrate synergistic suppression in vivo. Additionally, chemokines, including a CXCL8M1 chimeric protein previously shown to manifest enhanced suppression of HPC proliferation in vitro and in vivo, accelerate HPC recovery after treatment of mice with Ara-C. These results may be of use for future clinical

Heterologous Quaternary Structure of CXCL12 and its Relationship to the CC Chemokine Family

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Murphy, J.; Yuan, H; Kong, Y

2010-01-01

X-ray crystallographic studies reveal that CXCL12 is able to form multiple dimer types, a traditional CXC dimer and a 'CC-like' form. Phylogenetic analysis of all known human chemokines demonstrates CXCL12 is more closely related to the CC chemokine class than other CXC chemokines. These observations indicate that CXCL12 contains genomic and structural elements characteristic of both CXC and CC chemokines.Chemokines are members of a superfamily of proteins involved in the migration of cells to the proper anatomical position during embryonic development or in response to infection or stress during an immune response. There are two major (CC and CXC) andmore » two minor (CX3C and XC) families based on the sequence around the first conserved cysteine. The topology of all structures is essentially identical with a flexible N-terminal region of 3-8 amino acids, a 10-20 residue N-terminal loop, a short 3{sub 10}-helix, three {beta}-strands, and a {alpha}-helix. The major consequence of the subtle difference between the families occurs at the oligomeric level. Monomers of the CC, CXC, and CX3C families form dimers in a family-specific manner. The XCL1 chemokine is a monomer that can interconvert between two folded states. All chemokines activate GPCRs according to family-specificity, however there are a few examples of chemokines crossing the family boundary to function as antagonists. A two-stage mechanism for chemokine activation of GPCRs has been proposed. The N-terminal region of the receptor interacts with the chemokine, followed by receptor activation by the chemokine N-terminal region. Monomeric chemokines have been demonstrated to be the active form for receptor function. There are numerous examples of both chemokines and their receptors forming dimers. While family-specific dimerization may be an attractive explanation for why specific chemokines only activate GPCRs within their own family, the role of dimers in the function of chemokines has not been resolved

Chemokines in tumor progression and metastasis

PubMed Central

Sarvaiya, Purvaba J.; Guo, Donna; Ulasov, Ilya; Gabikian, Patrik; Lesniak, Maciej S.

2013-01-01

Chemokines play a vital role in tumor progression and metastasis. Chemokines are involved in the growth of many cancers including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, melanoma, lung cancer, gastric cancer, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, colon cancer, non-small lung cancer and non-hodgkin's lymphoma among many others. The expression of chemokines and their receptors is altered in many malignancies and leads to aberrant chemokine receptor signaling. This review focuses on the role of chemokines in key processes that facilitate tumor progression including proliferation, senescence, angiogenesis, epithelial mesenchymal transition, immune evasion and metastasis. PMID:24259307

Alternative C-Terminal Helix Orientation Alters Chemokine Function

PubMed Central

Kuo, Je-Hung; Chen, Ya-Ping; Liu, Jai-Shin; Dubrac, Alexandre; Quemener, Cathy; Prats, Hervé; Bikfalvi, Andreas; Wu, Wen-guey; Sue, Shih-Che

2013-01-01

Chemokines, a subfamily of cytokines, are small, secreted proteins that mediate a variety of biological processes. Various chemokines adopt remarkable conserved tertiary structure comprising an anti-parallel β-sheet core domain followed by a C-terminal helix that packs onto the β-sheet. The conserved structural feature has been considered critical for chemokine function, including binding to cell surface receptor. The recently isolated variant, CXCL4L1, is a homologue of CXCL4 chemokine (or platelet factor 4) with potent anti-angiogenic activity and differed only in three amino acid residues of P58L, K66E, and L67H. In this study we show by x-ray structural determination that CXCL4L1 adopts a previously unrecognized structure at its C terminus. The orientation of the C-terminal helix protrudes into the aqueous space to expose the entire helix. The alternative helix orientation modifies the overall chemokine shape and surface properties. The L67H mutation is mainly responsible for the swing-out effect of the helix, whereas mutations of P58L and K66E only act secondarily. This is the first observation that reports an open conformation of the C-terminal helix in a chemokine. This change leads to a decrease of its glycosaminoglycan binding properties and to an enhancement of its anti-angiogenic and anti-tumor effects. This unique structure is recent in evolution and has allowed CXCL4L1 to gain novel functional properties. PMID:23536183

Structural basis of ligand interaction with atypical chemokine receptor 3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gustavsson, Martin; Wang, Liwen; van Gils, Noortje; Stephens, Bryan S.; Zhang, Penglie; Schall, Thomas J.; Yang, Sichun; Abagyan, Ruben; Chance, Mark R.; Kufareva, Irina; Handel, Tracy M.

2017-01-01

Chemokines drive cell migration through their interactions with seven-transmembrane (7TM) chemokine receptors on cell surfaces. The atypical chemokine receptor 3 (ACKR3) binds chemokines CXCL11 and CXCL12 and signals exclusively through β-arrestin-mediated pathways, without activating canonical G-protein signalling. This receptor is upregulated in numerous cancers making it a potential drug target. Here we collected over 100 distinct structural probes from radiolytic footprinting, disulfide trapping, and mutagenesis to map the structures of ACKR3:CXCL12 and ACKR3:small-molecule complexes, including dynamic regions that proved unresolvable by X-ray crystallography in homologous receptors. The data are integrated with molecular modelling to produce complete and cohesive experimentally driven models that confirm and expand on the existing knowledge of the architecture of receptor:chemokine and receptor:small-molecule complexes. Additionally, we detected and characterized ligand-induced conformational changes in the transmembrane and intracellular regions of ACKR3 that elucidate fundamental structural elements of agonism in this atypical receptor.

Dienogest inhibits C-C motif chemokine ligand 20 expression in human endometriotic epithelial cells.

PubMed

Mita, Shizuka; Nakakuki, Masanori; Ichioka, Masayuki; Shimizu, Yutaka; Hashiba, Masamichi; Miyazaki, Hiroyasu; Kyo, Satoru

2017-07-01

C-C motif chemokine ligand 20 is thought to contribute to the development of endometriosis by recruiting Th17 lymphocytes into endometriotic foci. The present study investigated the effects of dienogest, a progesterone receptor agonist used to treat endometriosis, on C-C motif chemokine ligand 20 expression by endometriotic cells. Effects of dienogest on mRNA expression and protein secretion of C-C motif chemokine ligand 20 induced by interleukin 1β were assessed in three immortalized endometriotic epithelial cell lines, parental cells (EMosis-CC/TERT1), and stably expressing human progesterone receptor isoform A (EMosis-CC/TERT1/PRA+) or isoform B (EMosis-CC/TERT1/PRA-/PRB+). Dienogest markedly inhibited interleukin 1β-stimulated C-C motif chemokine ligand 20 mRNA expression and protein secretion in EMosis-CC/TERT1/PRA-/PRB+, which was abrogated by the progesterone receptor antagonist RU486. In EMosis-CC/TERT1/PRA+, dienogest slightly inhibited C-C motif chemokine ligand 20 mRNA and protein. In EMosis-CC/TERT1, dienogest slightly inhibited C-C motif chemokine ligand 20 mRNA, but had no effect on C-C motif chemokine ligand 20 protein. Dienogest inhibited interleukin 1β-induced up-regulation of C-C motif chemokine ligand 20 in endometriotic epithelial cells, mainly mediated by progesterone receptor B. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Identification and expression analysis of a CC chemokine from cobia (Rachycentron canadum).

PubMed

Feng, Juan; Su, Youlu; Guo, Zhixun; Xu, Liwen; Sun, Xiuxiu; Wang, Yunxin

2013-06-01

Chemokines are small, secreted cytokine peptides known principally for their ability to induce migration and activation of leukocyte populations and regulate the immune response mechanisms. The cobia (Rachycentron canadum), a marine finfish species, has a great potential for net cage aquaculture in the South China Sea. We isolated and characterized a CC chemokine cDNA from cobia-designated RcCC2. Its cDNA is 783 bp in length and encodes a putative protein of 110 amino acids. Homology and phylogenetic analysis revealed that the RcCC2 gene, which contains four conserved cysteine residues, shares a high degree of similarity with other known CC chemokine sequences and is closest to the CCL19/21 clade. The mRNA of RcCC2 is expressed constitutively in all tested tissues, including gill, liver, muscle, spleen, kidney, head kidney, skin, brain, stomach, intestine and heart, but not blood, with the highest level of expression in gill and liver. The reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to examine the expression of the RcCC2 gene in immune-related tissues, including head kidney, spleen and liver, following intraperitoneal injection of the viral mimic polyriboinosinic polyribocytidylic acid, formalin-killed Vibrio carchariae (bacterial vaccine) and phosphate-buffered saline as a control. RcCC2 gene expression was up-regulated differentially in head kidney, spleen and liver during 12 h after challenge. These results indicate that the RcCC2 gene is inducible and is involved in immune responses, suggesting RcCC2 has an important role in the early stage of viral and bacterial infections.

Multiplexed protein profiling on microarrays by rolling-circle amplification

PubMed Central

Schweitzer, Barry; Roberts, Scott; Grimwade, Brian; Shao, Weiping; Wang, Minjuan; Fu, Qin; Shu, Quiping; Laroche, Isabelle; Zhou, Zhimin; Tchernev, Velizar T.; Christiansen, Jason; Velleca, Mark; Kingsmore, Stephen F.

2010-01-01

Fluorescent-sandwich immunoassays on microarrays hold appeal for proteomics studies, because equipment and antibodies are readily available, and assays are simple, scalable, and reproducible. The achievement of adequate sensitivity and specificity, however, requires a general method of immunoassay amplification. We describe coupling of isothermal rolling-circle amplification (RCA) to universal antibodies for this purpose. A total of 75 cytokines were measured simultaneously on glass arrays with signal amplification by RCA with high specificity, femtomolar sensitivity, 3 log quantitative range, and economy of sample consumption. A 51-feature RCA cytokine glass array was used to measure secretion from human dendritic cells (DCs) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). As expected, LPS induced rapid secretion of inflammatory cytokines such as macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1β, interleukin (IL)-8, and interferon-inducible protein (IP)-10. We found that eotaxin-2 and I-309 were induced by LPS; in addition, macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC), thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC), soluble interleukin 6 receptor (sIL-6R), and soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor I (sTNF-RI) were induced by TNF-α treatment. Because microarrays can accommodat ~1,000 sandwich immunoassays of this type, a relatively small number of RCA microarrays seem to offer a tractable approach for proteomic surveys. PMID:11923841

Structural Basis of Chemokine Sequestration by CrmD, a Poxvirus-Encoded Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor

PubMed Central

Wang, Dongli; Chen, Dongwei; He, Guangjun; Huang, Li; Wang, Hanzhong; Wang, Xinquan

2011-01-01

Pathogens have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to evade detection and destruction by the host immune system. Large DNA viruses encode homologues of chemokines and their receptors, as well as chemokine-binding proteins (CKBPs) to modulate the chemokine network in host response. The SECRET domain (smallpox virus-encoded chemokine receptor) represents a new family of viral CKBPs that binds a subset of chemokines from different classes to inhibit their activities, either independently or fused with viral tumor necrosis factor receptors (vTNFRs). Here we present the crystal structures of the SECRET domain of vTNFR CrmD encoded by ectromelia virus and its complex with chemokine CX3CL1. The SECRET domain adopts a β-sandwich fold and utilizes its β-sheet I surface to interact with CX3CL1, representing a new chemokine-binding manner of viral CKBPs. Structure-based mutagenesis and biochemical analysis identified important basic residues in the 40s loop of CX3CL1 for the interaction. Mutation of corresponding acidic residues in the SECRET domain also affected the binding for other chemokines, indicating that the SECRET domain binds different chemokines in a similar manner. We further showed that heparin inhibited the binding of CX3CL1 by the SECRET domain and the SECRET domain inhibited RAW264.7 cell migration induced by CX3CL1. These results together shed light on the structural basis for the SECRET domain to inhibit chemokine activities by interfering with both chemokine-GAG and chemokine-receptor interactions. PMID:21829356

Defining the chemokine basis for leukocyte recruitment during viral encephalitis.

PubMed

Michlmayr, Daniela; McKimmie, Clive S; Pingen, Marieke; Haxton, Ben; Mansfield, Karen; Johnson, Nicholas; Fooks, Anthony R; Graham, Gerard J

2014-09-01

The encephalitic response to viral infection requires local chemokine production and the ensuing recruitment of immune and inflammatory leukocytes. Accordingly, chemokine receptors present themselves as plausible therapeutic targets for drugs aimed at limiting encephalitic responses. However, it remains unclear which chemokines are central to this process and whether leukocyte recruitment is important for limiting viral proliferation and survival in the brain or whether it is predominantly a driver of coincident inflammatory pathogenesis. Here we examine chemokine expression and leukocyte recruitment in the context of avirulent and virulent Semliki Forest virus (SFV) as well as West Nile virus infection and demonstrate rapid and robust expression of a variety of inflammatory CC and CXC chemokines in all models. On this basis, we define a chemokine axis involved in leukocyte recruitment to the encephalitic brain during SFV infection. CXCR3 is the most active; CCR2 is also active but less so, and CCR5 plays only a modest role in leukocyte recruitment. Importantly, inhibition of each of these receptors individually and the resulting suppression of leukocyte recruitment to the infected brain have no effect on viral titer or survival following infection with a virulent SFV strain. In contrast, simultaneous blockade of CXCR3 and CCR2 results in significantly reduced mortality in response to virulent SFV infection. In summary, therefore, our data provide an unprecedented level of insight into chemokine orchestration of leukocyte recruitment in viral encephalitis. Our data also highlight CXCR3 and CCR2 as possible therapeutic targets for limiting inflammatory damage in response to viral infection of the brain. Brain inflammation (encephalitis) in response to viral infection can lead to severe illness and even death. This therefore represents an important clinical problem and one that requires the development of new therapeutic approaches. Central to the pathogenesis of

Citrullinated Chemokines in Rheumatoid Arthritis

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-12-01

immunosorbent assay ( ELISA ) in RA and normal (NL) sera and in RA, osteoarthritis (OA), and other inflammatory rheumatic disease (OD) synovial fluids (SFs... ELISA ) Epithelial Neutrophil Chemoattractant Peptide-78 (ENA-78/CXCL5) Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP-1/CCL2) Macrophage Inflammatory...Citrullinated chemokines are highly expressed in RA sera and SFs. Citrullinated chemokines were measured using an ELISA in which chemokines were captured on

Lactobacillus acidophilus Induces Cytokine and Chemokine Production via NF-κB and p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Signaling Pathways in Intestinal Epithelial Cells

PubMed Central

Lü, Xuena; Man, Chaoxin; Han, Linlin; Shan, Yi; Qu, Xingguang; Liu, Ying; Yang, Shiqin; Xue, Yuqing; Zhang, Yinghua

2012-01-01

Intestinal epithelial cells can respond to certain bacteria by producing an array of cytokines and chemokines which are associated with host immune responses. Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM is a characterized probiotic, originally isolated from human feces. This study aimed to test the ability of L. acidophilus NCFM to stimulate cytokine and chemokine production in intestinal epithelial cells and to elucidate the mechanisms involved in their upregulation. In experiments using intestinal epithelial cell lines and mouse models, we observed that L. acidophilus NCFM could rapidly but transiently upregulate a number of effector genes encoding cytokines and chemokines such as interleukin 1α (IL-1α), IL-1β, CCL2, and CCL20 and that cytokines showed lower expression levels with L. acidophilus NCFM treatment than chemokines. Moreover, L. acidophilus NCFM could activate a pathogen-associated molecular pattern receptor, Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), in intestinal epithelial cell lines. The phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in intestinal epithelial cell lines was also enhanced by L. acidophilus NCFM. Furthermore, inhibitors of NF-κB (pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate [PDTC]) and p38 MAPK (SB203580) significantly reduced cytokine and chemokine production in the intestinal epithelial cell lines stimulated by L. acidophilus NCFM, suggesting that both NF-κB and p38 MAPK signaling pathways were important for the production of cytokines and chemokines induced by L. acidophilus NCFM. PMID:22357649

Involvement of chemokine receptors in breast cancer metastasis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Müller, Anja; Homey, Bernhard; Soto, Hortensia; Ge, Nianfeng; Catron, Daniel; Buchanan, Matthew E.; McClanahan, Terri; Murphy, Erin; Yuan, Wei; Wagner, Stephan N.; Barrera, Jose Luis; Mohar, Alejandro; Verástegui, Emma; Zlotnik, Albert

2001-03-01

Breast cancer is characterized by a distinct metastatic pattern involving the regional lymph nodes, bone marrow, lung and liver. Tumour cell migration and metastasis share many similarities with leukocyte trafficking, which is critically regulated by chemokines and their receptors. Here we report that the chemokine receptors CXCR4 and CCR7 are highly expressed in human breast cancer cells, malignant breast tumours and metastases. Their respective ligands CXCL12/SDF-1α and CCL21/6Ckine exhibit peak levels of expression in organs representing the first destinations of breast cancer metastasis. In breast cancer cells, signalling through CXCR4 or CCR7 mediates actin polymerization and pseudopodia formation, and subsequently induces chemotactic and invasive responses. In vivo, neutralizing the interactions of CXCL12/CXCR4 significantly impairs metastasis of breast cancer cells to regional lymph nodes and lung. Malignant melanoma, which has a similar metastatic pattern as breast cancer but also a high incidence of skin metastases, shows high expression levels of CCR10 in addition to CXCR4 and CCR7. Our findings indicate that chemokines and their receptors have a critical role in determining the metastatic destination of tumour cells.

Borrelia burgdorferi basic membrane protein A could induce chemokine production in murine microglia cell line BV2.

PubMed

Zhao, Hua; Liu, Aihua; Cui, Yuhui; Liang, Zhang; Li, Bingxue; Bao, Fukai

2017-10-01

Lyme neuroborreliosis is a nervous system infectious disease caused by Borrelia burgdorferi (B. burgdorferi). It has been demonstrated that cytokines induced by B. burgdorferi are related to Lyme neuroborreliosis. Microglia is known as a key player in the immune responses that occur within the central nervous system. In response to inflammation, it will be activated and generate cytokines and chemokines. Experiments in vitro cells have showed that B. Burgdorferi membrane protein A (BmpA), a major immunogen of B. Burgdorferi, could induce Lyme arthritis and stimulate human and murine lymphocytes to produce inflammatory cytokines. In our study, the murine microglia BV2 cell line was used as a cell model to explore the stimulating effects of recombinant BmpA (rBmpA); Chemokine chip, ELISA and QPCR technology were used to measure the production of chemokines from microglial cells stimulated by rBmpA. Compared with the negative control group, CXCL2, CCL22, and CCL5 concentrations in the cell supernatant increased significantly after the rBmpA stimulation; the concentration of these chemokines increased with rBmpA concentration increasing; the mRNA expression levels of chemokines (CXCL2, CCL22, and CCL5) in murine BV2 cells increased significantly with 10 μg/mL and 20 μg/mL rBmpA stimulation; CXCL13 was not change after the rBmpA stimulation. Our study shows that chemokines, such as CXCL2, CCL22, and CCL5 were up-regulated by the rBmpA in the BV2 cells. The production of chemokines in Lyme neuroborreliosis may be mainly from microglia cells and the rBmpA may be closely related with the development of Lyme neuroborreliosis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Identification of a cobia (Rachycentron canadum) CC chemokine gene and its involvement in the inflammatory response.

PubMed

Su, Youlu; Guo, Zhixun; Xu, Liwen; Jiang, Jingzhe; Wang, Jiangyong; Feng, Juan

2012-01-01

The chemokines regulate immune cell migration under inflammatory and physiological conditions. We investigated a CC chemokine gene (RcCC1) from cobia (Rachycentron canadum). The full-length RcCC1 cDNA is comprised 673 nucleotides and encodes a four-cysteine arrangement 99-amino-acid protein typical of known CC chemokines. The genomic DNA of RcCC1 consists of three exons and two introns. Phylogenetic analysis showed that RcCC1 was closest to the MIP group of CC chemokines. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis revealed RcCC1 was constitutively expressed in all tissues examined, with relative strong expression in gill, blood, kidney, spleen, and head kidney. The RcCC1 transcripts in the head kidney, spleen, and liver were quickly up-regulated after stimulation with formalin-inactivated Vibrio carchariae (bacterial vaccine) or polyriboinosinic polyribocytidylic acid (poly I:C). These results indicate RcCC1 not only plays a role in homeostasis, but also may be involved in inflammatory responses to bacterial and viral infection. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Structural basis of ligand interaction with atypical chemokine receptor 3

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gustavsson, Martin; Wang, Liwen; van Gils, Noortje

2017-01-18

Chemokines drive cell migration through their interactions with seven-transmembrane (7TM) chemokine receptors on cell surfaces. The atypical chemokine receptor 3 (ACKR3) binds chemokines CXCL11 and CXCL12 and signals exclusively through β-arrestin-mediated pathways, without activating canonical G-protein signalling. This receptor is upregulated in numerous cancers making it a potential drug target. Here we collected over 100 distinct structural probes from radiolytic footprinting, disulfide trapping, and mutagenesis to map the structures of ACKR3:CXCL12 and ACKR3:small-molecule complexes, including dynamic regions that proved unresolvable by X-ray crystallography in homologous receptors. The data are integrated with molecular modelling to produce complete and cohesive experimentally drivenmore » models that confirm and expand on the existing knowledge of the architecture of receptor:chemokine and receptor:small-molecule complexes. Additionally, we detected and characterized ligand-induced conformational changes in the transmembrane and intracellular regions of ACKR3 that elucidate fundamental structural elements of agonism in this atypical receptor.« less

Solution structure of CXCL5--a novel chemokine and adipokine implicated in inflammation and obesity.

PubMed

Sepuru, Krishna Mohan; Poluri, Krishna Mohan; Rajarathnam, Krishna

2014-01-01

The chemokine CXCL5 is selectively expressed in highly specialized cells such as epithelial type II cells in the lung and white adipose tissue macrophages in muscle, where it mediates diverse functions from combating microbial infections by regulating neutrophil trafficking to promoting obesity by inhibiting insulin signaling. Currently very little is known regarding the structural basis of how CXCL5 mediates its novel functions. Towards this missing knowledge, we have solved the solution structure of the CXCL5 dimer by NMR spectroscopy. CXCL5 is a member of a subset of seven CXCR2-activating chemokines (CAC) that are characterized by the highly conserved ELR motif in the N-terminal tail. The structure shows that CXCL5 adopts the typical chemokine fold, but also reveals several distinct differences in the 30 s loop and N-terminal residues; not surprisingly, crosstalk between N-terminal and 30 s loop residues have been implicated as a major determinant of receptor activity. CAC function also involves binding to highly sulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAG), and the CXCL5 structure reveals a distinct distribution of positively charged residues, suggesting that differences in GAG interactions also influence function. The availability of the structure should now facilitate the design of experiments to better understand the molecular basis of various CXCL5 functions, and also serve as a template for the design of inhibitors for use in a clinical setting.

Disrupting functional interactions between platelet chemokines inhibits atherosclerosis in hyperlipidemic mice.

PubMed

Koenen, Rory R; von Hundelshausen, Philipp; Nesmelova, Irina V; Zernecke, Alma; Liehn, Elisa A; Sarabi, Alisina; Kramp, Birgit K; Piccinini, Anna M; Paludan, Søren R; Kowalska, M Anna; Kungl, Andreas J; Hackeng, Tilman M; Mayo, Kevin H; Weber, Christian

2009-01-01

Atherosclerosis is characterized by chronic inflammation of the arterial wall due to chemokine-driven mononuclear cell recruitment. Activated platelets can synergize with chemokines to exacerbate atherogenesis; for example, by deposition of the chemokines platelet factor-4 (PF4, also known as CXCL4) and RANTES (CCL5), triggering monocyte arrest on inflamed endothelium. Homo-oligomerization is required for the recruitment functions of CCL5, and chemokine heteromerization has more recently emerged as an additional regulatory mechanism, as evidenced by a mutual modulation of CXCL8 and CXCL4 activities and by enhanced monocyte arrest resulting from CCL5-CXCL4 interactions. The CCL5 antagonist Met-RANTES reduces diet-induced atherosclerosis; however, CCL5 antagonism may not be therapeutically feasible, as suggested by studies using Ccl5-deficient mice which imply that direct CCL5 blockade would severely compromise systemic immune responses, delay macrophage-mediated viral clearance and impair normal T cell functions. Here we determined structural features of CCL5-CXCL4 heteromers and designed stable peptide inhibitors that specifically disrupt proinflammatory CCL5-CXCL4 interactions, thereby attenuating monocyte recruitment and reducing atherosclerosis without the aforementioned side effects. These results establish the in vivo relevance of chemokine heteromers and show the potential of targeting heteromer formation to achieve therapeutic effects.

Impact of Parturition on Chemokine Homing Factor Expression in the Vaginal Distention Model of Stress Urinary Incontinence

PubMed Central

Lenis, Andrew T.; Kuang, Mei; Woo, Lynn L.; Hijaz, Adonis; Penn, Marc S.; Butler, Robert S.; Rackley, Raymond; Damaser, Margot S.; Wood, Hadley M.

2015-01-01

Purpose Human childbirth simulated by vaginal distention is known to increase the expression of chemokines and receptors involved in stem cell homing and tissue repair. We hypothesized that pregnancy and parturition in rats contributes to the expression of chemokines and receptors after vaginal distention. Materials and Methods We used 72 age matched female Lewis rats, including virgin rats with and without vaginal distention, and delivered rats with and without vaginal distention. Each rat was sacrificed immediately, or 3 or 7 days after vaginal distention and/or parturition, and the urethra was harvested. Relative expression of chemokines and receptors was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Mixed models were used with the Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons. Results Vaginal distention up-regulated urethral expression of CCL7 immediately after injury in virgin and postpartum rats. Hypoxia inducible factor-1α and vascular endothelial growth factor were up-regulated only in virgin rats immediately after vaginal distention. CD191 expression was immediately up-regulated in postpartum rats without vaginal distention compared to virgin rats without vaginal distention. CD195 was up-regulated in virgin rats 3 days after vaginal distention compared to virgin rats without vaginal distention. CD193 and CXCR4 showed delayed up-regulation in virgin rats 7 days after vaginal distention. CXCL12 was up-regulated in virgin rats 3 days after vaginal distention compared to immediately after vaginal distention. Interleukin-8 and CD192 showed no differential expression. Conclusions Vaginal distention results in up-regulation of the chemokines and receptors expressed during tissue injury, which may facilitate the spontaneous functional recovery previously noted. Pregnancy and delivery up-regulated CD191 and attenuated the expression of hypoxia inducible factor-1α and vascular endothelial growth factor in the setting of vaginal distention, likely by

Peripheral blood cytokine and chemokine profiles in juvenile localized scleroderma

PubMed Central

Torok, Kathryn S.; Kurzinski, Katherine; Kelsey, Christina; Yabes, Jonathan; Magee, Kelsey; Vallejo, Abbe N.; Medsger, Thomas; Feghali-Bostwick, Carol A.

2015-01-01

Objective To evaluate peripheral blood T-helper (TH) cell associated cytokine and chemokine profiles in localized scleroderma (LS), and correlate them with clinical disease features, including disease activity parameters. Methods A 29-plex Luminex platform was used to analyze the humoral profile of plasma samples from 69 pediatric LS patients and 71 healthy pediatric controls. Cytokine/chemokine levels were compared between these two groups and within LS patients, focusing on validated clinical outcome measures of disease activity and damage in LS. Results Plasma levels of IP-10, MCP-1, IL-17a, IL-12p70, GM-CSF, PDGF-bb, IFN-α2, and IFN-γ were significantly higher in LS compared to healthy controls. Analysis within the LS group demonstrated IP-10, TNF-α and GM-CSF correlated with clinical measures of disease activity. Several cytokines/chemokines correlated with anti-histone antibody, while only a few correlated with positive ANA and single-stranded DNA antibody. Conclusion This is the first time that multiple cytokines and chemokines have been examined simultaneously LS. In general, a TH-1 (IFN-γ) and TH-17 (IL-17a) predominance was demonstrated in LS compared to healthy controls. There is also an IFN–γ signature with elevated IP-10, MCP-1 and IFN-γ, which has been previously demonstrated in systemic sclerosis, suggesting a shared pathophysiology. Within the LS patients, those with active disease demonstrated IP-10, TNF-α and GM-CSF, which may potentially serve as biomarkers of disease activity in the clinical setting. PMID:26254121

Structure of CC Chemokine Receptor 5 with a Potent Chemokine Antagonist Reveals Mechanisms of Chemokine Recognition and Molecular Mimicry by HIV

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zheng, Yi; Han, Gye Won; Abagyan, Ruben

CCR5 is the primary chemokine receptor utilized by HIV to infect leukocytes, whereas CCR5 ligands inhibit infection by blocking CCR5 engagement with HIV gp120. To guide the design of improved therapeutics, we solved the structure of CCR5 in complex with chemokine antagonist [5P7]CCL5. Several structural features appeared to contribute to the anti-HIV potency of [5P7]CCL5, including the distinct chemokine orientation relative to the receptor, the near-complete occupancy of the receptor binding pocket, the dense network of intermolecular hydrogen bonds, and the similarity of binding determinants with the FDA-approved HIV inhibitor Maraviroc. Molecular modeling indicated that HIV gp120 mimicked the chemokinemore » interaction with CCR5, providing an explanation for the ability of CCR5 to recognize diverse ligands and gp120 variants. Our findings reveal that structural plasticity facilitates receptor-chemokine specificity and enables exploitation by HIV, and provide insight into the design of small molecule and protein inhibitors for HIV and other CCR5-mediated diseases.« less

Role of CXC group chemokines in lung cancer development and progression.

PubMed

Spaks, Artjoms

2017-04-01

Clinical and translational research on lung cancer patients undergoing surgical treatment can provide valuable scientific data and unique opportunity to study tumor microenvironment. CXC chemokines, which are members of a big family of cytokines, are undoubtedly involved in tumor growth regulation and metastasizing pathways. For better understanding of CXC chemokine involvement in the process of carcinogenesis we have studied the cohort of early stage non-small cell lung cancer patients undergoing surgery with curative intent. Our aim was to assess CXC chemokine ligand (CXCL) levels in patient blood samples representing systemic circulation and tumor microenvironment; assess CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR) expression in tumor tissue; and measure tumor infiltrating immune cell subpopulations. A total of 54 patients with NSCLC had radical lung resection were enrolled in a single center prospective study and were followed-up annually for up to six years. During surgical procedure peripheral and tumor draining blood samples were taken. CXCL1, CXCL4, CXCL5, CXCL6, CXCL7, CXCL8, CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11 and CXCL12 levels were determined by ELISA, and chemokine concentration gradient was calculated. Tumor infiltrating immune cells (T helper cells, T cytotoxic cells, macrophages, B cells, plasma cells) and expression of CXCR1, CXCR2, CXCR3 and CXCR4 in tumor tissue were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Statistically significant decrease in chemokine concentration was found for CXCL4 (P=0.002) and CXCL5 (P=0.011), and statistically significant concentration increase was found for CXCL7 (P=0.001) in total cohort. We have found statistically significant CXC chemokine concentration change for majority of chemokines-CXCL1 (P=0.002), CXCL4 (P=0.001), CXCL5 (P=0.013), CXCL7 (P=0.036), CXCL8 (P=0.026), CXCL9 (P=0.034) and CXCL10 (P=0.032) in a group of patients who had good clinical result after surgery with no evidence of relapse, on the other hand patients with cancer recurrence

Mechanisms regulating cell membrane localization of the chemokine receptor CXCR4 in human hepatocarcinoma cells.

PubMed

Cepeda, Edgar B; Dediulia, Tatjana; Fernando, Joan; Bertran, Esther; Egea, Gustavo; Navarro, Estanislao; Fabregat, Isabel

2015-05-01

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells with a mesenchymal phenotype show an asymmetric subcellular distribution of the chemokine receptor CXCR4, which is required for cell migration and invasion. In this work we examine the mechanisms that regulate the intracellular trafficking of CXCR4 in HCC cells. Results indicate that HCC cells present CXCR4 at the cell surface, but most of this protein is in endomembranes colocalizing with markers of the Golgi apparatus and recycling endosomes. The presence of high protein levels of CXCR4 present at the cell surface correlates with a mesenchymal-like phenotype and a high autocrine activation of the Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) pathway. CXCR4 traffics along the Golgi/exocyst/plasma membrane pathway and requires EXOC4 (Sec8) component of the exocyst complex. HCC cells use distinct mechanisms for the CXCR4 internalization such as dynamin-dependent endocytosis and macropinocytosis. Regardless of the endocytic mechanisms, colocalization of CXCR4 and Rab11 is observed, which could be involved not only in receptor recycling but also in its post-Golgi transport. In summary, this work highlights membrane trafficking pathways whose pharmacological targeting could subsequently result in the inactivation of one of the main guiding mechanisms used by metastatic cells to colonize secondary organs and tissues. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Vascular endothelial growth factor c/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 signaling regulates chemokine gradients and lymphocyte migration from tissues to lymphatics.

PubMed

Iwami, Daiki; Brinkman, C Colin; Bromberg, Jonathan S

2015-04-01

Circulation of leukocytes via blood, tissue and lymph is integral to adaptive immunity. Afferent lymphatics form CCL21 gradients to guide dendritic cells and T cells to lymphatics and then to draining lymph nodes (dLN). Vascular endothelial growth factor C and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR-3) are the major lymphatic growth factor and receptor. We hypothesized these molecules also regulate chemokine gradients and lymphatic migration. CD4 T cells were injected into the foot pad or ear pinnae, and migration to afferent lymphatics and dLN quantified by flow cytometry or whole mount immunohistochemistry. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 or its signaling or downstream actions were modified with blocking monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) or other reagents. Anti-VEGFR-3 prevented migration of CD4 T cells into lymphatic lumen and significantly decreased the number that migrated to dLN. Anti-VEGFR-3 abolished CCL21 gradients around lymphatics, although CCL21 production was not inhibited. Heparan sulfate (HS), critical to establish CCL21 gradients, was down-regulated around lymphatics by anti-VEGFR-3 and this was dependent on heparanase-mediated degradation. Moreover, a Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)α inhibitor disrupted HS and CCL21 gradients, whereas a PI3K activator prevented the effects of anti-VEGFR-3. During contact hypersensitivity, VEGFR-3, CCL21, and HS expression were all attenuated, and anti-heparanase or PI3K activator reversed these effects. Vascular endothelial growth factor C/VEGFR-3 signaling through PI3Kα regulates the activity of heparanase, which modifies HS and CCL21 gradients around lymphatics. The functional and physical linkages of these molecules regulate lymphatic migration from tissues to dLN. These represent new therapeutic targets to influence immunity and inflammation.

The group VIA calcium-independent phospholipase A2 and NFATc4 pathway mediates IL-1β-induced expression of chemokines CCL2 and CXCL10 in rat fibroblasts.

PubMed

Kuwata, Hiroshi; Yuzurihara, Chihiro; Kinoshita, Natsumi; Taki, Yuki; Ikegami, Yuki; Washio, Sana; Hirakawa, Yushi; Yoda, Emiko; Aiuchi, Toshihiro; Itabe, Hiroyuki; Nakatani, Yoshihito; Hara, Shuntaro

2018-06-01

Chemokines are secreted proteins that regulate cell migration and are involved in inflammatory and immune responses. Here, we sought to define the functional crosstalk between the lipid signaling and chemokine signaling. We obtained evidence that the induction of some chemokines is regulated by group VIA calcium-independent phospholipase A 2 β (iPLA 2 β) in IL-1β-stimulated rat fibroblastic 3Y1 cells. Treatment of 3Y1 cells with IL-1β elicited an increased release of chemotactic factor(s) for monocytic THP-1 cells into culture medium in a time-dependent manner. Inhibitor studies revealed that an intracellular PLA 2 inhibitor, arachidonoyl trifluoromethyl ketone (AACOCF 3 ), but not the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin, attenuated the release of chemotactic factor(s). The chemotactic activity was inactivated by treatment with either heat or proteinase K, suggesting this chemotactic factor(s) is a proteinaceous factor(s). We purified the chemotactic factor(s) from the conditioned medium of IL-1β-stimulated 3Y1 cells using a heparin column and identified several chemokines, including CCL2 and CXCL10. The inducible expressions of CCL2 and CXCL10 were significantly attenuated by pretreatment with AACOCF 3 . Gene silencing using siRNA revealed that the inductions of CCL2 and CXCL10 were attenuated by iPLA 2 β knockdown. Additionally, the transcriptional activation of nuclear factor of activated T-cell proteins (NFATs), but not nuclear factor-κB, by IL-1β stimulation was markedly attenuated by the iPLA 2 inhibitor bromoenol lactone, and NFATc4 knockdown markedly attenuated the IL-1β-induced expression of both CCL2 and CXCL10. Collectively, these results indicated that iPLA 2 β plays roles in IL-1β-induced chemokine expression, in part via NFATc4 signaling. © 2018 Federation of European Biochemical Societies.

Structure-function analysis of the extracellular domains of the Duffy antigen/receptor for chemokines: characterization of antibody and chemokine binding sites.

PubMed

Tournamille, Christophe; Filipe, Anne; Wasniowska, Kazimiera; Gane, Pierre; Lisowska, Elwira; Cartron, Jean-Pierre; Colin, Yves; Le Van Kim, Caroline

2003-09-01

The Duffy antigen/receptor for chemokines (DARC), a seven-transmembrane glycoprotein carrying the Duffy (Fy) blood group, acts as a widely expressed promiscuous chemokine receptor. In a structure-function study, we analysed the binding of chemokines and anti-Fy monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to K562 cells expressing 39 mutant forms of DARC with alanine substitutions spread out on the four extracellular domains (ECDs). Using synthetic peptides, we defined previously the Fy6 epitope (22-FEDVW-26), and we characterized the Fya epitope as the linear sequence 41-YGANLE-46. In agreement with these results, mutations of F22-E23, V25 and Y41, G42, N44, L45 on ECD1 abolished the binding of anti-Fy6 and anti-Fya mAbs to K562 cells respectively, Anti-Fy3 binding was abolished by D58-D59 (ECD1), R124 (ECD2), D263 and D283 (ECD4) substitutions. Mutations of C51 (ECD1), C129 (ECD2), C195 (ECD3) and C276 (ECD4 severely reduced anti-Fy3 and CXC-chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL-8) binding. CXCL-8 binding was also abrogated by mutations of F22-E23, P50 (ECD1) and D263, R267, D283 (ECD4). These results defined the Fya epitope and suggested that (1) two disulphide bridges are involved in the creation of an active chemokine binding pocket; (2) a limited number of amino acids in ECDs 1-4 participate in CXCL-8 binding; and (3) Fy3 is a conformation-dependent epitope involving all ECDs. We also showed that N-glycosylation of DARC occurred on N16SS and did not influence antibody and chemokine binding.

CXCR6/CXCL16 functions as a regulator in metastasis and progression of cancer.

PubMed

Deng, Ling; Chen, Nianyong; Li, Yan; Zheng, Hong; Lei, Qianqian

2010-08-01

Metastasis is considered the obvious mark for most aggressive cancers. However, little is known about the molecular mechanism of the regulation of cancer metastasis. Recent evidence increasingly suggests that the interaction between chemokines and chemokine receptors is pivotal in the process of metastasis. The chemokine receptor CXCR4 and its ligand CXCL12, for example, have been reported to play a vital role in cancer metastasis. Another chemokine and chemokine receptor pair, the CXCL16/CXCR6 axis, has been studied by several independent research groups. Here, we summarize recent advances in our knowledge of the function of CXC chemokine receptor CXCR6 and its ligand CXCL16 in regulating metastasis and invasion of cancer. CXCR6 and CXCL16 are up-regulated in multiple cancer tissue types and cancer cell lines relative to normal tissues and cell lines. In addition, both CXCR6 and CXCL16 levels increase as tumor malignancy increases. Trans-membranous CXCL16 chemokine reduces proliferation while soluble CXCL16 chemokine enhances proliferation and migration. TM-CXCL16 functions as an inducer for lymphocyte build-up around tumor sites. High trans-membranous CXCL16 expression correlates with a good prognosis. Moreover, the Akt/mTOR signal pathway is involved in activating the CXCR6/CXCL16 axis. These findings suggest multiple opportunities for blocking the CXCR6/CXCL16 axis and the Akt/mTOR signal pathway in novel cancer therapies. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Critical role for the chemokine receptor CXCR6 in homeostasis and activation of CD1d-restricted NKT cells.

PubMed

Germanov, Elitza; Veinotte, Linnea; Cullen, Robyn; Chamberlain, Erin; Butcher, Eugene C; Johnston, Brent

2008-07-01

NK T (NKT) cells play important roles in the regulation of diverse immune responses. However, little is known about the mechanisms that regulate homeostasis and activation of these cells. Thymic NKT cells up-regulated the chemokine receptor CXCR6 following positive selection and migrated toward CXCL16 in vitro. However, CXCR6 was not essential for thymic development or maturation. In contrast, liver and lung NKT cells were depleted in CXCR6+/- and CXCR6-/- mice. The reduction in liver and lung NKT cells coincided with an increase in bone marrow NKT cells, suggesting a redistribution of NKT cells in CXCR6-/- animals. In wild-type mice, CXCL16 neutralization reduced accumulation of mature NK1.1+, but not immature NK1.1- NKT cell recent thymic emigrants in the liver. Given that thymic NKT cells are preferentially exported as NK1.1- cells, this suggests an additional role for CXCR6/CXCL16 in maturation or survival of immature liver NKT cells. CXCL16 blockade did not deplete resident NK1.1+ NKT cells, indicating that CXCR6/CXCL16 are not required to retain mature NKT cells in the liver. Cytokine production by liver and spleen NKT cells was impaired in CXCR6-/- mice following in vivo stimulation with alpha-galactosylceramide, implicating a novel role for CXCR6 in NKT cell activation. Reduced IFN-gamma production was not due to an intrinsic defect as production was normal following PMA and ionomycin stimulation. Preformed transcripts for IL-4, but not IFN-gamma, were reduced in CXCR6-/- liver NKT cells. These data identify critical roles for CXCR6/CXCL16 in NKT cell activation and the regulation of NKT cell homeostasis.

A blood-based screening tool for Alzheimer's disease that spans serum and plasma: findings from TARC and ADNI.

PubMed

O'Bryant, Sid E; Xiao, Guanghua; Barber, Robert; Huebinger, Ryan; Wilhelmsen, Kirk; Edwards, Melissa; Graff-Radford, Neill; Doody, Rachelle; Diaz-Arrastia, Ramon

2011-01-01

There is no rapid and cost effective tool that can be implemented as a front-line screening tool for Alzheimer's disease (AD) at the population level. To generate and cross-validate a blood-based screener for AD that yields acceptable accuracy across both serum and plasma. Analysis of serum biomarker proteins were conducted on 197 Alzheimer's disease (AD) participants and 199 control participants from the Texas Alzheimer's Research Consortium (TARC) with further analysis conducted on plasma proteins from 112 AD and 52 control participants from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). The full algorithm was derived from a biomarker risk score, clinical lab (glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, homocysteine), and demographic (age, gender, education, APOE*E4 status) data. Alzheimer's disease. 11 proteins met our criteria and were utilized for the biomarker risk score. The random forest (RF) biomarker risk score from the TARC serum samples (training set) yielded adequate accuracy in the ADNI plasma sample (training set) (AUC = 0.70, sensitivity (SN) = 0.54 and specificity (SP) = 0.78), which was below that obtained from ADNI cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) analyses (t-tau/Aβ ratio AUC = 0.92). However, the full algorithm yielded excellent accuracy (AUC = 0.88, SN = 0.75, and SP = 0.91). The likelihood ratio of having AD based on a positive test finding (LR+) = 7.03 (SE = 1.17; 95% CI = 4.49-14.47), the likelihood ratio of not having AD based on the algorithm (LR-) = 3.55 (SE = 1.15; 2.22-5.71), and the odds ratio of AD were calculated in the ADNI cohort (OR) = 28.70 (1.55; 95% CI = 11.86-69.47). It is possible to create a blood-based screening algorithm that works across both serum and plasma that provides a comparable screening accuracy to that obtained from CSF analyses.

Myocardin Regulates Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Inflammatory Activation and Disease

PubMed Central

Ackers-Johnson, Matthew; Talasila, Amarnath; Sage, Andrew P; Long, Xiaochun; Bot, Ilze; Morrell, Nicholas W; Bennett, Martin R; Miano, Joseph M.; Sinha, Sanjay

2015-01-01

Objective Atherosclerosis, the cause of 50% of deaths in westernised societies, is widely regarded as a chronic vascular inflammatory disease. Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) inflammatory activation in response to local pro-inflammatory stimuli contributes to disease progression and is a pervasive feature in developing atherosclerotic plaques. Therefore, it is of considerable therapeutic importance to identify mechanisms that regulate the VSMC inflammatory response. Approach and Results We report that myocardin, a powerful myogenic transcriptional coactivator, negatively regulates VSMC inflammatory activation and vascular disease. Myocardin levels are reduced during atherosclerosis, in association with phenotypic switching of smooth muscle cells. Myocardin deficiency accelerates atherogenesis in hypercholesterolemic ApoE−/− mice. Conversely, increased myocardin expression potently abrogates the induction of an array of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines and adhesion molecules in VSMCs. Expression of myocardin in VSMCs reduces lipid uptake, macrophage interaction, chemotaxis and macrophage-endothelial tethering in vitro, and attenuates monocyte accumulation within developing lesions in vivo. These results demonstrate that endogenous levels of myocardin are a critical regulator of vessel inflammation. Conclusions We propose myocardin as a guardian of the contractile, non-inflammatory VSMC phenotype, with loss of myocardin representing a critical permissive step in the process of phenotypic transition and inflammatory activation, at the onset of vascular disease. PMID:25614278

Morus alba L. suppresses the development of atopic dermatitis induced by the house dust mite in NC/Nga mice

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Morus alba, a medicinal plant in Asia, has been used traditionally to treat diabetes mellitus and hypoglycemia. However, the effects of M. alba extract (MAE) on atopic dermatitis have not been verified scientifically. We investigated the effects of MAE on atopic dermatitis through in vitro and in vivo experiments. Methods We evaluated the effects of MAE on the production of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in RAW 264.7, as well as thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC/CCL17) in HaCaT cells. In an in vivo experiment, atopic dermatitis was induced by topical application of house dust mites for four weeks, and the protective effects of MAE were investigated by measuring the severity of the skin reaction on the back and ears, the plasma levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) and histamine, and histopathological changes in the skin on the back and ears. Results MAE suppressed the production of NO and PGE2 in RAW 264.7 cells, as well as TARC in HaCaT cells, in a dose-dependent manner. MAE treatment of NC/Nga mice reduced the severity of dermatitis and the plasma levels of IgE and histamine. MAE also reduced the histological manifestations of atopic dermatitis-like skin lesions such as erosion, hyperplasia of the epidermis and dermis, and inflammatory cell infiltration in the skin on the back and ears. Conclusion Our results suggest that MAE has potent inhibitory effects on atopic dermatitis-like lesion and may be a beneficial natural resource for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. PMID:24755250

Utility of CSF Cytokine/Chemokines as Markers of Active Intrathecal Inflammation: Comparison of Demyelinating, Anti-NMDAR and Enteroviral Encephalitis

PubMed Central

Kothur, Kavitha; Wienholt, Louise; Mohammad, Shekeeb S.; Tantsis, Esther M.; Pillai, Sekhar; Britton, Philip N.; Jones, Cheryl A.; Angiti, Rajeshwar R.; Barnes, Elizabeth H.; Schlub, Timothy; Bandodkar, Sushil; Brilot, Fabienne; Dale, Russell C.

2016-01-01

Background Despite the discovery of CSF and serum diagnostic autoantibodies in autoimmune encephalitis, there are still very limited CSF biomarkers for diagnostic and monitoring purposes in children with inflammatory or autoimmune brain disease. The cause of encephalitis is unknown in up to a third of encephalitis cohorts, and it is important to differentiate infective from autoimmune encephalitis given the therapeutic implications. Aim To study CSF cytokines and chemokines as diagnostic biomarkers of active neuroinflammation, and assess their role in differentiating demyelinating, autoimmune, and viral encephalitis. Methods We measured and compared 32 cytokine/chemokines using multiplex immunoassay and APRIL and BAFF using ELISA in CSF collected prior to commencing treatment from paediatric patients with confirmed acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM, n = 16), anti-NMDAR encephalitis (anti-NMDAR E, n = 11), and enteroviral encephalitis (EVE, n = 16). We generated normative data using CSF from 20 non-inflammatory neurological controls. The sensitivity of CSF cytokine/chemokines to diagnose encephalitis cases was calculated using 95th centile of control values as cut off. We correlated CSF cytokine/chemokines with disease severity and follow up outcome based on modified Rankin scale. One-way hierarchical correlational cluster analysis of molecules was performed in different encephalitis and outcome groups. Results In descending order, CSF TNF-α, IL-10, IFN-α, IL-6, CXCL13 and CXCL10 had the best sensitivity (>79.1%) when all encephalitis patients were included. The combination of IL-6 and IFN-α was most predictive of inflammation on multiple logistic regression with area under the ROC curve 0.99 (CI 0.97–1.00). There were no differences in CSF cytokine concentrations between EVE and anti-NMDAR E, whereas ADEM showed more pronounced elevation of Th17 related (IL-17, IL-21) and Th2 (IL-4, CCL17) related cytokine/chemokines. Unlike EVE, heat map analysis

HIF-1α regulates epithelial inflammation by cell autonomous NFκB activation and paracrine stromal remodeling

PubMed Central

Scortegagna, Marzia; Cataisson, Christophe; Martin, Rebecca J.; Hicklin, Daniel J.; Schreiber, Robert D.; Yuspa, Stuart H.

2008-01-01

Hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) is a master regulatory transcription factor controlling multiple cell-autonomous and non–cell-autonomous processes, such as metabolism, angiogenesis, matrix invasion, and cancer metastasis. Here we used a new line of transgenic mice with constitutive gain of HIF-1 function in basal keratinocytes and demonstrated a signaling pathway from HIF-1 to nuclear factor κ B (NFκB) activation to enhanced epithelial chemokine and cytokine elaboration. This pathway was responsible for a phenotypically silent accumulation of stromal inflammatory cells and a marked inflammatory hypersensitivity to a single 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) challenge. HIF-1–induced NFκB activation was composed of 2 elements, IκB hyperphosphorylation and phosphorylation of Ser276 on p65, enhancing p65 nuclear localization and transcriptional activity, respectively. NFκB transcriptional targets macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2/CXCL2/3), keratinocyte chemokine (KC/CXCL1), and tumor necrosis factor [alfa] (TNFα) were constitutively up-regulated and further increased after TPA challenge both in cultured keratinocytes and in transgenic mice. Whole animal KC, MIP-2, or TNFα immunodepletion each abrogated TPA-induced inflammation, whereas blockade of either VEGF or placenta growth factor (PlGF) signaling did not affect transgenic inflammatory hyper-responsiveness. Thus, epithelial HIF-1 gain of function remodels the local environment by cell-autonomous NFκB-mediated chemokine and cytokine secretion, which may be another mechanism by which HIF-1 facilitates either inflammatory diseases or malignant progression. PMID:18199827

Multiplex analysis of plasma cytokines/chemokines showing different immune responses in active TB patients, latent TB infection and healthy participants.

PubMed

Yao, Xiangyang; Liu, Yongliang; Liu, Yang; Liu, Wei; Ye, Zhizhong; Zheng, Chao; Ge, Shengxiang

2017-12-01

Interferon gamma release assays (IGRAs) have been widely used to diagnose Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) infection. However, IGRAs cannot discriminate between active TB patients and latent TB infection (LTBI), and the sensitivity of IGRAs for MTB infection is suboptimal. Here, we analyzed cytokines/chemokines in MTB antigen-stimulated and -unstimulated plasma samples to identify host biomarkers that are associated with active TB and MTB infection. Active TB patients, subjects with LTBI and healthy participants were recruited. Seventy-one soluble cytokines and chemokines were tested using Luminex liquid array-based multiplexed immunoassays. For the 71 examined factors, our results indicated that the unstimulated levels of IL-8 Nil , IP-10 Nil , MIP-1a Nil , and sIL-2Ra Nil and the antigen stimulated levels of IL-8 (Ag-Nil) , VEGF (Ag-Nil) , and MCP-3 (Ag-Nil) were potential biomarkers for differentiating between active TB and LTBI, with AUCs of 0.8, 0.86, 0.755, 0.845, 0.825, 0.812 and 0.75, respectively. The G-CSF (Ag-Nil) , GM-CSF (Ag-Nil) , IL-1a (Ag-Nil) , IL-2 (Ag-Nil) , IP-10 (Ag-Nil) , BCA-1 (Ag-Nil) and Eotaxin-1 (Ag-Nil) responses were significantly higher in patients with active TB and LTBI compared with healthy participants (p < 0.05), with AUCs of 0.922, 0.902, 0.908, 1.0, 0.937, 0.919 and 0.935, respectively. Our preliminary data suggest that unstimulated or stimulated levels of cytokines and chemokines could be used as host biomarkers for diagnosing active TB as well as additional biomarkers, except IFN-γ, for MTB infection. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Chemokine MIP-1α/CCL3 impairs mouse hippocampal synaptic transmission, plasticity and memory.

PubMed

Marciniak, Elodie; Faivre, Emilie; Dutar, Patrick; Alves Pires, Claire; Demeyer, Dominique; Caillierez, Raphaëlle; Laloux, Charlotte; Buée, Luc; Blum, David; Humez, Sandrine

2015-10-29

Chemokines are signaling molecules playing an important role in immune regulations. They are also thought to regulate brain development, neurogenesis and neuroendocrine functions. While chemokine upsurge has been associated with conditions characterized with cognitive impairments, their ability to modulate synaptic plasticity remains ill-defined. In the present study, we specifically evaluated the effects of MIP1-α/CCL3 towards hippocampal synaptic transmission, plasticity and spatial memory. We found that CCL3 (50 ng/ml) significantly reduced basal synaptic transmission at the Schaffer collateral-CA1 synapse without affecting NMDAR-mediated field potentials. This effect was ascribed to post-synaptic regulations, as CCL3 did not impact paired-pulse facilitation. While CCL3 did not modulate long-term depression (LTD), it significantly impaired long-term potentiation (LTP), an effect abolished by Maraviroc, a CCR5 specific antagonist. In addition, sub-chronic intracerebroventricular (icv) injections of CCL3 also impair LTP. In accordance with these electrophysiological findings, we demonstrated that the icv injection of CCL3 in mouse significantly impaired spatial memory abilities and long-term memory measured using the two-step Y-maze and passive avoidance tasks. These effects of CCL3 on memory were inhibited by Maraviroc. Altogether, these data suggest that the chemokine CCL3 is an hippocampal neuromodulator able to regulate synaptic plasticity mechanisms involved in learning and memory functions.

In vivo inhibition of CC and CX3C chemokine-induced leukocyte infiltration and attenuation of glomerulonephritis in Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats by vMIP-II.

PubMed

Chen, S; Bacon, K B; Li, L; Garcia, G E; Xia, Y; Lo, D; Thompson, D A; Siani, M A; Yamamoto, T; Harrison, J K; Feng, L

1998-07-06

Chemokines play a central role in immune and inflammatory responses. It has been observed recently that certain viruses have evolved molecular piracy and mimicry mechanisms by encoding and synthesizing proteins that interfere with the normal host defense response. One such viral protein, vMIP-II, encoded by human herpesvirus 8, has been identified with in vitro antagonistic activities against CC and CXC chemokine receptors. We report here that vMIP-II has additional antagonistic activity against CX3CR1, the receptor for fractalkine. To investigate the potential therapeutic effect of this broad-spectrum chemokine antagonist, we studied the antiinflammatory activity of vMIP-II in a rat model of experimental glomerulonephritis induced by an antiglomerular basement membrane antibody. vMIP-II potently inhibited monocyte chemoattractant protein 1-, macrophage inflammatory protein 1beta-, RANTES (regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted)-, and fractalkine-induced chemotaxis of activated leukocytes isolated from nephritic glomeruli, significantly reduced leukocyte infiltration to the glomeruli, and markedly attenuated proteinuria. These results suggest that molecules encoded by some viruses may serve as useful templates for the development of antiinflammatory compounds.

SMM-chemokines: a class of unnatural synthetic molecules as chemical probes of chemokine receptor biology and leads for therapeutic development.

PubMed

Kumar, Santosh; Choi, Won-Tak; Dong, Chang-Zhi; Madani, Navid; Tian, Shaomin; Liu, Dongxiang; Wang, Youli; Pesavento, James; Wang, Jun; Fan, Xuejun; Yuan, Jian; Fritzsche, Wayne R; An, Jing; Sodroski, Joseph G; Richman, Douglas D; Huang, Ziwei

2006-01-01

Chemokines and their receptors play important roles in numerous physiological and pathological processes. To develop natural chemokines into receptor probes and inhibitors of pathological processes, the lack of chemokine-receptor selectivity must be overcome. Here, we apply chemical synthesis and the concept of modular modifications to generate unnatural synthetically and modularly modified (SMM)-chemokines that have high receptor selectivity and affinity, and reduced toxicity. A proof of the concept was shown by transforming the nonselective viral macrophage inflammatory protein-II into new analogs with enhanced selectivity and potency for CXCR4 or CCR5, two principal coreceptors for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 entry. These new analogs provided insights into receptor binding and signaling mechanisms and acted as potent HIV-1 inhibitors. These results support the concept of SMM-chemokines for studying and controlling the function of other chemokine receptors.

Endothelial cell regulation of leukocyte infiltration in inflammatory tissues

PubMed Central

Mantovani, A.; Introna, M.; Dejana, E.

1995-01-01

Endothelial cells play an important, active role in the onset and regulation of inflammatory and immune reactions. Through the production of chemokines they attract leukocytes and activate their adhesive receptors. This leads to the anchorage of leukocytes to the adhesive molecules expressed on the endothelial surface. Leukocyte adhesion to endothelial cells is frequently followed by their extravasation. The mechanisms which regulate the passage of leukocytes through endothelial clefts remain to be clarified. Many indirect data suggest that leukocytes might transfer signals to endothelial cells both through the release of active agents and adhesion to the endothelial cell surface. Adhesive molecules (such as PECAM) on the endothelial cell surface might also ‘direct’ leukocytes through the intercellular junction by haptotaxis. The information available on the molecular structure and functional properties of endothelial chemokines, adhesive molecules or junction organization is still fragmentary. Further work is needed to clarify how they interplay in regulating leukocyte infiltration into tissues. PMID:18475659

Induction of interleukin-8 by Naegleria fowleri lysates requires activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase in human astroglial cells.

PubMed

Kim, Jong-Hyun; Sohn, Hae-Jin; Lee, Sang-Hee; Kwon, Daeho; Shin, Ho-Joon

2012-08-01

Naegleria fowleri is a pathogenic free-living amoeba which causes primary amoebic meningoencephalitis in humans and experimental animals. To investigate the mechanisms of such inflammatory diseases, potential chemokine gene activation in human astroglial cells was investigated following treatment with N. fowleri lysates. We demonstrated that N. fowleri are potent inducers for the expression of interleukin-8 (IL-8) genes in human astroglial cells which was preceded by activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). In addition, N. fowleri lysates induces the DNA binding activity of activator protein-1 (AP-1), an important transcription factor for IL-8 induction. The specific mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase/ERK inhibitor, U0126, blocks N. fowleri-mediated AP-1 activation and subsequent IL-8 induction. N. fowleri-induced IL-8 expression requires activation of ERK in human astroglial cells. These findings indicate that treatment of N. fowleri on human astroglial cells leads to the activation of AP-1 and subsequent expression of IL-8 which are dependent on ERK activation. These results may help understand the N. fowleri-mediated upregulation of chemokine and cytokine expression in the astroglial cells.

Preparation and Analysis of N-Terminal Chemokine Receptor Sulfopeptides Using Tyrosylprotein Sulfotransferase Enzymes.

PubMed

Seibert, Christoph; Sanfiz, Anthony; Sakmar, Thomas P; Veldkamp, Christopher T

2016-01-01

In most chemokine receptors, one or multiple tyrosine residues have been identified within the receptor N-terminal domain that are, at least partially, modified by posttranslational tyrosine sulfation. For example, tyrosine sulfation has been demonstrated for Tyr-3, -10, -14, and -15 of CCR5, for Tyr-3, -14, and -15 of CCR8, and for Tyr-7, -12, and -21 of CXCR4. While there is evidence for several chemokine receptors that tyrosine sulfation is required for optimal interaction with the chemokine ligands, the precise role of tyrosine sulfation for chemokine receptor function remains unclear. Furthermore, the function of the chemokine receptor N-terminal domain in chemokine binding and receptor activation is also not well understood. Sulfotyrosine peptides corresponding to the chemokine receptor N-termini are valuable tools to address these important questions both in structural and functional studies. However, due to the lability of the sulfotyrosine modification, these peptides are difficult to obtain using standard peptide chemistry methods. In this chapter, we provide methods to prepare sulfotyrosine peptides by enzymatic in vitro sulfation of peptides using purified recombinant tyrosylprotein sulfotransferase (TPST) enzymes. In addition, we also discuss alternative approaches for the generation of sulfotyrosine peptides and methods for sulfopeptide analysis. © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Preparation and analysis of N-terminal chemokine receptor sulfopeptides using tyrosylprotein sulfotransferase enzymes

PubMed Central

Seibert, Christoph; Sanfiz, Anthony; Sakmar, Thomas P.; Veldkamp, Christopher T.

2016-01-01

In most chemokine receptors, one or multiple tyrosine residues have been identified within the receptor N-terminal domain that are, at least partially, modified by post-translational tyrosine sulfation. For example, tyrosine sulfation has been demonstrated for Tyr-3, -10, -14, and -15 of CCR5, for Tyr-3, -14, and -15 of CCR8 and for Tyr-7, -12, and -21 of CXCR4. While there is evidence for several chemokine receptors that tyrosine sulfation is required for optimal interaction with the chemokine ligands, the precise role of tyrosine sulfation for chemokine receptor function remains unclear. Furthermore, the function of the chemokine receptor N-terminal domain in chemokine binding and receptor activation is also not well understood. Sulfotyrosine peptides corresponding to the chemokine receptor N-termini are valuable tools to address these important questions both in structural and functional studies. However, due to the liability of the sulfotyrosine modification, these peptides are difficult to obtain using standard peptide chemistry methods. In this chapter, we provide methods to prepare sulfotyrosine peptides by enzymatic in vitro sulfation of peptides using purified recombinant tyrosylprotein sulfotransferase (TPST) enzymes. In addition, we also discuss alternative approaches for the generation of sulfotyrosine peptides and methods from sulfopeptide analysis. PMID:26921955

Role of atypical chemokine receptor ACKR2 in experimental oral squamous cell carcinogenesis.

PubMed

da Silva, Janine Mayra; Dos Santos, Tálita Pollyanna Moreira; Saraiva, Adriana Machado; Fernandes de Oliveira, Ana Laura; Garlet, Gustavo Pompermaier; Batista, Aline Carvalho; de Mesquita, Ricardo Alves; Russo, Remo Castro; da Silva, Tarcília Aparecida

2018-03-14

Chemokines and chemokine receptors are critical in oral tumourigenesis. The atypical chemokine receptor ACKR2 is a scavenger of CC chemokines controlling the availability of these molecules at tumour sites, but the role of ACKR2 in the context of oral carcinogenesis is unexplored. In this study, wild-type (WT) and ACKR2 deficient mice (ACKR2 -/- ) were treated with chemical carcinogen 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide (4NQO) for induction of oral carcinogenesis. Tongues were collected for macro and microscopic analysis and to evaluate the expression of ACKRs, CC chemokines and its receptors, inflammatory cytokines, angiogenic factors, adhesion molecules and extracellular matrix components. An increased expression of ACKR2 in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) lesions of 4NQO-treated WT mice was observed. No significant differences were seen in the ACKR1, ACKR3 and ACKR4 mRNA expression comparing SCC lesions from WT and ACKR2 -/- treated mice. Significantly higher expression of CCL2, IL-6 and IL-17 was detected in ACKR2 -/- treated mice. In contrast, the expression of other CC-chemokines, and receptors, angiogenic factors, adhesion molecules and extracellular matrix components were similarly increased in SCC lesions of both groups. Clinical and histopathological analysis revealed no differences in inflammatory cell recruitment and in the SCC incidence comparing WT and ACKR2 -/- treated mice. The results suggest that ACKR2 expression regulates inflammation in tumour-microenvironment but the absence of ACKR2 does not impact chemically-induced oral carcinogenesis. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells Modulate Chemokine Expression and Hyaluronan Synthesis in Fibroblasts*

PubMed Central

Kretschmer, Inga; Freudenberger, Till; Twarock, Sören; Yamaguchi, Yu; Grandoch, Maria; Fischer, Jens W.

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to characterize the interaction of KYSE-410, an esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell line, and fibroblasts with respect to the extracellular matrix component hyaluronan (HA) and chemokine expression. KYSE-410 cells induced the mRNA expression of HA synthase 2 (Has2) in normal skin fibroblasts (SF) only in direct co-cultures. Parallel to Has2 mRNA, Has2 antisense RNA (Has2os2) was up-regulated in co-cultures. Knockdown of LEF1, a downstream target of Wnt signaling, abrogated Has2 and Has2os2 induction. After knockdown of Has2 in SF, significantly less α-smooth muscle actin expression was detected in co-cultures. Moreover, it was investigated whether the phenotype of KYSE-410 was affected in co-culture with SF and whether Has2 knockdown in SF had an impact on KYSE-410 cells in co-culture. However, no effects on epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers, proliferation, and migration were detected. In addition to Has2 mRNA, the chemokine CCL5 was up-regulated and CCL11 was down-regulated in SF in co-culture. Furthermore, co-cultures of KYSE-410 cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) were investigated. Similar to SF, Has2 and Ccl5 were up-regulated and Ccl11 was down-regulated in CAF in co-culture. Importantly and in contrast to SF, inhibiting HA synthesis by 4-methylumbelliferone abrogated the effect of co-culture on Ccl5 in CAF. Moreover, HA was found to promote adhesion of CD4+ but not CD8+ cells to xenogaft tumor tissues. In conclusion, direct co-culture of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and fibroblasts induced stromal HA synthesis via Wnt/LEF1 and altered the chemokine profile of stromal fibroblasts, which in turn may affect the tumor immune response. PMID:26699196

Augmentation of chemokine production by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 3a/X1 and 7a/X4 proteins through NF-kappaB activation.

PubMed

Kanzawa, Noriyuki; Nishigaki, Kazuo; Hayashi, Takaya; Ishii, Yuichi; Furukawa, Souichi; Niiro, Ayako; Yasui, Fumihiko; Kohara, Michinori; Morita, Kouichi; Matsushima, Kouji; Le, Mai Quynh; Masuda, Takao; Kannagi, Mari

2006-12-22

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is characterized by rapidly progressing respiratory failure resembling acute/adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) associated with uncontrolled inflammatory responses. Here, we demonstrated that, among five accessory proteins of SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV) tested, 3a/X1 and 7a/X4 were capable of activating nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and significantly enhanced interleukin 8 (IL-8) promoter activity. Furthermore, 3a/X1 and 7a/X4 expression in A549 cells enhanced production of inflammatory chemokines that were known to be up-regulated in SARS-CoV infection. Our results suggest potential involvement of 3a/X1 and 7a/X4 proteins in the pathological inflammatory responses in SARS.

Synthesis and structure-activity relationship of the first nonpeptidergic inverse agonists for the human cytomegalovirus encoded chemokine receptor US28.

PubMed

Hulshof, Janneke W; Casarosa, Paola; Menge, Wiro M P B; Kuusisto, Leena M S; van der Goot, Henk; Smit, Martine J; de Esch, Iwan J P; Leurs, Rob

2005-10-06

US28 is a human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) encoded G-protein-coupled receptor that signals in a constitutively active manner. Recently, we identified 1 [5-(4-(4-chlorophenyl)-4-hydroxypiperidin-1-yl)-2,2-diphenylpentanenitrile] as the first reported nonpeptidergic inverse agonist for a viral-encoded chemokine receptor. Interestingly, this compound is able to partially inhibit the viral entry of HIV-1. In this study we describe the synthesis of 1 and several of its analogues and unique structure-activity relationships for this first class of small-molecule ligands for the chemokine receptor US28. Moreover, the compounds have been pharmacologically characterized as inverse agonists on US28. By modification of lead structure 1, it is shown that a 4-phenylpiperidine moiety is essential for affinity and activity. Other structural features of 1 are shown to be of less importance. These compounds define the first SAR of ligands on a viral GPCR (US28) and may therefore serve as important tools to investigate the significance of US28-mediated constitutive activity during viral infection.

Neuronal apoptotic signaling pathways probed and intervened by synthetically and modularly modified (SMM) chemokines.

PubMed

Choi, Won-Tak; Kaul, Marcus; Kumar, Santosh; Wang, Jun; Kumar, I M Krishna; Dong, Chang-Zhi; An, Jing; Lipton, Stuart A; Huang, Ziwei

2007-03-09

As the main coreceptors for human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) entry, CXCR4 and CCR5 play important roles in HIV-associated dementia (HAD). HIV-1 glycoprotein gp120 contributes to HAD by causing neuronal damage and death, either directly by triggering apoptotic pathways or indirectly by stimulating glial cells to release neurotoxins. Here, to understand the mechanism of CXCR4 or CCR5 signaling in neuronal apoptosis associated with HAD, we have applied synthetically and modularly modified (SMM)-chemokine analogs derived from natural stromal cell-derived factor-1alpha or viral macrophage inflammatory protein-II as chemical probes of the mechanism(s) whereby these SMM-chemokines prevent or promote neuronal apoptosis. We show that inherently neurotoxic natural ligands of CXCR4, such as stromal cell-derived factor-1alpha or viral macrophage inflammatory protein-II, can be modified to protect neurons from apoptosis induced by CXCR4-preferring gp120(IIIB), and that the inhibition of CCR5 by antagonist SMM-chemokines, unlike neuroprotective CCR5 natural ligands, leads to neurotoxicity by activating a p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-dependent pathway. Furthermore, we discover distinct signaling pathways activated by different chemokine ligands that are either natural agonists or synthetic antagonists, thus demonstrating a chemical biology strategy of using chemically engineered inhibitors of chemokine receptors to study the signaling mechanism of neuronal apoptosis and survival.

Structural basis of receptor sulfotyrosine recognition by a CC chemokine: the N-terminal region of CCR3 bound to CCL11/eotaxin-1.

PubMed

Millard, Christopher J; Ludeman, Justin P; Canals, Meritxell; Bridgford, Jessica L; Hinds, Mark G; Clayton, Daniel J; Christopoulos, Arthur; Payne, Richard J; Stone, Martin J

2014-11-04

Trafficking of leukocytes in immune surveillance and inflammatory responses is activated by chemokines engaging their receptors. Sulfation of tyrosine residues in peptides derived from the eosinophil chemokine receptor CCR3 dramatically enhances binding to cognate chemokines. We report the structural basis of this recognition and affinity enhancement. We describe the structure of a CC chemokine (CCL11/eotaxin-1) bound to a fragment of a chemokine receptor: residues 8–23 of CCR3, including two sulfotyrosine residues. We also show that intact CCR3 is sulfated and sulfation enhances receptor activity. The CCR3 sulfotyrosine residues form hydrophobic, salt bridge and cation-p interactions with residues that are highly conserved in CC chemokines. However, the orientation of the chemokine relative to the receptor N terminus differs substantially from those observed for two CXC chemokines, suggesting that initial binding of the receptor sulfotyrosine residues guides subsequent steps in receptor activation, thereby influencing the receptor conformational changes and signaling.

Chemokines cooperate with TNF to provide protective anti-viral immunity and to enhance inflammation.

PubMed

Alejo, Alí; Ruiz-Argüello, M Begoña; Pontejo, Sergio M; Fernández de Marco, María Del Mar; Saraiva, Margarida; Hernáez, Bruno; Alcamí, Antonio

2018-05-03

The role of cytokines and chemokines in anti-viral defense has been demonstrated, but their relative contribution to protective anti-viral responses in vivo is not fully understood. Cytokine response modifier D (CrmD) is a secreted receptor for TNF and lymphotoxin containing the smallpox virus-encoded chemokine receptor (SECRET) domain and is expressed by ectromelia virus, the causative agent of the smallpox-like disease mousepox. Here we show that CrmD is an essential virulence factor that controls natural killer cell activation and allows progression of fatal mousepox, and demonstrate that both SECRET and TNF binding domains are required for full CrmD activity. Vaccination with recombinant CrmD protects animals from lethal mousepox. These results indicate that a specific set of chemokines enhance the inflammatory and protective anti-viral responses mediated by TNF and lymphotoxin, and illustrate how viruses optimize anti-TNF strategies with the addition of a chemokine binding domain as soluble decoy receptors.

Akt-mTORC1 signaling regulates Acly to integrate metabolic input to control of macrophage activation

PubMed Central

Covarrubias, Anthony J; Aksoylar, Halil Ibrahim; Yu, Jiujiu; Snyder, Nathaniel W; Worth, Andrew J; Iyer, Shankar S; Wang, Jiawei; Ben-Sahra, Issam; Byles, Vanessa; Polynne-Stapornkul, Tiffany; Espinosa, Erika C; Lamming, Dudley; Manning, Brendan D; Zhang, Yijing; Blair, Ian A; Horng, Tiffany

2016-01-01

Macrophage activation/polarization to distinct functional states is critically supported by metabolic shifts. How polarizing signals coordinate metabolic and functional reprogramming, and the potential implications for control of macrophage activation, remains poorly understood. Here we show that IL-4 signaling co-opts the Akt-mTORC1 pathway to regulate Acly, a key enzyme in Ac-CoA synthesis, leading to increased histone acetylation and M2 gene induction. Only a subset of M2 genes is controlled in this way, including those regulating cellular proliferation and chemokine production. Moreover, metabolic signals impinge on the Akt-mTORC1 axis for such control of M2 activation. We propose that Akt-mTORC1 signaling calibrates metabolic state to energetically demanding aspects of M2 activation, which may define a new role for metabolism in supporting macrophage activation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.11612.001 PMID:26894960

Role of CXC group chemokines in lung cancer development and progression

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Background Clinical and translational research on lung cancer patients undergoing surgical treatment can provide valuable scientific data and unique opportunity to study tumor microenvironment. CXC chemokines, which are members of a big family of cytokines, are undoubtedly involved in tumor growth regulation and metastasizing pathways. For better understanding of CXC chemokine involvement in the process of carcinogenesis we have studied the cohort of early stage non-small cell lung cancer patients undergoing surgery with curative intent. Our aim was to assess CXC chemokine ligand (CXCL) levels in patient blood samples representing systemic circulation and tumor microenvironment; assess CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR) expression in tumor tissue; and measure tumor infiltrating immune cell subpopulations. Methods A total of 54 patients with NSCLC had radical lung resection were enrolled in a single center prospective study and were followed-up annually for up to six years. During surgical procedure peripheral and tumor draining blood samples were taken. CXCL1, CXCL4, CXCL5, CXCL6, CXCL7, CXCL8, CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11 and CXCL12 levels were determined by ELISA, and chemokine concentration gradient was calculated. Tumor infiltrating immune cells (T helper cells, T cytotoxic cells, macrophages, B cells, plasma cells) and expression of CXCR1, CXCR2, CXCR3 and CXCR4 in tumor tissue were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Results Statistically significant decrease in chemokine concentration was found for CXCL4 (P=0.002) and CXCL5 (P=0.011), and statistically significant concentration increase was found for CXCL7 (P=0.001) in total cohort. We have found statistically significant CXC chemokine concentration change for majority of chemokines—CXCL1 (P=0.002), CXCL4 (P=0.001), CXCL5 (P=0.013), CXCL7 (P=0.036), CXCL8 (P=0.026), CXCL9 (P=0.034) and CXCL10 (P=0.032) in a group of patients who had good clinical result after surgery with no evidence of relapse, on the other hand

DEPTOR regulates vascular endothelial cell activation and proinflammatory and angiogenic responses.

PubMed

Bruneau, Sarah; Nakayama, Hironao; Woda, Craig B; Flynn, Evelyn A; Briscoe, David M

2013-09-05

The maintenance of normal tissue homeostasis and the prevention of chronic inflammatory disease are dependent on the active process of inflammation resolution. In endothelial cells (ECs), proinflammation results from the activation of intracellular signaling responses and/or the inhibition of endogenous regulatory/pro-resolution signaling networks that, to date, are poorly defined. In this study, we find that DEP domain containing mTOR interacting protein (DEPTOR) is expressed in different microvascular ECs in vitro and in vivo, and using a small interfering RNA (siRNA) knockdown approach, we find that it regulates mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 activation in part through independent mechanisms. Moreover, using limited gene arrays, we observed that DEPTOR regulates EC activation including mRNA expression of the T-cell chemoattractant chemokines CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, CX3CL1, CCL5, and CCL20 and the adhesion molecules intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (P < .05). DEPTOR siRNA-transfected ECs also bound increased numbers of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (P < .005) and CD3+ T cells (P < .005) in adhesion assays in vitro and had increased migration and angiogenic responses in spheroid sprouting (P < .01) and wound healing (P < .01) assays. Collectively, these findings define DEPTOR as a critical upstream regulator of EC activation responses and suggest that it plays an important role in endogenous mechanisms of anti-inflammation and pro-resolution.

DEPTOR regulates vascular endothelial cell activation and proinflammatory and angiogenic responses

PubMed Central

Bruneau, Sarah; Nakayama, Hironao; Woda, Craig B.; Flynn, Evelyn A.

2013-01-01

The maintenance of normal tissue homeostasis and the prevention of chronic inflammatory disease are dependent on the active process of inflammation resolution. In endothelial cells (ECs), proinflammation results from the activation of intracellular signaling responses and/or the inhibition of endogenous regulatory/pro-resolution signaling networks that, to date, are poorly defined. In this study, we find that DEP domain containing mTOR interacting protein (DEPTOR) is expressed in different microvascular ECs in vitro and in vivo, and using a small interfering RNA (siRNA) knockdown approach, we find that it regulates mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 activation in part through independent mechanisms. Moreover, using limited gene arrays, we observed that DEPTOR regulates EC activation including mRNA expression of the T-cell chemoattractant chemokines CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, CX3CL1, CCL5, and CCL20 and the adhesion molecules intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (P < .05). DEPTOR siRNA-transfected ECs also bound increased numbers of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (P < .005) and CD3+ T cells (P < .005) in adhesion assays in vitro and had increased migration and angiogenic responses in spheroid sprouting (P < .01) and wound healing (P < .01) assays. Collectively, these findings define DEPTOR as a critical upstream regulator of EC activation responses and suggest that it plays an important role in endogenous mechanisms of anti-inflammation and pro-resolution. PMID:23881914

Topically applied recombinant chemokine analogues fully protect macaques from vaginal simian-human immunodeficiency virus challenge.

PubMed

Veazey, Ronald S; Ling, Binhua; Green, Linda C; Ribka, Erin P; Lifson, Jeffrey D; Piatak, Michael; Lederman, Michael M; Mosier, Donald; Offord, Robin; Hartley, Oliver

2009-05-15

Effective strategies for preventing human immunodeficiency virus infection are urgently needed, but recent failures in key clinical trials of vaccines and microbicides highlight the need for new approaches validated in relevant animal models. Here, we show that 2 new chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 5 inhibitors, 5P12-RANTES (regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted) and 6P4-RANTES, fully protect against infection in the rhesus vaginal challenge model. These highly potent molecules, which are amenable to low-cost production, represent promising new additions to the microbicides pipeline.

Chemokine Function in Periodontal Disease and Oral Cavity Cancer

PubMed Central

Sahingur, Sinem Esra; Yeudall, W. Andrew

2015-01-01

The chemotactic cytokines, or chemokines, comprise a superfamily of polypeptides with a wide range of activities that include recruitment of immune cells to sites of infection and inflammation, as well as stimulation of cell proliferation. As such, they function as antimicrobial molecules and play a central role in host defenses against pathogen challenge. However, their ability to recruit leukocytes and potentiate or prolong the inflammatory response may have profound implications for the progression of oral diseases such as chronic periodontitis, where tissue destruction may be widespread. Moreover, it is increasingly recognized that chronic inflammation is a key component of tumor progression. Interaction between cancer cells and their microenvironment is mediated in large part by secreted factors such as chemokines, and serves to enhance the malignant phenotype in oral and other cancers. In this article, we will outline the biological and biochemical mechanisms of chemokine action in host–microbiome interactions in periodontal disease and in oral cancer, and how these may overlap and contribute to pathogenesis. PMID:25999952

The N-terminal domain of a tick evasin is critical for chemokine binding and neutralization and confers specific binding activity to other evasins

PubMed Central

Eaton, James R. O.; Alenazi, Yara; Singh, Kamayani; Davies, Graham; Geis-Asteggiante, Lucia; Kessler, Benedikt; Robinson, Carol V.; Kawamura, Akane; Bhattacharya, Shoumo

2018-01-01

Tick chemokine-binding proteins (evasins) are an emerging class of biologicals that target multiple chemokines and show anti-inflammatory activities in preclinical disease models. Using yeast surface display, we identified a CCL8-binding evasin, P672, from the tick Rhipicephalus pulchellus. We found that P672 binds CCL8 and eight other CC-class chemokines with a Kd < 10 nm and four other CC chemokines with a Kd between 10 and 100 nm and neutralizes CCL3, CCL3L1, and CCL8 with an IC50 < 10 nm. The CC chemokine–binding profile was distinct from that of evasin 1 (EVA1), which does not bind CCL8. We also show that P672's binding activity can be markedly modulated by the location of a StrepII-His purification tag. Combining native MS and bottom-up proteomics, we further demonstrated that P672 is glycosylated and forms a 1:1 complex with CCL8, disrupting CCL8 homodimerization. Homology modeling of P672 using the crystal structure of the EVA1 and CCL3 complex as template suggested that 44 N-terminal residues of P672 form most of the contacts with CCL8. Replacing the 29 N-terminal residues of EVA1 with the 44 N-terminal residues of P672 enabled this hybrid evasin to bind and neutralize CCL8, indicating that the CCL8-binding properties of P672 reside, in part, in its N-terminal residues. This study shows that the function of certain tick evasins can be manipulated simply by adding a tag. We conclude that homology modeling helps identify regions with transportable chemokine-binding functions within evasins, which can be used to construct hybrid evasins with altered properties. PMID:29487134

Molecular and functional roles of 6C CC chemokine 19 in defense system of striped murrel Channa striatus.

PubMed

Arockiaraj, Jesu; Bhatt, Prasanth; Harikrishnan, Ramasamy; Arasu, Mariadhas Valan; Al-Dhabi, Naif Abdullah

2015-08-01

In this study, we have reported the molecular information of chemokine-19 (Chem19) from striped murrel Channa striatus (Cs). CsCC-Chem19 cDNA sequence was 555 base pair (bp) in length which is 68bp 5' untranslated region (UTR), 339bp translated region and 149bp 3' UTR. The translated region is encoded for a polypeptide of 112 amino acids. CsCC-Chem19 peptide contains a signal sequence between 1 and 26 and an interleukin (IL) 8 like domain between 24 and 89. The multiple sequence alignment showed a 'DCCL' motif, an indispensable motif present in all CC chemokines which was conserved throughout the evolution. Phylogenetic tree showed that CsCC-Chem19 formed a cluster with chemokine 19 from fishes. Secondary structure of CsCC-Chem19 revealed that the peptide contains maximum amount of coils (61.6%) compared to α-helices (25.9%%) and β-sheet (12.5%). Further, 3D analysis indicated that the cysteine residues at 33, 34, 59 and 75 making the disulfide bridges as 33 = 59 and 34 = 75. Significantly (P < 0.05) highest CsCC-Chem19 mRNA expression was observed in blood and it was up-regulated upon fungus and bacterial infection. Utilizing the coding region of CsCC-Chem19, recombinant CsCC-Chem19 protein was produced. The recombinant CsCC-Chem19 protein induced the cellular proliferation and respiratory burst activity of C. striatus peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) in a concentration dependent manner. Moreover, the chemotactic activity showed that the recombinant CsCC-Chem19 significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced the movement of PBL of C. striatus. Conclusively, CsCC-Chem19 is a 6C CC chemokine having an ability to perform both inflammatory and homeostatic functions. However, further research is necessary to understand the potential of 6C CC chemokine 19 of C. striatus, particularly their regulatory ability on different cellular components in the defense system. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Citrullinated Chemokines in Rheumatoid Arthritis

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-01

fluids (SFs) compared to osteoarthritis (OA) and other inflammatory rheumatic diseases (OD) SFs, and its concentration correlates with RA disease ...osteoarthritis (OA), and other inflammatory rheumatic disease (OD) synovial fluids (SFs). The correlation between the citrullinated chemokine levels and...Objectives: Specific Aim 1: To determine how citrullinated chemokines compare in RA, vs. OA, vs. other rheumatic diseases (OD), vs. NLs. Major Task 1

The dependence of chemokine–glycosaminoglycan interactions on chemokine oligomerization

PubMed Central

Dyer, Douglas P; Salanga, Catherina L; Volkman, Brian F; Kawamura, Tetsuya; Handel, Tracy M

2016-01-01

Both chemokine oligomerization and binding to glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are required for their function in cell recruitment. Interactions with GAGs facilitate the formation of chemokine gradients, which provide directional cues for migrating cells. In contrast, chemokine oligomerization is thought to contribute to the affinity of GAG interactions by providing a more extensive binding surface than single subunits alone. However, the importance of chemokine oligomerization to GAG binding has not been extensively quantified. Additionally, the ability of chemokines to form different oligomers has been suggested to impart specificity to GAG interactions, but most studies have been limited to heparin. In this study, several differentially oligomerizing chemokines (CCL2, CCL3, CCL5, CCL7, CXCL4, CXCL8, CXCL11 and CXCL12) and select oligomerization-deficient mutants were systematically characterized by surface plasmon resonance to determine their relative affinities for heparin, heparan sulfate (HS) and chondroitin sulfate-A (CS-A). Wild-type chemokines demonstrated a hierarchy of binding affinities for heparin and HS that was markedly dependent on oligomerization. These results were corroborated by their relative propensity to accumulate on cells and the critical role of oligomerization in cell presentation. CS-A was found to exhibit greater chemokine selectivity than heparin or HS, as it only bound a subset of chemokines; moreover, binding to CS-A was ablated with oligomerization-deficient mutants. Overall, this study definitively demonstrates the importance of oligomerization for chemokine–GAG interactions, and demonstrates diversity in the affinity and specificity of different chemokines for GAGs. These data support the idea that GAG interactions provide a mechanism for fine-tuning chemokine function. PMID:26582609

Chemokine receptor binding and signal transduction in native cells of the central nervous system.

PubMed

Davis, Christopher N; Chen, Shuzhen; Boehme, Stefen A; Bacon, Kevin B; Harrison, Jeffrey K

2003-04-01

Chemokine receptors belong to the superfamily of seven-transmembrane-spanning, G-protein-coupled receptors, and their expression by central nervous system cells is clearly documented. As this gene family has become the target of novel therapeutic development, the analysis of these receptors requires radioligand binding techniques as well as methods that entail assessing receptor stimulation of signal transduction pathways. Herein, we describe specific protocols for measuring radiolabeled chemokine binding to their cognate receptors on cultured glial cells as well as to receptors expressed in heterologous cell systems. Multiple downstream signaling pathways, including intracellular calcium influx and receptor-dependent kinase activation, are associated with chemokine receptor stimulation. Protocols for measuring these signaling events in chemokine-receptor-expressing cells are also presented.

Xiao-Qing-Long-Tang shows preventive effect of asthma in an allergic asthma mouse model through neurotrophin regulation

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background This study investigates the effect of Xiao-Qing-Long-Tang (XQLT) on neurotrophin in an established mouse model of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p)-induced acute allergic asthma and in a LA4 cell line model of lung adenoma. The effects of XQLT on the regulation of nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), airway hyper-responsiveness (AHR) and immunoglobulin E were measured. Methods LA4 cells were stimulated with 100 μg/ml Der p 24 h and the supernatant was collected for ELISA analysis. Der p-stimulated LA4 cells with either XQLT pre-treatment or XQLT co-treatment were used to evaluate the XQLT effect on neurotrophin. Balb/c mice were sensitized on days 0 and 7 with a base-tail injection of 50 μg Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p) that was emulsified in 50 μl incomplete Freund’s adjuvant (IFA). On day 14, mice received an intra-tracheal challenge of 50 μl Der p (2 mg/ml). XQLT (1g/Kg) was administered orally to mice either on days 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 as a preventive strategy or on day 15 as a therapeutic strategy. Results XQLT inhibited expression of those NGF, BDNF and thymus-and activation-regulated cytokine (TARC) in LA4 cells that were subjected to a Der p allergen. Both preventive and therapeutic treatments with XQLT in mice reduced AHR. Preventive treatment with XQLT markedly decreased NGF in broncho-alveolar lavage fluids (BALF) and BDNF in serum, whereas therapeutic treatment reduced only serum BDNF level. The reduced NGF levels corresponded to a decrease in AHR by XQLT treatment. Reduced BALF NGF and TARC and serum BDNF levels may have been responsible for decreased eosinophil infiltration into lung tissue. Immunohistochemistry showed that p75NTR and TrkA levels were reduced in the lungs of mice under both XQLT treatment protocols, and this reduction may have been correlated with the prevention of the asthmatic reaction by XQLT. Conclusion XQLT alleviated allergic inflammation including AHR, Ig

Agonist-induced Endocytosis of CC Chemokine Receptor 5 Is Clathrin Dependent

PubMed Central

Signoret, Nathalie; Hewlett, Lindsay; Wavre, Silène; Pelchen-Matthews, Annegret; Oppermann, Martin; Marsh, Mark

2005-01-01

The signaling activity of several chemokine receptors, including CC chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5), is in part controlled by their internalization, recycling, and/or degradation. For CCR5, agonists such as the chemokine CCL5 induce internalization into early endosomes containing the transferrin receptor, a marker for clathrin-dependent endocytosis, but it has been suggested that CCR5 may also follow clathrin-independent routes of internalization. Here, we present a detailed analysis of the role of clathrin in chemokine-induced CCR5 internalization. Using CCR5-transfected cell lines, immunofluorescence, and electron microscopy, we demonstrate that CCL5 causes the rapid redistribution of scattered cell surface CCR5 into large clusters that are associated with flat clathrin lattices. Invaginated clathrin-coated pits could be seen at the edge of these lattices and, in CCL5-treated cells, these pits contain CCR5. Receptors internalized via clathrin-coated vesicles follow the clathrin-mediated endocytic pathway, and depletion of clathrin with small interfering RNAs inhibits CCL5-induced CCR5 internalization. We found no evidence for CCR5 association with caveolae during agonist-induced internalization. However, sequestration of cholesterol with filipin interferes with agonist binding to CCR5, suggesting that cholesterol and/or lipid raft domains play some role in the events required for CCR5 activation before internalization. PMID:15591129

Skeletal muscle cell contraction reduces a novel myokine, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 10 (CXCL10): potential roles in exercise-regulated angiogenesis.

PubMed

Ishiuchi, Yuri; Sato, Hitoshi; Tsujimura, Kazuki; Kawaguchi, Hideo; Matsuwaki, Takashi; Yamanouchi, Keitaro; Nishihara, Masugi; Nedachi, Taku

2018-01-01

Accumulating evidence indicates that skeletal muscle secrets proteins referred to as myokines and that exercise contributes to their regulation. In this study, we propose that chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 10 (CXCL10) functions as a novel myokine. Initially, we stimulated differentiated C2C12 myotubes with or without electrical pulse stimulation (EPS) to identify novel myokines. Cytokine array analysis revealed that CXCL10 secretion was significantly reduced by EPS, which was further confirmed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. Treadmill experiments in mice identified significant reduction of Cxcl10 gene expression in the soleus muscle. Additionally, contraction-dependent p38 MAPK activation appeared to be involved in this reduction. Furthermore, C2C12 conditioned medium obtained after applying EPS could induce survival of MSS31, a vascular endothelial cell model, which was partially attenuated by the addition of recombinant CXCL10. Overall, our findings suggest CXCL10 as a novel exercise-reducible myokine, to control endothelial cell viability.

Chemokine C-C motif ligand 33 is a key regulator of teleost fish barbel development.

PubMed

Zhou, Tao; Li, Ning; Jin, Yulin; Zeng, Qifan; Prabowo, Wendy; Liu, Yang; Tian, Changxu; Bao, Lisui; Liu, Shikai; Yuan, Zihao; Fu, Qiang; Gao, Sen; Gao, Dongya; Dunham, Rex; Shubin, Neil H; Liu, Zhanjiang

2018-05-29

Barbels are important sensory organs in teleosts, reptiles, and amphibians. The majority of ∼4,000 catfish species, such as the channel catfish ( Ictalurus punctatus ), possess abundant whisker-like barbels. However, barbel-less catfish, such as the bottlenose catfish ( Ageneiosus marmoratus ), do exist. Barbeled catfish and barbel-less catfish are ideal natural models for determination of the genomic basis for barbel development. In this work, we generated and annotated the genome sequences of the bottlenose catfish, conducted comparative and subtractive analyses using genome and transcriptome datasets, and identified differentially expressed genes during barbel regeneration. Here, we report that chemokine C-C motif ligand 33 ( ccl33 ), as a key regulator of barbel development and regeneration. It is present in barbeled fish but absent in barbel-less fish. The ccl33 genes are differentially expressed during barbel regeneration in a timing concordant with the timing of barbel regeneration. Knockout of ccl33 genes in the zebrafish ( Danio rerio ) resulted in various phenotypes, including complete loss of barbels, reduced barbel sizes, and curly barbels, suggesting that ccl33 is a key regulator of barbel development. Expression analysis indicated that paralogs of the ccl33 gene have both shared and specific expression patterns, most notably expressed highly in various parts of the head, such as the eye, brain, and mouth areas, supporting its role for barbel development.

Low intensity shear stress increases endothelial ELR+ CXC chemokine production via a focal adhesion kinase-p38{beta} MAPK-NF-{kappa}B pathway.

PubMed

Shaik, Sadiq S; Soltau, Thomas D; Chaturvedi, Gaurav; Totapally, Balagangadhar; Hagood, James S; Andrews, William W; Athar, Mohammad; Voitenok, Nikolai N; Killingsworth, Cheryl R; Patel, Rakesh P; Fallon, Michael B; Maheshwari, Akhil

2009-02-27

CXC chemokines with a glutamate-leucine-arginine (ELR) tripeptide motif (ELR(+) CXC chemokines) play an important role in leukocyte trafficking into the tissues. For reasons that are not well elucidated, circulating leukocytes are recruited into the tissues mainly in small vessels such as capillaries and venules. Because ELR(+) CXC chemokines are important mediators of endothelial-leukocyte interaction, we compared chemokine expression by microvascular and aortic endothelium to investigate whether differences in chemokine expression by various endothelial types could, at least partially, explain the microvascular localization of endothelial-leukocyte interaction. Both in vitro and in vivo models indicate that ELR(+) CXC chemokine expression is higher in microvascular endothelium than in aortic endothelial cells. These differences can be explained on the basis of the preferential activation of endothelial chemokine production by low intensity shear stress. Low shear activated endothelial ELR(+) CXC chemokine production via cell surface heparan sulfates, beta(3)-integrins, focal adhesion kinase, the mitogen-activated protein kinase p38beta, mitogen- and stress-associated protein kinase-1, and the transcription factor.

Comparative study of CXC chemokines modulation in brown trout (Salmo trutta) following infection with a bacterial or viral pathogen.

PubMed

Gorgoglione, Bartolomeo; Zahran, Eman; Taylor, Nick G H; Feist, Stephen W; Zou, Jun; Secombes, Christopher J

2016-03-01

Chemokine modulation in response to pathogens still needs to be fully characterised in fish, in view of the recently described novel chemokines present. This paper reports the first comparative study of CXC chemokine genes transcription in salmonids (brown trout), with a particular focus on the fish specific CXC chemokines (CXCL_F). Adopting new primer sets, optimised to specifically target mRNA, a RT-qPCR gene screening was carried out. Constitutive gene expression was assessed first in six tissues from SPF brown trout. Transcription modulation was next investigated in kidney and spleen during septicaemic infection induced by a RNA virus (Viral Haemorrhagic Septicaemia virus, genotype Ia) or by a Gram negative bacterium (Yersinia ruckeri, ser. O1/biot. 2). From each target organ specific pathogen burden, measured detecting VHSV-glycoprotein or Y. ruckeri 16S rRNA, and IFN-γ gene expression were analysed for their correlation to chemokine transcription. Both pathogens modulated CXC chemokine gene transcript levels, with marked up-regulation seen in some cases, and with both temporal and tissue specific effects apparent. For example, Y. ruckeri strongly induced chemokine transcription in spleen within 24h, whilst VHS generally induced the largest increases at 3d.p.i. in both tissues. This study gives clues to the role of the novel CXC chemokines, in comparison to the other known CXC chemokines in salmonids. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Consequences of ChemR23 Heteromerization with the Chemokine Receptors CXCR4 and CCR7

PubMed Central

de Poorter, Cédric; Baertsoen, Kevin; Lannoy, Vincent; Parmentier, Marc; Springael, Jean-Yves

2013-01-01

Recent studies have shown that heteromerization of the chemokine receptors CCR2, CCR5 and CXCR4 is associated to negative binding cooperativity. In the present study, we build on these previous results, and investigate the consequences of chemokine receptor heteromerization with ChemR23, the receptor of chemerin, a leukocyte chemoattractant protein structurally unrelated to chemokines. We show, using BRET and HTRF assays, that ChemR23 forms homomers, and provide data suggesting that ChemR23 also forms heteromers with the chemokine receptors CCR7 and CXCR4. As previously described for other chemokine receptor heteromers, negative binding cooperativity was detected between ChemR23 and chemokine receptors, i.e. the ligands of one receptor competed for the binding of a specific tracer of the other. We also showed, using mouse bone marrow-derived dendritic cells prepared from wild-type and ChemR23 knockout mice, that ChemR23-specific ligands cross-inhibited CXCL12 binding on CXCR4 in a ChemR23-dependent manner, supporting the relevance of the ChemR23/CXCR4 interaction in native leukocytes. Finally, and in contrast to the situation encountered for other previously characterized CXCR4 heteromers, we showed that the CXCR4-specific antagonist AMD3100 did not cross-inhibit chemerin binding in cells co-expressing ChemR23 and CXCR4, demonstrating that cross-regulation by AMD3100 depends on the nature of receptor partners with which CXCR4 is co-expressed. PMID:23469143

Consequences of ChemR23 heteromerization with the chemokine receptors CXCR4 and CCR7.

PubMed

de Poorter, Cédric; Baertsoen, Kevin; Lannoy, Vincent; Parmentier, Marc; Springael, Jean-Yves

2013-01-01

Recent studies have shown that heteromerization of the chemokine receptors CCR2, CCR5 and CXCR4 is associated to negative binding cooperativity. In the present study, we build on these previous results, and investigate the consequences of chemokine receptor heteromerization with ChemR23, the receptor of chemerin, a leukocyte chemoattractant protein structurally unrelated to chemokines. We show, using BRET and HTRF assays, that ChemR23 forms homomers, and provide data suggesting that ChemR23 also forms heteromers with the chemokine receptors CCR7 and CXCR4. As previously described for other chemokine receptor heteromers, negative binding cooperativity was detected between ChemR23 and chemokine receptors, i.e. the ligands of one receptor competed for the binding of a specific tracer of the other. We also showed, using mouse bone marrow-derived dendritic cells prepared from wild-type and ChemR23 knockout mice, that ChemR23-specific ligands cross-inhibited CXCL12 binding on CXCR4 in a ChemR23-dependent manner, supporting the relevance of the ChemR23/CXCR4 interaction in native leukocytes. Finally, and in contrast to the situation encountered for other previously characterized CXCR4 heteromers, we showed that the CXCR4-specific antagonist AMD3100 did not cross-inhibit chemerin binding in cells co-expressing ChemR23 and CXCR4, demonstrating that cross-regulation by AMD3100 depends on the nature of receptor partners with which CXCR4 is co-expressed.

Membrane interaction of the N-terminal domain of chemokine receptor CXCR1.

PubMed

Haldar, Sourav; Raghuraman, H; Namani, Trishool; Rajarathnam, Krishna; Chattopadhyay, Amitabha

2010-06-01

The N-terminal domain of chemokine receptors constitutes one of the two critical ligand binding sites, and plays important roles by mediating binding affinity, receptor selectivity, and regulating function. In this work, we monitored the organization and dynamics of a 34-mer peptide of the CXC chemokine receptor 1 (CXCR1) N-terminal domain and its interaction with membranes by utilizing a combination of fluorescence-based approaches and surface pressure measurements. Our results show that the CXCR1 N-domain 34-mer peptide binds vesicles of 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC) and upon binding, the tryptophan residues of the peptide experience motional restriction and exhibit red edge excitation shift (REES) of 19nm. These results are further supported by increase in fluorescence anisotropy and mean fluorescence lifetime upon membrane binding. These results constitute one of the first reports demonstrating membrane interaction of the N-terminal domain of CXCR1 and gain relevance in the context of the emerging role of cellular membranes in chemokine signaling.

Distinct Transcript Isoforms of the Atypical Chemokine Receptor 1 (ACKR1) / Duffy Antigen Receptor for Chemokines (DARC) Gene Are Expressed in Lymphoblasts and Altered Isoform Levels Are Associated with Genetic Ancestry and the Duffy-Null Allele

PubMed Central

Davis, Melissa B.; Walens, Andrea; Hire, Rupali; Mumin, Kauthar; Brown, Andrea M.; Ford, DeJuana; Howerth, Elizabeth W.; Monteil, Michele

2015-01-01

The Atypical ChemoKine Receptor 1 (ACKR1) gene, better known as Duffy Antigen Receptor for Chemokines (DARC or Duffy), is responsible for the Duffy Blood Group and plays a major role in regulating the circulating homeostatic levels of pro-inflammatory chemokines. Previous studies have shown that one common variant, the Duffy Null (Fy-) allele that is specific to African Ancestry groups, completely removes expression of the gene on erythrocytes; however, these individuals retain endothelial expression. Additional alleles are associated with a myriad of clinical outcomes related to immune responses and inflammation. In addition to allele variants, there are two distinct transcript isoforms of DARC which are expressed from separate promoters, and very little is known about the distinct transcriptional regulation or the distinct functionality of these protein isoforms. Our objective was to determine if the African specific Fy- allele alters the expression pattern of DARC isoforms and therefore could potentially result in a unique signature of the gene products, commonly referred to as antigens. Our work is the first to establish that there is expression of DARC on lymphoblasts. Our data indicates that people of African ancestry have distinct relative levels of DARC isoforms expressed in these cells. We conclude that the expression of both isoforms in combination with alternate alleles yields multiple Duffy antigens in ancestry groups, depending upon the haplotypes across the gene. Importantly, we hypothesize that DARC isoform expression patterns will translate into ancestry-specific inflammatory responses that are correlated with the axis of pro-inflammatory chemokine levels and distinct isoform-specific interactions with these chemokines. Ultimately, this work will increase knowledge of biological mechanisms underlying disparate clinical outcomes of inflammatory-related diseases among ethnic and geographic ancestry groups. PMID:26473357

Effects of peritoneal fluid from endometriosis patients on the release of monocyte-specific chemokines by leukocytes.

PubMed

Na, Yong-Jin; Lee, Dong-Hyung; Kim, Seung-Chul; Joo, Jong-Kil; Wang, Ji-Won; Jin, Jun-O; Kwak, Jong-Young; Lee, Kyu-Sup

2011-06-01

Chemokines have been implicated in the pathological process of endometriosis. We compared the effects of peritoneal fluid obtained from patients with endometriosis (ePF) and controls without endometriosis (cPF) on the release of monocyte-specific CC chemokines such as monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), regulated upon activation normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), and macrophage inflammatory protein-1α (MIP-1α) by neutrophils, monocytes, and T cells. Moreover, we evaluated the correlation between the levels of chemokines in ePF and their release by these cells. Cells were obtained from healthy young volunteers and cultured with ePF (n = 12) or cPF (n = 8). The chemokine levels in the ePF and the supernatants of cultured cells with ePF were then measured by ELISA. There was a positive correlation between the levels of MCP-1 and MIP-1α in ePF. The addition of ePF to the cell cultures failed to increase the release of MCP-1, RANTES, and MIP-1α when compared to cPF, but the levels of RANTES in ePF were positively correlated with the release of RANTES by ePF-treated monocytes and T cells. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between the levels of RANTES and MIP-1α released by neutrophils and between the levels of MCP-1 and MIP-1α released by T cells. Finally, the levels of RANTES released by monocyte-derived macrophages and monocytes cultured with ePF were positively correlated. These findings suggest that monocytes, neutrophils, and T cells release differential levels of MCP-1, RANTES, and MIP-1α in response to stimulation with ePF.

Chemokine scavenger D6 is expressed by trophoblasts and aids the survival of mouse embryos transferred into allogeneic recipients.

PubMed

Madigan, Judith; Freeman, Dilys J; Menzies, Fiona; Forrow, Steve; Nelson, Scott M; Young, Anne; Sharkey, Andrew; Moffett, Ashley; Graham, Gerard J; Greer, Ian A; Rot, Antal; Nibbs, Robert J B

2010-03-15

Proinflammatory CC chemokines are thought to drive recruitment of maternal leukocytes into gestational tissues and regulate extravillous trophoblast migration. The atypical chemokine receptor D6 binds many of these chemokines and is highly expressed by the human placenta. D6 is thought to act as a chemokine scavenger because, when ectopically expressed in cell lines in vitro, it efficiently internalizes proinflammatory CC chemokines and targets them for destruction in the absence of detectable chemokine-induced signaling. Moreover, D6 suppresses inflammation in many mouse tissues, and notably, D6-deficient fetuses in D6-deficient female mice show increased susceptibility to inflammation-driven resorption. In this paper, we report strong anti-D6 immunoreactivity, with specific intracellular distribution patterns, in trophoblast-derived cells in human placenta, decidua, and gestational membranes throughout pregnancy and in trophoblast disease states of hydatidiform mole and choriocarcinoma. We show, for the first time, that endogenous D6 in a human choriocarcinoma-derived cell line can mediate progressive chemokine scavenging and that the D6 ligand CCL2 can specifically associate with human syncytiotrophoblasts in term placenta in situ. Moreover, despite strong chemokine production by gestational tissues, levels of D6-binding chemokines in maternal plasma decrease during pregnancy, even in women with pre-eclampsia, a disease associated with increased maternal inflammation. In mice, D6 is not required for syngeneic or semiallogeneic fetal survival in unchallenged mice, but interestingly, it does suppress fetal resorption after embryo transfer into fully allogeneic recipients. These data support the view that trophoblast D6 scavenges maternal chemokines at the fetomaternal interface and that, in some circumstances, this can help to ensure fetal survival.

Gamisasangja-tang suppresses pruritus and atopic skin inflammation in the NC/Nga murine model of atopic dermatitis.

PubMed

Park, Bo-Kyung; Park, Yang-Chun; Jung, In Chul; Kim, Seung-Hyung; Choi, Jeong June; Do, Moonho; Kim, Sun Yeou; Jin, Mirim

2015-05-13

Gamisasangja-tang (GST) is a traditional herbal formula prescribed for patients with intractable pruritus in association with various inflammatory skin diseases. To evaluate the effects of GST on pruritic skin inflammation and investigate its cellular and molecular mechanisms. We orally administered GST to NC/Nga (NC) mice, an animal model of atopic dermatitis. Scratching frequency and the dermatitis index were evaluated, and histological examination was performed using hematoxylin and eosin and toluidine blue staining. The levels of interleukin (IL)-31 and T-helper cell type 2 (TH2) cytokines were determined in both the dorsal skin and cultured splenocytes by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. The serum levels of chemokines and immunoglobulin E (IgE) were determined by ELISA. Changes in the inflammatory cell population were analyzed by a hemocytometer. GST significantly lowered scratching frequency and inhibited increases in dermatitis index, thickness of epidermis/dermis and infiltration of chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 3 (CCR3)(+) and cluster of differentiation (CD)117(+)/FcεRIα (Fc fragment of IgE, high affinity I, receptor for; alpha polypeptide)(+) cells in atopic skin. Both IL-31 mRNA expression and production were significantly reduced by GST, which was accomrease in the levels of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13. Further, GST treatment suppressed the secretion of eotaxin, TARC (thymus and activation-regulated chemokine), IgE, and increases in the number of basophils and eosinophils in the blood. GST may have potential as an effective treatment for pruritic skin disease such as atopic dermatitis. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Chemokines, macrophage inflammatory protein-2 and stromal cell-derived factor-1{alpha}, suppress amyloid {beta}-induced neurotoxicity

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Raman, Dayanidhi; Milatovic, Snjezana-Zaja; Milatovic, Dejan

2011-11-15

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by a progressive cognitive decline and accumulation of neurotoxic oligomeric peptides amyloid-{beta} (A{beta}). Although the molecular events are not entirely known, it has become evident that inflammation, environmental and other risk factors may play a causal, disruptive and/or protective role in the development of AD. The present study investigated the ability of the chemokines, macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2) and stromal cell-derived factor-1{alpha} (SDF-1{alpha}), the respective ligands for chemokine receptors CXCR2 and CXCR4, to suppress A{beta}-induced neurotoxicity in vitro and in vivo. Pretreatment with MIP-2 or SDF-1{alpha} significantly protected neurons from A{beta}-induced dendritic regression and apoptosismore » in vitro through activation of Akt, ERK1/2 and maintenance of metalloproteinase ADAM17 especially with SDF-1{alpha}. Intra-cerebroventricular (ICV) injection of A{beta} led to reduction in dendritic length and spine density of pyramidal neurons in the CA1 area of the hippocampus and increased oxidative damage 24 h following the exposure. The A{beta}-induced morphometric changes of neurons and increase in biomarkers of oxidative damage, F{sub 2}-isoprostanes, were significantly inhibited by pretreatment with the chemokines MIP-2 or SDF-1{alpha}. Additionally, MIP-2 or SDF-1{alpha} was able to suppress the aberrant mislocalization of p21-activated kinase (PAK), one of the proteins involved in the maintenance of dendritic spines. Furthermore, MIP-2 also protected neurons against A{beta} neurotoxicity in CXCR2-/- mice, potentially through observed up regulation of CXCR1 mRNA. Understanding the neuroprotective potential of chemokines is crucial in defining the role for their employment during the early stages of neurodegeneration. -- Research highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Neuroprotective ability of the chemokines MIP2 and CXCL12 against A{beta} toxicity. Black

Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells Modulate Chemokine Expression and Hyaluronan Synthesis in Fibroblasts.

PubMed

Kretschmer, Inga; Freudenberger, Till; Twarock, Sören; Yamaguchi, Yu; Grandoch, Maria; Fischer, Jens W

2016-02-19

The aim of this study was to characterize the interaction of KYSE-410, an esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell line, and fibroblasts with respect to the extracellular matrix component hyaluronan (HA) and chemokine expression. KYSE-410 cells induced the mRNA expression of HA synthase 2 (Has2) in normal skin fibroblasts (SF) only in direct co-cultures. Parallel to Has2 mRNA, Has2 antisense RNA (Has2os2) was up-regulated in co-cultures. Knockdown of LEF1, a downstream target of Wnt signaling, abrogated Has2 and Has2os2 induction. After knockdown of Has2 in SF, significantly less α-smooth muscle actin expression was detected in co-cultures. Moreover, it was investigated whether the phenotype of KYSE-410 was affected in co-culture with SF and whether Has2 knockdown in SF had an impact on KYSE-410 cells in co-culture. However, no effects on epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers, proliferation, and migration were detected. In addition to Has2 mRNA, the chemokine CCL5 was up-regulated and CCL11 was down-regulated in SF in co-culture. Furthermore, co-cultures of KYSE-410 cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) were investigated. Similar to SF, Has2 and Ccl5 were up-regulated and Ccl11 was down-regulated in CAF in co-culture. Importantly and in contrast to SF, inhibiting HA synthesis by 4-methylumbelliferone abrogated the effect of co-culture on Ccl5 in CAF. Moreover, HA was found to promote adhesion of CD4(+) but not CD8(+) cells to xenogaft tumor tissues. In conclusion, direct co-culture of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and fibroblasts induced stromal HA synthesis via Wnt/LEF1 and altered the chemokine profile of stromal fibroblasts, which in turn may affect the tumor immune response. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Elevated serum RANTES chemokine levels in autoimmune Addison disease.

PubMed

Fichna, Marta; Żurawek, Magdalena; Budny, Bartłomiej; Komarowska, Hanna; Niechciał, Elżbieta; Fichna, Piotr; Ruchała, Marek

2018-04-30

INTRODUCTION    Regulated on activation, normal T‑cell expressed and secreted chemokine (RANTES), the product of the CCL5 gene, is involved in trafficking immune cells into the inflammation site. It acts as coactivator of T cells and promotes polarization of the immune response towards the Th1 profile. In autoimmune Addison disease (AAD), the adrenal cortex is gradually destroyed by adrenal‑specific immune cell infiltration. RANTES might be implicated in autoimmune adrenal failure through recruitment and activation of the immune cells. Furthermore, the promoter CCL5 variant, rs2107538, seems to be associated with autoimmune endocrine conditions: diabetes and thyroid disease. OBJECTIVES    Our analysis was designed to evaluate the prevalence of rs2107538 and serum RANTES levels in AAD. PATIENTS AND METHODS    rs2107538 was genotyped using TaqMan technology in 239 individuals with AAD and 542 controls, while serum RANTES levels were evaluated by an enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay in 114 patients with AAD and 111 healthy age- and sex‑matched individuals. RESULTS    No differences were found in rs2107538 genotype or allele frequencies between patients and controls (P = 0.53 and P = 0.39, respectively), and no association was detected with age at AAD onset (P = 0.14). Serum RANTES levels were elevated in patients with AAD compared with controls (mean [SD], 59.2 [30.3] ng/ml vs 45.5 [20.4] ng/ml, P = 0.001). Healthy carriers of various rs2107538 genotypes demonstrated differences in serum RANTES levels (P = 0.02), whereas AAD patients did not (P = 0.26). No correlation was found between circulating RANTES levels and age, AAD duration, serum autoantibodies, hydrocortisone dose, and body mass (P >0.05). CONCLUSIONS    This study demonstrates for the first time elevated serum RANTES levels in AAD and confirms that rs2107538 may affect serum chemokine levels.

The ectoenzyme-side of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) makes inflammation by serum amyloid A (SAA) and chemokines go round.

PubMed

De Buck, Mieke; Gouwy, Mieke; Struyf, Sofie; Opdenakker, Ghislain; Van Damme, Jo

2018-06-02

During an inflammatory response, a large number of distinct mediators appears in the affected tissues or in the blood circulation. These include acute phase proteins such as serum amyloid A (SAA), cytokines and chemokines and proteolytic enzymes. Although these molecules are generated within a cascade sequence in specific body compartments allowing for independent action, their co-appearance in space and time during acute or chronic inflammation points toward important mutual interactions. Pathogen-associated molecular patterns lead to fast induction of the pro-inflammatory endogenous pyrogens, which are evoking the acute phase response. Interleukin-1, tumor necrosis factor-α and interferons simultaneously trigger different cell types, including leukocytes, endothelial cells and fibroblasts for tissue-specific or systemic production of chemokines and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). In addition, SAA induces chemokines and both stimulate secretion of MMPs from multiple cell types. As a consequence, these mediators may cooperate to enhance the inflammatory response. Indeed, SAA synergizes with chemokines to increase chemoattraction of monocytes and granulocytes. On the other hand, MMPs post-translationally modify chemokines and SAA to reduce their activity. Indeed, MMPs internally cleave SAA with loss of its cytokine-inducing and direct chemotactic potential whilst retaining its capacity to synergize with chemokines in leukocyte migration. Finally, MMPs truncate chemokines at their NH 2 - or COOH-terminal end, resulting in reduced or enhanced chemotactic activity. Therefore, the complex interactions between chemokines, SAA and MMPs either maintain or dampen the inflammatory response. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

A mini review on immune role of chemokines and its receptors in snakehead murrel Channa striatus.

PubMed

Bhatt, Prasanth; Kumaresan, Venkatesh; Palanisamy, Rajesh; Ravichandran, Gayathri; Mala, Kanchana; Amin, S M Nurul; Arshad, Aziz; Yusoff, Fatimah Md; Arockiaraj, Jesu

2018-01-01

Chemokines are ubiquitous cytokine molecules involved in migration of cells during inflammation and normal physiological processes. Though the study on chemokines in mammalian species like humans have been extensively studied, characterization of chemokines in teleost fishes is still in the early stage. The present review provides an overview of chemokines and its receptors in a teleost fish, Channa striatus. C. striatus is an air breathing freshwater carnivore, which has enormous economic importance. This species is affected by an oomycete fungus, Aphanomyces invadans and a Gram negative bacteria Aeromonas hydrophila is known to cause secondary infection. These pathogens impose immune changes in the host organism, which in turn mounts several immune responses. Of these, the role of cytokines in the immune response is immense, due to their involvement in several activities of inflammation such as cell trafficking to the site of inflammation and antigen presentation. Given that importance, chemokines in fishes do have significant role in the immunological and other physiological functions of the organism, hence there is a need to understand the characteristics, activities and performace of these small molecules in details. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Structure of CC Chemokine Receptor 2 with Orthosteric and Allosteric Antagonists

PubMed Central

Zheng, Yi; Qin, Ling; Ortiz Zacarías, Natalia V.; de Vries, Henk; Han, Gye Won; Gustavsson, Martin; Dabros, Marta; Zhao, Chunxia; Cherney, Robert J.; Carter, Percy; Stamos, Dean; Abagyan, Ruben; Cherezov, Vadim; Stevens, Raymond C.; IJzerman, Adriaan P.; Heitman, Laura H.; Tebben, Andrew; Kufareva, Irina; Handel, Tracy M.

2016-01-01

Summary CC chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) is one of 19 members of the chemokine receptor subfamily of human Class A G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). CCR2 is expressed on monocytes, immature dendritic cells and T cell subpopulations, and mediates their migration towards endogenous CC chemokine ligands such as CCL21. CCR2 and its ligands are implicated in numerous inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases2 including atherosclerosis, multiple sclerosis, asthma, neuropathic pain, and diabetic nephropathy, as well as cancer3. These disease associations have motivated numerous preclinical studies and clinical trials4 (see ClinicalTrials.gov) in search of therapies that target the CCR2:chemokine axis. To aid drug discovery efforts5, we solved a structure of CCR2 in a ternary complex with an orthosteric (BMS-6816) and allosteric (CCR2-RA-[R]7) antagonist. BMS-681 inhibits chemokine binding by occupying the orthosteric pocket of the receptor in a previously unseen binding mode. CCR2-RA-[R] binds in a novel, highly druggable pocket that is the most intracellular allosteric site observed in Class A GPCRs to date; this site spatially overlaps the G protein-binding site in homologous receptors. CCR2-RA-[R] inhibits CCR2 non-competitively by blocking activation-associated conformational changes and formation of the G protein-binding interface. The conformational signature of the conserved microswitch residues observed in double-antagonist-bound CCR2 resembles the most inactive GPCR structures solved to date. Like other protein:protein interactions, receptor:chemokine complexes are considered challenging therapeutic targets for small molecules, and the present structure suggests diverse pocket epitopes that can be exploited to overcome drug design obstacles. PMID:27926736

CC chemokine ligand 2 and CXC chemokine ligand 8 as neutrophil chemoattractant factors in canine idiopathic polyarthritis.

PubMed

Murakami, Kohei; Maeda, Shingo; Yonezawa, Tomohiro; Matsuki, Naoaki

2016-12-01

Canine idiopathic polyarthritis (IPA) is characterized by increased numbers of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) in the synovial fluid (SF). In humans, CC chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) and CXC chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8) recruit monocytes and neutrophils, respectively, and are involved in various inflammatory disorders. The aim of this study was to assess the roles of these chemokines in driving PMNs infiltration into the joints of dogs with IPA. SF samples were collected from dogs with IPA (n=19) and healthy controls (n=8), and the concentrations of SF CCL2 and CXCL8 were determined by ELISA. Dogs with IPA had significantly higher concentrations of CCL2 (3316±2452pg/ml, mean±SD) and CXCL8 (3668±3879pg/ml) compared with the healthy controls (235±45pg/ml and <15.6pg/ml, respectively). Then, an in vitro chemotaxis assay was performed using a modified Boyden chamber (pore size: 3μm). SF from IPA dogs had a chemoattractant activity for PMNs that purified from the peripheral blood of a healthy dog. We subsequently found that combination treatment with MK-0812 (an antagonist of CCL2 receptor) and repertaxin (an antagonist of CXCL8 receptors) significantly inhibited the migration of PMNs to SF from IPA dogs. Thus, expression of the CCL2 receptor (chemokine (CC motif) receptor 2 (CCR2)) was examined using polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry. Canine peripheral blood PMNs exhibited significantly higher CCR2 mRNA expression levels than those in monocytes. In addition, we observed strong CCR2 expression on PMNs obtained from healthy controls and IPA dogs, although mononuclear cells did not express CCR2. Taken together, the data suggest that CCL2 acts as a canine PMNs chemotactic factor as well as CXCL8 and both CCL2 and CXCL8 facilitate the infiltration of PMNs into the joints of dogs with IPA. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A YAC contig of the human CC chemokine genes clustered on chromosome 17q11.2

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Naruse, Kuniko; Nomiyama, Hisayuki; Miura, Retsu

1996-06-01

CC chemokines are cytokines that attract and activate leukocytes. The human genes for the CC chemokines are clustered on chromosome 17. To elucidate the genomic organization of the CC chemokine genes, we constructed a YAC contig comprising 34 clones. The contig was shown to contain all 10 CC chemokine genes reported so far, except for one gene whose nucleotide sequence is not available. The contig also contains 4 CC chemokine-like genes, which were deposited in GenBank as ESTs and are here referred to as NCC-1, NCC-2, NCC-3, and NCC-4. Within the contig, the CC chemokine genes were localized in twomore » regions. In addition, the CC chemokine genes were localized in two regions. In addition, the CC chemokine genes were more precisely mapped on chromosome 17q11.2 using a somatic cell hybrid cell DNA panel containing various portions of human chromosome 17. Interestingly, a reciprocal translocation t(Y;17) breakpoint, contained in the hybrid cell line Y1741, lay between the two chromosome 17 chemokine gene regions covered by our YAC contig. From these results, the order and the orientation of CC chemokine genes on chromosome 17 were determined as follows: centromere-neurofibromatosis 1-(MCP-3, MCP-1, NCC-1, I-309)-Y1741 breakpoint-RANTES-(LD78{gamma}, AT744.2, LD78{beta})-(NCC-3, NCC-2, AT744.1, LD78{alpha})-NCC-4-retinoic acid receptor {alpha}-telomere. 22 refs., 1 fig., 2 tabs.« less

Polymorphisms in chemokine and chemokine receptor genes and the development of coal workers' pneumoconiosis

PubMed Central

Nadif, Rachel; Mintz, Margaret; Rivas-Fuentes, Selma; Jedlicka, Anne; Lavergne, Elise; Rodero, Mathieu; Kauffmann, Francine; Combadière, Christophe; Kleeberger, Steven R.

2006-01-01

Chemokines and their receptors are key regulators of inflammation and may participate in the lung fibrotic process. Associations of polymorphisms in CCL5 (G-403A) and its receptor CCR5 (Δ32), CCL2 (A-2578G) and CCR2 (V64I), and CX3CR1 V249I and T280M with Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis (CWP) were investigated in 209 miners examined in 1990, 1994 and 1999. Coal dust exposure was assessed by job history and ambient measures. The main health outcome was lung computed tomography (CT) score in 1990. Internal coherence was assessed by studying CT score in 1994, 4-year change in CT score, and CWP prevalence in 1999. CCR5 Δ32 carriers had significantly higher CT score in 1990 and 1994 (2.15 vs. 1.28, p=0.01; 3.04 vs. 1.80, p=0.04). The CX3CR1 1249 allele was significantly associated with lower 1990 CT score and lower progression in 4-year change in CT score in CCR5 Δ32 carriers only (p for interaction=0.03 and 0.02). CX3CR1 V249I was associated with lower 1999 CWP prevalence (16.7%, 13.2%, 0.0% for VV, VI and II); the effect was most evident in miners with high dust exposure (31.6%, 21.7%, 0.0%). Our findings indicate that chemokine receptors CCR5 and CX3CR1 may be involved in the development of pneumoconiosis. PMID:16524739

Withaferin A Associated Differential Regulation of Inflammatory Cytokines.

PubMed

Dubey, Seema; Yoon, Hyunho; Cohen, Mark Steven; Nagarkatti, Prakash; Nagarkatti, Mitzi; Karan, Dev

2018-01-01

A role of inflammation-associated cytokines/chemokines has been implicated in a wide variety of human diseases. Here, we investigated the regulation of inflammatory cytokines released by monocyte-derived THP-1 cells following treatment with the dietary agent withaferin A (WFA). Membrane-based cytokine array profiling of the culture supernatant from adenosine triphosphate-stimulated WFA-treated THP-1 cells showed differential regulation of multiple cytokines/chemokines. A selected group of cytokines/chemokines [interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), CCL2/MCP-1, granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor, PDGF-AA, PTX3, cystatin-3, relaxin-2, TNFRSF8/CD30, and ACRP30] was validated at the transcription level using qPCR. In silico analysis for transcriptional binding factors revealed the presence of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in a group of downregulated cytokine gene promoters. WFA treatment of THP-1 cells blocks the nuclear translocation of NF-kB and corresponds with the reduced levels of cytokine secretion. To further understand the differential expression of cytokines/chemokines, we showed that WFA alters the nigericin-induced co-localization of NLRP3 and ASC proteins, thereby inhibiting caspase-1 activation, which is responsible for the cleavage and maturation of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18. These data suggest that dietary agent WFA concurrently targets NF-κB and the inflammasome complex, leading to inhibition of IL-1β and IL-18, respectively, in addition to differential expression of multiple cytokines/chemokines. Taken together, these results provide a rationale for using WFA to further explore the anti-inflammatory mechanism of cytokines/chemokines associated with inflammatory diseases.

Withaferin A Associated Differential Regulation of Inflammatory Cytokines

PubMed Central

Dubey, Seema; Yoon, Hyunho; Cohen, Mark Steven; Nagarkatti, Prakash; Nagarkatti, Mitzi; Karan, Dev

2018-01-01

A role of inflammation-associated cytokines/chemokines has been implicated in a wide variety of human diseases. Here, we investigated the regulation of inflammatory cytokines released by monocyte-derived THP-1 cells following treatment with the dietary agent withaferin A (WFA). Membrane-based cytokine array profiling of the culture supernatant from adenosine triphosphate-stimulated WFA-treated THP-1 cells showed differential regulation of multiple cytokines/chemokines. A selected group of cytokines/chemokines [interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), CCL2/MCP-1, granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor, PDGF-AA, PTX3, cystatin-3, relaxin-2, TNFRSF8/CD30, and ACRP30] was validated at the transcription level using qPCR. In silico analysis for transcriptional binding factors revealed the presence of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in a group of downregulated cytokine gene promoters. WFA treatment of THP-1 cells blocks the nuclear translocation of NF-kB and corresponds with the reduced levels of cytokine secretion. To further understand the differential expression of cytokines/chemokines, we showed that WFA alters the nigericin-induced co-localization of NLRP3 and ASC proteins, thereby inhibiting caspase-1 activation, which is responsible for the cleavage and maturation of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18. These data suggest that dietary agent WFA concurrently targets NF-κB and the inflammasome complex, leading to inhibition of IL-1β and IL-18, respectively, in addition to differential expression of multiple cytokines/chemokines. Taken together, these results provide a rationale for using WFA to further explore the anti-inflammatory mechanism of cytokines/chemokines associated with inflammatory diseases. PMID:29479354

A chemokine-binding domain in the tumor necrosis factor receptor from variola (smallpox) virus

PubMed Central

Alejo, Alí; Ruiz-Argüello, M. Begoña; Ho, Yin; Smith, Vincent P.; Saraiva, Margarida; Alcami, Antonio

2006-01-01

Variola virus (VaV) is the causative agent of smallpox, one of the most devastating diseases encountered by man, that was eradicated in 1980. The deliberate release of VaV would have catastrophic consequences on global public health. However, the mechanisms that contribute to smallpox pathogenesis are poorly understood at the molecular level. The ability of viruses to evade the host defense mechanisms is an important determinant of viral pathogenesis. Here we show that the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) homologue CrmB encoded by VaV functions not only as a soluble decoy TNFR but also as a highly specific binding protein for several chemokines that mediate recruitment of immune cells to mucosal surfaces and the skin, sites of virus entry and viral replication at late stages of smallpox. CrmB binds chemokines through its C-terminal domain, which is unrelated to TNFRs, was named smallpox virus-encoded chemokine receptor (SECRET) domain and uncovers a family of poxvirus chemokine inhibitors. An active SECRET domain was found in another viral TNFR (CrmD) and three secreted proteins encoded by orthopoxviruses. These findings identify a previously undescribed chemokine-binding and inhibitory domain unrelated to host chemokine receptors and a mechanism of immune modulation in VaV that may influence smallpox pathogenesis. PMID:16581912

A chemokine-binding domain in the tumor necrosis factor receptor from variola (smallpox) virus.

PubMed

Alejo, Alí; Ruiz-Argüello, M Begoña; Ho, Yin; Smith, Vincent P; Saraiva, Margarida; Alcami, Antonio

2006-04-11

Variola virus (VaV) is the causative agent of smallpox, one of the most devastating diseases encountered by man, that was eradicated in 1980. The deliberate release of VaV would have catastrophic consequences on global public health. However, the mechanisms that contribute to smallpox pathogenesis are poorly understood at the molecular level. The ability of viruses to evade the host defense mechanisms is an important determinant of viral pathogenesis. Here we show that the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) homologue CrmB encoded by VaV functions not only as a soluble decoy TNFR but also as a highly specific binding protein for several chemokines that mediate recruitment of immune cells to mucosal surfaces and the skin, sites of virus entry and viral replication at late stages of smallpox. CrmB binds chemokines through its C-terminal domain, which is unrelated to TNFRs, was named smallpox virus-encoded chemokine receptor (SECRET) domain and uncovers a family of poxvirus chemokine inhibitors. An active SECRET domain was found in another viral TNFR (CrmD) and three secreted proteins encoded by orthopoxviruses. These findings identify a previously undescribed chemokine-binding and inhibitory domain unrelated to host chemokine receptors and a mechanism of immune modulation in VaV that may influence smallpox pathogenesis.

[Peptide fragments of chemokine domain of fractalkine: effect on human monocyte migration].

PubMed

Kukhtina, N B; Aref'eva, T I; Ruleva, N Iu; Sidorova, M V; Az'muko, A A; Bespalova, Zh D; Krasnikova, T L

2012-01-01

Leukocyte chemotaxis to the area of tissue damage is mediated by chemokines. According to the primary structure, chemokines are divided into four families, fractalkine (CX3CL1) is the only one member of CX3C family and the only membrane-bound chemokine. Fractalkine molecule includes the extracellular N-terminal chemokine domain, mucin-like rod, the transmembrane and the intracellular domains. In membrane-bound state fractalkine has the properties of an adhesion molecule. Chemokine domain of fractalkine (CDF) is released from cell membrane by proteolysis, and this soluble form acts as a chemoattractant for leukocytes expressing fractalkine receptor CX3CR1. Fractalkine is involved in development of a number of pathological processes caused by inflammation, and therefore a search for fractalkine inhibitors is very important. For this purpose we identified several antigenic determinants--the fragments of CDF, and the following peptides were synthesized--P41-52 H-Leu-Glu-Thr-Arg-Gln-His-Arg-Leu-Phe-Cys-Ala-Asp-NH2, P53-60 H-Pro-Lys-Glu-Gln-Trp-Val-Lys-Asp-NH2 and P60-71 H-Asp-Ala-Met-Gln-His-Leu-Asp-Arg-Gln-Ala-Ala-Ala-NH2. The peptide effects on adhesion and migration of human peripheral blood monocytes expressing fractalkine receptors were investigated. In the presence of CDF and P41-52 we observed the increased adhesion and migration of monocytes compared with spontaneous values. Peptides P53-60 and P60-71 significantly inhibited monocyte adhesion and migration stimulated by CDF. Since the chemotactic activity of chemokines was shown to be dependent on their binding to glycosaminoglycans of the cell surface and extracellular matrix, the effect ofpeptides on the interaction of CDF with heparin was analyzed by ELISA. Peptide P41-52 competed with CDF for heparin binding, while peptides P53-60 and P60-71 had no significant activity.

Enhanced tumor metastasis in response to blockade of the chemokine receptor CXCR6 is overcome by NKT cell activation.

PubMed

Cullen, Robyn; Germanov, Elitza; Shimaoka, Takeshi; Johnston, Brent

2009-11-01

Invariant NKT (iNKT) cells can induce potent antitumor responses in vivo. However, the mechanisms that regulate the effects of iNKT cells are unclear. The chemokine receptor CXCR6, and its ligand CXCL16, have been shown to play critical roles in iNKT cell homeostasis and activation. Thus we investigated the role of CXCR6 in protection against experimental metastasis of B16-F10 melanoma (B16) and Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells to the liver and lungs. Wild-type and CXCR6(-/-) mice exhibited no differences in tumor cell metastasis to the lungs. However, metastasis of LLC and B16 tumor cells to the liver was enhanced in CXCR6(-/-) mice. Liver metastasis was also increased in wild-type mice treated with a CXCL16 neutralizing Ab. As Ab treatments did not alter iNKT cell numbers, this implicates a direct role for CXCR6/CXCL16 in regulating antitumor immunity. Cytokine induction was significantly attenuated in CXCR6(-/-) mice upon systemic iNKT cell activation with the glycolipid Ags alpha-galactosylceramide (alpha-GalCer), alpha-C-GalCer (a Th1 polarizing derivative), or OCH (a Th2 polarizing derivative). Despite differences in the levels of cytokine production, liver and lung metastasis were inhibited significantly in both wild-type and CXCR6(-/-) mice treated with glycolipids. Single doses of alpha-GalCer, alpha-C-GalCer, or OCH were sufficient to prevent liver metastasis and subsequent doses failed to elicit optimal cytokine responses. Our findings implicate a role for CXCR6 in natural immunosurveillance against liver metastasis. However, CXCR6 deficiency could be overcome by systemic iNKT cell activation, demonstrating that even suboptimal iNKT cell activation can protect against metastasis.

Identification of the platelet-derived chemokine CXCL4/PF-4 as a broad-spectrum HIV-1 inhibitor

PubMed Central

Auerbach, David J.; Lin, Yin; Miao, Huiyi; Cimbro, Raffaello; DiFiore, Michelle J.; Gianolini, Monica E.; Furci, Lucinda; Biswas, Priscilla; Fauci, Anthony S.; Lusso, Paolo

2012-01-01

The natural history of HIV-1 infection is highly variable in different individuals, spanning from a rapidly progressive course to a long-term asymptomatic infection. A major determinant of the pace of disease progression is the in vivo level of HIV-1 replication, which is regulated by a complex network of cytokines and chemokines expressed by immune and inflammatory cells. The chemokine system is critically involved in the control of HIV-1 replication by virtue of the role played by specific chemokine receptors, most notably CCR5 and CXCR4, as cell-surface coreceptors for HIV-1 entry; hence, the chemokines that naturally bind such coreceptors act as endogenous inhibitors of HIV-1. Here, we show that the CXC chemokine CXCL4 (PF-4), the most abundant protein contained within the α-granules of platelets, is a broad-spectrum inhibitor of HIV-1 infection. Unlike other known HIV-suppressive chemokines, CXCL4 inhibits infection by the majority of primary HIV-1 isolates regardless of their coreceptor-usage phenotype or genetic subtype. Consistent with the lack of viral phenotype specificity, blockade of HIV-1 infection occurs at the level of virus attachment and entry via a unique mechanism that involves direct interaction of CXCL4 with the major viral envelope glycoprotein, gp120. The binding site for CXCL4 was mapped to a region of the gp120 outer domain proximal to the CD4-binding site. The identification of a platelet-derived chemokine as an endogenous antiviral factor may have relevance for the pathogenesis and treatment of HIV-1 infection. PMID:22645343

Identification of the platelet-derived chemokine CXCL4/PF-4 as a broad-spectrum HIV-1 inhibitor.

PubMed

Auerbach, David J; Lin, Yin; Miao, Huiyi; Cimbro, Raffaello; Difiore, Michelle J; Gianolini, Monica E; Furci, Lucinda; Biswas, Priscilla; Fauci, Anthony S; Lusso, Paolo

2012-06-12

The natural history of HIV-1 infection is highly variable in different individuals, spanning from a rapidly progressive course to a long-term asymptomatic infection. A major determinant of the pace of disease progression is the in vivo level of HIV-1 replication, which is regulated by a complex network of cytokines and chemokines expressed by immune and inflammatory cells. The chemokine system is critically involved in the control of HIV-1 replication by virtue of the role played by specific chemokine receptors, most notably CCR5 and CXCR4, as cell-surface coreceptors for HIV-1 entry; hence, the chemokines that naturally bind such coreceptors act as endogenous inhibitors of HIV-1. Here, we show that the CXC chemokine CXCL4 (PF-4), the most abundant protein contained within the α-granules of platelets, is a broad-spectrum inhibitor of HIV-1 infection. Unlike other known HIV-suppressive chemokines, CXCL4 inhibits infection by the majority of primary HIV-1 isolates regardless of their coreceptor-usage phenotype or genetic subtype. Consistent with the lack of viral phenotype specificity, blockade of HIV-1 infection occurs at the level of virus attachment and entry via a unique mechanism that involves direct interaction of CXCL4 with the major viral envelope glycoprotein, gp120. The binding site for CXCL4 was mapped to a region of the gp120 outer domain proximal to the CD4-binding site. The identification of a platelet-derived chemokine as an endogenous antiviral factor may have relevance for the pathogenesis and treatment of HIV-1 infection.

Effector CD8^+ T cells migrate via chemokine-enhanced generalized L'evy walks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Banigan, Edward; Harris, Tajie; Christian, David; Liu, Andrea; Hunter, Christopher

2012-02-01

Chemokines play a central role in regulating processes essential to the immune function of T cells, such as their migration within lymphoid tissues and targeting of pathogens in sites of inflammation. In order to understand the role of the chemokine CXCL10 during chronic infection by the parasite T. gondii, we analyze tracks of migrating CD8^+ T cells in brain tissue. Surprisingly, we find that T cell motility is not described by a Brownian walk, but instead is consistent with a generalized L'evy walk consisting of L'evy-distributed runs alternating with pauses of L'evy-distributed durations. According to our model, this enables T cells to find rare targets more than an order of magnitude more efficiently than Brownian random walkers. The chemokine CXCL10 increases the migration speed without changing the character of the walk statistics. Thus, CD8^+ T cells use an efficient search strategy to facilitate an effective immune response, and CXCL10 aids them in shortening the average time to find rare targets.

HIF-2α-induced chemokines stimulate motility of fibroblast-like synoviocytes and chondrocytes into the cartilage-pannus interface in experimental rheumatoid arthritis mouse models.

PubMed

Huh, Yun Hyun; Lee, Gyuseok; Lee, Keun-Bae; Koh, Jeong-Tae; Chun, Jang-Soo; Ryu, Je-Hwang

2015-10-29

Pannus formation and resulting cartilage destruction during rheumatoid arthritis (RA) depends on the migration of synoviocytes to cartilage tissue. Here, we focused on the role of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-2α-induced chemokines by chondrocytes in the regulation of fibroblast-like synoviocyte (FLS) migration into the cartilage-pannus interface and cartilage erosion. Collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), K/BxN serum transfer, and tumor necrosis factor-α transgenic mice were used as experimental RA models. Expression patterns of HIF-2α and chemokines were determined via immunostaining, Western blotting and RT-PCR. FLS motility was evaluated using transwell migration and invasion assays. The specific role of HIF-2α was determined via local deletion of HIF-2α in joint tissues or using conditional knockout (KO) mice. Cartilage destruction, synovitis and pannus formation were assessed via histological analysis. HIF-2α and various chemokines were markedly upregulated in degenerating cartilage and pannus of RA joints. HIF-2α induced chemokine expression by chondrocytes in both primary culture and cartilage tissue. HIF-2α -induced chemokines by chondrocytes regulated the migration and invasion of FLS. Local deletion of HIF-2α in joint tissues inhibited pannus formation adjacent to cartilage tissue and cartilage destruction caused by K/BxN serum transfer. Furthermore, conditional knockout of HIF-2α in cartilage blocked pannus formation in adjacent cartilage but not bone tissue, along with inhibition of cartilage erosion caused by K/BxN serum transfer. Our findings suggest that chemokines induced by IL-1β or HIF-2α in chondrocytes regulate pannus expansion by stimulating FLS migration and invasion, leading to cartilage erosion during RA pathogenesis.

Role of the chemokine decoy receptor D6 in balancing inflammation, immune activation, and antimicrobial resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection

PubMed Central

Di Liberto, Diana; Locati, Massimo; Caccamo, Nadia; Vecchi, Annunciata; Meraviglia, Serena; Salerno, Alfredo; Sireci, Guido; Nebuloni, Manuela; Caceres, Neus; Cardona, Pere-Joan; Dieli, Francesco; Mantovani, Alberto

2008-01-01

D6 is a decoy and scavenger receptor for inflammatory CC chemokines. D6-deficient mice were rapidly killed by intranasal administration of low doses of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The death of D6−/− mice was associated with a dramatic local and systemic inflammatory response with levels of M. tuberculosis colony-forming units similar to control D6-proficient mice. D6-deficient mice showed an increased numbers of mononuclear cells (macrophages, dendritic cells, and CD4 and CD8 T lymphocytes) infiltrating inflamed tissues and lymph nodes, as well as abnormal increased concentrations of CC chemokines (CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, and CCL5) and proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 1β, and interferon γ) in bronchoalveolar lavage and serum. High levels of inflammatory cytokines in D6−/− infected mice were associated with liver and kidney damage, resulting in both liver and renal failure. Blocking inflammatory CC chemokines with a cocktail of antibodies reversed the inflammatory phenotype of D6−/− mice but led to less controlled growth of M. tuberculosis. Thus, the D6 decoy receptor plays a key role in setting the balance between antimicrobial resistance, immune activation, and inflammation in M. tuberculosis infection. PMID:18695004

Nonproductive human immunodeficiency virus type 1 infection of human fetal astrocytes: independence from CD4 and major chemokine receptors.

PubMed

Sabri, F; Tresoldi, E; Di Stefano, M; Polo, S; Monaco, M C; Verani, A; Fiore, J R; Lusso, P; Major, E; Chiodi, F; Scarlatti, G

1999-11-25

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection of the brain is associated with neurological manifestations both in adults and in children. The primary target for HIV-1 infection in the brain is the microglia, but astrocytes can also be infected. We tested 26 primary HIV-1 isolates for their capacity to infect human fetal astrocytes in culture. Eight of these isolates, independent of their biological phenotype and chemokine receptor usage, were able to infect astrocytes. Although no sustained viral replication could be demonstrated, the virus was recovered by coculture with receptive cells such as macrophages or on stimulation with interleukin-1beta. To gain knowledge into the molecular events that regulate attachment and penetration of HIV-1 in astrocytes, we investigated the expression of several chemokine receptors. Fluorocytometry and calcium-mobilization assay did not provide evidence of expression of any of the major HIV-1 coreceptors, including CXCR4, CCR5, CCR3, and CCR2b, as well as the CD4 molecule on the cell surface of human fetal astrocytes. However, mRNA transcripts for CXCR4, CCR5, Bonzo/STRL33/TYMSTR, and APJ were detected by RT-PCR. Furthermore, infection of astrocytes by HIV-1 isolates with different chemokine receptor usage was not inhibited by the chemokines SDF-1beta, RANTES, MIP-1beta, or MCP-1 or by antibodies directed against the third variable region or the CD4 binding site of gp120. These data show that astrocytes can be infected by primary HIV-1 isolates via a mechanism independent of CD4 or major chemokine receptors. Furthermore, astrocytes are potential carriers of latent HIV-1 and on activation may be implicated in spreading the infection to other neighbouring cells, such as microglia or macrophages. Copyright 1999 Academic Press.

Dimerized Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein-Binding Peptide Ameliorates Atopic Dermatitis in NC/Nga Mice.

PubMed

Jin, Xing-Hai; Lim, Juhyeon; Shin, Dong Hae; Maeng, Jeehye; Lee, Kyunglim

2017-01-26

Our previous study showed that dimerized translationally controlled tumor protein (dTCTP) plays a role in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases, such as asthma and allergic rhinitis. A 7-mer peptide, called dTCTP-binding peptide 2 (dTBP2), binds to dTCTP and inhibits its cytokine-like effects. We therefore examined the protective effects of dTBP2 in house dust mite-induced atopic dermatitis (AD)-like skin lesions in Nishiki-nezumi Cinnamon/Nagoya (NC/Nga) mice. We found that topical administration of dTBP2 significantly reduced the AD-like skin lesions formation and mast cell infiltration in NC/Nga mice, similarly to the response seen in the Protopic (tacrolimus)-treated group. Treatment with dTBP2 also decreased the serum levels of IgE and reduced IL-17A content in skin lesions and inhibited the expression of mRNAs of interleukin IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-13, macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC), thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC) and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP). These findings indicate that dTBP2 not only inhibits the release of Th2 cytokine but also suppresses the production of proinflammatory cytokines in AD-like skin lesions in NC/Nga mice, by inhibiting TCTP dimer, in allergic responses. Therefore, dTCTP is a therapeutic target for AD and dTBP2 appears to have a potential role in the treatment of AD.

CXCR4 Chemokine Receptor Signaling Induces Apoptosis in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells via Regulation of the Bcl-2 Family Members Bcl-XL, Noxa, and Bak*

PubMed Central

Kremer, Kimberly N.; Peterson, Kevin L.; Schneider, Paula A.; Meng, X. Wei; Dai, Haiming; Hess, Allan D.; Smith, B. Douglas; Rodriguez-Ramirez, Christie; Karp, Judith E.; Kaufmann, Scott H.; Hedin, Karen E.

2013-01-01

The CXCR4 chemokine receptor promotes survival of many different cell types. Here, we describe a previously unsuspected role for CXCR4 as a potent inducer of apoptosis in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cell lines and a subset of clinical AML samples. We show that SDF-1, the sole ligand for CXCR4, induces the expected migration and ERK activation in the KG1a AML cell line transiently overexpressing CXCR4, but ERK activation did not lead to survival. Instead, SDF-1 treatment led via a CXCR4-dependent mechanism to apoptosis, as evidenced by increased annexin V staining, condensation of chromatin, and cleavage of both procaspase-3 and PARP. This SDF-1-induced death pathway was partially inhibited by hypoxia, which is often found in the bone marrow of AML patients. SDF-1-induced apoptosis was inhibited by dominant negative procaspase-9 but not by inhibition of caspase-8 activation, implicating the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Further analysis showed that this pathway was activated by multiple mechanisms, including up-regulation of Bak at the level of mRNA and protein, stabilization of the Bak activator Noxa, and down-regulation of antiapoptotic Bcl-XL. Furthermore, adjusting expression levels of Bak, Bcl-XL, or Noxa individually altered the level of apoptosis in AML cells, suggesting that the combined modulation of these family members by SDF-1 coordinates their interplay to produce apoptosis. Thus, rather than mediating survival, SDF-1 may be a means to induce apoptosis of CXCR4-expressing AML cells directly in the SDF-1-rich bone marrow microenvironment if the survival cues of the bone marrow are disrupted. PMID:23798675

Different actions of endothelin-1 on chemokine production in rat cultured astrocytes: reduction of CX3CL1/fractalkine and an increase in CCL2/MCP-1 and CXCL1/CINC-1

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Chemokines are involved in many pathological responses of the brain. Astrocytes produce various chemokines in brain disorders, but little is known about the factors that regulate astrocytic chemokine production. Endothelins (ETs) have been shown to regulate astrocytic functions through ETB receptors. In this study, the effects of ETs on chemokine production were examined in rat cerebral cultured astrocytes. Methods Astrocytes were prepared from the cerebra of one- to two-day-old Wistar rats and cultured in serum-containing medium. After serum-starvation for 48 hours, astrocytes were treated with ETs. Total RNA was extracted using an acid-phenol method and expression of chemokine mRNAs was determined by quantitative RT-PCR. The release of chemokines was measured by ELISA. Results Treatment of cultured astrocytes with ET-1 and Ala1,3,11,15-ET-1, an ETB agonist, increased mRNA levels of CCL2/MCP1 and CXCL1/CINC-1. In contrast, CX3CL1/fractalkine mRNA expression decreased in the presence of ET-1 and Ala1,3,11,15-ET-1. The effect of ET-1 on chemokine mRNA expression was inhibited by BQ788, an ETB antagonist. ET-1 increased CCL2 and CXCL1 release from cultured astrocytes, but decreased that of CX3CL1. The increase in CCL2 and CXCL1 expression by ET-1 was inhibited by actinomycin D, pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate, SN50, mithramycin, SB203580 and SP600125. The decrease in CX3CL1 expression by ET-1 was inhibited by cycloheximide, Ca2+ chelation and staurosporine. Conclusion These findings suggest that ETs are one of the factors regulating astrocytic chemokine production. Astrocyte-derived chemokines are involved in pathophysiological responses of neurons and microglia. Therefore, the ET-induced alterations of astrocytic chemokine production are of pathophysiological significance in damaged brains. PMID:23627909

Up-regulation of CC chemokine receptor 6 on tonsillar T cells and its induction by in vitro stimulation with α-streptococci in patients with pustulosis palmaris et plantaris

PubMed Central

Yoshizaki, T; Bandoh, N; Ueda, S; Nozawa, H; Goto, T; Kishibe, K; Takahara, M; Harabuchi, Y

2009-01-01

Pustulosis palmaris et plantaris (PPP) is a tonsil-related disease; tonsillectomy is somewhat effective in treating the condition. However, the aetiological association between the tonsils and PPP has not yet been elucidated fully. Recently, some chemokines and chemokine receptors, including CC chemokine receptor (CCR) 4, CCR6 and CX chemokine receptor (CXCR) 3, have been reported to play important roles in the development of psoriasis, a disease related closely to PPP. In this study, we found that CCR6 expression on both tonsillar and peripheral blood T cells was up-regulated more intensively in PPP patients than in non-PPP patients (P < 0·001 for both), but CCR4 and CXCR3 expressions were not. In vitro stimulation with α-streptococcal antigen enhanced CCR6 expression significantly on tonsillar T cells in PPP patients (P < 0·05), but this was not observed in non-PPP patients. The chemotactic response of tonsillar T cells to the CCR6 ligand CC chemokine ligand (CCL) 20 was significantly higher in PPP patients than in non-PPP patients (P < 0·05). The percentage of CCR6-positive peripheral blood T cells decreased after tonsillectomy in PPP patients (P < 0·01); this decrease correlated with an improvement of skin lesions (P < 0·05, r = −0·63). The numbers of CCR6-positive cells and the expression of CCL20 were increased significantly in pathological lesions compared with non-pathological lesions in PPP skin (P < 0·01, P < 0·05 respectively). These results suggest that a novel immune response to α-streptococci may enhance CCR6 expression on T cells in tonsils and that CCR6-positive T cells may move to peripheral blood circulation, resulting in recruitment to target skin lesions expressing CCL20 in PPP patients. This may be one of the key roles in pathogenesis of the tonsil-related disease PPP. PMID:19659772

A CCL chemokine-derived peptide (CDIP-2) exerts anti-inflammatory activity via CCR1, CCR2 and CCR3 chemokine receptors: Implications as a potential therapeutic treatment of asthma.

PubMed

Méndez-Enríquez, E; Medina-Tamayo, J; Soldevila, G; Fortoul, T I; Anton, B; Flores-Romo, L; García-Zepeda, E A

2014-05-01

Allergic asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the accumulation of eosinophils, Th2 cells and mononuclear cells in the airways, leading to changes in lung architecture and subsequently reduced respiratory function. We have previously demonstrated that CDIP-2, a chemokine derived peptide, reduced in vitro chemotaxis and decreased cellular infiltration in a murine model of allergic airway inflammation. However, the mechanisms involved in this process have not been identified yet. Now, we found that CDIP-2 reduces chemokine-mediated functions via interactions with CCR1, CCR2 and CCR3. Moreover, using bone marrow-derived eosinophils, we demonstrated that CDIP-2 modifies the calcium fluxes induced by CCL11 and down-modulated CCR3 expression. Finally, CDIP-2 treatment in a murine model of OVA-induced allergic airway inflammation reduced leukocyte recruitment and decreases production of cytokines. These data suggest that chemokine-derived peptides represent new therapeutic tools to generate more effective antiinflammatory drugs. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Structure of CC chemokine receptor 2 with orthosteric and allosteric antagonists

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zheng, Yi; Qin, Ling; Zacarías, Natalia V. Ortiz

CC chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) is one of 19 members of the chemokine receptor subfamily of human class A G-protein-coupled receptors. CCR2 is expressed on monocytes, immature dendritic cells, and T-cell subpopulations, and mediates their migration towards endogenous CC chemokine ligands such as CCL2 (ref. 1). CCR2 and its ligands are implicated in numerous inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases2 including atherosclerosis, multiple sclerosis, asthma, neuropathic pain, and diabetic nephropathy, as well as cancer3. These disease associations have motivated numerous preclinical studies and clinical trials4 (see http://www.clinicaltrials.gov) in search of therapies that target the CCR2–chemokine axis. To aid drug discovery efforts5, heremore » we solve a structure of CCR2 in a ternary complex with an orthosteric (BMS-681 (ref. 6)) and allosteric (CCR2-RA-[R]7) antagonist. BMS-681 inhibits chemokine binding by occupying the orthosteric pocket of the receptor in a previously unseen binding mode. CCR2-RA-[R] binds in a novel, highly druggable pocket that is the most intracellular allosteric site observed in class A G-protein-coupled receptors so far; this site spatially overlaps the G-protein-binding site in homologous receptors. CCR2-RA-[R] inhibits CCR2 non-competitively by blocking activation-associated conformational changes and formation of the G-protein-binding interface. The conformational signature of the conserved microswitch residues observed in double-antagonist-bound CCR2 resembles the most inactive G-protein-coupled receptor structures solved so far. Like other protein–protein interactions, receptor–chemokine complexes are considered challenging therapeutic targets for small molecules, and the present structure suggests diverse pocket epitopes that can be exploited to overcome obstacles in drug design.« less

CC-Chemokine Ligand 2 (CCL2) Suppresses High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Internalization and Cholesterol Efflux via CC-Chemokine Receptor 2 (CCR2) Induction and p42/44 Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) Activation in Human Endothelial Cells *

PubMed Central

Sun, Run-Lu; Huang, Can-Xia; Bao, Jin-Lan; Jiang, Jie-Yu; Zhang, Bo; Zhou, Shu-Xian; Cai, Wei-Bin; Wang, Hong; Wang, Jing-Feng; Zhang, Yu-Ling

2016-01-01

High density lipoprotein (HDL) has been proposed to be internalized and to promote reverse cholesterol transport in endothelial cells (ECs). However, the mechanism underlying these processes has not been studied. In this study, we aim to characterize HDL internalization and cholesterol efflux in ECs and regulatory mechanisms. We found mature HDL particles were reduced in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), which was associated with an increase in CC-chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2). In cultured primary human coronary artery endothelial cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells, we determined that CCL2 suppressed the binding (4 °C) and association (37 °C) of HDL to/with ECs and HDL cellular internalization. Furthermore, CCL2 inhibited [3H]cholesterol efflux to HDL/apoA1 in ECs. We further found that CCL2 induced CC-chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) expression and siRNA-CCR2 reversed CCL2 suppression on HDL binding, association, internalization, and on cholesterol efflux in ECs. Moreover, CCL2 induced p42/44 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation via CCR2, and p42/44 MAPK inhibition reversed the suppression of CCL2 on HDL metabolism in ECs. Our study suggests that CCL2 was elevated in CAD patients. CCL2 suppressed HDL internalization and cholesterol efflux via CCR2 induction and p42/44 MAPK activation in ECs. CCL2 induction may contribute to impair HDL function and form atherosclerosis in CAD. PMID:27458015

The mechanisms how heparin affects the tumor cell induced VEGF and chemokine release from platelets to attenuate the early metastatic niche formation

PubMed Central

Ponert, Jan Moritz; Schwarz, Svenja; Haschemi, Reza; Müller, Jens; Pötzsch, Bernd; Bendas, Gerd

2018-01-01

Metastasis is responsible for the majority of cancer associated fatalities. Tumor cells leaving the primary tumor and entering the blood flow immediately interact with platelets. Activated platelets contribute in different ways to cancer cell survival and proliferation, e.g. in formation of the early metastatic niche by release of different growth factors and chemokines. Here we show that a direct interaction between platelets and MV3 melanoma or MCF7 breast cancer cells induces platelet activation and a VEGF release in citrated plasma that cannot be further elevated by the coagulation cascade and generated thrombin. In contrast, the release of platelet-derived chemokines CXCL5 and CXCL7 depends on both, a thrombin-mediated platelet activation and a direct interaction between tumor cells and platelets. Preincubation of platelets with therapeutic concentrations of unfractionated heparin reduces the tumor cell initiated VEGF release from platelets. In contrast, tumor cell induced CXCL5 and CXCL7 release from platelets was not impacted by heparin pretreatment in citrated plasma. In defibrinated, recalcified plasma, on the contrary, heparin is able to reduce CXCL5 and CXCL7 release from platelets by thrombin inhibition. Our data indicate that different chemokines and growth factors in diverse platelet granules are released in tightly regulated processes by various trigger mechanisms. We show for the first time that heparin is able to reduce the mediator release induced by different tumor cells both in a contact and coagulation dependent manner. PMID:29346400

Biology and clinical relevance of chemokines and chemokine receptors CXCR4 and CCR5 in human diseases

PubMed Central

Choi, Won-Tak; An, Jing

2014-01-01

Chemokines and their receptors are implicated in a wide range of human diseases, including acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). The entry of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) into a cell is initiated by the interaction of the virus’s surface envelope proteins with two cell surface components of the target cell, namely CD4 and a chemokine co-receptor, usually CXCR4 or CCR5. Typical anti-HIV-1 agents include protease and reverse transcriptase inhibitors, but the targets of these agents tend to show rapid mutation rates. As such, strategies based on HIV-1 co-receptors have appeal because they target invariant host determinants. Chemokines and their receptors are also of general interest since they play important roles in numerous physiological and pathological processes in addition to AIDS. Therefore, intensive basic and translational research is ongoing for the dissection of their structure – function relationships in an effort to understand the molecular mechanism of chemokine – receptor interactions and signal transductions across cellular membranes. This paper reviews and discusses recent advances and the translation of new knowledge and discoveries into novel interventional strategies for clinical application. PMID:21565895

Probing Functional Heteromeric Chemokine Protein–Protein Interactions through Conformation‐Assisted Oxime Ligation

PubMed Central

Agten, Stijn M.; Koenen, Rory R.; Ippel, Hans; Eckardt, Veit; von Hundelshausen, Philipp; Mayo, Kevin H.; Weber, Christian

2016-01-01

Abstract Protein–protein interactions (PPIs) govern most processes in living cells. Current drug development strategies are aimed at disrupting or stabilizing PPIs, which require a thorough understanding of PPI mechanisms. Examples of such PPIs are heteromeric chemokine interactions that are potentially involved in pathological disorders such as cancer, atherosclerosis, and HIV. It remains unclear whether this functional modulation is mediated by heterodimer formation or by the additive effects of mixed chemokines on their respective receptors. To address this issue, we report the synthesis of a covalent RANTES‐PF4 heterodimer (termed OPRAH) by total chemical synthesis and oxime ligation, with an acceleration of the final ligation step driven by PPIs between RANTES and PF4. Compared to mixed separate chemokines, OPRAH exhibited increased biological activity, thus providing evidence that physical formation of the heterodimer indeed mediates enhanced function. PMID:27785869

The chemokine decoy receptor D6 prevents excessive inflammation and adverse ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction.

PubMed

Cochain, Clément; Auvynet, Constance; Poupel, Lucie; Vilar, José; Dumeau, Edouard; Richart, Adèle; Récalde, Alice; Zouggari, Yasmine; Yin, Kiave Yune Ho Wang; Bruneval, Patrick; Renault, Gilles; Marchiol, Carmen; Bonnin, Philippe; Lévy, Bernard; Bonecchi, Raffaella; Locati, Massimo; Combadière, Christophe; Silvestre, Jean-Sébastien

2012-09-01

Leukocyte infiltration in ischemic areas is a hallmark of myocardial infarction, and overwhelming infiltration of innate immune cells has been shown to promote adverse remodeling and cardiac rupture. Recruitment of inflammatory cells in the ischemic heart depends highly on the family of CC-chemokines and their receptors. Here, we hypothesized that the chemokine decoy receptor D6, which specifically binds and scavenges inflammatory CC-chemokines, might limit inflammation and adverse cardiac remodeling after infarction. D6 was expressed in human and murine infarcted myocardium. In a murine model of myocardial infarction, D6 deficiency led to increased chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 and chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 3 levels in the ischemic heart. D6-deficient (D6(-/-)) infarcts displayed increased infiltration of pathogenic neutrophils and Ly6Chi monocytes, associated with strong matrix metalloproteinase-9 and matrix metalloproteinase-2 activities in the ischemic heart. D6(-/-) mice were cardiac rupture prone after myocardial infarction, and functional analysis revealed that D6(-/-) hearts had features of adverse remodeling with left ventricle dilation and reduced ejection fraction. Bone marrow chimera experiments showed that leukocyte-borne D6 had no role in this setting, and that leukocyte-specific chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 2 deficiency rescued the adverse phenotype observed in D6(-/-) mice. We show for the first time that the chemokine decoy receptor D6 limits CC-chemokine-dependent pathogenic inflammation and is required for adequate cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction.

Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 2 Signaling Shapes Macrophage Plasticity in Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans-Induced Bone Loss

PubMed Central

Herbert, Bethany A.; Steinkamp, Heidi M.; Gaestel, Matthias

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is associated with aggressive periodontal disease, which is characterized by inflammation-driven alveolar bone loss. A. actinomycetemcomitans activates the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and MAPK-activated protein kinase 2 (MK2) stress pathways in macrophages that are involved in host responses. During the inflammatory process in periodontal disease, chemokines are upregulated to promote recruitment of inflammatory cells. The objective of this study was to determine the role of MK2 signaling in chemokine regulation during A. actinomycetemcomitans pathogenesis. Utilizing a murine calvarial model, Mk2+/+ and Mk2−/− mice were treated with live A. actinomycetemcomitans bacteria at the midsagittal suture. MK2 positively regulated the following macrophage RNA: Emr1 (F4/80), Itgam (CD11b), Csf1r (M-CSF Receptor), Itgal (CD11a), Tnf, and Nos2. Additionally, RNA analysis revealed that MK2 signaling regulated chemokines CCL3 and CCL4 in murine calvarial tissue. Utilizing the chimeric murine air pouch model, MK2 signaling differentially regulated CCL3 and CCL4 in the hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic compartments. Bone resorption pits in calvaria, observed by micro-computed tomography, and osteoclast formation were decreased in Mk2−/− mice compared to Mk2+/+ mice after A. actinomycetemcomitans treatment. In conclusion, these data suggest that MK2 in macrophages contributes to regulation of chemokine signaling during A. actinomycetemcomitans-induced inflammation and bone loss. PMID:27795356

The Intricate Expression of CC Chemokines in Glial Tumors: Evidence for Involvement of CCL2 and CCL5 but Not CCL11.

PubMed

Moogooei, Mozhgan; Shamaei, Masoud; Khorramdelazad, Hossein; Fattahpour, Shirin; Seyedmehdi, Seyed Mohammad; Moogooei, Maryam; Hassanshahi, Gholamhossein; Kalantari Khandani, Behjat

2015-12-01

Chemokines are biologically active peptides involved in the pathogenesis of various pathologies including brain malignancies. They are amongst primitive regulators of the development of immune responses against malignant glial tumors. The present study aimed to examine the expression of CC chemokines in anaplastic astrocytoma and glioblastoma multiform patients at both mRNA and protein levels. Blood specimens in parallel with stereotactic biopsy specimens were obtained from 123 patients suffering from glial tumors and 100 healthy participants as a control. The serum levels of CCL2, CCL5, and CCL11 were measured by ELISA and stereotactic samples subjected to western and northern blotting methods for protein and mRNA, respectively. Demographic characteristics were also collected by a researcher-designed questionnaire. Results of the present study indicated that, however,CCL2 and CCL5 are elevated in serum and tumor tissues of patients suffering from a glial tumor at both mRNA and protein levels, the CCL11 was almost undetectable. According to the findings of the present investigation, it could presumably be reasonable to conclude that chemokines are good predictive molecules for expecting disease severity, metastasis, and response to treatment.

Comprehensive analysis of chemokine-induced cAMP-inhibitory responses using a real-time luminescent biosensor.

PubMed

Felouzis, Virginia; Hermand, Patricia; de Laissardière, Guy Trambly; Combadière, Christophe; Deterre, Philippe

2016-01-01

Chemokine receptors are members of the G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family coupled to members of the Gi class, whose primary function is to inhibit the cellular adenylate cyclase. We used a cAMP-related and PKA-based luminescent biosensor (GloSensor™ F-22) to monitor the real-time downstream response of chemokine receptors, especially CX3CR1 and CXCR4, after activation with their cognate ligands CX3CL1 and CXCL12. We found that the amplitudes and kinetic profiles of the chemokine responses were conserved in various cell types and were independent of the nature and concentration of the molecules used for cAMP prestimulation, including either the adenylate cyclase activator forskolin or ligands mediating Gs-mediated responses like prostaglandin E2 or beta-adrenergic agonist. We conclude that the cAMP chemokine response is robustly conserved in various inflammatory conditions. Moreover, the cAMP-related luminescent biosensor appears as a valuable tool to analyze the details of Gi-mediated cAMP-inhibitory cellular responses, even in native conditions and could help to decipher their precise role in cell function. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Elevated expression of CXC chemokines in pediatric osteosarcoma patients.

PubMed

Li, Yiting; Flores, Ricardo; Yu, Alexander; Okcu, M Fatih; Murray, Jeffrey; Chintagumpala, Murali; Hicks, John; Lau, Ching C; Man, Tsz-Kwong

2011-01-01

Osteosarcoma is the most common malignant bone tumor in children. Despite the advent of chemotherapy, the survival of osteosarcoma patients has not been significantly improved recently. Chemokines are a group of signaling molecules that have been implicated in tumorigenesis and metastasis. The authors used an antibody microarray to identify chemokines that were elevated in the plasma samples of osteosarcoma patients. The results were validated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays on an independent set of samples. The tumor expressions of 3 chemokines were examined in 2 sets of osteosarcoma tissue arrays. The authors also evaluated the proliferative effect of the chemokines in 4 osteosarcoma cell lines. The authors found that the plasma levels of CXCL4, CXCL6, and CXCL12 in the osteosarcoma patients were significantly higher than those in the controls, and the results were validated by an independent osteosarcoma cohort (P < .05). However, CXCL4 (100%) and CXCL6 (91%) were frequently expressed in osteosarcoma, whereas CXCL12 was only expressed in 4%. Survival analysis further showed that higher circulating levels of CXCL4 and CXCL6, but not CXCL12, were associated with a poorer outcome of osteosarcoma patients. Addition of exogenous chemokines significantly promoted the growth of different osteosarcoma cells (P < .05). The results demonstrate that CXCL4 and CXCL6 are frequently expressed in osteosarcoma, and that the plasma levels of these 2 chemokines are associated with patient outcomes. Further study of these circulating chemokines may provide a promising approach for prognostication of osteosarcoma. Targeting these chemokines or their receptors may also lead to a novel therapeutic invention. © 2010 American Cancer Society.

Enhanced Chemokine Receptor Expression on Leukocytes of Patients with Alzheimer's Disease.

PubMed

Goldeck, David; Larbi, Anis; Pellicanó, Mariavaleria; Alam, Iftikhar; Zerr, Inga; Schmidt, Christian; Fulop, Tamas; Pawelec, Graham

2013-01-01

Although primarily a neurological complaint, systemic inflammation is present in Alzheimer's Disease, with higher than normal levels of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the periphery as well as the brain. A gradient of these factors may enhance recruitment of activated immune cells into the brain via chemotaxis. Here, we investigated the phenotypes of circulating immune cells in AD patients with multi-colour flow cytometry to determine whether their expression of chemokine receptors is consistent with this hypothesis. In this study, we confirmed our previously reported data on the shift of early- to late-differentiated CD4+ T-cells in AD patients. The percentage of cells expressing CD25, a marker of acute T-cell activation, was higher in patients than in age-matched controls, and percentages of CCR6+ cells were elevated. This chemokine receptor is primarily expressed on pro-inflammatory memory cells and Th17 cells. The proportion of cells expressing CCR4 (expressed on Th2 cells) and CCR5 (Th1 cells and dendritic cells) was also greater in patients, and was more pronounced on CD4+ than CD8+ T-cells. These findings allow a more detailed insight into the systemic immune status of patients with Alzheimer's disease and suggest possible novel targets for immune therapy.

The Transcriptomic Response of Rat Hepatic Stellate Cells to Endotoxin: Implications for Hepatic Inflammation and Immune Regulation

PubMed Central

Tandon, Ashish; Gandhi, Chandrashekhar R.

2013-01-01

With their location in the perisinusoidal space of Disse, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) communicate with all of the liver cell types both by physical association (cell body as well as cytosolic processes penetrating into sinusoids through the endothelial fenestrations) and by producing several cytokines and chemokines. Bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), circulating levels of which are elevated in liver diseases and transplantation, stimulates HSCs to produce increased amounts of cytokines and chemokines. Although recent research provides strong evidence for the role of HSCs in hepatic inflammation and immune regulation, the number of HSC-elaborated inflammatory and immune regulatory molecules may be much greater then known at the present time. Here we report time-dependent changes in the gene expression profile of inflammatory and immune-regulatory molecules in LPS-stimulated rat HSCs, and their validation by biochemical analyses. LPS strongly up-regulated LPS-response elements (TLR2 and TLR7) but did not affect TLR4 and down-regulated TLR9. LPS also up-regulated genes in the MAPK, NFκB, STAT, SOCS, IRAK and interferon signaling pathways, numerous CC and CXC chemokines and IL17F. Interestingly, LPS modulated genes related to TGFβ and HSC activation in a manner that would limit their activation and fibrogenic activity. The data indicate that LPS-stimulated HSCs become a major cell type in regulating hepatic inflammatory and immunological responses by altering expression of numerous relevant genes, and thus play a prominent role in hepatic pathophysiology including liver diseases and transplantation. PMID:24349206

The chemokine receptor CXCR3 and its splice variant are expressed in human airway epithelial cells.

PubMed

Kelsen, Steven G; Aksoy, Mark O; Yang, Yi; Shahabuddin, Syed; Litvin, Judith; Safadi, Fayez; Rogers, Thomas J

2004-09-01

Activation of the chemokine receptor CXCR3 by its cognate ligands induces several differentiated cellular responses important to the growth and migration of a variety of hematopoietic and structural cells. In the human respiratory tract, human airway epithelial cells (HAEC) release the CXCR3 ligands Mig/CXCL9, IP-10/CXCL10, and I-TAC/CXCL11. Simultaneous expression of CXCR3 by HAEC would have important implications for the processes of airway inflammation and repair. Accordingly, in the present study we sought to determine whether HAEC also express the classic CXCR3 chemokine receptor CXCR3-A and its splice variant CXCR3-B and hence may respond in autocrine fashion to its ligands. We found that cultured HAEC (16-HBE and tracheocytes) constitutively expressed CXCR3 mRNA and protein. CXCR3 mRNA levels assessed by expression array were approximately 35% of beta-actin expression. In contrast, CCR3, CCR4, CCR5, CCR8, and CX3CR1 were <5% beta-actin. Both CXCR3-A and -B were expressed. Furthermore, tracheocytes freshly harvested by bronchoscopy stained positively for CXCR3 by immunofluorescence microscopy, and 68% of cytokeratin-positive tracheocytes (i.e., the epithelial cell population) were positive for CXCR3 by flow cytometry. In 16-HBE cells, CXCR3 receptor density was approximately 78,000 receptors/cell when assessed by competitive displacement of 125I-labeled IP-10/CXCL10. Finally, CXCR3 ligands induced chemotactic responses and actin reorganization in 16-HBE cells. These findings indicate constitutive expression by HAEC of a functional CXC chemokine receptor, CXCR3. Our data suggest the possibility that autocrine activation of CXCR3 expressed by HAEC may contribute to airway inflammation and remodeling in obstructive lung disease by regulating HAEC migration.

Probing Functional Heteromeric Chemokine Protein-Protein Interactions through Conformation-Assisted Oxime Ligation.

PubMed

Agten, Stijn M; Koenen, Rory R; Ippel, Hans; Eckardt, Veit; von Hundelshausen, Philipp; Mayo, Kevin H; Weber, Christian; Hackeng, Tilman M

2016-11-21

Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) govern most processes in living cells. Current drug development strategies are aimed at disrupting or stabilizing PPIs, which require a thorough understanding of PPI mechanisms. Examples of such PPIs are heteromeric chemokine interactions that are potentially involved in pathological disorders such as cancer, atherosclerosis, and HIV. It remains unclear whether this functional modulation is mediated by heterodimer formation or by the additive effects of mixed chemokines on their respective receptors. To address this issue, we report the synthesis of a covalent RANTES-PF4 heterodimer (termed OPRAH) by total chemical synthesis and oxime ligation, with an acceleration of the final ligation step driven by PPIs between RANTES and PF4. Compared to mixed separate chemokines, OPRAH exhibited increased biological activity, thus providing evidence that physical formation of the heterodimer indeed mediates enhanced function. © 2016 The Authors. Published by Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.

Differentiation of patients with leprosy from non-infected individuals by the chemokine eotaxin/CCL11.

PubMed

Mendonça, Vanessa A; Malaquias, Luiz C; Brito-Melo, Gustavo E; Castelo-Branco, Alexandre; Antunes, Carlos M; Ribeiro, Antonio L; Teixeira, Mauro M; Teixeira, Antonio L

2007-09-01

Diagnosis of leprosy is usually made clinically and there are no tests available for the routine laboratory diagnosis of the disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential role of chemokines as biologic markers of disease activity. We used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to measure chemokines in plasma of patients with leprosy (LE) and non-infected (NI) individuals. There were significantly greater concentrations of the chemokines CCL3 and CCL11 in plasma of LE patients than in NI individuals. When the use of CCL11 to differentiate LE patients versus NI individuals was evaluated, the area under the receiver-operator-characteristic curve was 0.95 +/- 0.03 (P < 0.0001). In a group of selected individuals, CCL11 was useful in diagnosis of leprosy, thereby suggesting that measurement of this chemokine may be useful as an aid in diagnosing leprosis.

CXCL12 Chemokine Expression Suppresses Human Pancreatic Cancer Growth and Metastasis

PubMed Central

Roy, Ishan; Zimmerman, Noah P.; Mackinnon, A. Craig; Tsai, Susan; Evans, Douglas B.; Dwinell, Michael B.

2014-01-01

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is an unsolved health problem with nearly 75% of patients diagnosed with advanced disease and an overall 5-year survival rate near 5%. Despite the strong link between mortality and malignancy, the mechanisms behind pancreatic cancer dissemination and metastasis are poorly understood. Correlative pathological and cell culture analyses suggest the chemokine receptor CXCR4 plays a biological role in pancreatic cancer progression. In vivo roles for the CXCR4 ligand CXCL12 in pancreatic cancer malignancy were investigated. CXCR4 and CXCR7 were consistently expressed in normal and cancerous pancreatic ductal epithelium, established cell lines, and patient-derived primary cancer cells. Relative to healthy exocrine ducts, CXCL12 expression was pathologically repressed in pancreatic cancer tissue specimens and patient-derived cell lines. To test the functional consequences of CXCL12 silencing, pancreatic cancer cell lines stably expressingthe chemokine were engineered. Consistent with a role for CXCL12 as a tumor suppressor, cells producing the chemokine wereincreasingly adherent and migration deficient in vitro and poorly metastatic in vivo, compared to control cells. Further, CXCL12 reintroduction significantly reduced tumor growth in vitro, with significantly smaller tumors in vivo, leading to a pronounced survival advantage in a preclinical model. Together, these data demonstrate a functional tumor suppressive role for the normal expression of CXCL12 in pancreatic ducts, regulating both tumor growth andcellulardissemination to metastatic sites. PMID:24594697

Elevated expression of the chemokine CCL18 in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

PubMed Central

Peterson, Sarah; Poposki, Julie A.; Nagarkar, Deepti R.; Chustz, Regina T.; Peters, Anju T.; Suh, Lydia A.; Carter, Roderick; Norton, James; Harris, Kathleen E.; Grammer, Leslie C.; Tan, Bruce K.; Chandra, Rakesh K.; Conley, David B.; Kern, Robert C.; Schleimer, Robert P.; Kato, Atsushi

2011-01-01

Background Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is associated with Th2-dominant inflammation including eosinophilia, in contrast to non-polypoid CRS (CRSsNP). Chemokine CCL18/PARC (pulmonary and activation regulated chemokine) is known to recruit naïve T cells, B cells, and immature dendritic cells, as well as activate fibroblasts. CCL18is thought to be involved in Th2-related inflammatory diseases including asthma and atopic dermatitis. Objectives The objective of this study was to investigate the expression of CCL18 in patients with CRS. Methods Using nasal polyp tissue (NP) and uncinate tissue (UT) from controls and patients with CRS, we examined the expression of CCL18 mRNA by real-time PCR and measured CCL18 protein by ELISA, western blot and immunofluorescence. Results Compared to UT tissue in control subjects, CCL18 mRNA was significantly increased in NP (p<0.001) and UT (p<0.05) from patients with CRSwNP but not in UT from patients with CRSsNP. Similarly, CCL18 protein was elevated in NP and UT from CRSwNP and levels were even higher in Samter’s triad patients. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed CCL18 expression in inflammatory cells and CCL18+ cells were significantly increased in NP. Immunofluorescence data showed co-localization of CCL18 in CD68+/CD163+/macrophage mannose receptor+ M2 macrophages and tryptase+ mast cells in NP. Levels of CCL18 correlated with markers of M2 macrophages but not with tryptase, suggesting that M2 macrophages are a major CCL18-producing cells in NP. Conclusion Overproduction of CCL18 might contribute to the pathogenesis of CRSwNP through its known activities, which include recruitment of lymphocytes and dendritic cells, activation of fibroblasts, and initiation of local inflammation. PMID:21943944

CC-Chemokine Ligand 2 (CCL2) Suppresses High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Internalization and Cholesterol Efflux via CC-Chemokine Receptor 2 (CCR2) Induction and p42/44 Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) Activation in Human Endothelial Cells.

PubMed

Sun, Run-Lu; Huang, Can-Xia; Bao, Jin-Lan; Jiang, Jie-Yu; Zhang, Bo; Zhou, Shu-Xian; Cai, Wei-Bin; Wang, Hong; Wang, Jing-Feng; Zhang, Yu-Ling

2016-09-09

High density lipoprotein (HDL) has been proposed to be internalized and to promote reverse cholesterol transport in endothelial cells (ECs). However, the mechanism underlying these processes has not been studied. In this study, we aim to characterize HDL internalization and cholesterol efflux in ECs and regulatory mechanisms. We found mature HDL particles were reduced in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), which was associated with an increase in CC-chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2). In cultured primary human coronary artery endothelial cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells, we determined that CCL2 suppressed the binding (4 °C) and association (37 °C) of HDL to/with ECs and HDL cellular internalization. Furthermore, CCL2 inhibited [(3)H]cholesterol efflux to HDL/apoA1 in ECs. We further found that CCL2 induced CC-chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) expression and siRNA-CCR2 reversed CCL2 suppression on HDL binding, association, internalization, and on cholesterol efflux in ECs. Moreover, CCL2 induced p42/44 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation via CCR2, and p42/44 MAPK inhibition reversed the suppression of CCL2 on HDL metabolism in ECs. Our study suggests that CCL2 was elevated in CAD patients. CCL2 suppressed HDL internalization and cholesterol efflux via CCR2 induction and p42/44 MAPK activation in ECs. CCL2 induction may contribute to impair HDL function and form atherosclerosis in CAD. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Platelet-Specific Chemokines Contribute to the Pathogenesis of Acute Lung Injury.

PubMed

Bdeir, Khalil; Gollomp, Kandace; Stasiak, Marta; Mei, Junjie; Papiewska-Pajak, Izabela; Zhao, Guohua; Worthen, G Scott; Cines, Douglas B; Poncz, Mortimer; Kowalska, M Anna

2017-02-01

Platelets and neutrophils contribute to the development of acute lung injury (ALI). However, the mechanism by which platelets make this contribution is incompletely understood. We investigated whether the two most abundant platelet chemokines, CXCL7, which induces neutrophil chemotaxis and activation, and CXCL4, which does neither, mediate ALI through complementary pathogenic pathways. To examine the role of platelet-derived chemokines in the pathogenesis of ALI using Cxcl7 -/- and Cxcl4 -/- knockout mice and mice that express human CXCL7 or CXCL4, we measured levels of chemokines in these mice. ALI was then induced by acid aspiration, and the severity of injury was evaluated by histology and by the presence of neutrophils and protein in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Pulmonary vascular permeability was studied in vivo by measuring extravasation of fluorescently labeled dextran. Murine CXCL7, both recombinant and native protein released from platelets, can be N-terminally processed by cathepsin G to yield a biologically active CXCL7 fragment. Although Cxcl7 -/- mice are protected from lung injury through the preservation of endothelial/epithelial barrier function combined with impaired neutrophils transmigration, Cxcl4 -/- mice are protected through improved barrier function without affecting neutrophils transmigration to the airways. Sensitivity to ALI is restored by transgenic expression of CXCL7 or CXCL4. Platelet-derived CXCL7 and CXCL4 contribute to the pathogenesis of ALI through complementary effects on neutrophil chemotaxis and through activation and vascular permeability.

CXCL4-induced migration of activated T lymphocytes is mediated by the chemokine receptor CXCR3.

PubMed

Mueller, Anja; Meiser, Andrea; McDonagh, Ellen M; Fox, James M; Petit, Sarah J; Xanthou, Georgina; Williams, Timothy J; Pease, James E

2008-04-01

The chemokine CXCL4/platelet factor-4 is released by activated platelets in micromolar concentrations and is a chemoattractant for leukocytes via an unidentified receptor. Recently, a variant of the human chemokine receptor CXCR3 (CXCR3-B) was described, which transduced apoptotic but not chemotactic signals in microvascular endothelial cells following exposure to high concentrations of CXCL4. Here, we show that CXCL4 can induce intracellular calcium release and the migration of activated human T lymphocytes. CXCL4-induced chemotaxis of T lymphocytes was inhibited by a CXCR3 antagonist and pretreatment of cells with pertussis toxin (PTX), suggestive of CXCR3-mediated G-protein signaling via Galphai-sensitive subunits. Specific binding by T lymphocytes of the CXCR3 ligand CXCL10 was not effectively competed by CXCL4, suggesting that the two are allotopic ligands. We subsequently used expression systems to dissect the potential roles of each CXCR3 isoform in mediating CXCL4 function. Transient expression of the CXCR3-A and CXCR3-B isoforms in the murine pre-B cell L1.2 produced cells that migrated in response to CXCL4 in a manner sensitive to PTX and a CXCR3 antagonist. Binding of radiolabeled CXCL4 to L1.2 CXCR3 transfectants was of low affinity and appeared to be mediated chiefly by glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), as no specific CXCL4 binding was observed in GAG-deficient 745-Chinese hamster ovary cells stably expressing CXCR3. We suggest that following platelet activation, the CXCR3/CXCL4 axis may play a role in T lymphocyte recruitment and the subsequent amplification of inflammation observed in diseases such as atherosclerosis. In such a setting, antagonism of the CXCR3/CXCL4 axis may represent a useful, therapeutic intervention.

A Comprehensive Evaluation of Nasal and Bronchial Cytokines and Chemokines Following Experimental Rhinovirus Infection in Allergic Asthma: Increased Interferons (IFN-γ and IFN-λ) and Type 2 Inflammation (IL-5 and IL-13).

PubMed

Hansel, Trevor T; Tunstall, Tanushree; Trujillo-Torralbo, Maria-Belen; Shamji, Betty; Del-Rosario, Ajerico; Dhariwal, Jaideep; Kirk, Paul D W; Stumpf, Michael P H; Koopmann, Jens; Telcian, Aurica; Aniscenko, Julia; Gogsadze, Leila; Bakhsoliani, Eteri; Stanciu, Luminita; Bartlett, Nathan; Edwards, Michael; Walton, Ross; Mallia, Patrick; Hunt, Toby M; Hunt, Trevor L; Hunt, Duncan G; Westwick, John; Edwards, Matthew; Kon, Onn Min; Jackson, David J; Johnston, Sebastian L

2017-05-01

Rhinovirus infection is a major cause of asthma exacerbations. We studied nasal and bronchial mucosal inflammatory responses during experimental rhinovirus-induced asthma exacerbations. We used nasosorption on days 0, 2-5 and 7 and bronchosorption at baseline and day 4 to sample mucosal lining fluid to investigate airway mucosal responses to rhinovirus infection in patients with allergic asthma (n=28) and healthy non-atopic controls (n=11), by using a synthetic absorptive matrix and measuring levels of 34 cytokines and chemokines using a sensitive multiplex assay. Following rhinovirus infection asthmatics developed more upper and lower respiratory symptoms and lower peak expiratory flows compared to controls (all P<0.05). Asthmatics also developed higher nasal lining fluid levels of an anti-viral pathway (including IFN-γ, IFN-λ/IL-29, CXCL11/ITAC, CXCL10/IP10 and IL-15) and a type 2 inflammatory pathway (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, CCL17/TARC, CCL11/eotaxin, CCL26/eotaxin-3) (area under curve day 0-7, all P<0.05). Nasal IL-5 and IL-13 were higher in asthmatics at day 0 (P<0.01) and levels increased by days 3 and 4 (P<0.01). A hierarchical correlation matrix of 24 nasal lining fluid cytokine and chemokine levels over 7days demonstrated expression of distinct interferon-related and type 2 pathways in asthmatics. In asthmatics IFN-γ, CXCL10/IP10, CXCL11/ITAC, IL-15 and IL-5 increased in bronchial lining fluid following viral infection (all P<0.05). Precision sampling of mucosal lining fluid identifies robust interferon and type 2 responses in the upper and lower airways of asthmatics during an asthma exacerbation. Nasosorption and bronchosorption have potential to define asthma endotypes in stable disease and at exacerbation. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dual GPCR and GAG mimicry by the M3 chemokine decoy receptor

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Alexander-Brett, Jennifer M.; Fremont, Daved H.

2008-09-23

Viruses have evolved a myriad of evasion strategies focused on undermining chemokine-mediated immune surveillance, exemplified by the mouse {gamma}-herpesvirus 68 M3 decoy receptor. Crystal structures of M3 in complex with C chemokine ligand 1/lymphotactin and CC chemokine ligand 2/monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 reveal that invariant chemokine features associated with G protein-coupled receptor binding are primarily recognized by the decoy C-terminal domain, whereas the N-terminal domain (NTD) reconfigures to engage divergent basic residue clusters on the surface of chemokines. Favorable electrostatic forces dramatically enhance the association kinetics of chemokine binding by M3, with a primary role ascribed to acidic NTD regionsmore » that effectively mimic glycosaminoglycan interactions. Thus, M3 employs two distinct mechanisms of chemical imitation to potently sequester chemokines, thereby inhibiting chemokine receptor binding events as well as the formation of chemotactic gradients necessary for directed leukocyte trafficking.« less

The chemokine, CXCL16, and its receptor, CXCR6, are constitutively expressed in human annulus fibrosus and expression of CXCL16 is up-regulated by exposure to IL-1ß in vitro.

PubMed

Gruber, H E; Marrero, E; Ingram, J A; Hoelscher, G L; Hanley, E N

2017-01-01

Chemokines are an important group of soluble molecules with specialized functions in inflammation. The roles of many specialized chemokines and their receptors remain poorly understood in the human intervertebral disc. We investigated CXCL16 and its receptor, CXCR6, to determine their immunolocalization in disc tissue and their presence following exposure of cultured human annulus fibrosus cells to proinflammatory cytokines. CXCL16 is a marker for inflammation; it also can induce hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), which is a phenotypic marker of heathy nucleus pulposus tissue. We found CXCL16 and CXCR6 immunostaining in many cells of the annulus portion of the disc. Molecular studies showed that annulus fibrosus cells exposed to IL-1ß, but not TNF-α, exhibited significant up-regulation of CXCL16 expression vs. control cells. There was no significant difference in the percentage of annulus cells that exhibited immunolocalization of CXCL16 in grade I/II, grade III or grade IV/V specimens. The presence of CXCL16 and its receptor, CXCR6, in the annulus in vivo suggests the need for future research concerning the role of this chemokine in proinflammatory functions, HIF-1α expression and disc vascularization.

Chemokines, their receptors, and transplant outcome.

PubMed

Colvin, Bridget L; Thomson, Angus W

2002-07-27

Organ transplant rejection is mediated largely by circulating peripheral leukocytes induced to infiltrate the graft by various inflammatory stimuli. Of these, chemotactic cytokines called chemokines, expressed by inflamed graft tissues, as well as by early innate-responding leukocytes that infiltrate the graft, are responsible for the recruitment of alloreactive leukocytes. This report discusses the impact of these leukocyte-directing proteins on transplant outcome and novel therapeutic approaches for antirejection therapy based on targeting of chemokines and/or their receptors.

Airway structural cells regulate TLR5-mediated mucosal adjuvant activity.

PubMed

Van Maele, L; Fougeron, D; Janot, L; Didierlaurent, A; Cayet, D; Tabareau, J; Rumbo, M; Corvo-Chamaillard, S; Boulenouar, S; Jeffs, S; Vande Walle, L; Lamkanfi, M; Lemoine, Y; Erard, F; Hot, D; Hussell, T; Ryffel, B; Benecke, A G; Sirard, J-C

2014-05-01

Antigen-presenting cell (APC) activation is enhanced by vaccine adjuvants. Most vaccines are based on the assumption that adjuvant activity of Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists depends on direct, functional activation of APCs. Here, we sought to establish whether TLR stimulation in non-hematopoietic cells contributes to flagellin's mucosal adjuvant activity. Nasal administration of flagellin enhanced T-cell-mediated immunity, and systemic and secretory antibody responses to coadministered antigens in a TLR5-dependent manner. Mucosal adjuvant activity was not affected by either abrogation of TLR5 signaling in hematopoietic cells or the presence of flagellin-specific, circulating neutralizing antibodies. We found that flagellin is rapidly degraded in conducting airways, does not translocate into lung parenchyma and stimulates an early immune response, suggesting that TLR5 signaling is regionalized. The flagellin-specific early response of lung was regulated by radioresistant cells expressing TLR5 (particularly the airway epithelial cells). Flagellin stimulated the epithelial production of a small set of mediators that included the chemokine CCL20, which is known to promote APC recruitment in mucosal tissues. Our data suggest that (i) the adjuvant activity of TLR agonists in mucosal vaccination may require TLR stimulation of structural cells and (ii) harnessing the effect of adjuvants on epithelial cells can improve mucosal vaccines.

Repeated measurement of nasal lavage fluid chemokines in school-age children with asthma.

PubMed

Noah, Terry L; Tudor, Gail E; Ivins, Sally S; Murphy, Paula C; Peden, David B; Henderson, Frederick W

2006-02-01

Inflammatory processes at the mucosal surface may play a role in maintenance of asthma pathophysiology. Cross-sectional studies in asthmatic patients suggest that chemokines such as interleukin 8 (IL-8) are overproduced by respiratory epithelium. To test the hypothesis that chemokine levels are persistently elevated in the respiratory secretions of asthmatic children at a stable baseline. We measured nasal lavage fluid (NLF) levels of chemokines and other mediators at 3- to 4-month intervals in a longitudinal study of asthmatic children, with nonasthmatic siblings as controls. In a linear mixed-model analysis, both family and day of visit had significant effects on nasal mediators. Thus, data for 12 asthmatic-nonasthmatic sibling pairs who had 3 or more same-day visits were analyzed separately. For sibling pairs, median eosinophil cationic protein levels derived from serial measurements in NLF were elevated in asthmatic patients compared with nonasthmatic patients, with a near-significant tendency for elevation of total protein and eotaxin levels as well. However, no significant differences were found for IL-8 or several other chemokines. Ratios of IL-13 or IL-5 to interferon-gamma released by house dust mite antigen-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells, tested on a single occasion, were significantly increased for asthmatic patients. Substantial temporal and family-related variability exists in nasal inflammation in asthmatic children. Although higher levels of eosinophil cationic protein are usually present in NLF of patients with stable asthma compared with patients without asthma, chemokines other than eotaxin are not consistently increased. Eosinophil activation at the mucosal surface is a more consistent predictor of asthmatic symptoms than nonspecific elevation of epithelium-derived inflammatory chemokine levels.

Suppressive effects of metformin on T-helper 1-related chemokines expression in the human monocytic leukemia cell line THP-1.

PubMed

Chen, Yen-Chun; Kuo, Chang-Hung; Tsai, Ying-Ming; Lin, Yi-Ching; Hsiao, Hui-Pin; Chen, Bai-Hsiun; Chen, Yi-Ting; Wang, Shih-Ling; Hung, Chih-Hsing

2018-04-09

Type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) are chronic T-cell-mediated inflammatory diseases. Metformin is a widely used drug for type 2 DM that reduces the need for insulin in type 1 DM. However, whether metformin has an anti-inflammatory effect for treating DM is unknown. We investigated the anti-inflammatory mechanism of metformin in the human monocytic leukemia cell line THP-1. The human monocytic leukemia cell line THP-1 was pretreated with metformin and stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The production of T-helper (Th)-1-related chemokines including interferon-γ-induced protein-10 (IP-10) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), Th2-related chemokine macrophage-derived chemokine, and the proinflammatory chemokine tumor necrosis factor-α was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Intracellular signaling pathways were investigated using Western blot analysis and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Metformin suppressed LPS-induced IP-10 and MCP-1 production as well as LPS-induced phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), p38, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). Moreover, metformin suppressed LPS-induced acetylation of histones H3 and H4 at the IP-10 promoter. Metformin suppressed the production of Th1-related chemokines IP-10 and MCP-1 in THP-1 cells. Suppressive effects of metformin on IP-10 production might be attributed at least partially to the JNK, p38, ERK, and NF-κB pathways as well as to epigenetic regulation through the acetylation of histones H3 and H4. These results indicated the therapeutic anti-inflammatory potential of metformin.

Mitomycin C upregulates IL-8 and MCP-1 chemokine expression via mitogen-activated protein kinases in corneal fibroblasts.

PubMed

Chou, San-Fang; Chang, Shu-Wen; Chuang, Jia-Ling

2007-05-01

To investigate the expression of chemokines and their signaling pathways after application of mitomycin C (MMC) to corneal fibroblasts. Primary porcine and human corneal fibroblasts from passages 3 to 6 were treated with MMC at concentrations of 0.05, 0.1, or 0.2 mg/mL for 1, 2, 5, or 10 minutes. The relative expression of interleukin-8 (IL-8) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) were investigated with reverse transcription, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The effects of MMC on the activation of kinases were analyzed by Western blot analysis with specific antiphosphokinase antibodies. The signaling pathways by which MMC regulates the expression of IL-8 and MCP-1 were evaluated by pharmacological kinase-specific inhibitors. The expression of IL-8 and MCP-1 were upregulated after MMC treatment in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, the upregulated expression of IL-8 and MCP-1 increased with longer incubation time. MMC treatment enhanced the phosphorylation of p38, JNK, and ERK at different time points. The MMC-related IL-8 and MCP-1 expression was inhibited by both a p38 inhibitor (SB203580) and an ERK inhibitor (PD98059). A JNK inhibitor (SP600125) reduced the expression of MMC-induced MCP-1 but not of IL-8. MMC treatment upregulated the expression of IL-8 and MCP-1 mRNA and protein secretion by the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in corneal fibroblasts.

Elevated levels of CXC chemokine connective tissue activating peptide (CTAP)-III in lung cancer patients.

PubMed

Lee, Gina; Gardner, Brian K; Elashoff, David A; Purcell, Colleen M; Sandha, Harpavan S; Mao, Jenny T; Krysan, Kostyantyn; Lee, Jay M; Dubinett, Steven M

2011-05-15

Despite advances in treatments, lung cancer has been the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States for the past several decades. Recent findings from the National Lung Screening Trial reveal that low-dose helical computed tomography (CT) scan screening of high-risk individuals reduces lung cancer mortality. This suggests that early detection is of key importance to improving patient outcome. However, of those screened with CT scans, 25% had positive scans that require further follow-up studies which often involve more radiation exposure and invasive tests to reduce false positive results. The purpose of this study was to identify candidate plasma biomarkers to aid in diagnosis of lung cancer in at-risk individuals. We found increased expression of the CXC chemokine connective tissue-activating peptide (CTAP)-III from plasma specimens of lung cancer patients compared to at-risk control subjects. Identification of the peptide was confirmed by the addition of an anti-NAP-2 antibody that recognizes CTAP-III and NAP-2. We also quantified and verified the increased levels of plasma CTAP-III with ELISA in patients with lung cancer (mean ± SD, 1859 ± 1219 ng/mL) compared to controls (698 ± 434 ng/mL; P<0.001). Our findings demonstrate elevated plasma levels of CTAP-III occur in lung cancer patients. Further studies are required to determine if this chemokine could be utilized in a blood-based biomarker panel for the diagnosis of lung cancer.

Peripheral blood cytokine and chemokine profiles in juvenile localized scleroderma: T-helper cell-associated cytokine profiles.

PubMed

Torok, Kathryn S; Kurzinski, Katherine; Kelsey, Christina; Yabes, Jonathan; Magee, Kelsey; Vallejo, Abbe N; Medsger, Thomas; Feghali-Bostwick, Carol A

2015-12-01

To evaluate peripheral blood T-helper (TH) cell-associated cytokine and chemokine profiles in localized scleroderma (LS), and correlate them with clinical disease features, including disease activity parameters. A 29-plex Luminex platform was used to analyze the humoral profile of plasma samples from 69 pediatric LS patients and 71 healthy pediatric controls. Cytokine/chemokine levels were compared between these two groups and within LS patients, focusing on validated clinical outcome measures of disease activity and damage in LS. Plasma levels of IP-10, MCP-1, IL-17a, IL-12p70, GM-CSF, PDGF-bb, IFN-α2, and IFN-γ were significantly higher in LS subjects compared to healthy controls. Analysis within the LS group demonstrated IP-10, TNF-α, and GM-CSF correlated with clinical measures of disease activity. Several cytokines/chemokines correlated with anti-histone antibody, while only a few correlated with positive ANA and single-stranded DNA antibody. This is the first time that multiple cytokines and chemokines have been examined simultaneously in LS. In general, a TH1 (IFN-γ) and TH17 (IL-17a) predominance was demonstrated in LS compared to healthy controls. There is also an IFN-γ signature with elevated IP-10, MCP-1, and IFN-γ, which has been previously demonstrated in systemic sclerosis, suggesting a shared pathophysiology. Within the LS patients, those with active disease demonstrated IP-10, TNF-α, and GM-CSF, which may potentially serve as biomarkers of disease activity in the clinical setting. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Total chemical synthesis and biological activities of glycosylated and non-glycosylated forms of the chemokines CCL1 and Ser-CCL1.

PubMed

Okamoto, Ryo; Mandal, Kalyaneswar; Ling, Morris; Luster, Andrew D; Kajihara, Yasuhiro; Kent, Stephen B H

2014-05-12

CCL1 is a naturally glycosylated chemokine protein that is secreted by activated T-cells and acts as a chemoattractant for monocytes. Originally, CCL1 was identified as a 73 amino acid protein having one N-glycosylation site, and a variant 74 residue non-glycosylated form, Ser-CCL1, has also been described. There are no systematic studies of the effect of glycosylation on the biological activities of either CCL1 or Ser-CCL1. Here we report the total chemical syntheses of both N-glycosylated and non-glycosylated forms of (Ser-)CCL1, by convergent native chemical ligation. We used an N-glycan isolated from hen egg yolk together with the Nbz linker for Fmoc chemistry solid phase synthesis of the glycopeptide-(α) thioester building block. Chemotaxis assays of these glycoproteins and the corresponding non-glycosylated proteins were carried out. The results were correlated with the chemical structures of the (glyco)protein molecules. To the best of our knowledge, these are the first investigations of the effect of glycosylation on the chemotactic activity of the chemokine (Ser-)CCL1 using homogeneous N-glycosylated protein molecules of defined covalent structure. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Chemokine receptor antagonists: part 2.

PubMed

Pease, James E; Horuk, Richard

2009-02-01

The first part of this two-part review discussed approaches to generating antagonists for some of the CC chemokine receptors, including CCR1, CCR2, CCR3, and CCR4. This second part of the series concludes the review by describing antagonists for CCR5, CCR8, CCR9, CXCR3, CXCR4, and promiscuous antagonists. Chemokine receptor antagonists have found mixed success as therapeutics. Although one antagonist--maraviroc, a CCR5 inhibitor to treat AIDS--has been registered as an approved drug, this is the only success so far. There have been many failures in the clinic and we discuss the idea of promiscuous receptor antagonists as an alternative approach.

[Evaluation of chemokines in tears of patients with infectious keratitis].

PubMed

Hori, Shinsuke; Shoji, Jun; Inada, Noriko; Sawa, Mitsuru

2013-02-01

To investigate the chemokine profile in tears of patients with infectious keratitis. Subjects were 32 eyes of 16 patients with infectious keratitis and 5 eyes of 5 healthy volunteers as a control. The patients with infectious keratitis were classified into two groups of eyes: 10 with bacterial keratitis and 6 with Acanthamoeba keratitis. Tear fluid was obtained from both eyes of the patients with infectious keratitis and from the right eyes of the control subjects using filter paper. Chemokine concentration (unit: Odu/mm2) and its profile in tears was analyzed using an antibody-array. In terms of chemokine profile in the bacterial keratitis group, the expression volume of interleukin-8 (IL-8) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in the diseased eyes was significantly higher than in the healthy eyes (p < 0.05). The expression volume of mucosae-associated epithelial chemokines (MECs) in the diseased eyes of the bacterial keratitis group was significantly lower than in the healthy eyes of that group (p < 0.05). In the Acanthamoeba keratitis group, chemokines were not significantly increased in the diseased eyes compared with those in the healthy eyes. However, MCP-1 was increased in tears of the Acanthamoeba keratitis group. Regarding the chemokine ratio, the IL-8/MEC ratio in the diseased eyes of the Pseudomonas keratitis group and the MCP-1/IL-8 in the diseased eyes of the Acanthamoeba keratitis group showed a significantly high level (p < 0.05). We concluded that the analyses of the chemokine profile and chemokine ratio in the tears of infectious keratitis patients is useful as a clinical tear laboratory test to interpret the pathologic condition of infectious keratitis

A Chemokine Receptor CXCR2 Macromolecular Complex Regulates Neutrophil Functions in Inflammatory Diseases*

PubMed Central

Wu, Yanning; Wang, Shuo; Farooq, Shukkur M.; Castelvetere, Marcello P.; Hou, Yuning; Gao, Ji-Liang; Navarro, Javier V.; Oupicky, David; Sun, Fei; Li, Chunying

2012-01-01

Inflammation plays an important role in a wide range of human diseases such as ischemia-reperfusion injury, arteriosclerosis, cystic fibrosis, inflammatory bowel disease, etc. Neutrophilic accumulation in the inflamed tissues is an essential component of normal host defense against infection, but uncontrolled neutrophilic infiltration can cause progressive damage to the tissue epithelium. The CXC chemokine receptor CXCR2 and its specific ligands have been reported to play critical roles in the pathophysiology of various inflammatory diseases. However, it is unclear how CXCR2 is coupled specifically to its downstream signaling molecules and modulates cellular functions of neutrophils. Here we show that the PDZ scaffold protein NHERF1 couples CXCR2 to its downstream effector phospholipase C (PLC)-β2, forming a macromolecular complex, through a PDZ-based interaction. We assembled a macromolecular complex of CXCR2·NHERF1·PLC-β2 in vitro, and we also detected such a complex in neutrophils by co-immunoprecipitation. We further observed that the CXCR2-containing macromolecular complex is critical for the CXCR2-mediated intracellular calcium mobilization and the resultant migration and infiltration of neutrophils, as disrupting the complex with a cell permeant CXCR2-specific peptide (containing the PDZ motif) inhibited intracellular calcium mobilization, chemotaxis, and transepithelial migration of neutrophils. Taken together, our data demonstrate a critical role of the PDZ-dependent CXCR2 macromolecular signaling complex in regulating neutrophil functions and suggest that targeting the CXCR2 multiprotein complex may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for certain inflammatory diseases. PMID:22203670

Platelet-Specific Chemokines Contribute to the Pathogenesis of Acute Lung Injury

PubMed Central

Bdeir, Khalil; Gollomp, Kandace; Stasiak, Marta; Mei, Junjie; Papiewska-Pajak, Izabela; Zhao, Guohua; Worthen, G. Scott; Cines, Douglas B.; Poncz, Mortimer

2017-01-01

Platelets and neutrophils contribute to the development of acute lung injury (ALI). However, the mechanism by which platelets make this contribution is incompletely understood. We investigated whether the two most abundant platelet chemokines, CXCL7, which induces neutrophil chemotaxis and activation, and CXCL4, which does neither, mediate ALI through complementary pathogenic pathways. To examine the role of platelet-derived chemokines in the pathogenesis of ALI using Cxcl7−/− and Cxcl4−/− knockout mice and mice that express human CXCL7 or CXCL4, we measured levels of chemokines in these mice. ALI was then induced by acid aspiration, and the severity of injury was evaluated by histology and by the presence of neutrophils and protein in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Pulmonary vascular permeability was studied in vivo by measuring extravasation of fluorescently labeled dextran. Murine CXCL7, both recombinant and native protein released from platelets, can be N-terminally processed by cathepsin G to yield a biologically active CXCL7 fragment. Although Cxcl7−/− mice are protected from lung injury through the preservation of endothelial/epithelial barrier function combined with impaired neutrophils transmigration, Cxcl4−/− mice are protected through improved barrier function without affecting neutrophils transmigration to the airways. Sensitivity to ALI is restored by transgenic expression of CXCL7 or CXCL4. Platelet-derived CXCL7 and CXCL4 contribute to the pathogenesis of ALI through complementary effects on neutrophil chemotaxis and through activation and vascular permeability. PMID:27755915

Up-regulation of CCL11 and CCL26 is associated with activated eosinophils in bullous pemphigoid

PubMed Central

Günther, C; Wozel, G; Meurer, M; Pfeiffer, C

2011-01-01

Eosinophils contribute to the pathogenesis of bullous pemphigoid (BP) by secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and proteases. Trafficking of eosinophils into tissue in animal models and asthma depends on interleukin-5 and a family of chemokines named eotaxins, comprising CCL11, CCL24 and CCL26. Up-regulation of CCL11 has been described in BP, but the expression of the other two members of the eotaxin-family, CCL24 and CCL26, has not been investigated. In addition to these chemokines, expression of adhesion molecules associated with eosinophil migration to the skin should be analysed. We demonstrate that similar to CCL11, the concentration of CCL26 was up-regulated in serum and blister fluid of BP patients. In contrast, the concentration of CCL24 was not elevated in sera and blister fluid of the same BP patients. In lesional skin, CCL11 and CCL26 were detected in epidermis and dermis by immunohistochemistry. In contrast to CCL11, CCL26 was expressed strongly by endothelial cells. In line with these findings, eosinophils represented the dominating cell population in BP lesional skin outnumbering other leucocytes. The percentage of eosinophils expressing very late antigen (VLA): VLA-4 (CD49d) and CD11c correlated with their quantity in tissue. Macrophage antigen (MAC)-1 (CD11b/CD18) was expressed constitutively by tissue eosinophils. In conclusion, these data link the up-regulation of the eosinophil chemotactic factor CCL26 in BP to the lesional accumulation of activated eosinophils in the skin. Thereby they broaden the understanding of BP pathogenesis and might indicate new options for therapeutic intervention. PMID:21985360

Antitumor immune activity by chemokine CX3CL1 in an orthotopic implantation of lung cancer model in vivo.

PubMed

Kee, Ji-Ye; Arita, Yoshihisa; Shinohara, Kanna; Ohashi, Yasukata; Sakurai, Hiroaki; Saiki, Ikuo; Koizumi, Keiichi

2013-01-01

Due to their chemoattractant properties stimulating the accumulation of infiltrating immune cells in tumors, chemokines are known to have antitumor effects. Fractalkine, a unique CX3C chemokine, is expressed in activated endothelial cells, while its receptor, CX3CR1, is expressed in cytolytic immune cells, such as natural killer cells, monocytes and some CD8 + T cells. The biological properties of cancer cells are affected by the implantation organ and differences in immune systems, requiring cancer implantation in orthotopic organs in an in vivo experiment. To develop new therapy strategies for lung cancer, an animal model reflecting the clinical features of lung cancer was previously established. This study aimed to determine whether CX3CL1-induced biological functions should be used for immune cell-based gene therapy of lung cancer in the orthotopic implantation model. An orthotopic intrapulmonary implantation of CX3CL1-stable expression in mouse lung cancer (LLC-CX3CL1) was performed to analyze growth. Results showed a significant decrease in tumor growth in the lung compared to the control cells (LLC-mock). Furthermore, the antitumor effects of CX3CL1 were derived from natural killer cell activities in the depletion experiment in vivo . Therefore, CX3CL1 has the potential of a useful therapeutic target in lung cancer.

Enhanced Chronic Pain Management Utilizing Chemokine Receptor Antagonists

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-08-01

approximately halfway into the solution. All animals were tested at 60, 15 and 0 min before drug injection. For each animal , the first reading was discarded...approval (December 31, 2015), hiring new personnel, conducting baseline testing for procedures not involving animals , testing equipment, developing...treatment; Analgesia; Nociception; Antinociception; Inflammation; Chemokines; Chemokine receptor antagonists; Opioid analgesics; Animal models of pain

CC Chemokine Receptor 5: The Interface of Host Immunity and Cancer

PubMed Central

de Oliveira, Carlos Eduardo Coral; Oda, Julie Massayo Maeda; Losi Guembarovski, Roberta; de Oliveira, Karen Brajão; Ariza, Carolina Batista; Neto, Jamil Soni; Banin Hirata, Bruna Karina; Watanabe, Maria Angelica Ehara

2014-01-01

Solid tumors are embedded in a stromal microenvironment consisting of immune cells, such as macrophages and lymphocytes, as well as nonimmune cells, such as endothelial cells and fibroblasts. Chemokines are a type of small secreted chemotactic cytokine and together with their receptors play key roles in the immune defense. Critically, they regulate cancer cellular migration and also contribute to their proliferation and survival. The CCR5 chemokine receptor is involved in leucocytes chemotaxis to sites of inflammation and plays an important role in the macrophages, T cells, and monocytes recruitment. Additionally, CCR5 may have an indirect effect on cancer progression by controlling the antitumor immune response, since it has been demonstrated that its expression could promote tumor growth and contribute to tumor metastasis, in different types of malignant tumors. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that a CCR5 antagonist may inhibit tumor growth, consisting of a possible therapeutic target. In this context, the present review focuses on the establishment of CCR5 within the interface of host immunity, tumor microenvironment, and its potential as a targeting to immunotherapy. PMID:24591756

CXCL4L1 and CXCL4 signaling in human lymphatic and microvascular endothelial cells and activated lymphocytes: involvement of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases, Src and p70S6 kinase.

PubMed

Van Raemdonck, Katrien; Gouwy, Mieke; Lepers, Stefanie Antoinette; Van Damme, Jo; Struyf, Sofie

2014-07-01

CXC chemokines influence a variety of biological processes, such as angiogenesis, both in a physiological and pathological context. Platelet factor-4 (PF-4)/CXCL4 and its variant PF-4var/CXCL4L1 are known to favor angiostasis by inhibiting endothelial cell proliferation and chemotaxis. CXCL4L1 in particular is a potent inhibitor of angiogenesis with anti-tumoral characteristics, both through regulation of neovascularization and through attraction of activated lymphocytes. However, its underlying signaling pathways remain to be elucidated. Here, we have identified various intracellular pathways activated by CXCL4L1 in comparison with other CXCR3 ligands, including CXCL4 and interferon-γ-induced protein 10/CXCL10. Signaling experiments show involvement of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family in CXCR3A-transfected cells, activated lymphocytes and human microvascular endothelial cells (HMVEC). In CXCR3A transfectants, CXCL4 and CXCL4L1 activated p38 MAPK, as well as Src kinase within 30 and 5 min, respectively. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation occurred in activated lymphocytes, yet was inhibited in microvascular and lymphatic endothelial cells. CXCL4L1 and CXCL4 counterbalanced the angiogenic chemokine stromal cell-derived factor-1/CXCL12 in both endothelial cell types. Notably, inhibition of ERK signaling by CXCL4L1 and CXCL4 in lymphatic endothelial cells implies that these chemokines might also regulate lymphangiogenesis. Furthermore, CXCL4, CXCL4L1 and CXCL10 slightly enhanced forskolin-stimulated cAMP production in HMVEC. Finally, CXCL4, but not CXCL4L1, induced activation of p70S6 kinase within 5 min in HMVEC. Our findings confirm that the angiostatic chemokines CXCL4L1 and CXCL4 activate both CXCR3A and CXCR3B and bring new insights into the complexity of their signaling cascades.

n-Hexane Insoluble Fraction of Plantago lanceolata Exerts Anti-Inflammatory Activity in Mice by Inhibiting Cyclooxygenase-2 and Reducing Chemokines Levels.

PubMed

Fakhrudin, Nanang; Dwi Astuti, Eny; Sulistyawati, Rini; Santosa, Djoko; Susandarini, Ratna; Nurrochmad, Arief; Wahyuono, Subagus

2017-03-13

Inflammation is involved in the progression of many disorders, such as tumors, arthritis, gastritis, and atherosclerosis. Thus, the development of new agents targeting inflammation is still challenging. Medicinal plants have been used traditionally to treat various diseases including inflammation. A previous study has indicated that dichloromethane extract of P. lanceolata leaves exerts anti-inflammatory activity in an in vitro model. Here, we examined the in vivo anti-inflammatory activities of a n -hexane insoluble fraction of P. lanceolata leaves dichloromethane extract (HIFPL). We first evaluated its potency to reduce paw edema induced by carrageenan, and the expression of the proinflammatory enzyme, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, in mice. The efficacy of HIFPL to inhibit COX-2 was also evaluated in an in vitro enzymatic assay. We further studied the effect of HIFPL on leukocytes migration in mice induced by thioglycollate. The level of chemokines facilitating the migration of leukocytes was also measured. We found that HIFPL (40, 80, 160 mg/kg) demonstrated anti-inflammatory activities in mice. The HIFPL reduced the volume of paw edema and COX-2 expression. However, HIFPL acts as an unselective COX-2 inhibitor as it inhibited COX-1 with a slightly higher potency. Interestingly, HIFPL strongly inhibited leukocyte migration by reducing the level of chemokines, Interleukine-8 (IL-8) and Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1).

Identification of residues of CXCR4 critical for human immunodeficiency virus coreceptor and chemokine receptor activities.

PubMed

Brelot, A; Heveker, N; Montes, M; Alizon, M

2000-08-04

CXCR4 is a G-coupled receptor for the stromal cell-derived factor (SDF-1) chemokine, and a CD4-associated human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) coreceptor. These functions were studied in a panel of CXCR4 mutants bearing deletions in the NH(2)-terminal extracellular domain (NT) or substitutions in the NT, the extracellular loops (ECL), or the transmembrane domains (TMs). The coreceptor activity of CXCR4 was markedly impaired by mutations of two Tyr residues in NT (Y7A/Y12A) or at a single Asp residue in ECL2 (D193A), ECL3 (D262A), or TMII (D97N). These acidic residues could engage electrostatical interactions with basic residues of the HIV-1 envelope protein gp120, known to contribute to the selectivity for CXCR4. The ability of CXCR4 mutants to bind SDF-1 and mediate cell signal was consistent with the two-site model of chemokine-receptor interaction. Site I involved in SDF-1 binding but not signaling was located in NT with particular importance of Glu(14) and/or Glu(15) and Tyr(21). Residues required for both SDF-1 binding and signaling, and thus probably part of site II, were identified in ECL2 (Asp(187)), TMII (Asp(97)), and TMVII (Glu(288)). The first residues () of NT also seem required for SDF-1 binding and signaling. A deletion in the third intracellular loop abolished signaling, probably by disrupting the coupling with G proteins. The identification of CXCR4 residues involved in the interaction with both SDF-1 and HIV-1 may account for the signaling activity of gp120 and has implications for the development of antiviral compounds.

An investigation of vago-regulatory and health-behavior accounts for increased inflammation in posttraumatic stress disorder.

PubMed

Dennis, Paul A; Weinberg, J Brice; Calhoun, Patrick S; Watkins, Lana L; Sherwood, Andrew; Dennis, Michelle F; Beckham, Jean C

2016-04-01

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been linked to chronic inflammation, a condition that poses a risk for cardiovascular disease. Attenuated vagal activity has been proposed as a potential mediator of PTSD and inflammation, although associated behavioral health risks-namely cigarette smoking and alcohol dependence-might also account for that link. Inflammation was quantified by fasting serum concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-10, and thymus- and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC)/CCL17 collected from 85 participants with PTSD and 82 without PTSD. Latent variable modeling was used to assess the relationship between PTSD symptom severity and inflammation along with potential mediators vagal activity (respiratory sinus arrhythmia; RSA), smoking status, and lifetime alcohol dependence. PTSD symptom severity was associated with increased inflammation (β=.18, p=.02). However, this association was reduced in models that adjusted for RSA, smoking status, and lifetime alcohol dependence. Independent mediation effects were deemed significant via bootstrapping analyses. Together, RSA, smoking status, and lifetime alcohol dependence accounted for 95% of the effect of PTSD symptom severity on inflammation. Although RSA accounted for a modest proportion of the association between posttraumatic stress and pro-inflammatory responses, behavioral factors-specifically cigarette smoking and alcohol dependence-proved to be larger mediators. The benefits of PTSD treatment may be enhanced by additional interventions aimed at modifying these health behaviors. Published by Elsevier Inc.

An initial investigation into endothelial CC chemokine expression in the human rheumatoid synovium.

PubMed

Rump, Lisa; Mattey, Derek L; Kehoe, Oksana; Middleton, Jim

2017-09-01

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a destructive and chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease. Synovial inflammation is a major feature of RA and is associated with leukocyte recruitment. Leukocytes cross the endothelial cells (ECs) into the synovial tissue and fluid and this migration is mediated via a range of chemokines and adhesion molecules on the ECs. As important mediators of leukocyte extravasation, a number of chemokines from each of the chemokine families have been established as expressed in the RA joint. However, as little information is available on which chemokines are expressed/presented by the ECs themselves, the purpose of the study was to ascertain which of the CC chemokines were localised in RA ECs. Immunofluoresence was used to assess the presence of the CC-family chemokines in RA synovial ECs using von-Willebrand factor (VWF) as a pan-endothelial marker and a range of human chemokine antibodies. The percentage of VWF positive vessels which were positive for the chemokines was determined. The presence of the four most highly expressed novel chemokines were further investigated in non-RA synovial ECs and the sera and synovial fluid (SF) from patients with RA and osteoarthritis (OA). Statistical analysis of immunofluorescence data was carried out by Student's t-test. For analysis of ELISA data, Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA followed by Dunn's multiple comparison test was utilised to analyse differences in sera and SF levels for each chemokine between RA and OA. Spearman rank correlations of sera and SF chemokine levels with a range of clinical variables were also performed. Chemokine detection varied, the least abundant being CCL27 which was present in 8.3% of RA blood vessels and the most abundant being CCL19 which was present in 80%. Of the 26 chemokines studied, 19 have not been previously observed in RA ECs. Four of these novel chemokines, namely CCL7, CCL14, CCL16 and CCL22 were present on ≥60% of vessels. CCL14 and CCL22 were shown to be increased in RA

Atorvastatin Reduces Plasma Levels of Chemokine (CXCL10) in Patients with Crohn's Disease

PubMed Central

Grip, Olof; Janciauskiene, Sabina

2009-01-01

Background In Crohn's disease high tissue expression and serum levels of chemokines and their receptors are known to correlate with disease activity. Because statins can reduce chemokine expression in patients with coronary diseases, we wanted to test whether this can be achieved in patients with Crohn's disease. Methodology/Principal Findings We investigated plasma levels of chemokines (CCL2, CCL4, CCL11, CCL13, CCL17, CCL22, CCL26, CXCL8, CXCL10) and endothelial cytokines (sP-selectin, sE-selectin, sICAM-3, thrombomodulin) in ten Crohn's disease patients before and after thirteen weeks' daily treatment with 80 mg atorvastatin. Of the 13 substances investigated, only CXCL10 was found to be significantly reduced (by 34%, p = 0.026) in all of the treated patients. Levels of CXCL10 correlated with C-reactive protein (r = 0.82, p<0.01). Conclusions/Significance CXCL10 is a ligand for the CXCR3 receptor, the activation of which results in the recruitment of T lymphocytes and the perpetuation of mucosal inflammation. Hence the reduction of plasma CXCL10 levels by atorvastatin may represent a candidate for an approach to the treatment of Crohns disease in the future. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00454545 PMID:19421322

Angiodrastic Chemokines in Colorectal Cancer: Clinicopathological Correlations.

PubMed

Emmanouil, George; Ayiomamitis, George; Zizi-Sermpetzoglou, Adamantia; Tzardi, Maria; Moursellas, Andrew; Voumvouraki, Argyro; Kouroumalis, Elias

2018-01-01

To study the expression of angiodrastic chemokines in colorectal tumors and correlate findings with clinicopathological parameters and survival. The proangiogenic factor VEGF, the angiogenic chemokines CXCL8 and CXCL6, and the angiostatic chemokine CXCL4 were measured by ELISA in tumor and normal tissue of 35 stage II and III patients and correlated with the histopathology markers Ki67, p53, p21, bcl2, EGFR, and MLH1 and 5-year survival. The Wilcoxon and chi-square tests were used for statistical comparisons. There was a significant increase of CXCL6 ( p = 0.005) and VEGF ( p = 0.003) in cancerous tissue compared to normal. Patients with lower levels of CXCL8 and CXCL4 lived significantly longer. Patients with loss of EGFR expression had higher levels of CXCL8 while p21 loss was associated with higher levels of CXCL6. Chemokine levels were not correlated with TNM or Dukes classification. Strong expression of p53 was accompanied by decreased survival. (1) The angiogenic factors CXCL6 and VEGF are increased in colorectal cancer tissue with no association with the clinical stage of the disease or survival. (2) However, increased levels of tissue CXCL8 and CXCL4 are associated with poor survival. (3) Strong expression of p53 is found in patients with poor survival.

[Characterization and transcriptional analysis of a new CC chemokine associated with innate imimune response in cobia (Rachycentron canadum)].

PubMed

Su, Y; Feng, J; Sun, X; Guo, Z; Xu, L; Jiang, J

2013-01-01

Chemokines are small, secreted cytokine peptides, known principally for their ability to induce migration and activation of leukocyte populations under both pathological and physiological conditions. On the basis of previously constructed express sequence tags (ESTs) of the head kidney and spleen cDNA library of the perciform marine fish Rachycentron canadum (common name cobia). We used bi-directional rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) and obtained a full-length cDNA of a new CC chemokine gene (designated RcCC3). The RcCC3 putative peptide exhibits sequence similarity to the group of CCL19/21/25 CC chemokines. The reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used in transcript expression studies of RcCC3. We examined the constitutive expression of the transcripts in 12 tissues of non-stressed cobia; RcCC3 transcripts were detected in all tissues examined, with the highest expression in gill and liver, following by head kidney, kidney, spleen, skin, intestine, muscle, stomach, heart, blood and brain. Transcript expression of RcCC3 was examined in immune-related organs, including head kidney, spleen and liver, following intraperitoneal injection of phosphate-buffered saline control, polyriboinosinic polyribocytidylic acid (poly(I:C)) and formalin-killed Vibrio carchariae (bacterial vaccine). The transcripts in these tissues were quickly up-regulated by the injection of poly(I:C) and bacterial vaccine at early time points, although with different expression profiles. These results indicate RcCC3 represents an important component of innate immunity in cobia.

Substance P regulates macrophage inflammatory protein 3α/chemokine C-C ligand 20 (CCL20) with heme oxygenase-1 in human periodontal ligament cells

PubMed Central

Lee, S-K; Pi, S-H; Kim, S-H; Min, K-S; Lee, H-J; Chang, H-S; Kang, K-H; Kim, H-R; Shin, H-I; Lee, S-K; Kim, E-C

2007-01-01

Although substance P (SP), a potent proinflammatory peptide, is involved in inflammation and immune responses, the effect of SP on the expression of macrophage inflammatory protein 3α[MIP-3α, chemokine C-C ligand 20 (CCL20)] in periodontal ligament (PDL) cells is unknown. Equally enigmatic is the link between SP, the stress protein heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and CCL20 production. We investigated whether SP induces the release of chemokine CCL20 from immortalized PDL (IPDL) cells, and further clarify SP-mediated pathways. We also examined the relationship between HO-1 and CCL20 by treating PDL cells with SP. Incubating IPDL cells with SP increased expression of CCL20 mRNA and CCL20 protein in a dose–time-dependent manner. Highly selective p38 and extracellular-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) inhibitors abrogated SP-induced expression of CCL20 in IPDL cells. SP is also responsible for initiating phosphorylation of IκB, degradation of IκB and activation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB. SP induced expression of HO-1 in both a concentration- and time-dependent manner, and CCL20 reflected similar patterns. The inductive effects of SP on HO-1 and CCL20 were enhanced by HO-1 inducer hemin and the membrane-permeable guanosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (cGMP) analogue 8-bromo-cGMP. Conversely, this pathway was inhibited by the HO-1 inhibitor zinc protoporphyrin IX (ZnPP IX) and the selective inhibitor of guanylate cyclase, 1H-(1,2,4)oxadiazole(4,3-a)quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ). We report herein the pathway that connects SP along with other modulators of neuroimmunoregulation to the induction of HO-1 and the inflammatory mediator macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-3α/CCL20 in IPDL cells, which play an important role in the development of periodontitis or inflammation during orthodontic tooth movement. PMID:17924972

Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains induce strain-specific cytokine and chemokine response in pulmonary epithelial cells.

PubMed

Mvubu, Nontobeko E; Pillay, Balakrishna; McKinnon, Lyle R; Pillay, Manormoney

2018-04-01

M. tuberculosis F15/LAM4/KZN has been associated with high transmission rates of drug resistant tuberculosis in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. The current study elucidated the cytokine/chemokine responses induced by representatives of the F15/LAM4/KZN and other dominant strain families in pulmonary epithelial cells. Multiplex cytokine analyses were performed at 24, 48 and 72h post infection of the A549 pulmonary epithelial cell line with the F15/LAM4/KZN, F28, F11, Beijing, Unique and H37Rv strains at an MOI of ∼10:1. Twenty-three anti- and pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines were detected at all-time intervals. Significantly high concentrations of IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α and G-CSF at 48h, and IL-8, IFN-γ, TNF-α, G-CSF and GM-CSF at 72h, were induced by the F28 and F15/LAM4/KZN strains, respectively. Lower levels of cytokines/chemokines were induced by either the Beijing or Unique strains at all three time intervals. All strains induced up-regulation of pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs) (TLR3 and TLR5) while only the F15/LAM4/KZN, F11 and F28 strains induced significant differential expression of TLR2 compared to the Beijing, Unique and H37Rv strains. The low induction of cytokines in epithelial cells by the Beijing strain correlates with its previously reported hypervirulent properties. High concentrations of cytokines and chemokines required for early protection against M. tuberculosis infections induced by the F15/LAM4/KZN and F28 strains suggests a lower virulence of these genotypes compared to the Beijing strain. These findings demonstrate the high diversity in host cytokine/chemokine response to early infection of pulmonary epithelial cells by different strains of M. tuberculosis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Homocysteine up-regulates vascular transmembrane chemokine CXCL16 and induces CXCR6+ lymphocyte recruitment in vitro and in vivo.

PubMed

Postea, O; Koenen, R R; Hristov, M; Weber, C; Ludwig, A

2008-01-01

Hyperhomocysteinemia induces endothelial dysfunction and promotes atherosclerotic vascular disease. Infiltrates of activated macrophages and lymphocytes are observed in human and experimental atherosclerotic lesions, their emigration being guided by endothelial-leukocyte adhesion molecules and chemoattractants. The CXC-chemokine CXCL16 functions as an adhesion molecule by interacting with its receptor (CXCR6) and also as a scavenger for oxidized low density lipoprotein (oxLDL). We investigated the modulation of CXCL16 on cultured endothelial cells (EC) and the recruitment of CXCR6(+) lymphocytes in response to homocysteine (Hcy), in vitro and in vivo. Hcy-stimulated EC show a significant increase in CXCL16 mRNA and protein expression. Incubation of EC with d,l-Hcy and l-Hcy significantly increased CXCR6(+) lymphocyte adhesion to EC while l-Cysteine (l-Cys) had no effect. Furthermore, EC stimulation with Hcy increased uptake of DiI-oxLDL. An anti-CXCL16 monoclonal antibody, antioxidants (Tiron) and PPAR-gamma agonists (Pioglitazone) considerably reduced CXCR6(+) lymphocyte adhesion and uptake of DiI-oxLDL. Upon injection in the peritoneal cavities of mice, l-Hcy and not l-Cys, increased the number of CXCR6(+) lymphocytes, which was reduced by coinjection with Pioglitazone or anti-human CXCL16 antibody. Hyperhomocysteinemia up-regulates CXCL16 leading to increased recruitment of CXCR6(+) lymphocytes and scavenging of modified lipids via a potential involvement of a PPAR-gamma-dependent mechanism. CXCL16 may therefore contribute to the formation and progression of atherosclerotic lesions under conditions of hyperhomocysteinemia.

Homocysteine up-regulates vascular transmembrane chemokine CXCL16 and induces CXCR6+ lymphocyte recruitment in vitro and in vivo

PubMed Central

Postea, O; Koenen, R R; Hristov, M; Weber, C; Ludwig, A

2008-01-01

Abstract Objective: Hyperhomocysteinemia induces endothelial dysfunction and promotes atherosclerotic vascular disease. Infiltrates of activated macrophages and lymphocytes are observed in human and experimental atherosclerotic lesions, their emigration being guided by endothelial-leukocyte adhesion molecules and chemoattractants. The CXC-chemokine CXCL16 functions as an adhesion molecule by interacting with its receptor (CXCR6) and also as a scavenger for oxidized low density lipoprotein (oxLDL). We investigated the modulation of CXCL16 on cultured endothelial cells (EC) and the recruitment of CXCR6+ lymphocytes in response to homocysteine (Hcy), in vitro and in vivo. Methods and Results: Hcy-stimulated EC show a significant increase in CXCL16 mRNA and protein expression. Incubation of EC with d,l-Hcy and l-Hcy significantly increased CXCR6+ lymphocyte adhesion to EC while l-Cysteine (l-Cys) had no effect. Furthermore, EC stimulation with Hcy increased uptake of DiI-oxLDL. An anti-CXCL16 monoclonal antibody, antioxidants (Tiron) and PPAR-γ agonists (Pioglitazone) considerably reduced CXCR6+ lymphocyte adhesion and uptake of DiI-oxLDL. Upon injection in the peritoneal cavities of mice, l-Hcy and not l-Cys, increased the number of CXCR6+ lymphocytes, which was reduced by coinjection with Pioglitazone or anti-human CXCL16 antibody. Conclusions: Hyperhomocysteinemia up-regulates CXCL16 leading to increased recruitment of CXCR6+ lymphocytes and scavenging of modified lipids via a potential involvement of a PPAR-γ-dependent mechanism. CXCL16 may therefore contribute to the formation and progression of atherosclerotic lesions under conditions of hyperhomocysteinemia. PMID:18194461

Differential chemokine responses in the murine brain following lyssavirus infection.

PubMed

Hicks, D J; Núñez, A; Banyard, A C; Williams, A; Ortiz-Pelaez, A; Fooks, A R; Johnson, N

2013-11-01

The hallmark of lyssavirus infection is lethal encephalomyelitis. Previous studies have reported distinct lyssavirus isolate-related differences in severity of cellular recruitment into the encephalon in a murine model of infection following peripheral inoculation with rabies virus (RABV) and European bat lyssavirus (EBLV)-1 and -2. In order to understand the role of chemokines in this process, comparative studies of the chemokine pattern, distribution and production in response to infection with these lyssaviruses were undertaken. Expression of CCL2, CCL5 and CXCL10 was observed throughout the murine brain with a distinct caudal bias in distribution, similar to both inflammatory changes and virus antigen distribution. CCL2 immunolabelling was localized to neuronal and astroglial populations. CCL5 immunolabelling was only detected in the astroglia, while CXCL10 labelling, although present in the astroglia, was more prominent in neurons. Isolate-dependent differences in the amount of chemokine immunolabelling in specific brain regions and chemokine production by neurons in vitro were observed, with a greater expression of CCL5 in vivo and CXCL10 production in vitro after EBLV infection. Additionally, strong positive associations between chemokine immunolabelling and perivascular cuffing and, to a lesser extent, virus antigen score were also observed. These differences in chemokine expression may explain the variation in severity of encephalitic changes observed in animals infected with different lyssavirus isolates. Crown Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Closely related, yet unique: Distinct homo- and heterodimerization patterns of G protein coupled chemokine receptors and their fine-tuning by cholesterol

PubMed Central

Gahbauer, Stefan; Pluhackova, Kristyna

2018-01-01

Chemokine receptors, a subclass of G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), play essential roles in the human immune system, they are involved in cancer metastasis as well as in HIV-infection. A plethora of studies show that homo- and heterodimers or even higher order oligomers of the chemokine receptors CXCR4, CCR5, and CCR2 modulate receptor function. In addition, membrane cholesterol affects chemokine receptor activity. However, structural information about homo- and heterodimers formed by chemokine receptors and their interplay with cholesterol is limited. Here, we report homo- and heterodimer configurations of the chemokine receptors CXCR4, CCR5, and CCR2 at atomistic detail, as obtained from thousands of molecular dynamics simulations. The observed homodimerization patterns were similar for the closely related CC chemokine receptors, yet they differed significantly between the CC receptors and CXCR4. Despite their high sequence identity, cholesterol modulated the CC homodimer interfaces in a subtype-specific manner. Chemokine receptor heterodimers display distinct dimerization patterns for CXCR4/CCR5 and CXCR4/CCR2. Furthermore, associations between CXCR4 and CCR5 reveal an increased cholesterol-sensitivity as compared to CXCR4/CCR2 heterodimerization patterns. This work provides a first comprehensive structural overview over the complex interaction network between chemokine receptors and indicates how heterodimerization and the interaction with the membrane environment diversifies the function of closely related GPCRs. PMID:29529028

Chemokine RANTES in atopic dermatitis.

PubMed

Glück, J; Rogala, B

1999-01-01

Chemokines play a key role in inflammatory diseases. The aim of this study was to estimate chemokine RANTES in the sera of patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) and to analyze the correlation between RANTES serum level and the immunological and clinical parameters of the disease. Serum levels of RANTES (ELISA; R&D Systems), total IgE and specific IgE (FEIA; Pharmacia CAP System) were estimated in 24 patients with AD, 28 patients with pollinosis (PL) and 22 healthy nonatopic subjects (HC). The division of the AD group into a pure AD (pAD) subgroup, without a coexisting respiratory allergy, and a subgroup of patients with AD and a respiratory allergy (AD+AO) was done according to Wütrich. Levels of RANTES were higher in the AD group than in the HC group and the PL group. RANTES levels did not differ among subgroups with various clinical scores and between the pAD and AD+AO subgroups. There were no correlations between levels of RANTES and total IgE. Significant positive correlations between serum levels of RANTES and Dermatophagoides farinae and cat dander-specific IgE were found in the AD group. We conclude that the serum level of chemokine RANTES differs patients with AD from patients with PL. The increase of RANTES concentration in the serum of patients with AD depends neither on a clinical picture nor an IgE system.

Tubular Epithelial NF-κB Activity Regulates Ischemic AKI

PubMed Central

Vigolo, Emilia; Hinze, Christian; Park, Joon-Keun; Roël, Giulietta; Balogh, András; Choi, Mira; Wübken, Anne; Cording, Jimmi; Blasig, Ingolf E.; Luft, Friedrich C.; Scheidereit, Claus; Schmidt-Ott, Kai M.; Schmidt-Ullrich, Ruth; Müller, Dominik N.

2016-01-01

NF-κB is a key regulator of innate and adaptive immunity and is implicated in the pathogenesis of AKI. The cell type–specific functions of NF-κB in the kidney are unknown; however, the pathway serves distinct functions in immune and tissue parenchymal cells. We analyzed tubular epithelial-specific NF-κB signaling in a mouse model of ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI)–induced AKI. NF-κB reporter activity and nuclear localization of phosphorylated NF-κB subunit p65 analyses in mice revealed that IRI induced widespread NF-κB activation in renal tubular epithelia and in interstitial cells that peaked 2–3 days after injury. To genetically antagonize tubular epithelial NF-κB activity, we generated mice expressing the human NF-κB super-repressor IκBαΔN in renal proximal, distal, and collecting duct epithelial cells. Compared with control mice, these mice exhibited improved renal function, reduced tubular apoptosis, and attenuated neutrophil and macrophage infiltration after IRI-induced AKI. Furthermore, tubular NF-κB–dependent gene expression profiles revealed temporally distinct functional gene clusters for apoptosis, chemotaxis, and morphogenesis. Primary proximal tubular cells isolated from IκBαΔN-expressing mice and exposed to hypoxia-mimetic agent cobalt chloride exhibited less apoptosis and expressed lower levels of chemokines than cells from control mice did. Our results indicate that postischemic NF-κB activation in renal tubular epithelia aggravates tubular injury and exacerbates a maladaptive inflammatory response. PMID:26823548

SECRET domain of variola virus CrmB protein can be a member of poxviral type II chemokine-binding proteins family.

PubMed

Antonets, Denis V; Nepomnyashchikh, Tatyana S; Shchelkunov, Sergei N

2010-10-27

Variola virus (VARV) the causative agent of smallpox, eradicated in 1980, have wide spectrum of immunomodulatory proteins to evade host immunity. Recently additional biological activity was discovered for VARV CrmB protein, known to bind and inhibit tumour necrosis factor (TNF) through its N-terminal domain homologous to cellular TNF receptors. Besides binding TNF, this protein was also shown to bind with high affinity several chemokines which recruit B- and T-lymphocytes and dendritic cells to sites of viral entry and replication. Ability to bind chemokines was shown to be associated with unique C-terminal domain of CrmB protein. This domain named SECRET (Smallpox virus-Encoded Chemokine Receptor) is unrelated to the host proteins and lacks significant homology with other known viral chemokine-binding proteins or any other known protein. De novo modelling of VARV-CrmB SECRET domain spatial structure revealed its apparent structural homology with cowpox virus CC-chemokine binding protein (vCCI) and vaccinia virus A41 protein, despite low sequence identity between these three proteins. Potential ligand-binding surface of modelled VARV-CrmB SECRET domain was also predicted to bear prominent electronegative charge which is characteristic to known orthopoxviral chemokine-binding proteins. Our results suggest that SECRET should be included into the family of poxviral type II chemokine-binding proteins and that it might have been evolved from the vCCI-like predecessor protein.

The MCP-1, CCL-5 and SDF-1 chemokines as pro-inflammatory markers in generalized anxiety disorder and personality disorders.

PubMed

Ogłodek, Ewa A; Szota, Anna M; Just, Marek J; Moś, Danuta M; Araszkiewicz, Aleksander

2015-02-01

The co-occurrence of generalized anxiety disorder and personality disorders suggests the existence of association between the neurobiological predispositions leading to the development of these disorders and activation of cytokine system. Pro-inflammatory chemokines such as CCL-5/RANTES (regulated upon activation normal T cell expressed and secreted) and CXCL12/SDF-1 (stromal derived factor) play an important role in immune response. A total of 160 participants were enrolled in the study, 120 of whom comprised the study group (people with the dual diagnosis of personality disorder and generalized anxiety disorder). The mean age was 41.4 ± 3.5 years (range: 20-44 years). The control group consisted of 40 healthy individuals in the mean age of 40.8 ± 3.1 years (range: 20-43 years). A blood sample was collected from each participant and the plasma levels of the CCL-2/MCP-1 (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1), RANTES and SDF-1 chemokines were determined by ELISA. Increased levels of MCP-1 and SDF-1 were found both in women and in men versus the control group for all types of personality disorders. The levels of CCL-5 in men were significantly increased versus the control group and significantly higher in women than in men. Neither women nor men with avoidant or obsessive-compulsive personality disorder showed any significant differences in MCP-1 or SFD-1 levels. In subjects with borderline personality disorder, the levels of the study chemokines were higher in women than in men. Our study has shown the need for determination of proinflammatory interleukins which are considered as biomarkers of personality disorders and generalized anxiety disorders. Copyright © 2014 Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier Urban & Partner Sp. z o.o. All rights reserved.

Inflammatory role and prognostic value of platelet chemokines in acute coronary syndrome.

PubMed

Blanchet, X; Cesarek, K; Brandt, J; Herwald, H; Teupser, D; Küchenhoff, H; Karshovska, E; Mause, S F; Siess, W; Wasmuth, H; Soehnlein, O; Koenen, R R; Weber, C; von Hundelshausen, P

2014-12-01

Activated platelets and neutrophils exacerbate atherosclerosis. Platelets release the chemokines CXCL4, CXCL4L1 and CCL5, whereas myeloperoxidase (MPO) and azurocidin are neutrophil-derived. We investigated whether plasma levels of these platelet and neutrophil mediators are affected by the acute coronary syndrome (ACS), its medical treatment, concomitant clinical or laboratory parameters, and predictive for the progression of coronary artery disease (CAD). In an observational study, the association of various factors with plasma concentrations of platelet chemokines and neutrophil mediators in 204 patients, either upon admission with ACS and 6 hours later or without ACS or CAD, was determined by multiple linear regression. Mediator release was further analysed after activation of blood with ACS-associated triggers such as plaque material. CXCL4, CXCL4L1, CCL5, MPO and azurocidin levels were elevated in ACS. CXCL4 and CCL5 but not CXCL4L1 or MPO were associated with platelet counts and CRP. CXCL4 (in association with heparin treatment) and MPO declined over 6 hours during ACS. Elevated CCL5 was associated with a progression of CAD. Incubating blood with plaque material, PAR1 and PAR4 activation induced a marked release of CXCL4 and CCL5, whereas CXCL4L1 and MPO were hardly or not altered. Platelet chemokines and neutrophil products are concomitantly elevated in ACS and differentially modulated by heparin treatment. CCL5 levels during ACS predict a progression of preexisting CAD. Platelet-derived products appear to dominate the inflammatory response during ACS, adding to the emerging evidence that ACS per se may promote vascular inflammation.

The Atypical Chemokine Receptor ACKR2 is Protective Against Sepsis.

PubMed

Castanheira, Fernanda V E Silva; Borges, Vanessa; Sônego, Fabiane; Kanashiro, Alexandre; Donate, Paula B; Melo, Paulo H; Pallas, Kenneth; Russo, Remo C; Amaral, Flávio A; Teixeira, Mauro M; Ramalho, Fernando S; Cunha, Thiago M; Liew, Foo Y; Alves-Filho, José C; Graham, Gerard J; Cunha, Fernando Q

2018-06-01

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response as a result of uncontrolled infections. Neutrophils are the first cells to reach the primary sites of infection, and chemokines play a key role in recruiting neutrophils. However, in sepsis chemokines could also contribute to neutrophil infiltration to vital organs leading to multiple organ failure. ACKR2 is an atypical chemokine receptor, which can remove and degrade inflammatory CC chemokines. The role of ACK2 in sepsis is unknown. Using a model of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), we demonstrate here that ACKR2 deficient () mice exhibited a significant reduction in the survival rate compared with similarly treated wild-type (WT) mice. However, neutrophil migration to the peritoneal cavity and bacterial load were similar between WT and ACKR2 mice during CLP. In contrast, ACKR2 mice showed increased neutrophil infiltration and elevated CC chemokine levels in the lung, kidney, and heart compared with the WT mice. In addition, ACKR2 mice also showed more severe lesions in the lung and kidney than those in the WT mice. Consistent with these results, WT mice under nonsevere sepsis (90% survival) had higher expression of ACKR2 in these organs than mice under severe sepsis (no survival). Finally, the lungs from septic patients showed increased number of ACKR2 cells compared with those of nonseptic patients. Our data indicate that ACKR2 may have a protective role during sepsis, and the absence of ACKR2 leads to exacerbated chemokine accumulation, neutrophil infiltration, and damage to vital organs.

Up-Regulation of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines and Chemokine Production in Avian Influenza H9N2 Virus-Infected Human Lung Epithelial Cell Line (A549).

PubMed

Farzin, Hamidreza; Toroghi, Reza; Haghparast, Alireza

2016-01-01

Influenza H9N2 virus mostly infects avian species but poses a potential health risk to humans. Little is known about the mammalian host immune responses to H9N2 virus. To obtain insight into the innate immune responses of human lung epithelial cells to the avian H9N2 virus, the expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokine in the human airway epithelial cells infected with avian H9N2 virus were examined by real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). H9N2 virus was able to cultivate in the human lung epithelial cell line (A549) and stimulate production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6) and chemokine (IL-8). Expressions of cytokine genes were up-regulated to a significantly higher level for IL-1β (p < 0.01), IL-6 (p < 0.01 after 12 hours and p < 0.05 after 24 hours) and IL-8 (p < 0.01 after 12 hours and p < 0.001 after 24 hours) in virus-cultured A549 cells as compared with non-virus-cultured cells. The amount of IL-6 and IL-1β proteins secreted into the culture medium was also increased after virus culture infection of A549 cell line compared to non-virus-cultured A549 cells and were significant in both IL-1β (p < 0.05 in 18 hours and p < 0.001 in 24-48 hours harvested supernatant) and IL-6 (p < 0.001). Silencing the p65 component of NF-κB in A549 cells suppressed the stimulatory effects of influenza virus on secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokine. The findings in this study will broaden our understanding of host innate immune mechanisms and the pathogenesis of H9N2 influenza viruses in human respiratory epithelium.

Combined Effects of Substrate Topography and Stiffness on Endothelial Cytokine and Chemokine Secretion

PubMed Central

Lee, Justin H.; Park, Soojin; Mun, Kevin; Boo, Yong Chool; Kim, Deok-Ho

2016-01-01

Endothelial physiology is regulated not only by humoral factors but also by mechanical factors such as fluid shear stress and the underlying cellular matrix microenvironment. The purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of matrix topographical cues on the endothelial secretion of cytokines/chemokines in vitro. Human endothelial cells were cultured on nanopatterned polymeric substrates with different ratios of ridge to groove widths (1:1, 1:2, and 1:5) and with different stiffnesses (6.7 MPa and 2.5 GPa) in the presence and absence of 1.0 ng/mL TNF-α. The levels of cytokines/chemokines secreted into the conditioned media were analyzed with a multiplexed bead-based sandwich immunoassay. Of the nano-patterns tested, the 1:1 and 1:2 type-patterns were found to induce the greatest degree of endothelial cell elongation and directional alignment. The 1:2 type nanopatterns lowered the secretion of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-3 and MCP-1, compared to unpatterned substrates. Additionally, of the two polymers tested, it was found that the stiffer substrate resulted in significant decreases in the secretion of IL-3 and MCP-1. These results suggest that substrates with specific extracellular nanotopographical cues or stiffnesses may provide anti-atherogenic effects like those seen with laminar shear stresses by suppressing the endothelial secretion of cytokines and chemokines involved in vascular inflammation and remodeling. PMID:25658848

Tobacco smoke induces production of chemokine CCL20 to promote lung cancer.

PubMed

Wang, Gui-Zhen; Cheng, Xin; Li, Xin-Chun; Liu, Yong-Qiang; Wang, Xian-Quan; Shi, Xu; Wang, Zai-Yong; Guo, Yong-Qing; Wen, Zhe-Sheng; Huang, Yun-Chao; Zhou, Guang-Biao

2015-07-10

Tobacco kills nearly 6 million people each year, and 90% of the annual 1.59 million lung cancer deaths worldwide are caused by cigarette smoke. Clinically, a long latency is required for individuals to develop lung cancer since they were first exposed to smoking. In this study, we aimed to identify clinical relevant inflammatory factors that are critical for carcinogenesis by treating normal human lung epithelial cells with tobacco carcinogen nicotine-derived nitrosaminoketone (NNK) for a long period (60 days) and systematic screening in 84 cytokines/chemokines. We found that a chemokine CCL20 was significantly up-regulated by NNK, and in 78/173 (45.1%) patients the expression of CCL20 was higher in tumor samples than their adjacent normal lung tissues. Interestingly, CCL20 was up-regulated in 48/92 (52.2%) smoker and 29/78 (37.2%) nonsmoker patients (p = 0.05), and high CCL20 was associated with poor prognosis. NNK induced the production of CCL20, which promoted lung cancer cell proliferation and migration. In addition, an anti-inflammation drug, dexamethasone, inhibited NNK-induced CCL20 production and suppressed lung cancer in vitro and in vivo. These results indicate that CCL20 is crucial for tobacco smoke-caused lung cancer, and anti-CCL20 could be a rational approach to fight against this deadly disease. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Roles of neutrophils in the regulation of the extent of human inflammation through delivery of IL-1 and clearance of chemokines

PubMed Central

Basran, Alexander; Jabeen, Maisha; Bingle, Lynne; Stokes, Clare A.; Dockrell, David H.; Whyte, Moira K. B.; Walmsley, Sarah R.; Higgins, Kathryn R.; Vogel, Stefanie N.; Wilson, Heather L.; Prince, Lynne R.; Prestwich, Elizabeth C.; Sabroe, Ruth A.; Parker, Lisa C.; Sabroe, Ian

2013-01-01

This study examined the establishment of neutrophilic inflammation in humans. We tested the hypotheses that neutrophil recruitment was associated with local CXCL8 production and that neutrophils themselves might contribute to the regulation of the size of the inflammatory response. Humans were challenged i.d. with endotoxin. Biopsies of these sites were examined for cytokine production and leukocyte recruitment by qPCR and IHC. Additional in vitro models of inflammation examined the ability of neutrophils to produce and sequester cytokines relevant to neutrophilic inflammation. i.d. challenge with 15 ng of a TLR4-selective endotoxin caused a local inflammatory response, in which 1% of the total biopsy area stained positive for neutrophils at 6 h, correlating with 100-fold up-regulation in local CXCL8 mRNA generation. Neutrophils themselves were the major source of the early cytokine IL-1β. In vitro, neutrophils mediated CXCL8 but not IL-1β clearance (>90% clearance of ≤2 nM CXCL8 over 24 h). CXCL8 clearance was at least partially receptor-dependent and modified by inflammatory context, preserved in models of viral infection but reduced in models of bacterial infection. In conclusion, in a human inflammatory model, neutrophils are rapidly recruited and may regulate the size and outcome of the inflammatory response through the uptake and release of cytokines and chemokines in patterns dependent on the underlying inflammatory stimulus. PMID:22904343

Interaction of chemokine receptor CXCR4 in monomeric and dimeric state with its endogenous ligand CXCL12: coarse-grained simulations identify differences.

PubMed

Cutolo, Pasquale; Basdevant, Nathalie; Bernadat, Guillaume; Bachelerie, Françoise; Ha-Duong, Tâp

2017-02-01

Despite the recent resolutions of the crystal structure of the chemokine receptor CXCR4 in complex with small antagonists or viral chemokine, a description at the molecular level of the interactions between the full-length CXCR4 and its endogenous ligand, the chemokine CXCL12, in relationship with the receptor recognition and activation, is not yet completely elucidated. Moreover, since CXCR4 is able to form dimers, the question of whether the CXCR4-CXCL12 complex has a 1:1 or 2:1 preferential stoichiometry is still an open question. We present here results of coarse-grained protein-protein docking and molecular dynamics simulations of CXCL12 in association with CXCR4 in monomeric and dimeric states. Our proposed models for the 1:1 and 2:1 CXCR4-CXCL12 quaternary structures are consistent with recognition and activation motifs of both partners provided by the available site-directed mutagenesis data. Notably, we observed that in the 2:1 complex, the chemokine N-terminus makes more steady contacts with the receptor residues critical for binding and activation than in the 1:1 structure, suggesting that the 2:1 stoichiometry would favor the receptor signaling activity with respect to the 1:1 association.

In a murine tuberculosis model, the absence of homeostatic chemokines delay granuloma formation and protective immunity

PubMed Central

Khader, Shabaana A.; Rangel-Moreno, Javier; Fountain, Jeffrey J.; Martino, Cynthia A; Reiley, William W; Pearl, John E.; Winslow, Gary M; Woodland, David L; Randall, Troy D; Cooper, Andrea M.

2009-01-01

Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection results in the generation of protective cellular immunity and formation of granulomatous structures in the lung. CXC chemokine ligand (CXCL)-13, CC chemokine ligand (CCL)-21 and CCL19 are constitutively expressed in the secondary lymphoid organs and play a dominant role in the homing of lymphocytes and dendritic cells. Although it is known that dendritic cell transport of M. tuberculosis from the lung to the draining lymph node is dependent on CCL19/CCL21, we show here that CCL19/CCL21 is also important for the accumulation of antigen-specific IFNγ-producing T cells in the lung, development of the granuloma, and control of mycobacteria. Importantly, we also show that CXCL13 is not required for generation of IFNγ responses, but is essential for the spatial arrangement of lymphocytes within granulomas, optimal activation of phagocytes and subsequent control of mycobacterial growth. Further, we show that these chemokines are also induced in the lung during the early immune responses following pulmonary M. tuberculosis infection. These results demonstrate that homeostatic chemokines perform distinct functions that cooperate to mediate effective expression of immunity against M. tuberculosis infection. PMID:19933855

Dengue virus requires the CC-chemokine receptor CCR5 for replication and infection development.

PubMed

Marques, Rafael E; Guabiraba, Rodrigo; Del Sarto, Juliana L; Rocha, Rebeca F; Queiroz, Ana Luiza; Cisalpino, Daniel; Marques, Pedro E; Pacca, Carolina C; Fagundes, Caio T; Menezes, Gustavo B; Nogueira, Maurício L; Souza, Danielle G; Teixeira, Mauro M

2015-08-01

Dengue is a mosquito-borne disease that affects millions of people worldwide yearly. Currently, there is no vaccine or specific treatment available. Further investigation on dengue pathogenesis is required to better understand the disease and to identify potential therapeutic targets. The chemokine system has been implicated in dengue pathogenesis, although the specific role of chemokines and their receptors remains elusive. Here we describe the role of the CC-chemokine receptor CCR5 in Dengue virus (DENV-2) infection. In vitro experiments showed that CCR5 is a host factor required for DENV-2 replication in human and mouse macrophages. DENV-2 infection induces the expression of CCR5 ligands. Incubation with an antagonist prevents CCR5 activation and reduces DENV-2 positive-stranded (+) RNA inside macrophages. Using an immunocompetent mouse model of DENV-2 infection we found that CCR5(-/-) mice were resistant to lethal infection, presenting at least 100-fold reduction of viral load in target organs and significant reduction in disease severity. This phenotype was reproduced in wild-type mice treated with CCR5-blocking compounds. Therefore, CCR5 is a host factor required for DENV-2 replication and disease development. Targeting CCR5 might represent a therapeutic strategy for dengue fever. These data bring new insights on the association between viral infections and the chemokine receptor CCR5. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Altered circulating leukocytes and their chemokines in a clinical trial of therapeutic hypothermia for neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy*.

PubMed

Jenkins, Dorothea D; Lee, Timothy; Chiuzan, Cody; Perkel, Jessica K; Rollins, Laura Grace; Wagner, Carol L; Katikaneni, Lakshmi P; Bass, W Thomas; Kaufman, David A; Horgan, Michael J; Laungani, Sheela; Givelichian, Laurence M; Sankaran, Koravangatta; Yager, Jerome Y; Martin, Renee

2013-10-01

To determine systemic hypothermia's effect on circulating immune cells and their corresponding chemokines after hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy in neonates. In our randomized, controlled, multicenter trial of systemic hypothermia in neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, we measured total and leukocyte subset and serum chemokine levels over time in both hypothermia and normothermia groups, as primary outcomes for safety. Neonatal ICUs participating in a Neurological Disorders and Stroke sponsored clinical trial of therapeutic hypothermia. Sixty-five neonates with moderate to severe hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy within 6 hours after birth. Patients were randomized to normothermia of 37°C or systemic hypothermia of 33°C for 48 hours. Complete and differential leukocyte counts and serum chemokines were measured every 12 hours for 72 hours. The hypothermia group had significantly lower median circulating total WBC and leukocyte subclasses than the normothermia group before rewarming, with a nadir at 36 hours. Only the absolute neutrophil count rebounded after rewarming in the hypothermia group. Chemokines, monocyte chemotactic protein-1 and interleukin-8, which mediate leukocyte chemotaxis as well as bone marrow suppression, were negatively correlated with their target leukocytes in the hypothermia group, suggesting active chemokine and leukocyte modulation by hypothermia. Relative leukopenia at 60-72 hours correlated with an adverse outcome in the hypothermia group. Our data are consistent with chemokine-associated systemic immunosuppression with hypothermia treatment. In hypothermic neonates, persistence of lower leukocyte counts after rewarming is observed in infants with more severe CNS injury.

Platelets and their chemokines in atherosclerosis—clinical applications

PubMed Central

von Hundelshausen, Philipp; Schmitt, Martin M. N.

2014-01-01

The concept of platelets as important players in the process of atherogenesis has become increasingly accepted due to accumulating experimental and clinical evidence. Despite the progress in understanding the molecular details of atherosclerosis, particularly by using animal models, the inflammatory and thrombotic roles of activated platelet s especially in the human system remain difficult to dissect, as often only the complications of atherosclerosis, i.e., stroke and myocardial infarction are definable but not the plaque burden. Platelet indices including platelet count and mean platelet volume (MPV) and soluble mediators released by activated platelets are associated with atherosclerosis. The chemokine CXCL4 has multiple atherogenic activities, e.g., altering the differentiation of T cells and macrophages by inhibiting neutrophil and monocyte apoptosis and by increasing the uptake of oxLDL and synergizing with CCL5. CCL5 is released and deposited on endothelium by activated platelets thereby triggering atherogenic monocyte recruitment, which can be attenuated by blocking the corresponding chemokine receptor CCR5. Atheroprotective and plaque stabilizing properties are attributed to CXCL12, which plays an important role in regenerative processes by attracting progenitor cells. Its release from luminal attached platelets accelerates endothelial healing after injury. Platelet surface molecules GPIIb/IIIa, GP1bα, P-selectin, JAM-A and the CD40/CD40L dyade are crucially involved in the interaction with endothelial cells, leukocytes and matrix molecules affecting atherogenesis. Beyond the effects on the arterial inflammatory infiltrate, platelets affect cholesterol metabolism by binding, modifying and endocytosing LDL particles via their scavenger receptors and contribute to the formation of lipid laden macrophages. Current medical therapies for the prevention of atherosclerotic therapies enable the elucidation of mechanisms linking platelets to inflammation and

Simultaneous Activation of Induced Heterodimerization between CXCR4 Chemokine Receptor and Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2) Reveals a Mechanism for Regulation of Tumor Progression*

PubMed Central

Coke, Christopher J.; Scarlett, Kisha A.; Chetram, Mahandranauth A.; Jones, Kia J.; Sandifer, Brittney J.; Davis, Ahriea S.; Marcus, Adam I.

2016-01-01

The G-protein-coupled chemokine receptor CXCR4 generates signals that lead to cell migration, cell proliferation, and other survival mechanisms that result in the metastatic spread of primary tumor cells to distal organs. Numerous studies have demonstrated that CXCR4 can form homodimers or can heterodimerize with other G-protein-coupled receptors to form receptor complexes that can amplify or decrease the signaling capacity of each individual receptor. Using biophysical and biochemical approaches, we found that CXCR4 can form an induced heterodimer with cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) in human breast and prostate cancer cells. Simultaneous, agonist-dependent activation of CXCR4 and CB2 resulted in reduced CXCR4-mediated expression of phosphorylated ERK1/2 and ultimately reduced cancer cell functions such as calcium mobilization and cellular chemotaxis. Given that treatment with cannabinoids has been shown to reduce invasiveness of cancer cells as well as CXCR4-mediated migration of immune cells, it is plausible that CXCR4 signaling can be silenced through a physical heterodimeric association with CB2, thereby inhibiting subsequent functions of CXCR4. Taken together, the data illustrate a mechanism by which the cannabinoid system can negatively modulate CXCR4 receptor function and perhaps tumor progression. PMID:26841863

SECRET domain of variola virus CrmB protein can be a member of poxviral type II chemokine-binding proteins family

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Variola virus (VARV) the causative agent of smallpox, eradicated in 1980, have wide spectrum of immunomodulatory proteins to evade host immunity. Recently additional biological activity was discovered for VARV CrmB protein, known to bind and inhibit tumour necrosis factor (TNF) through its N-terminal domain homologous to cellular TNF receptors. Besides binding TNF, this protein was also shown to bind with high affinity several chemokines which recruit B- and T-lymphocytes and dendritic cells to sites of viral entry and replication. Ability to bind chemokines was shown to be associated with unique C-terminal domain of CrmB protein. This domain named SECRET (Smallpox virus-Encoded Chemokine Receptor) is unrelated to the host proteins and lacks significant homology with other known viral chemokine-binding proteins or any other known protein. Findings De novo modelling of VARV-CrmB SECRET domain spatial structure revealed its apparent structural homology with cowpox virus CC-chemokine binding protein (vCCI) and vaccinia virus A41 protein, despite low sequence identity between these three proteins. Potential ligand-binding surface of modelled VARV-CrmB SECRET domain was also predicted to bear prominent electronegative charge which is characteristic to known orthopoxviral chemokine-binding proteins. Conclusions Our results suggest that SECRET should be included into the family of poxviral type II chemokine-binding proteins and that it might have been evolved from the vCCI-like predecessor protein. PMID:20979600

In vivo evolution of HIV-1 co-receptor usage and sensitivity to chemokine-mediated suppression.

PubMed

Scarlatti, G; Tresoldi, E; Björndal, A; Fredriksson, R; Colognesi, C; Deng, H K; Malnati, M S; Plebani, A; Siccardi, A G; Littman, D R; Fenyö, E M; Lusso, P

1997-11-01

Following the identification of the C-C chemokines RANTES, MIP-1alpha and MIP-1beta as major human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-suppressive factors produced by CD8+ T cells, several chemokine receptors were found to serve as membrane co-receptors for primate immunodeficiency lentiretroviruses. The two most widely used co-receptors thus far recognized, CCR5 and CXCR4, are expressed by both activated T lymphocytes and mononuclear phagocytes. CCR5, a specific RANTES, MIP-1alpha and MIP-1 receptor, is used preferentially by non-MT2-tropic HIV-1 and HIV-2 strains and by simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), whereas CXCR4, a receptor for the C-X-C chemokine SDF-1, is used by MT2-tropic HIV-1 and HIV-2, but not by SIV. Other receptors with a more restricted cellular distribution, such as CCR2b, CCR3 and STRL33, can also function as co-receptors for selected viral isolates. The third variable region (V3) of the gp120 envelope glycoprotein of HIV-1 has been fingered as a critical determinant of the co-receptor choice. Here, we document a consistent pattern of evolution of viral co-receptor usage and sensitivity to chemokine-mediated suppression in a longitudinal follow-up of children with progressive HIV-1 infection. Viral isolates obtained during the asymptomatic stages generally used only CCR5 as a co-receptor and were inhibited by RANTES, MIP-1alpha and MIP-1beta, but not by SDF-1. By contrast, the majority of the isolates derived after the progression of the disease were resistant to C-C chemokines, having acquired the ability to use CXCR4 and, in some cases, CCR3, while gradually losing CCR5 usage. Surprisingly, most of these isolates were also insensitive to SDF-1, even when used in combination with RANTES. An early acquisition of CXCR4 usage predicted a poor prognosis. In children who progressed to AIDS without a shift to CXCR4 usage, all the sequential isolates were CCR5-dependent but showed a reduced sensitivity to C-C chemokines. Discrete changes in the V3 domain

Inhibitory Effect of Valencene on the Development of Atopic Dermatitis-Like Skin Lesions in NC/Nga Mice.

PubMed

Yang, In Jun; Lee, Dong-Ung; Shin, Heung Mook

2016-01-01

Valencene (VAL) isolated from Cyperus rotundus possesses various biological effects such as antiallergic and antimelanogenesis activity. We investigated the effect of VAL on atopic dermatitis (AD) skin lesions and their molecular mechanisms. We topically applied VAL to 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB) sensitized NC/Nga mice. Modified scoring atopic dermatitis index, scratching behavior, and histological/immunohistochemical staining were used to monitor disease severity. RT-PCR, western blotting, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to determine the level of IgE, proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines production, and skin barrier proteins expression. Topical application of VAL significantly reduced AD-like symptoms and recovered decreased expression of filaggrin in DNCB-sensitized NC/Nga mice. The levels of serum IgE, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-13 in skin/splenic tissue were reduced. In vitro studies using TNF-α and IFN-γ treated HaCaT cells revealed that VAL inhibited the exaggerated expression of Th2 chemokines including TARC/CCL17, MDC/CCL22, and proinflammatory chemokines such as CXCL8, GM-CSF, and I-CAM through blockade of the NF-κB pathway. In addition, expression of the skin barrier protein, involucrin, was also increased by VAL treatment. VAL inhibited the production and expression of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-6 in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. These results suggest that VAL may serve as a potential therapeutic option for AD.

Human T cell leukaemia virus type 2 tax protein mediates CC-chemokine expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells via the nuclear factor kappa B canonical pathway.

PubMed

Barrios, C S; Castillo, L; Zhi, H; Giam, C-Z; Beilke, M A

2014-01-01

Retroviral co-infections with human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) and human T cell leukaemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) or type 2 (HTLV-2) are prevalent in many areas worldwide. It has been observed that HIV-1/HTLV-2 co-infections are associated with slower rates of CD4(+) T cell decline and delayed progression to AIDS. This immunological benefit has been linked to the ability of Tax2, the transcriptional activating protein of HTLV-2, to induce the expression of macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1α/CCL3, MIP-1β/CCL4 and regulated upon activation normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES)/CCL5 and to down-regulate the expression of the CCR5 co-receptor in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). This study aimed to assess the role of Tax2-mediated activation of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signalling pathway on the production of the anti-viral CC-chemokines MIP-1α, MIP-1β and RANTES. Recombinant Tax1 and Tax2 proteins, or proteins expressed via adenoviral vectors used to infect cells, were tested for their ability to activate the NF-κB pathway in cultured PBMCs in the presence or absence of NF-κB pathway inhibitors. Results showed a significant release of MIP-1α, MIP-1β and RANTES by PBMCs after the activation of p65/RelA and p50. The secretion of these CC-chemokines was significantly reduced (P < 0·05) by canonical NF-κB signalling inhibitors. In conclusion, Tax2 protein may promote innate anti-viral immune responses through the activation of the canonical NF-κB pathway. © 2013 British Society for Immunology.

Human Cytomegalovirus Clinical Strain-Specific microRNA miR-UL148D Targets the Human Chemokine RANTES during Infection

PubMed Central

Kim, Sungchul; Kim, Donghyun; Ahn, Jin-Hyun; Ahn, Kwangseog

2012-01-01

The human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) clinical strain Toledo and the attenuated strain AD169 exhibit a striking difference in pathogenic potential and cell tropism. The virulent Toledo genome contains a 15-kb segment, which is present in all virulent strains but is absent from the AD169 genome. The pathogenic differences between the 2 strains are thought to be associated with this additional genome segment. Cytokines induced during viral infection play major roles in the regulation of the cellular interactions involving cells of the immune and inflammatory systems and consequently determine the pathogenic outcome of infection. The chemokine RANTES (Regulated on activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted) attracts immune cells during inflammation and the immune response, indicating a role for RANTES in viral pathogenesis. Here, we show that RANTES was downregulated in human foreskin fibroblast (HFF) cells at a later stage after infection with the Toledo strain but not after infection with the AD169 strain. miR-UL148D, the only miRNA predicted from the UL/b' sequences of the Toledo genome, targeted the 3′-untranslated region of RANTES and induced degradation of RANTES mRNA during infection. While wild-type Toledo inhibited expression of RANTES in HFF cells, Toledo mutant virus in which miR-UL148D is specifically abrogated did not repress RANTES expression. Furthermore, miR-UL148D-mediated downregulation of RANTES was inhibited by treatment with a miR-UL148D-specific inhibitor designed to bind to the miR-UL148D sequence via an antisense mechanism, supporting the potential value of antisense agents as therapeutic tools directed against HCMV. Our findings identify a viral microRNA as a novel negative regulator of the chemokine RANTES and provide clues for understanding the pathogenesis of the clinical strains of HCMV. PMID:22412377

Potentially probiotic Lactobacillus strains with anti-proliferative activity induce cytokine/chemokine production and neutrophil recruitment in mice.

PubMed

Saxami, G; Karapetsas, A; Chondrou, P; Vasiliadis, S; Lamprianidou, E; Kotsianidis, I; Ypsilantis, P; Botaitis, S; Simopoulos, C; Galanis, A

2017-08-24

Lactobacillus pentosus B281 and Lactobacillus plantarum B282 are two Lactobacillus strains previously isolated from fermented table olives. Both strains were found to possess probiotic properties and displayed desirable technological characteristics for application as starters in novel functional food production. In the present study the anti-proliferative and immunostimulatory activities of the two strains were investigated. Firstly, we demonstrated that live L. pentosus B281 and L. plantarum B282 significantly inhibited the growth of human colon cancer cells (Caco-2) in a time- and dose-dependent manner. By employing the air pouch system in mice, we showed that administration of both strains led to a rapid and statistically significant infiltration of leukocytes in the air pouch exudates. The phenotypical characterisation of the recruited immune cells was performed by flow cytometry analysis. We demonstrated that the majority of the infiltrated leukocytes were neutrophils. Finally by using the Mouse Cytokine Array Panel A Detection Antibody cocktail, we showed that both strains induced the expression of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand (CXCL)-1, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand (CCL)-3, CCL-4, and CXCL-2 and diminished the expression levels of soluble intercellular adhesion molecule, macrophage colony-stimulating factor and metallopeptidase inhibitor 1. Our results showed that both strains display anti-proliferative and immunostimulatory properties equal or even better in some cases than those of established and commonly used probiotic strains. These findings further support the probiotic character of the two strains.

Chemokine gene polymorphisms associate with gender in patients with uveitis.

PubMed

Chen, Y; Vaughan, R W; Kondeatis, E; Fortune, F; Graham, E M; Stanford, M R; Wallace, G R

2004-01-01

Uveitis is an inflammatory condition of ocular tissue characterized by leukocyte infiltration, tissue damage, and decreased visual acuity. Chemokines have been implicated in the pathogenesis of uveitis. Polymorphisms in the genes encoding chemokines have been described as affecting chemokine production or function. We analyzed the frequency of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes encoding CCL2 (-2518 and -2076) and CCL5 (-403 and -28) in patients with Behçet's disease (BD), a systemic form of uveitis, and patients with retinal vasculitis (RV), an organ-specific form of disease. We report that there was no association between any SNP and disease. However, when segregated on the basis of gender the CCR5 -403 AA genotype was only found in male patients with BD. Similarly, CCL2 genotypes 1/2 were predominant in males, while genotype 4 was significantly associated with disease in female patients with BD. Differences in disease symptoms and severity between males and females have been described in BD and gender-specific genetic differences in chemokine gene function may be involved.

Functional divergence between 2 chemokines is conferred by single amino acid change.

PubMed

Dubrac, Alexandre; Quemener, Cathy; Lacazette, Eric; Lopez, Fréderic; Zanibellato, Catherine; Wu, Wen-Guey; Bikfalvi, Andréas; Prats, Hervé

2010-11-25

CXCL4 and CXCL4L1 are 2 closely related CXC chemokines that exhibit potent antiangiogenic activity. Because interactions with glycosaminoglycans play a crucial role in chemokines activity, we determined the binding parameters of CXCL4 and CXCL4L1 for heparin, heparan sulfate, and chondroitin sulfate B. We further demonstrated that the Leu67/His67 substitution is critical for the decrease in glycan binding of CXCL4L1 but also for the increase of its angiostatic activities. Using a set of mutants, we show that glycan affinity and angiostatic properties are not completely related. These data are reinforced using a monoclonal antibody that specifically recognizes structural modifications in CXCL4L1 due to the presence of His67 and that blocks its biologic activity. In vivo, half-life and diffusibility of CXCL4L1 compared with CXCL4 is strongly increased. As opposed to CXCL4L1, CXCL4 is preferentially retained at its site of expression. These findings establish that, despite small differences in the primary structure, CXCL4L1 is highly distinct from CXCL4. These observations are not only of great significance for the antiangiogenic activity of CXCL4L1 and for its potential use in clinical development but also for other biologic processes such as inflammation, thrombosis or tissue repair.

Serum CXCL10, CXCL11, CXCL12, and CXCL14 chemokine patterns in patients with acute liver injury.

PubMed

Chalin, Arnaud; Lefevre, Benjamin; Devisme, Christelle; Pronier, Charlotte; Carrière, Virginie; Thibault, Vincent; Amiot, Laurence; Samson, Michel

2018-06-04

The chemokines CXCL10 (interferon ϒ-inducible protein 10 [IP-10]), CXCL11 (Human interferon inducible T cell alpha chemokine [I-TAC]), CXCL12 (stromal cell derived factor 1 [SDF-1]), and CXCL14 (breast and kidney-expressed chemokine [BRAK]) are involved in cell recruitment, migration, activation, and homing in liver diseases and have been shown to be upregulated during acute liver injury in animal models. However, their expression in patients with acute liver injury is unknown. Here, we aimed to provide evidence of the presence of circulating CXCL10, CXCL11, CXCL12, and CXCL14 during human acute liver injury to propose new inflammation biomarkers for acute liver injury. We analyzed the serum concentration of the studied chemokines in healthy donors (n = 36) and patients (n = 163) with acute liver injuries of various etiologies. Serum CXCL10, CXCL11 and CXCL12 levels were elevated in all the studied groups except biliary diseases for CXCL11. CXCL14 was associated with only acute viral infection and vascular etiologies. The strongest correlation was found between the IFN-inducible studied chemokines (CXCL10 and CXCL11) in all patients and more specifically in the acute viral infection group. These data provide evidence for the presence of circulating CXCL10, CXCL11, CXCL12, and CXCL14 during acute liver injury and are consistent with data obtained in animal models. CXCL10, CXCL11 and CXCL12 were the most highly represented and CXCL14 the least represented chemokines. Differential expression patterns were obtained depending on acute liver injury etiology, suggesting the potential use of these chemokines as acute liver injury biomarkers. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma activators affect the maturation of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells.

PubMed

Gosset, P; Charbonnier, A S; Delerive, P; Fontaine, J; Staels, B; Pestel, J; Tonnel, A B; Trottein, F

2001-10-01

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma ), a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily, has recently been described as a modulator of macrophage functions and as an inhibitor of T cell proliferation. Here, we investigated the role of PPARgamma in dendritic cells (DC), the most potent antigen-presenting cells. We showed that PPARgamma is highly expressed in immature human monocyte-derived DC (MDDC) and that it may affect the immunostimulatory function of MDDC stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or via CD40 ligand (CD40L). We found that the synthetic PPARgamma agonist rosiglitazone (as well as pioglitazone and troglitazone) significantly increases on LPS- and CD40L-activated MDDC, the surface expression of CD36 (by 184% and 104%, respectively) and CD86 (by 54% and 48%), whereas it reduces the synthesis of CD80 (by 42% and 42%). Moreover, activation of PPARgamma resulted in a dramatic decreased secretion of the Th1-promoting factor IL-12 in LPS- and CD40L-stimulated cells (by 47% and 62%), while the production of IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, IL-6 and IL-10 was unaffected. Finally, PPARgamma ligands down-modulate the synthesis of IFN-gamma -inducible protein-10 (recently termed as CXCL10) and RANTES (CCL5), both chemokines involved in the recruitment of Th1 lymphocytes (by 49% and 30%), but not the levels of the Th2 cell-attracting chemokines,macrophage-derived chemokine (CCL22) and thymus and activation regulated chemokine (CCL17), in mature MDDC. Taken together, our data suggest that activation of PPARgamma in human DC may have an impact in the orientation of primary and secondary immune responses by favoring type 2 responses.

IQGAP1 promotes CXCR4 chemokine receptor function and trafficking via EEA-1+ endosomes

PubMed Central

Bamidele, Adebowale O.; Kremer, Kimberly N.; Hirsova, Petra; Clift, Ian C.; Gores, Gregory J.; Billadeau, Daniel D.

2015-01-01

IQ motif–containing GTPase-activating protein 1 (IQGAP1) is a cytoskeleton-interacting scaffold protein. CXCR4 is a chemokine receptor that binds stromal cell–derived factor-1 (SDF-1; also known as CXCL12). Both IQGAP1 and CXCR4 are overexpressed in cancer cell types, yet it was unclear whether these molecules functionally interact. Here, we show that depleting IQGAP1 in Jurkat T leukemic cells reduced CXCR4 expression, disrupted trafficking of endocytosed CXCR4 via EEA-1+ endosomes, and decreased efficiency of CXCR4 recycling. SDF-1–induced cell migration and activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK) MAPK were strongly inhibited, even when forced overexpression restored CXCR4 levels. Similar results were seen in KMBC and HEK293 cells. Exploring the mechanism, we found that SDF-1 treatment induced IQGAP1 binding to α-tubulin and localization to CXCR4-containing endosomes and that CXCR4-containing EEA-1+ endosomes were abnormally located distal from the microtubule (MT)-organizing center (MTOC) in IQGAP1-deficient cells. Thus, IQGAP1 critically mediates CXCR4 cell surface expression and signaling, evidently by regulating EEA-1+ endosome interactions with MTs during CXCR4 trafficking and recycling. IQGAP1 may similarly promote CXCR4 functions in other cancer cell types. PMID:26195666

Altered plasma levels of chemokines in autism and their association with social behaviors.

PubMed

Shen, Yidong; Ou, JInajun; Liu, Mengmeng; Shi, Lijuan; Li, Yamin; Xiao, Lu; Dong, Huixi; Zhang, Fengyu; Xia, Kun; Zhao, Jingping

2016-10-30

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopment disorders with an unclear etiology. Chemokines have been implicated in the etiology and pathogenesis of ASD. The current study investigated the plasma levels of seven chemokines (RANTES, Eotaxin, MIP-1 α, MIP-1 β, MCP-1, IP-10, and MIG) in 42 young autistic patients and 35 age-matched typically developing (TD) children. The study also tested the association between these chemokine levels and social behaviors, as measured by the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS). Compared to the TD children, RANTES, MIP-1α, and MIP-1β were higher, while IP-10 and MIG were lower in the autistic patients, after correcting for multiple comparisons. Among these seven chemokines, MIP-1α, MIP-1β and IP-10 levels were found to be associated with social behaviors in all the participants. Moreover, MIP-1α and IP-10 were found to be independent predictors of social behaviors. The results of our study support the hypothesis that altered chemokine levels are involved in the pathophysiology of ASD and they indicate that chemokines plasma levels could be potential biomarkers for ASD. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The effect of aliskiren on urinary cytokine/chemokine responses to clamped hyperglycaemia in type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Cherney, David Z I; Reich, Heather N; Scholey, James W; Daneman, Denis; Mahmud, Farid H; Har, Ronnie L H; Sochett, Etienne B

2013-10-01

Acute clamped hyperglycaemia activates the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) and increases the urinary excretion of inflammatory cytokines/chemokines in patients with uncomplicated type 1 diabetes mellitus. Our objective was to determine whether blockade of the RAAS would blunt the effect of acute hyperglycaemia on urinary cytokine/chemokine excretion, thereby giving insights into potentially protective effects of these agents prior to the onset of clinical nephropathy. Blood pressure, renal haemodynamic function (inulin and para-aminohippurate clearances) and urinary cytokines/chemokines were measured after 6 h of clamped euglycaemia (4-6 mmol/l) and hyperglycaemia (9-11 mmol/l) on two consecutive days in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (n = 27) without overt nephropathy. Measurements were repeated after treatment with aliskiren (300 mg daily) for 30 days. Before aliskiren, clamped hyperglycaemia increased filtration fraction (from 0.188 ± 0.007 to 0.206 ± 0.007, p = 0.003) and urinary fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2), IFN-α2 and macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC) (p < 0.005). After aliskiren, the filtration fraction response to hyperglycaemia was abolished, resulting in a lower filtration fraction after aliskiren under clamped hyperglycaemic conditions (p = 0.004), and none of the biomarkers increased in response to hyperglycaemia. Aliskiren therapy also reduced levels of urinary eotaxin, FGF2, IFN-α2, IL-2 and MDC during clamped hyperglycaemia (p < 0.005). The increased urinary excretion of inflammatory cytokines/chemokines in response to acute hyperglycaemia is blunted by RAAS blockade in humans with uncomplicated type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Expression of CXCR-1 and CXCR-2 chemokine receptors on synovial neutrophils in inflammatory arthritides: does persistent or increasing expression of CXCR-2 contribute to the chronic inflammation or erosive changes?

PubMed

Pay, Salih; Musabak, Ugur; Simşek, Ismail; Pekel, Aysel; Erdem, Hakan; Dinç, Ayhan; Sengül, Ali

2006-12-01

To analyze the CXCR-1 and CXCR-2 chemokine receptor expression on peripheral blood neutrophils (PBN) and synovial fluid neutrophils (SFN) of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Behçet's disease (BD) (characterized by erosive and non-erosive arthritis, respectively), and to compare them with those of patients with osteoarthritis (OA). We used flow cytometry to investigate the expression of CXCR-1 and CXCR-2 chemokine receptors on PBN and SFN of fifty-five (22 RA, 22 BD and 11 OA) age and sex-matched patients. In respect to chemokine receptor expression on neutrophils isolated from patients with RA, mean fluorescein intensity (MFI) of CXCR-1 chemokine receptors on PBN from active and inactive RA patients, and SFN from patients with RA were 151 (90-395), 129 (81-539) and 136 (64-220), respectively, and there were not statistically significant difference each other. But MFI of CXCR-2 chemokine receptors on SFN of patients with RA was 18 (10-32), and significantly higher than PBN of active and inactive RA patients (MFI: 10 (6-15) and 12 (7-16), P=0.002 and 0.037, respectively). In respect to chemokine receptor expression on neutrophils isolated from patients with BD, MFI of CXCR-1 chemokine receptors on PBN of active BD patients was 245 (97-844), and higher than PBN of active RA patients and SFN of BD patients (MFI: 151 (90-395) and 134 (61-231), P=0.047 and 0.017, respectively). MFI of CXCR-2 chemokine receptors on PBN of active and inactive BD patients, and SFN of patients BD were 10 (6-14), 10 (2-16), and 12 (8-24), respectively, there were not statistically significant difference each other. MFI of CXCR-1 chemokine receptors on SFN from patients with RA, BD, and OA were 136 (64-220), 134 (61-231), and 114 (60-180), respectively, and there was no difference between the study groups. MFI of CXCR-2 chemokine receptors on SFN of patients with RA was 18 (10-32), and higher than patients with BD and OA (MFI: 12 (8-24) and 11 (9-18), P=0.037 and 0

Ikkepsilon regulates viral-induced interferon regulatory factor-3 activation via a redox-sensitive pathway

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Indukuri, Hemalatha; Castro, Shawn M.; Liao, S.-M.

2006-09-15

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)-induced chemokine gene expression occurs through the activation of a subset of transcription factors, including Interferon Regulatory Factor (IRF)-3. In this study, we have investigated the signaling pathway leading to RSV-induced IRF-3 activation and whether it is mediated by intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Our results show that RSV infection induces expression and catalytic activity of IKK{epsilon}, a noncanonical IKK-like kinase. Expression of a kinase-inactive IKK{epsilon} blocks RSV-induced IRF-3 serine phosphorylation, nuclear translocation and DNA-binding, leading to inhibition of RANTES gene transcription, mRNA expression and protein synthesis. Treatment of alveolar epithelial cells with antioxidants or withmore » NAD(P)H oxidase inhibitors abrogates RSV-induced chemokine secretion, IRF-3 phosphorylation and IKK{epsilon} induction, indicating that ROS generation plays a fundamental role in the signaling pathway leading to IRF-3 activation, therefore, identifying a novel molecular target for the development of strategies aimed to modify the inflammatory response associated with RSV infection of the lung.« less

Human gingival fibroblasts express functional chemokine receptor CXCR6.

PubMed

Hosokawa, Y; Hosokawa, I; Ozaki, K; Nakae, H; Matsuo, T

2009-06-01

We have reported that CXCL16, a recently discovered transmembrane chemokine, is expressed in human gingival fibroblasts (HGF). However, it is not known whether HGF express CXCR6, the receptor for CXCL16, or CXCL16 affects HGF biology. We have shown that HGF expressed CXCR6 by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and flow cytometric analysis. Moreover, we elucidated that tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and cytosine-guanine dinucleotide (CpG) DNA (Toll-like receptor-9 ligand) treatment enhanced CXCR6 expression by HGF. Interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13 and CpG DNA up-regulated CXCR6 expression by TNF-alpha-stimulated HGF. On the other hand, IL-1beta and interferon-gamma inhibited CXCR6 expression on TNF-alpha-treated HGF. CXCL16 treatment induced HGF proliferation and phosphorylation of extracellular regulated kinase (ERK) and protein kinase B (AKT) in HGF. In conclusion, HGF expressed CXCR6 functionally, because CXCL16 induced HGF proliferation and ERK and AKT phosphorylation in HGF. These results indicate that CXCL16 may play an important role in the pathogenesis and remodelling in periodontally diseased tissues.

Cytokine and chemokine levels in tears from healthy subjects.

PubMed

Carreño, Ester; Enríquez-de-Salamanca, Amalia; Tesón, Marisa; García-Vázquez, Carmen; Stern, Michael E; Whitcup, Scott M; Calonge, Margarita

2010-11-01

There is growing evidence for the existence of an 'immune tone' in normal tears. The aim of this study was to determine the levels of a large panel of cytokines and chemokines in tears obtained from healthy subjects. These levels can then serve as baseline values for comparison with patients suffering from ocular surface diseases. Nine healthy subjects participated in this study, and normal ocular surface health was documented by the results of a dry eye questionnaire, Schirmer strip wetting, and vital staining of the cornea. Four microliters of tears were collected from each eye and analysed separately with multiplex bead-based assays for the concentration of 30 cytokines and chemokines. Twenty-five cytokines/chemokines were detected. CCL11/Eotaxin1, GM-CSF, G-CSF, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-13, IL-12p70, IL-15, CX3CL1/Fractalkine, TNF-α, epidermal growth factor, and CCL4/MIP-1β were present at 5-100 pg/ml. IL-1β, IL-6, IL-7A, CXCL8/IL-8, and CCL2/MCP-1 were present at 100-400 pg/ml. IL-1Ra, CXCL10/IP-10 and vascular endothelial growth factor were present at more than 1000 pg/ml. Multiplex bead-based assays are convenient for cytokine/chemokine detection in tears. Fracktalkine has been detected in human healthy tears for the first time. The knowledge of cytokine/chemokine concentrations in tears from normal subjects is an important reference for further comparison with patients suffering from ocular surface diseases. Variability in their levels can reflect a phenomenon of potential importance for the understanding of the ocular surface cytokine pattern. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 Acta Ophthalmol.

Simultaneous Activation of Induced Heterodimerization between CXCR4 Chemokine Receptor and Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2) Reveals a Mechanism for Regulation of Tumor Progression.

PubMed

Coke, Christopher J; Scarlett, Kisha A; Chetram, Mahandranauth A; Jones, Kia J; Sandifer, Brittney J; Davis, Ahriea S; Marcus, Adam I; Hinton, Cimona V

2016-05-06

The G-protein-coupled chemokine receptor CXCR4 generates signals that lead to cell migration, cell proliferation, and other survival mechanisms that result in the metastatic spread of primary tumor cells to distal organs. Numerous studies have demonstrated that CXCR4 can form homodimers or can heterodimerize with other G-protein-coupled receptors to form receptor complexes that can amplify or decrease the signaling capacity of each individual receptor. Using biophysical and biochemical approaches, we found that CXCR4 can form an induced heterodimer with cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) in human breast and prostate cancer cells. Simultaneous, agonist-dependent activation of CXCR4 and CB2 resulted in reduced CXCR4-mediated expression of phosphorylated ERK1/2 and ultimately reduced cancer cell functions such as calcium mobilization and cellular chemotaxis. Given that treatment with cannabinoids has been shown to reduce invasiveness of cancer cells as well as CXCR4-mediated migration of immune cells, it is plausible that CXCR4 signaling can be silenced through a physical heterodimeric association with CB2, thereby inhibiting subsequent functions of CXCR4. Taken together, the data illustrate a mechanism by which the cannabinoid system can negatively modulate CXCR4 receptor function and perhaps tumor progression. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

The Human Cutaneous Chemokine System

PubMed Central

McCully, Michelle L.; Moser, Bernhard

2011-01-01

Irrespective of the immune status, the vast majority of all lymphocytes reside in peripheral tissues whereas those present in blood only amount to a small fraction of the total. It has been estimated that T cells in healthy human skin outnumber those present in blood by at least a factor of two. How lymphocytes within these two compartments relate to each other is not well understood. However, mounting evidence suggest that the study of T cell subsets present in peripheral blood does not reflect the function of their counterparts at peripheral sites. This is especially true under steady-state conditions whereby long-lived memory T cells in healthy tissues, notably those in epithelial tissues at body surfaces, are thought to fulfill a critical immune surveillance function by contributing to the first line of defense against a series of local threats, including microbes, tumors, and toxins, and by participating in wound healing. The relative scarcity of information regarding peripheral T cells and the factors regulating their localization is primarily due to inherent difficulties in obtaining healthy tissue for the extraction and study of immune cells on a routine basis. This is most certainly true for humans. Here, we review our current understanding of T cell homing to human skin and compare it when possible with gut-selective homing. We also discuss candidate chemokines that may account for the tissue selectivity in this process and present a model whereby CCR8, and its ligand CCL1, selectively regulate the homeostatic migration of memory lymphocytes to skin tissue. PMID:22566823

Focus on the role of the CXCL12/CXCR4 chemokine axis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Albert, Sébastien; Riveiro, Maria Eugenia; Halimi, Caroline; Hourseau, Muriel; Couvelard, Anne; Serova, Maria; Barry, Béatrix; Raymond, Eric; Faivre, Sandrine

2013-12-01

The human chemokine system includes approximately 48 chemokines and 19 chemokine receptors. The CXCL12/CXCR4 system is one of the most frequently studied that is also found overexpressed in a large variety of tumors. The CXCL12/CXCR4 axis has been increasingly identified as an important target in cancer growth, metastasis, relapse, and resistance to therapy. In this review, we highlight current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involving chemokines CXCL12/CXCR4 and their consequences in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Overexpression of CXCL12/CXCR4 in HNSCC appears to activate cellular functions, including motility, invasion, and metastatic processes. Current findings suggest that CXCR4 and epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers are associated with tumor aggressiveness and a poor prognosis, and may be suitable biomarkers for head and neck tumors with high metastatic potential. Furthermore, knowledge of the role of CXCR4 in HNSCC could influence the development of new targeted therapies for treatment, aimed at improving the prognosis of this disease. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., A Wiley Company.

Chemokines and their receptors in whiplash injury: elevated RANTES and CCR-5.

PubMed

Kivioja, J; Rinaldi, L; Ozenci, V; Kouwenhoven, M; Kostulas, N; Lindgren, U; Link, H

2001-07-01

The human sufferings and socioeconomic burden due to whip-lash-associated disorders (WAD) are obvious but the pathogenesis of WAD is obscure. The possible involvement of the immune system during the disease process in WAD is not known. Effector molecules including chemokines and their receptors could play a role in WAD. In a prospective study using flow cytometry, we examined percentages of blood mononuclear cells (MNC) expressing the chemokines RANTES, MCP-1, MIP-1alpha, MIP-1beta, and IL-8, the chemokine receptor CCR-5, the T cell activation marker CD25, and the T cell chemoattractant IL-16 in patients with WAD and, for reference, in healthy controls. Higher percentages of RANTES-expressing blood MNC and T cells were observed in patients with WAD examined within 3 days compared to 14 days after the whiplash injury and, likewise, compared with healthy controls. The patients with WAD examined within 3 days after the accident also had higher percentages of CCR-5-expressing blood MNC, T cells, and CD45RO+ T cells compared to healthy controls. In contrast, there were no differences for any of these variables between patients with WAD examined 14 days after injury and healthy controls. In conclusion, WAD is associated with a systemic but transient dysregulation in percentages of RANTES and CCR-5 expressing MNC and T cells.

EXPRESSION, PURIFICATION AND IN VITRO FUNCTIONAL RECONSTITUTION OF THE CHEMOKINE RECEPTOR CCR1

PubMed Central

Allen, Samantha J.; Ribeiro, Sofia; Horuk, Richard; Handel, Tracy M.

2009-01-01

Chemokine receptors are a specific class of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that control cell migration associated with routine immune surveillance, inflammation and development. In addition to their roles in normal physiology, these receptors and their ligands are involved in a large number of inflammatory diseases, cancer and AIDS, making them prime therapeutic targets in the pharmaceutical industry. Like other GPCRs, a significant obstacle in determining structures and characterizing mechanisms of activation has been the difficulty in obtaining high levels of pure, functional receptor. Here we describe a systematic effort to express the chemokine receptor CCR1 in mammalian cells, and to purify and reconstitute it in functional form. The highest expression levels were obtained using an inducible HEK293 system. The receptor was purified using a combination of N- (StrepII or Hemagglutinin) and C-terminal (His8) affinity tags. Function was assessed by ligand binding using a novel fluorescence polarization assay with fluorescein-labeled chemokine. A strict dependence of function on the detergent composition was observed, as solubilization of CCR1 in n-dodecyl-β-D-maltopyranoside/cholesteryl hemisuccinate yielded functional receptor with a Kd of 21 nM for the chemokine CCL14, whereas it was non-functional in phosphocholine detergents. Differences in function were observed despite the fact that both these detergent types maintained the receptor in a state characterized by monomers and small oligomers, but not large aggregates. While optimization is still warranted, yields of ~ 0.1–0.2mgs of pure functional receptor per 109 cells will permit biophysical studies of this medically important receptor. PMID:19275940

Necroptosis suppresses inflammation via termination of TNF- or LPS-induced cytokine and chemokine production.

PubMed

Kearney, C J; Cullen, S P; Tynan, G A; Henry, C M; Clancy, D; Lavelle, E C; Martin, S J

2015-08-01

TNF promotes a regulated form of necrosis, called necroptosis, upon inhibition of caspase activity in cells expressing RIPK3. Because necrosis is generally more pro-inflammatory than apoptosis, it is widely presumed that TNF-induced necroptosis may be detrimental in vivo due to excessive inflammation. However, because TNF is intrinsically highly pro-inflammatory, due to its ability to trigger the production of multiple cytokines and chemokines, rapid cell death via necroptosis may blunt rather than enhance TNF-induced inflammation. Here we show that TNF-induced necroptosis potently suppressed the production of multiple TNF-induced pro-inflammatory factors due to RIPK3-dependent cell death. Similarly, necroptosis also suppressed LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Consistent with these observations, supernatants from TNF-stimulated cells were more pro-inflammatory than those from TNF-induced necroptotic cells in vivo. Thus necroptosis attenuates TNF- and LPS-driven inflammation, which may benefit intracellular pathogens that evoke this mode of cell death by suppressing host immune responses.

Necroptosis suppresses inflammation via termination of TNF- or LPS-induced cytokine and chemokine production

PubMed Central

Kearney, C J; Cullen, S P; Tynan, G A; Henry, C M; Clancy, D; Lavelle, E C; Martin, S J

2015-01-01

TNF promotes a regulated form of necrosis, called necroptosis, upon inhibition of caspase activity in cells expressing RIPK3. Because necrosis is generally more pro-inflammatory than apoptosis, it is widely presumed that TNF-induced necroptosis may be detrimental in vivo due to excessive inflammation. However, because TNF is intrinsically highly pro-inflammatory, due to its ability to trigger the production of multiple cytokines and chemokines, rapid cell death via necroptosis may blunt rather than enhance TNF-induced inflammation. Here we show that TNF-induced necroptosis potently suppressed the production of multiple TNF-induced pro-inflammatory factors due to RIPK3-dependent cell death. Similarly, necroptosis also suppressed LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Consistent with these observations, supernatants from TNF-stimulated cells were more pro-inflammatory than those from TNF-induced necroptotic cells in vivo. Thus necroptosis attenuates TNF- and LPS-driven inflammation, which may benefit intracellular pathogens that evoke this mode of cell death by suppressing host immune responses. PMID:25613374

Antimycotics suppress the Malassezia extract-induced production of CXC chemokine ligand 10 in human keratinocytes.

PubMed

Hau, Carren S; Kanda, Naoko; Makimura, Koichi; Watanabe, Shinichi

2014-02-01

Malassezia, a lipophilic yeast, exacerbates atopic dermatitis. Malassezia products can penetrate the disintegrated stratum corneum and encounter subcorneal keratinocytes in the skin of atopic dermatitis patients. Type 1 helper T (Th1) cells infiltrate chronic lesions with atopic dermatitis, and antimycotic agents improve its symptoms. We aimed to identify Malassezia-induced chemokines in keratinocytes and examine whether antimycotics suppressed this induction. Normal human keratinocytes were incubated with a Malassezia restricta extract and antimycotics. Chemokine expression was analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and real-time polymerase chain reaction. Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)1 activity was examined by luciferase assays. The tyrosine-phosphorylation of STAT1 was analyzed by western blotting. The M. restricta extract increased the mRNA and protein expression of Th1-attracting CXC chemokine ligand (CXCL)10 and STAT1 activity and phosphorylation in keratinocytes, which was suppressed by a Janus kinase inhibitor. The antimycotics itraconazole, ketoconazole, luliconazole, terbinafine, butenafine and amorolfine suppressed M. restricta extract-induced CXCL10 mRNA and protein expression and STAT1 activity and phosphorylation. These effects were similarly induced by 15-deoxy-Δ-(12,14) -prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2 ), a prostaglandin D2 metabolite. Antimycotics increased the release of 15d-PGJ2 from keratinocytes. The antimycotic-induced suppression of CXCL10 production and STAT1 activity was counteracted by a lipocalin-type prostaglandin D synthase inhibitor. The antimycotics itraconazole, ketoconazole, luliconazole, terbinafine, butenafine and amorolfine may suppress the M. restricta-induced production of CXCL10 by inhibiting STAT1 through an increase in 15d-PGJ2 production in keratinocytes. These antimycotics may block the Th1-mediated inflammation triggered by Malassezia in the chronic phase of atopic dermatitis. © 2014

Adenosine A2A Receptor Activation and Macrophage-mediated Experimental Glomerulonephritis

PubMed Central

Garcia, Gabriela E.; Truong, Luan D.; Li, Ping; Zhang, Ping; Du, Jie; Chen, Jiang-Fan; Feng, Lili

2010-01-01

In immune-induced inflammation, leukocytes are key mediators of tissue damage. Since A2A adenosine receptors (A2AR) are endogenous suppressors of inflammation, we examined cellular and molecular mechanisms of kidney damage to determine whether selective activation of A2AR will suppress inflammation in a rat model of glomerulonephritis. Activation of A2AR reduced the degree of kidney injury in both the acute inflammatory phase and the progressive phase of glomerulonephritis. This protection against acute and chronic inflammation was associated with suppression of the glomerular expression of the MDC/CCL22 chemokine and down-regulation of MIP-1α/CCL3, RANTES/CCL5, MIP-1β/CCL4, and MCP-1/CCL2 chemokines. The expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines, IL-4 and IL-10, also increased. The mechanism for these anti-inflammatory responses to the A2AR agonist was suppression of macrophages function. A2AR expression was increased in macrophages, macrophage-derived chemokines were reduced in response to the A2AR agonist, and chemokines not expressed in macrophages did not respond to A2AR activation. Thus, activation of the A2AR on macrophages inhibits immune-associated inflammation. In glomerulonephritis, A2AR activation modulates inflammation and tissue damage even in the progressive phase of glomerulonephritis. Accordingly, pharmacological activation of A2AR could be developed into a novel treatment for glomerulonephritis and other macrophage-related inflammatory diseases. PMID:17898087

Immune response CC chemokines CCL2 and CCL5 are associated with pulmonary sarcoidosis

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Pulmonary sarcoidosis involves an intense leukocyte infiltration of the lung with the formation of non-necrotizing granulomas. CC chemokines (chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2)-CCL5) are chemoattractants of mononuclear cells and act through seven transmembrane G-coupled receptors. Previous studies have demonstrated conflicting results with regard to the associations of these chemokines with sarcoidosis. In an effort to clarify previous discrepancies, we performed the largest observational study to date of CC chemokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis. Results BALF chemokine levels from 72 patients affected by pulmonary sarcoidosis were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and compared to 8 healthy volunteers. BALF CCL3 and CCL4 levels from pulmonary sarcoidosis patients were not increased compared to controls. However, CCL2 and CCL5 levels were elevated, and subgroup analysis showed higher levels of both chemokines in all stages of pulmonary sarcoidosis. CCL2, CCL5, CC chemokine receptor type 1 (CCR1), CCR2 and CCR3 were expressed from mononuclear cells forming the lung granulomas, while CCR5 was only found on mast cells. Conclusions These data suggest that CCL2 and CCL5 are important mediators in recruiting CCR1, CCR2, and CCR3 expressing mononuclear cells as well as CCR5-expressing mast cells during all stages of pulmonary sarcoidosis. PMID:21463523

Immune response CC chemokines CCL2 and CCL5 are associated with pulmonary sarcoidosis.

PubMed

Palchevskiy, Vyacheslav; Hashemi, Nastran; Weigt, Stephen S; Xue, Ying Ying; Derhovanessian, Ariss; Keane, Michael P; Strieter, Robert M; Fishbein, Michael C; Deng, Jane C; Lynch, Joseph P; Elashoff, Robert; Belperio, John A

2011-04-04

Pulmonary sarcoidosis involves an intense leukocyte infiltration of the lung with the formation of non-necrotizing granulomas. CC chemokines (chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2)-CCL5) are chemoattractants of mononuclear cells and act through seven transmembrane G-coupled receptors. Previous studies have demonstrated conflicting results with regard to the associations of these chemokines with sarcoidosis. In an effort to clarify previous discrepancies, we performed the largest observational study to date of CC chemokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis. BALF chemokine levels from 72 patients affected by pulmonary sarcoidosis were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and compared to 8 healthy volunteers. BALF CCL3 and CCL4 levels from pulmonary sarcoidosis patients were not increased compared to controls. However, CCL2 and CCL5 levels were elevated, and subgroup analysis showed higher levels of both chemokines in all stages of pulmonary sarcoidosis. CCL2, CCL5, CC chemokine receptor type 1 (CCR1), CCR2 and CCR3 were expressed from mononuclear cells forming the lung granulomas, while CCR5 was only found on mast cells. These data suggest that CCL2 and CCL5 are important mediators in recruiting CCR1, CCR2, and CCR3 expressing mononuclear cells as well as CCR5-expressing mast cells during all stages of pulmonary sarcoidosis.

Chemokine programming dendritic cell antigen response: part II - programming antigen presentation to T lymphocytes by partially maintaining immature dendritic cell phenotype.

PubMed

Park, Jaehyung; Bryers, James D

2013-05-01

In a companion article to this study,(1) the successful programming of a JAWSII dendritic cell (DC) line's antigen uptake and processing was demonstrated based on pre-treatment of DCs with a specific 'cocktail' of select chemokines. Chemokine pre-treatment modulated cytokine production before and after DC maturation [by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)]. After DC maturation, it induced an antigen uptake and processing capacity at levels 36% and 82% higher than in immature DCs, respectively. Such programming proffers a potential new approach to enhance vaccine efficiency. Unfortunately, simply enhancing antigen uptake does not guarantee the desired activation and proliferation of lymphocytes, e.g. CD4(+) T cells. In this study, phenotype changes and antigen presentation capacity of chemokine pre-treated murine bone marrow-derived DCs were examined in long-term co-culture with antigen-specific CD4(+) T cells to quantify how chemokine pre-treatment may impact the adaptive immune response. When a model antigen, ovalbumin (OVA), was added after intentional LPS maturation of chemokine-treated DCs, OVA-biased CD4(+) T-cell proliferation was initiated from ~ 100% more undivided naive T cells as compared to DCs treated only with LPS. Secretion of the cytokines interferon-γ, interleukin-1β, interleukin-2 and interleukin-10 in the CD4(+) T cell : DC co-culture (with or without chemokine pre-treatment) were essentially the same. Chemokine programming of DCs with a 7 : 3 ratio of CCL3 : CCL19 followed by LPS treatment maintained partial immature phenotypes of DCs, as indicated by surface marker (CD80 and CD86) expression over time. Results here and in our companion paper suggest that chemokine programming of DCs may provide a novel immunotherapy strategy to obviate the natural endocytosis limit of DC antigen uptake, thus potentially increasing DC-based vaccine efficiency. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Role of stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF1/CXCL12) in regulating anterior pituitary function.

PubMed

Barbieri, Federica; Bajetto, Adriana; Porcile, Carola; Pattarozzi, Alessandra; Schettini, Gennaro; Florio, Tullio

2007-03-01

Chemokines are key factors involved in the regulation of immune response, through the activation and control of leukocyte traffic, lymphopoiesis and immune surveillance. However, a large number of chemokines and their receptors are expressed in central nervous system (CNS) cells, either constitutively or induced by inflammatory stimuli, playing a role in many neuropathological processes. Stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF1) is a chemokine whose extra-immunological localization and functions have been extensively studied. SDF1 and its receptor CXCR4 were identified in both neurons and glia of many brain areas, including the hypothalamus, as well as at the pituitary level. Importantly, SDF1 and CXCR4 expression is increased in brain tumors in which their activity induced tumor cell proliferation and brain parenchyma invasion. Despite their localization, to date very few reports addressed the role of CXCR4 and SDF1 in the modulation of the hypothalamus/pituitary axis and their possible involvement in the development of pituitary adenomas. In this review, we discuss previous literature data on the role of chemokines in normal and adenomatous pituitary cells, focusing on recent data from our group showing that CXCR4 activation controls proliferation and both prolactin and GH release in the pituitary adenoma cell line GH4C1 through a complex network of intracellular signals. Thus, the SDF1/CXCR4 system together with other chemokinergic ligand-receptor pairs, may represent a novel regulatory pathway for pituitary function and, possibly, be involved in pituitary adenoma development. These lines of evidence suggest that the inhibition of chemokine receptors may represent a novel pharmacological target for the treatment of pituitary adenomas.

Rat coronaviruses infect rat alveolar type I epithelial cells and induce expression of CXC chemokines

PubMed Central

Miura, Tanya A.; Wang, Jieru; Holmes, Kathryn V.; Mason, Robert J.

2007-01-01

We analyzed the ability of two rat coronavirus (RCoV) strains, sialodacryoadenitis virus (SDAV) and Parker’s RCoV (RCoV-P), to infect rat alveolar type I cells and induce chemokine expression. Primary rat alveolar type II cells were transdifferentiated into the type I cell phenotype. Type I cells were productively infected with SDAV and RCoV-P, and both live virus and UV-inactivated virus induced mRNA and protein expression of three CXC chemokines: CINC-2, CINC-3, and LIX, which are neutrophil chemoattractants. Dual immunolabeling of type I cells for viral antigen and CXC chemokines showed that chemokines were expressed primarily by uninfected cells. Virus-induced chemokine expression was reduced by the IL-1 receptor antagonist, suggesting that IL-1 produced by infected cells induces uninfected cells to express chemokines. Primary cultures of alveolar epithelial cells are an important model for the early events in viral infection that lead to pulmonary inflammation. PMID:17804032

Mouse macrophages primed with alendronate down-regulate monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and macrophage inflammatory protein-1alpha (MIP-1alpha) production in response to Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2 and TLR4 agonist via Smad3 activation.

PubMed

Masuda, Takahiro; Deng, Xue; Tamai, Riyoko

2009-08-01

Alendronate is one of the nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates (NBPs) used as anti-bone resorptive drugs. However, NBPs have inflammatory side effects including osteomyelitis and osteonecrosis of the jaw. In the present study, we examined the effects of alendronate on chemokine production by the macrophage-like cell line, J774.1, when incubated with Pam(3)CSK(4) (a Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2 agonist) and Lipid A (a TLR4 agonist). Pretreatment of J774.1 cells with alendronate decreased the production of TLR ligand-induced monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and macrophage inflammatory protein-1alpha (MIP-1alpha) but did not influence nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) activation. While this agent induced caspase-8 activation, a caspase-8 inhibitor did not affect the decrease in MCP-1 production by alendronate and TLR ligands. Thus, the alendronate-mediated decrease in chemokine production was independent of NF-kappaB and caspase-8 activation. Although transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) is known to inhibit chemokine production by various cell types via Smad3 activation, pretreatment with alendronate did not increase TGF-beta1 production by J774.1 cells incubated in the presence or absence of TLR ligands. However, alendronate directly activated Smad3. These results suggest that by down-regulating MCP-1 and MIP-1alpha production via Smad3, long-term use of alendronate might inhibit normal activation and migration of osteoclasts and cause osteonecrosis.

The CXC-chemokine CXCL4 interacts with integrins implicated in angiogenesis.

PubMed

Aidoudi, Sallouha; Bujakowska, Kinga; Kieffer, Nelly; Bikfalvi, Andreas

2008-07-16

The human CXC-chemokine CXCL4 is a potent inhibitor of tumor-induced angiogenesis. Considering that CXCL4 is sequestered in platelet alpha-granules and released following platelet activation in the vicinity of vessel wall injury, we tested the hypothesis that CXCL4 might function as a ligand for integrins. Integrins are a family of adhesion receptors that play a crucial role in angiogenesis by regulating early angiogenic processes, such as endothelial cell adhesion and migration. Here, we show that CXCL4 interacts with alphavbeta3 on the surface of alphavbeta3-CHO. More importantly, human umbilical vein endothelial cells adhere to immobilized CXCL4 through alphavbeta3 integrin, and also through other integrins, such as alphavbeta5 and alpha5beta1. We further demonstrate that CXCL4-integrin interaction is of functional significance in vitro, since immobilized CXCL4 supported endothelial cell spreading and migration in an integrin-dependent manner. Soluble CXCL4, in turn, inhibits integrin-dependent endothelial cell adhesion and migration. As a whole, our study identifies integrins as novel receptors for CXCL4 that may contribute to its antiangiogenic effect.

The CXC-Chemokine CXCL4 Interacts with Integrins Implicated in Angiogenesis

PubMed Central

Aidoudi, Sallouha; Bujakowska, Kinga; Kieffer, Nelly; Bikfalvi, Andreas

2008-01-01

The human CXC-chemokine CXCL4 is a potent inhibitor of tumor-induced angiogenesis. Considering that CXCL4 is sequestered in platelet α-granules and released following platelet activation in the vicinity of vessel wall injury, we tested the hypothesis that CXCL4 might function as a ligand for integrins. Integrins are a family of adhesion receptors that play a crucial role in angiogenesis by regulating early angiogenic processes, such as endothelial cell adhesion and migration. Here, we show that CXCL4 interacts with αvβ3 on the surface of αvβ3-CHO. More importantly, human umbilical vein endothelial cells adhere to immobilized CXCL4 through αvβ3 integrin, and also through other integrins, such as αvβ5 and α5β1. We further demonstrate that CXCL4-integrin interaction is of functional significance in vitro, since immobilized CXCL4 supported endothelial cell spreading and migration in an integrin-dependent manner. Soluble CXCL4, in turn, inhibits integrin-dependent endothelial cell adhesion and migration. As a whole, our study identifies integrins as novel receptors for CXCL4 that may contribute to its antiangiogenic effect. PMID:18648521

Davallia bilabiata inhibits TNF-α-induced adhesion molecules and chemokines by suppressing IKK/NF-kappa B pathway in vascular endothelial cells.

PubMed

Yang, Rong-Chi; Chang, Cheng-Chieh; Sheen, Jer-Ming; Wu, Hsiao-Ting; Pang, Jong-Hwei S; Huang, Sheng-Teng

2014-01-01

Davallia bilabiata (D. bilabiata) is also called GuSuiBu in Taiwan and is used as a substitute for Drynaria fortunei J. Sm. It is often used for trauma and bone repair. The inhibitory effect of D. bilabiata on inflammatory activity has not been reported. In the present study, we aimed to study the mechanism of anti-inflammation of D. bilabiata on the adhesion of leukocytes to vascular endothelial cells. The results showed that D. bilabiata, at concentrations without cytotoxic effect, inhibited the adhesion of monocytes (THP-1) to the TNF-α-stimulated human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs). D. bilabiata suppressed the expression of the adhesion molecules ICAM, VCAM, and E-selectin at both the mRNA and protein level. In addition, both of the TNF-α-induced mRNA and protein expression of chemokines including fractalkine/CX3CL1, MCP-1 and RANTES as well as the level of secreted soluble fractalkine were decreased by D. bilabiata. We also verified that D. bilabiata inhibited the TNF-α-induced nuclear translocation of NF-κB through the inhibitory process on the TNF-α-activated phosphorylation of IKKα, IKKβ, IκB and NF-κB. All together, we concluded that the D. bilabiata affected the canonical pathway of TNF-α-induced NF-κB activation and down-regulated cell adhesion molecules and chemokine expression through inhibition of the NF-κB/IκBα/IKK signaling pathway. These findings strongly indicated that D. bilabiata might be a promising alternative/adjunct treatment for inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

The chemokine CCL2 protects against methylmercury neurotoxicity.

PubMed

Godefroy, David; Gosselin, Romain-Daniel; Yasutake, Akira; Fujimura, Masatake; Combadière, Christophe; Maury-Brachet, Régine; Laclau, Muriel; Rakwal, Randeep; Melik-Parsadaniantz, Stéphane; Bourdineaud, Jean-Paul; Rostène, William

2012-01-01

Industrial pollution due to heavy metals such as mercury is a major concern for the environment and public health. Mercury, in particular methylmercury (MeHg), primarily affects brain development and neuronal activity, resulting in neurotoxic effects. Because chemokines can modulate brain functions and are involved in neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases, we tested the possibility that the neurotoxic effect of MeHg may interfere with the chemokine CCL2. We have used an original protocol in young mice using a MeHg-contaminated fish-based diet for 3 months relevant to human MeHg contamination. We observed that MeHg induced in the mice cortex a decrease in CCL2 concentrations, neuronal cell death, and microglial activation. Knock-out (KO) CCL2 mice fed with a vegetal control food already presented a decrease in cortical neuronal cell density in comparison with wild-type animals under similar diet conditions, suggesting that the presence of CCL2 is required for normal neuronal survival. Moreover, KO CCL2 mice showed a pronounced neuronal cell death in response to MeHg. Using in vitro experiments on pure rat cortical neurons in culture, we observed by blockade of the CCL2/CCR2 neurotransmission an increased neuronal cell death in response to MeHg neurotoxicity. Furthermore, we showed that sod genes are upregulated in brain of wild-type mice fed with MeHg in contrast to KO CCL2 mice and that CCL2 can blunt in vitro the decrease in glutathione levels induced by MeHg. These original findings demonstrate that CCL2 may act as a neuroprotective alarm system in brain deficits due to MeHg intoxication.

AZD-4818, a chemokine CCR1 antagonist: WO2008103126 and WO2009011653.

PubMed

Norman, Peter

2009-11-01

The applications WO2008103126 and WO2009011653, respectively, claim: i) Combinations of a spirocyclic piperidine chemokine CCR1 antagonist with a corticosteroid, and their use for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. ii) Processes for the preparation of a spirocyclic piperidine derivative, a chemokine CCR1 antagonist. These applications point to the preferred compound being a development compound. The evidence for this compound being AZD-4818, a chemokine CCR1 antagonist that was in Phase II development for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is reviewed in the light of these and earlier patents relating to it.

CXCR3 chemokine ligands during respiratory viral infections predict lung allograft dysfunction.

PubMed

Weigt, S S; Derhovanessian, A; Liao, E; Hu, S; Gregson, A L; Kubak, B M; Saggar, R; Saggar, R; Plachevskiy, V; Fishbein, M C; Lynch, J P; Ardehali, A; Ross, D J; Wang, H-J; Elashoff, R M; Belperio, J A

2012-02-01

Community-acquired respiratory viruses (CARV) can accelerate the development of lung allograft dysfunction, but the immunologic mechanisms are poorly understood. The chemokine receptor CXCR3 and its chemokine ligands, CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11 have roles in the immune response to viruses and in the pathogenesis of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome, the predominant manifestation of chronic lung allograft rejection. We explored the impact of CARV infection on CXCR3/ligand biology and explored the use of CXCR3 chemokines as biomarkers for subsequent lung allograft dysfunction. Seventeen lung transplant recipients with CARV infection had bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) available for analysis. For comparison, we included 34 BALF specimens (2 for each CARV case) that were negative for infection and collected at a duration posttransplant similar to a CARV case. The concentration of each CXCR3 chemokine was increased during CARV infection. Among CARV infected patients, a high BALF concentration of either CXCL10 or CXCL11 was predictive of a greater decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 s, 6 months later. CXCR3 chemokine concentrations provide prognostic information and this may have important implications for the development of novel treatment strategies to modify outcomes after CARV infection. © 2011 American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons.

Glutathione redox regulates airway hyperresponsiveness and airway inflammation in mice.

PubMed

Koike, Yoko; Hisada, Takeshi; Utsugi, Mitsuyoshi; Ishizuka, Tamotsu; Shimizu, Yasuo; Ono, Akihiro; Murata, Yukie; Hamuro, Junji; Mori, Masatomo; Dobashi, Kunio

2007-09-01

Glutathione is the major intracellular redox buffer. We have shown that glutathione redox status, which is the balance between intracellular reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) glutathione, in antigen-presenting cells (APC) regulates the helper T cell type 1 (Th1)/Th2 balance due to the production of IL-12. Bronchial asthma is a typical Th2 disease. Th2 cells and Th2 cytokines are characteristic of asthma and trigger off an inflammation. Accordingly, we studied the effects of the intracellular glutathione redox status on airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and allergen-induced airway inflammation in a mouse model of asthma. We used gamma-Glutamylcysteinylethyl ester (gamma-GCE), which is a membrane-permeating GSH precursor, to elevate the intracellular GSH level and GSH/GSSG ratio of mice. In vitro, gamma-GCE pretreatment of human monocytic THP-1 cells elevated the GSH/GSSG ratio and enhanced IL-12(p70) production induced by LPS. In the mouse asthma model, intraperitoneal injection of gamma-GCE elevated the GSH/GSSG ratio of lung tissue and reduced AHR. gamma-GCE reduced levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, and the chemokines eotaxin and RANTES (regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, whereas it enhanced the production of IL-12 and IFN-gamma. Histologically, gamma-GCE suppressed eosinophils infiltration. Interestingly, we also found that gamma-GCE directly inhibited chemokine-induced eosinophil chemotaxis without affecting eotaxin receptor chemokine receptor 3 (CCR3) expressions. Taken together, these findings suggest that changing glutathione redox balance, increase in GSH level, and the GSH/GSSG ratio by gamma-GCE, ameliorate bronchial asthma by altering the Th1/Th2 imbalance through IL-12 production from APC and suppressing chemokine production and eosinophil migration itself.

Chemokine Ligand 5 (CCL5) and chemokine receptor (CCR5) genetic variants and prostate cancer risk among men of African Descent: a case-control study

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Chemokine and chemokine receptors play an essential role in tumorigenesis. Although chemokine-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are associated with various cancers, their impact on prostate cancer (PCA) among men of African descent is unknown. Consequently, this study evaluated 43 chemokine-associated SNPs in relation to PCA risk. We hypothesized inheritance of variant chemokine-associated alleles may lead to alterations in PCA susceptibility, presumably due to variations in antitumor immune responses. Methods Sequence variants were evaluated in germ-line DNA samples from 814 African-American and Jamaican men (279 PCA cases and 535 controls) using Illumina’s Goldengate genotyping system. Results Inheritance of CCL5 rs2107538 (AA, GA+AA) and rs3817655 (AA, AG, AG+AA) genotypes were linked with a 34-48% reduction in PCA risk. Additionally, the recessive and dominant models for CCR5 rs1799988 and CCR7 rs3136685 were associated with a 1.52-1.73 fold increase in PCA risk. Upon stratification, only CCL5 rs3817655 and CCR7 rs3136685 remained significant for the Jamaican and U.S. subgroups, respectively. Conclusions In summary, CCL5 (rs2107538, rs3817655) and CCR5 (rs1799988) sequence variants significantly modified PCA susceptibility among men of African descent, even after adjusting for age and multiple comparisons. Our findings are only suggestive and require further evaluation and validation in relation to prostate cancer risk and ultimately disease progression, biochemical/disease recurrence and mortality in larger high-risk subgroups. Such efforts will help to identify genetic markers capable of explaining disproportionately high prostate cancer incidence, mortality, and morbidity rates among men of African descent. PMID:23168091

Regulation of cytokine polarization and T cell recruitment to inflamed paws in mouse collagen-induced arthritis by the chemokine receptor CXCR6.

PubMed

Slauenwhite, Drew; Gebremeskel, Simon; Doucette, Carolyn D; Hoskin, David W; Johnston, Brent

2014-11-01

The chemokine receptor CXCR6 is highly expressed on lymphocytes isolated from the synovium of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or juvenile idiopathic arthritis, suggesting that CXCR6 regulates immune cell activation or infiltration into arthritic joints. This study was undertaken to examine the role of CXCR6 in T cell activation and arthritis development. A collagen-induced arthritis model was used to examine arthritis development in wild-type and CXCR6(-/-) mice. CXCR6 expression, lymphocyte accumulation, and intracellular cytokine production were examined by flow cytometry. Collagen-specific antibodies were measured in the serum. Collagen-specific recall responses were examined in vitro via proliferation and cytokine release assays. T cell homing to inflamed joints was examined using competitive adoptive transfer of dye-labeled lymphocytes from wild-type and CXCR6(-/-) mice. The numbers of CXCR6+ T cells were increased in the paws and draining lymph nodes of arthritic mice. The incidence of arthritis, disease severity, extent of T cell accumulation, and levels of collagen-specific IgG2a antibodies were significantly reduced in CXCR6(-/-) mice compared to wild-type mice. T cells from wild-type mice exhibited Th1 (interferon-γ [IFNγ]) polarization in the inguinal lymph nodes following immunization. At disease peak, this shifted to a Th17 (interleukin-17A [IL-17A]) response in the popliteal lymph nodes. T cells in CXCR6(-/-) mice exhibited impaired cytokine polarization, resulting in a decreased frequency and number of IL-17A- and IFNγ-producing cells. Recruitment of activated CXCR6(-/-) mouse T cells to the inflamed paws was impaired compared to recruitment of wild-type mouse T cells. These experiments demonstrate that CXCR6 plays important roles in the pathogenesis of arthritis through its effects on both T cell cytokine polarization and homing of T cells to inflamed joints. Copyright © 2014 by the American College of Rheumatology.

Cell recruiting chemokine-loaded sprayable gelatin hydrogel dressings for diabetic wound healing.

PubMed

Yoon, Dong Suk; Lee, Yunki; Ryu, Hyun Aae; Jang, Yeonsue; Lee, Kyoung-Mi; Choi, Yoorim; Choi, Woo Jin; Lee, Moses; Park, Kyung Min; Park, Ki Dong; Lee, Jin Woo

2016-07-01

In this study, we developed horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-catalyzed sprayable gelatin hydrogels (GH) as a bioactive wound dressing that can deliver cell-attracting chemotactic cytokines to the injured tissues for diabetic wound healing. We hypothesized that topical administration of chemokines using GH hydrogels might improve wound healing by inducing recruitment of the endogenous cells. Two types of chemokines (interleukin-8; IL-8, macrophage inflammatory protein-3α; MIP-3α) were simply loaded into GH hydrogels during in situ cross-linking, and then their wound-healing effects were evaluated in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. The incorporation of chemokines did not affect hydrogels properties including swelling ratio and mechanical stiffness, and the bioactivities of IL-8 and MIP-3α released from hydrogel matrices were stably maintained. In vivo transplantation of chemokine-loaded GH hydrogels facilitated cell infiltration into the wound area, and promoted wound healing with enhanced re-epithelialization/neovascularization and increased collagen deposition, compared with no treatment or the GH hydrogel alone. Based on our results, we suggest that cell-recruiting chemokine-loaded GH hydrogel dressing can serve as a delivery platform of various therapeutic proteins for wound healing applications. Despite development of materials combined with therapeutic agents for diabetic wound treatment, impaired wound healing by insufficient chemotactic responses still remain as a significant problem. In this study, we have developed enzyme-catalyzed gelatin (GH) hydrogels as a sprayable dressing material that can deliver cell-attracting chemokines for diabetic wound healing. The chemotactic cytokines (IL-8 and MIP-3α) were simply loaded within hydrogel during in situ gelling, and wound healing efficacy of chemokine-loaded GH hydrogels was investigated in STZ-induced diabetic mouse model. These hydrogels significantly promoted wound-healing efficacy with faster wound

Synovial chemokine expression and relationship with knee symptoms in patients with meniscal tears

PubMed Central

Nair, Anjali; Gan, Justin; Bush-Joseph, Charles; Verma, Nikhil; Tetreault, Matthew W.; Saha, Kanta; Margulis, Arkady; Fogg, Louis; Scanzello, Carla R.

2015-01-01

Objective In patients with knee OA, synovitis is associated with knee pain and symptoms. We previously identified synovial mRNA expression of a set of chemokines (CCL19, IL-8, CCL5, XCL-1, CCR7) associated with synovitis in patients with meniscal tears but without radiographic OA. CCL19 and CCR7 were also associated with knee symptoms. This study sought to validate expression of these chemokines and association with knee symptoms in more typical patients presenting for meniscal arthroscopy, many who have pre-existing OA. Design Synovial biopsies and fluid (SF) were collected from patients undergoing meniscal arthroscopy. Synovial mRNA expression was measured using quantitative RT-PCR. The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) was administered preoperatively. Regression analyses determined if associations between chemokine mRNA levels and KOOS scores were independent of other factors including radiographic OA. CCL19 in SF was measured by ELISA, and compared to patients with advanced knee OA and asymptomatic organ donors. Results 90% of patients had intra-operative evidence of early cartilage degeneration. CCL19, IL-8, CCL5, XCL1, CCR7 transcripts were detected in all patients. Synovial CCL19 mRNA levels independently correlated with KOOS Activities of Daily Living scores (95% CI [-8.071, -0.331], p= 0.036), indicating higher expression was associated with more knee-related dysfunction. SF CCL19 was detected in 7 of 10 patients, compared to 4 of 10 asymptomatic donors. Conclusion In typical patients presenting for meniscal arthroscopy, synovial CCL19 mRNA expression was associated with knee-related difficulty with activities of daily living, independent of other factors including presence of radiographic knee OA. PMID:25724256

ADMA induces monocyte adhesion via activation of chemokine receptors in cultured THP-1 cells.

PubMed

Chen, Meifang; Li, Yuanjian; Yang, Tianlun; Wang, Yongjin; Bai, Yongping; Xie, Xiumei

2008-08-01

Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an endogenous NOS inhibitor, is also an important inflammatory factor contributing to the development of atherosclerosis (AS). The present study was to test the effect of ADMA on angiotensin (Ang) II-induced monocytic adhesion. Human monocytoid cells (THP-1) or isolated peripheral blood monocyte cells (PBMCs) were incubated with Ang II (10(-6)M) or exogenous ADMA (30 microM) for 4 or 24h in the absence or presence of losartan or antioxidant PDTC. In cultured THP-1 cells, Ang II (10(-6)M) for 24h elevated the level of ADMA in the medium, upregulated the protein expression of protein arginine methyltransferase (PRMT) and decreased the activity of dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase (DDAH). Both of Ang II and ADMA increased monocytic adhesion to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), elevated the levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, interleukin (IL)-8 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and upregulated CCR(2) and CXCR(2) mRNA expression, concomitantly with increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and activation of nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB. Pretreatment with losartan (10 microM) or PDTC (10 microM) abolished the effects mediated by Ang II or ADMA. In isolated PBMCs from healthy individuals, ADMA upregulated the expression of CXCR(2) mRNA, which was attenuated by losartan (10 microM), however, ADMA had no effect on surface protein expression of CCR(2). The present results suggest that ADMA may be involved in monocytic adhesion induced by Ang II via activation of chemokine receptors by ROS/NF-kappaB pathway.

Lidocaine reduces neutrophil recruitment by abolishing chemokine-induced arrest and transendothelial migration in septic patients.

PubMed

Berger, Christian; Rossaint, Jan; Van Aken, Hugo; Westphal, Martin; Hahnenkamp, Klaus; Zarbock, Alexander

2014-01-01

The inappropriate activation, positioning, and recruitment of leukocytes are implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple organ failure in sepsis. Although the local anesthetic lidocaine modulates inflammatory processes, the effects of lidocaine in sepsis are still unknown. This double-blinded, prospective, randomized clinical trial was conducted to investigate the effect of lidocaine on leukocyte recruitment in septic patients. Fourteen septic patients were randomized to receive either a placebo (n = 7) or a lidocaine (n = 7) bolus (1.5 mg/kg), followed by continuous infusion (100 mg/h for patients >70 kg or 70 mg/h for patients <70 kg) over a period of 48 h. Selectin-mediated slow rolling, chemokine-induced arrest, and transmigration were investigated by using flow chamber and transmigration assays. Lidocaine treatment abrogated chemokine-induced neutrophil arrest and significantly impaired neutrophil transmigration through endothelial cells by inhibition of the protein kinase C-θ while not affecting the selectin-mediated slow leukocyte rolling. The observed results were not attributable to changes in surface expression of adhesion molecules or selectin-mediated capturing capacity, indicating a direct effect of lidocaine on signal transduction in neutrophils. These data suggest that lidocaine selectively inhibits chemokine-induced arrest and transmigration of neutrophils by inhibition of protein kinase C-θ while not affecting selectin-mediated slow rolling. These findings may implicate a possible therapeutic role for lidocaine in decreasing the inappropriate activation, positioning, and recruitment of leukocytes during sepsis.

Angiogenic CXC chemokine expression during differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells towards the osteoblastic lineage.

PubMed

Bischoff, D S; Zhu, J H; Makhijani, N S; Kumar, A; Yamaguchi, D T

2008-02-15

The potential role of ELR(+) CXC chemokines in early events in bone repair was studied using human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). Inflammation, which occurs in the initial phase of tissue healing in general, is critical to bone repair. Release of cytokines from infiltrating immune cells and injured bone can lead to recruitment of MSCs to the region of repair. CXC chemokines bearing the Glu-Leu-Arg (ELR) motif are also released by inflammatory cells and serve as angiogenic factors stimulating chemotaxis and proliferation of endothelial cells. hMSCs, induced to differentiate with osteogenic medium (OGM) containing ascorbate, beta-glycerophosphate (beta-GP), and dexamethasone (DEX), showed an increase in mRNA and protein secretion of the ELR(+) CXC chemokines CXCL8 and CXCL1. CXCL8 mRNA half-life studies reveal an increase in mRNA stability upon OGM stimulation. Increased expression and secretion is a result of DEX in OGM and is dose-dependent. Inhibition of the glucocorticoid receptor with mifepristone only partially inhibits DEX-stimulated CXCL8 expression indicating both glucocorticoid receptor dependent and independent pathways. Treatment with signal transduction inhibitors demonstrate that this expression is due to activation of the ERK and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways and is mediated through the G(alphai)-coupled receptors. Angiogenesis assays demonstrate that OGM-stimulated conditioned media containing secreted CXCL8 and CXCL1 can induce angiogenesis of human microvascular endothelial cells in an in vitro Matrigel assay. Copyright 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Role of Exonic Variation in Chemokine Receptor Genes on AIDS: CCRL2 F167Y Association with Pneumocystis Pneumonia

PubMed Central

An, Ping; Li, Rongling; Wang, Ji Ming; Yoshimura, Teizo; Takahashi, Munehisa; Samudralal, Ram; O'Brien, Stephen J.; Phair, John; Goedert, James J.; Kirk, Gregory D.; Troyer, Jennifer L.; Sezgin, Efe; Buchbinder, Susan P.; Donfield, Sharyne; Nelson, George W.; Winkler, Cheryl A.

2011-01-01

Chromosome 3p21–22 harbors two clusters of chemokine receptor genes, several of which serve as major or minor coreceptors of HIV-1. Although the genetic association of CCR5 and CCR2 variants with HIV-1 pathogenesis is well known, the role of variation in other nearby chemokine receptor genes remain unresolved. We genotyped exonic single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in chemokine receptor genes: CCR3, CCRL2, and CXCR6 (at 3p21) and CCR8 and CX3CR1 (at 3p22), the majority of which were non-synonymous. The individual SNPs were tested for their effects on disease progression and outcomes in five treatment-naïve HIV-1/AIDS natural history cohorts. In addition to the known CCR5 and CCR2 associations, significant associations were identified for CCR3, CCR8, and CCRL2 on progression to AIDS. A multivariate survival analysis pointed to a previously undetected association of a non-conservative amino acid change F167Y in CCRL2 with AIDS progression: 167F is associated with accelerated progression to AIDS (RH = 1.90, P = 0.002, corrected). Further analysis indicated that CCRL2-167F was specifically associated with more rapid development of pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) (RH = 2.84, 95% CI 1.28–6.31) among four major AIDS–defining conditions. Considering the newly defined role of CCRL2 in lung dendritic cell trafficking, this atypical chemokine receptor may affect PCP through immune regulation and inducing inflammation. PMID:22046140

Serum CCL11 (eotaxin-1) and CCL17 (TARC) are serological indicators of multiple helminth infections and are driven by Schistosoma mansoni infection in humans.

PubMed

Geiger, Stefan M; Jardim-Botelho, Anne; Williams, Weston; Alexander, Neal; Diemert, David J; Bethony, Jeffrey M

2013-06-01

To evaluate systemic serum cytokine and chemokine markers for inflammation and Th1/Th2 responses in relation to multiple helminth infections, parasite burden and/or nutritional status of individuals. In a longitudinal study, stool samples from 210 individuals from an area highly endemic for Ascaris lumbricoides, Necator americanus and Schistosoma mansoni were examined before and 12 months after clearance of parasites by chemotherapy. On both occasions, the presence of mono- or multiple infections and intensities of infection were compared with nutritional parameters and with serum cytokines or chemokines as markers for inflammatory, regulatory or Th1- or Th2-type immune responses. Before treatment, we were not able to associate any altered nutritional parameters with increased inflammatory responses, and highest intensities of infection were found in eutrophic participants with multiple infections. In contrast, major changes in serum Th2-type chemokine levels were measured in individuals infected with intestinal helminths and/or S. mansoni, and resulted in significantly higher CCL11 and CCL17 concentrations, both before treatment and after reinfection. The driving force for these elevated type 2 serum chemokine concentrations was an S. mansoni infection and faecal egg counts significantly correlated with serum IL-10 concentrations. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Differential regulation of macrophage inflammatory activation by fibrin and fibrinogen.

PubMed

Hsieh, Jessica Y; Smith, Tim D; Meli, Vijaykumar S; Tran, Thi N; Botvinick, Elliot L; Liu, Wendy F

2017-01-01

Fibrin is a major component of the provisional extracellular matrix formed during tissue repair following injury, and enables cell infiltration and anchoring at the wound site. Macrophages are dynamic regulators of this process, advancing and resolving inflammation in response to cues in their microenvironment. Although much is known about how soluble factors such as cytokines and chemokines regulate macrophage polarization, less is understood about how insoluble and adhesive cues, specifically the blood coagulation matrix fibrin, influence macrophage behavior. In this study, we observed that fibrin and its precursor fibrinogen elicit distinct macrophage functions. Culturing macrophages on fibrin gels fabricated by combining fibrinogen with thrombin stimulated secretion of the anti-inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-10 (IL-10). In contrast, exposure of macrophages to soluble fibrinogen stimulated high levels of inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Macrophages maintained their anti-inflammatory behavior when cultured on fibrin gels in the presence of soluble fibrinogen. In addition, adhesion to fibrin matrices inhibited TNF-α production in response to stimulation with LPS and IFN-γ, cytokines known to promote inflammatory macrophage polarization. Our data demonstrate that fibrin exerts a protective effect on macrophages, preventing inflammatory activation by stimuli including fibrinogen, LPS, and IFN-γ. Together, our study suggests that the presentation of fibrin(ogen) may be a key switch in regulating macrophage phenotype behavior, and this feature may provide a valuable immunomodulatory strategy for tissue healing and regeneration. Fibrin is a fibrous protein resulting from blood clotting and provides a provisional matrix into which cells migrate and to which they adhere during wound healing. Macrophages play an important role in this process, and are needed for both advancing and resolving inflammation. We demonstrate that culture of

Regulation of Eosinophil Recruitment and Activation by Galectins in Allergic Asthma.

PubMed

Rao, Savita P; Ge, Xiao Na; Sriramarao, P

2017-01-01

Eosinophils are differentiated granulocytes that are recruited from the bone marrow to sites of inflammation via the vascular system. Allergic asthma is characterized by the presence of large numbers of eosinophils in the lungs and airways. Due to their capacity to rapidly release inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and cytotoxic granule proteins upon stimulation, eosinophils play a critical role in pro-inflammatory processes in allergen-exposed lungs. Identifying key players and understanding the molecular mechanisms directing eosinophil trafficking and recruitment to inflamed airways is a key to developing therapeutic strategies to limit their influx. Recent studies have brought to light the important role of glycans and glycan binding proteins in regulating recruitment of eosinophils. In addition to the role of previously identified eosinophil- and endothelial-expressed adhesion molecules in mediating eosinophil trafficking and recruitment to the inflamed airways, studies have also indicated a role for galectins (galectin-3) in this process. Galectins are mammalian lectins expressed by various cell types including eosinophils. Intracellularly, they can regulate biological processes such as cell motility. Extracellularly, galectins interact with β-galactosides in cell surface-expressed glycans to regulate cellular responses like production of inflammatory mediators, cell adhesion, migration, and apoptosis. Eosinophils express galectins intracellularly or on the cell surface where they interact with cell surface glycoconjugate receptors. Depending on the type (galectin-1, -3, etc.) and location (extracellular or intracellular, endogenous or exogenously delivered), galectins differentially regulate eosinophil recruitment, activation, and apoptosis and thus exert a pro- or anti-inflammatory outcome. Here, we have reviewed information pertaining to galectins (galectin-1, -3 -9, and -10) that are expressed by eosinophils themselves

Urine chemokines indicate pathogenic association of obesity with BPH/LUTS.

PubMed

Tyagi, Pradeep; Motley, Saundra S; Kashyap, Mahendra; Pore, Subrata; Gingrich, Jeffrey; Wang, Zhou; Yoshimura, Naoki; Fowke, Jay H

2015-07-01

High prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) consistent with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) is associated with obesity and prostatic inflammation. Here, we investigated whether chemokines associated with obesity and prostatic inflammation can be measured in normally voided urine of BPH/LUTS patients to demonstrate the mechanistic association between obesity and BPH/LUTS. Frozen urine specimens of BPH/LUTS patients enrolled in the Nashville Men's Health Study were sent for blinded analysis to University of Pittsburgh. Thirty patients were blocked by their AUA-SI (>7 or ≤7) and prostatic enlargement (<40, 40-60, >60 cc). Clinical parameters including age, prostate size, and medications were derived from chart review. CXC chemokines (CXCL-1, CXCL-8, and CXCL-10), CC chemokines (CCL2 and CCL3), and sIL-1ra were measured in thawed urine using Luminex™ xMAP(®) technology and ELISA for NGF. Urinary CCL2 levels were several fold higher compared with the other six proteins, of which CCL3 was detectable in less than one-fourth of patients. Urine levels of sIL-1ra and CXCL-8 were significantly associated with increasing BMI and waist circumference in BPH patients. CXCL-8 showed a marginal association with overall AUA-SI scores, as well as obstructive (p = 0.08) symptom subscores. Prostate volume was inversely and marginally associated with urinary CXCL-10 (p = 0.09). Urine levels of CXCL-8, CXCL-10, and sIL-1ra were associated with varying degrees with LUTS severity, prostate size, and obesity, respectively. These findings in urine are consistent with past studies of chemokine levels from expressed prostatic secretions and demonstrate the potential of noninvasively measured chemokine in urine to objectively classify BPH/LUTS patients.

Structural determinants of ubiquitin-CXC chemokine receptor 4 interaction.

PubMed

Saini, Vikas; Marchese, Adriano; Tang, Wei-Jen; Majetschak, Matthias

2011-12-23

Ubiquitin, a post-translational protein modifier inside the cell, functions as a CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR) 4 agonist outside the cell. However, the structural determinants of the interaction between extracellular ubiquitin and CXCR4 remain unknown. Utilizing C-terminal truncated ubiquitin and ubiquitin mutants, in which surface residues that are known to interact with ubiquitin binding domains in interacting proteins are mutated (Phe-4, Leu-8, Ile-44, Asp-58, Val-70), we provide evidence that the ubiquitin-CXCR4 interaction follows a two-site binding mechanism in which the hydrophobic surfaces surrounding Phe-4 and Val-70 are important for receptor binding, whereas the flexible C terminus facilitates receptor activation. Based on these findings and the available crystal structures, we then modeled the ubiquitin-CXCR4 interface with the RosettaDock software followed by small manual adjustments, which were guided by charge complementarity and anticipation of a conformational switch of CXCR4 upon activation. This model suggests three residues of CXCR4 (Phe-29, Phe-189, Lys-271) as potential interaction sites. Binding studies with HEK293 cells overexpressing wild type and CXCR4 after site-directed mutagenesis confirm that these residues are important for ubiquitin binding but that they do not contribute to the binding of stromal cell-derived factor 1α. Our findings suggest that the structural determinants of the CXCR4 agonist activity of ubiquitin mimic the typical structure-function relationship of chemokines. Furthermore, we provide evidence for separate and specific ligand binding sites on CXCR4. As exogenous ubiquitin has been shown to possess therapeutic potential, our findings are expected to facilitate the structure-based design of new compounds with ubiquitin-mimetic actions on CXCR4.

Gene expression profiles in the bovine corpus luteum (CL) during the estrous cycle and pregnancy: Possible roles of chemokines in regulating CL function during pregnancy

PubMed Central

SAKUMOTO, Ryosuke; HAYASHI, Ken-Go; HOSOE, Misa; IGA, Kosuke; KIZAKI, Keiichiro; OKUDA, Kiyoshi

2014-01-01

To determine functional differences between the corpus luteum (CL) of the estrous cycle and pregnancy in cows, gene expression profiles were compared using a 15 K bovine oligo DNA microarray. In the pregnant CL at days 20–25, 40–45 and 150–160, the expressions of 138, 265 and 455 genes differed by a factor of > 2-fold (P < 0.05) from their expressions in the cyclic CL (days 10–12 of the estrous cycle). Messenger RNA expressions of chemokines (eotaxin, lymphotactin and ENA-78) and their receptors (CCR3, XCR1 and CXCR2) were validated by quantitative real-time PCR. Transcripts of eotaxin were more abundant in the CL at days 40–45 and 150–160 of pregnancy than in the cyclic CL (P < 0.01). In contrast, the mRNA expressions of lymphotactin, ENA-78 and XCR1 were lower in the CL of pregnancy (P < 0.05). Messenger RNAs of CCR3 and CXCR2 were similarly detected both in the cyclic and pregnant CL. Tissue protein levels of eotaxin were significantly higher in the CL at days 150–160 of pregnancy than in the CL at other stages, whereas the lymphotactin protein levels in the CL at days 20–25 of pregnancy were lower (P < 0.05). Immunohistochemical staining showed that CCR3 was expressed in the luteal cells and that XCR1 was expressed in both the luteal cells and endothelial cells. Collectively, the different gene expression profiles may contribute to functional differences between the cyclic and pregnant CL, and chemokines including eotaxin and lymphotactin may regulate CL function during pregnancy in cows. PMID:25382605

Desloratadine citrate disodium injection, a potent histamine H(1) receptor antagonist, inhibits chemokine production in ovalbumin-induced allergic rhinitis guinea pig model and histamine-induced human nasal epithelial cells via inhibiting the ERK1/2 and NF-kappa B signal cascades.

PubMed

Chen, Meiling; Xu, Shuhong; Zhou, Peipei; He, Guangwei; Jie, Qiong; Wu, Yulin

2015-11-15

Chemokines have chemotactic properties on leukocyte subsets whose modulation plays a pivotal role in allergic inflammatory processes. Our present study was designed to investigate the anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties of desloratadine citrate disodium injection (DLC) and elucidate the molecular mechanisms of its anti-inflammatory properties. The anti-allergic effects of DLC were evaluated based on allergic symptoms, serological marker production and histological changes of the nasal mucosa in guinea pigs model of allergic rhinitis. The anti-inflammatory properties and molecular mechanisms of DLC were explored by studying the regulation of a set of chemokines and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathways, after DLC treatment in guinea pigs model of allergic rhinitis in vivo and histamine-activated human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs) in vitro. In vivo model in guinea pigs, DLC alleviated the rhinitis symptoms, inhibited inflammatory cells infiltration in nasal lavage fluid (NLF) and histamine, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, regulated on activation normal T cell expressed, and presumably secreted (RANTEs) and interleukin (IL)-8 release in sera and P-ERK1/2 and NF-κB activation in nasal mucosa. In vitro, DLC markedly inhibited histamine-induced production of MCP-1, RANTEs and IL-8 and suppressed c-Raf, mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase (MEK) and ERK1/2 activation in HNECs. These results provide evidence that DLC possesses potent anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties. The mechanism of action underlying DLC in allergic inflammation appears to be inhibition of the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, in addition to blocking of the NF-κB pathway. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Chemokine Receptor CXCR6 Evokes Reverse Signaling via the Transmembrane Chemokine CXCL16

PubMed Central

Adamski, Vivian; Mentlein, Rolf; Lucius, Ralph; Synowitz, Michael; Held-Feindt, Janka; Hattermann, Kirsten

2017-01-01

Reverse signaling is a signaling mechanism where transmembrane or membrane-bound ligands transduce signals and exert biological effects upon binding of their specific receptors, enabling a bidirectional signaling between ligand and receptor-expressing cells. In this study, we address the question of whether the transmembrane chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 16, CXCL16 is able to transduce reverse signaling and investigate the biological consequences. For this, we used human glioblastoma cell lines and a melanoma cell line as in vitro models to show that stimulation with recombinant C-X-C chemokine receptor 6 (CXCR6) or CXCR6-containing membrane preparations induces intracellular (reverse) signaling. Specificity was verified by RNAi experiments and by transfection with expression vectors for the intact CXCL16 and an intracellularly-truncated form of CXCL16. We showed that reverse signaling via CXCL16 promotes migration in CXCL16-expressing melanoma and glioblastoma cells, but does not affect proliferation or protection from chemically-induced apoptosis. Additionally, fast migrating cells isolated from freshly surgically-resected gliomas show a differential expression pattern for CXCL16 in comparison to slowly-migrating cells, enabling a possible functional role of the reverse signaling of the CXCL16/CXCR6 pair in human brain tumor progression in vivo. PMID:28698473

The Chemokine Receptor CXCR6 Evokes Reverse Signaling via the Transmembrane Chemokine CXCL16.

PubMed

Adamski, Vivian; Mentlein, Rolf; Lucius, Ralph; Synowitz, Michael; Held-Feindt, Janka; Hattermann, Kirsten

2017-07-08

Reverse signaling is a signaling mechanism where transmembrane or membrane-bound ligands transduce signals and exert biological effects upon binding of their specific receptors, enabling a bidirectional signaling between ligand and receptor-expressing cells. In this study, we address the question of whether the transmembrane chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 16, CXCL16 is able to transduce reverse signaling and investigate the biological consequences. For this, we used human glioblastoma cell lines and a melanoma cell line as in vitro models to show that stimulation with recombinant C-X-C chemokine receptor 6 (CXCR6) or CXCR6-containing membrane preparations induces intracellular (reverse) signaling. Specificity was verified by RNAi experiments and by transfection with expression vectors for the intact CXCL16 and an intracellularly-truncated form of CXCL16. We showed that reverse signaling via CXCL16 promotes migration in CXCL16-expressing melanoma and glioblastoma cells, but does not affect proliferation or protection from chemically-induced apoptosis. Additionally, fast migrating cells isolated from freshly surgically-resected gliomas show a differential expression pattern for CXCL16 in comparison to slowly-migrating cells, enabling a possible functional role of the reverse signaling of the CXCL16/CXCR6 pair in human brain tumor progression in vivo.

Deletion of the COOH-Terminal Domain of CXC Chemokine Receptor 4 Leads to the Down-regulation of Cell-to-Cell Contact, Enhanced Motility and Proliferation in Breast Carcinoma Cells

PubMed Central

Ueda, Yukiko; Neel, Nicole F.; Schutyser, Evemie; Raman, Dayanidhi; Richmond, Ann

2009-01-01

The CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) contributes to the metastasis of human breast cancer cells. The CXCR4 COOH-terminal domain (CTD) seems to play a major role in regulating receptor desensitization and down-regulation. We expressed either wild-type CXCR4 (CXCR4-WT) or CTD-truncated CXCR4 (CXCR4-ΔCTD) in MCF-7 human mammary carcinoma cells to determine whether the CTD is involved in CXCR4-modulated proliferation of mammary carcinoma cells. CXCR4-WT-transduced MCF-7 cells (MCF-7/CXCR4-WT cells) do not differ from vector-transduced MCF-7 control cells in morphology or growth rate. However, CXCR4-ΔCTD-transduced MCF-7 cells (MCF-7/CXCR4-ΔCTD cells) exhibit a higher growth rate and altered morphology, potentially indicating an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Furthermore, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation and cell motility are increased in these cells. Ligand induces receptor association with β-arrestin for both CXCR4-WT and CXCR4-ΔCTD in these MCF-7 cells. Overexpressed CXCR4-WT localizes predominantly to the cell surface in unstimulated cells, whereas a significant portion of overexpressed CXCR4-ΔCTD resides intracellularly in recycling endosomes. Analysis with human oligomicroarray, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry showed that E-cadherin and Zonula occludens are down-regulated in MCF-7/CXCR4-ΔCTD cells. The array analysis also indicates that mesenchymal marker proteins and certain growth factor receptors are up-regulated in MCF-7/CXCR4-ΔCTD cells. These observations suggest that (a) the overexpression of CXCR4-ΔCTD leads to a gain-of-function of CXCR4-mediated signaling and (b) the CTD of CXCR4-WT may perform a feedback repressor function in this signaling pathway. These data will contribute to our understanding of how CXCR4-ΔCTD may promote progression of breast tumors to metastatic lesions. PMID:16740704

Differential expression of three T lymphocyte-activating CXC chemokines by human atheroma-associated cells

PubMed Central

Mach, François; Sauty, Alain; Iarossi, Albert S.; Sukhova, Galina K.; Neote, Kuldeep; Libby, Peter; Luster, Andrew D.

1999-01-01

Activated T lymphocytes accumulate early in atheroma formation and persist at sites of lesion growth and rupture, suggesting that they may play an important role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Moreover, atherosclerotic lesions contain the Th1-type cytokine IFN-γ, a potentiator of atherosclerosis. The present study demonstrates the differential expression of the 3 IFN-γ–inducible CXC chemokines — IFN-inducible protein 10 (IP-10), monokine induced by IFN-γ (Mig), and IFN-inducible T-cell α chemoattractant (I-TAC) — by atheroma-associated cells, as well as the expression of their receptor, CXCR3, by all T lymphocytes within human atherosclerotic lesions in situ. Atheroma-associated endothelial cells (ECs), smooth muscle cells (SMCs), and macrophages (MØ) all expressed IP-10, whereas Mig and I-TAC were mainly expressed in ECs and MØ, as detected by double immunofluorescence staining. ECs of microvessels within lesions also expressed abundant I-TAC. In vitro experiments supported these results and showed that IL-1β, TNF-α, and CD40 ligand potentiated IP-10 expression from IFN-γ–stimulated ECs. In addition, nitric oxide (NO) treatment decreased IFN-γ induction of IP-10. Our findings suggest that the differential expression of IP-10, Mig, and I-TAC by atheroma-associated cells plays a role in the recruitment and retention of activated T lymphocytes observed within vascular wall lesions during atherogenesis. PMID:10525042

A role for chemokine signaling in neural crest cell migration and craniofacial development

PubMed Central

Killian, Eugenia C. Olesnicky; Birkholz, Denise A.; Artinger, Kristin Bruk

2009-01-01

Neural crest cells (NCCs) are a unique population of multipotent cells that migrate along defined pathways throughout the embryo and give rise to many diverse cell types including pigment cells, craniofacial cartilage and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Aberrant migration of NCCs results in a wide variety of congenital birth defects including craniofacial abnormalities. The chemokine Sdf1 and its receptors, Cxcr4 and Cxcr7, have been identified as key components in the regulation of cell migration in a variety of tissues. Here we describe a novel role for the zebrafish chemokine receptor Cxcr4a in the development and migration of cranial NCCs (CNCCs). We find that loss of Cxcr4a, but not Cxcr7b results in aberrant CNCC migration, defects in the neurocranium, as well as cranial ganglia dismorphogenesis. Moreover, overexpression of either Sdf1b or Cxcr4a causes aberrant CNCC migration and results in ectopic craniofacial cartilages. We propose a model in which Sdf1b signaling from the pharyngeal arch endoderm and optic stalk to Cxcr4a expressing CNCCs is important for both the proper condensation of the CNCCs into pharyngeal arches and the subsequent patterning and morphogenesis of the neural crest derived tissues. PMID:19576198

Cytokine and chemokine expression in the skin from patients with maculopapular exanthema to drugs.

PubMed

Fernandez, T D; Mayorga, C; Torres, M J; Cornejo-Garcia, J A; López, S; Chaves, P; Rondon, C; Blanca, M

2008-06-01

Maculopapular exanthema (MPE) is the most frequent clinical manifestation of nonimmediate allergic reactions to drugs and T helper 1 (Th1) cytokines and CD4(+) T cells have been shown to play an important role in its pathogenesis. We assessed the role of cytokines and chemokines and their receptors in the pathogenesis of MPE. We evaluated skin biopsies and peripheral CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells from 27 patients during the acute phase of the reaction and 26 exposed controls. Semiquantitative real-time PCR was performed to determine the expression of cytokines and chemokines and their receptors and immunohistochemistry was used to determine the same chemokines and their receptor proteins in skin. There was a high expression of the Th1 cytokines interferon-gamma (P = 0.006) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (P = 0.022) in skin and CD4(+) T cells (P = 0.007 and P = 0.005, respectively); and of the Th1 chemokines CXCL9 (P = 0.005) and CXCL10 (P = 0.028) in the skin, while their receptor CXCR3 was increased in skin (P = 0.006) and CD4(+) T cells (P = 0.03). Homing chemokine receptors were also increased: CCR6 in skin (P = 0.026) and CD4(+) T cells (P = 0.016), and CCR10 only in CD4(+) T cells (P = 0.016), as well as their ligands, CCL20 and CCL27, in skin alone. Immunohistochemistry confirmed these results. These data show significant differences in the expression of chemokines and chemokine receptors, related with a Th1 profile, in both skin biopsies and peripheral CD4(+) T cells in patients with drug-induced MPE.

Chemokine (c-c motif) receptor 2 mediates mechanical and cold hypersensitivity in sickle cell disease mice.

PubMed

Sadler, Katelyn E; Zappia, Katherine J; O'Hara, Crystal L; Langer, Sarah N; Weyer, Andy D; Hillery, Cheryl A; Stucky, Cheryl L

2018-04-23

Approximately one third of individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) develop chronic pain. This debilitating pain is inadequately treated because the underlying mechanisms driving the pain are poorly understood. In addition to persistent pain, SCD patients are also in a tonically pro-inflammatory state. Previous studies have revealed that there are elevated plasma levels of many inflammatory mediators including chemokine (c-c motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) in individuals with SCD. Using a transgenic mouse model of SCD, we investigated the contributions of CCL2 signaling to SCD-related pain. Inhibition of the chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2), but not CCR4, alleviated the behavioral mechanical and cold hypersensitivity in SCD. Further, acute CCR2 blockade reversed both the behavioral and the in vitro responsiveness of sensory neurons to an agonist of TRPV1, a neuronal ion channel previously implicated in SCD pain. These results provide insight into the immune-mediated regulation of hypersensitivity in SCD and could inform future development of analgesics or therapeutic measures to prevent chronic pain.

Escherichia coli K1 inhibits proinflammatory cytokine induction in monocytes by preventing NF-kappaB activation.

PubMed

Selvaraj, Suresh K; Prasadarao, Nemani V

2005-08-01

Phagocytes are well-known effectors of the innate immune system to produce proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin (IL)-1beta, and IL-8 during infections. Here, we show that infection of monocytes with wild-type Escherichia coli K1, which causes meningitis in neonates, suppresses the production of cytokines and chemokines (TNF-alpha, regulated on activation, normal T expressed and secreted, macrophage-inflammatory protein-1beta, IL-1beta, and IL-8). In contrast, infection of monocytes with a mutant E. coli, which lacks outer membrane protein A (OmpA- E. coli) resulted in robust production of cytokines and chemokines. Wild-type E. coli K1 (OmpA+ E. coli) prevented the phosphorylation and its degradation of inhibitor of kappaB, thereby blocking the translocation of nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB to the nucleus. OmpA+ E. coli-infected cells, subsequently subjected to lipopolysaccharide challenge, were crippled severely in their ability to activate NF-kappaB to induce cytokine/chemokine production. Selective inhibitors of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 pathway and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), but not Jun N-terminal kinase, significantly reduced the activation of NF-kappaB and the production of cytokines and chemokines induced by OmpA- E. coli, indicating a role for these kinases in the NF-kappaB/cytokine pathway. It is interesting that the phosphorylation of ERK 1/2 and p38 MAPK was notably reduced in monocytes infected with OmpA+ E. coli when compared with monocytes infected with OmpA- E. coli, suggesting that the modulation of upstream events common for NF-kappaB and MAPKs by the bacterium is possible. The ability of OmpA+ E. coli K1 to inhibit the macrophage response temporarily may enable bacterial survival and growth within the host for the onset of meningitis by E. coli K1.

Myocardial Chemokine Expression and Intensity of Myocarditis in Chagas Cardiomyopathy Are Controlled by Polymorphisms in CXCL9 and CXCL10

PubMed Central

Nogueira, Luciana Gabriel; Santos, Ronaldo Honorato Barros; Ianni, Barbara Maria; Fiorelli, Alfredo Inácio; Mairena, Eliane Conti; Benvenuti, Luiz Alberto; Frade, Amanda; Donadi, Eduardo; Dias, Fabrício; Saba, Bruno; Wang, Hui-Tzu Lin; Fragata, Abilio; Sampaio, Marcelo; Hirata, Mario Hiroyuki; Buck, Paula; Mady, Charles; Bocchi, Edimar Alcides; Stolf, Noedir Antonio; Kalil, Jorge; Cunha-Neto, Edecio

2012-01-01

Background Chronic Chagas cardiomyopathy (CCC), a life-threatening inflammatory dilated cardiomyopathy, affects 30% of the approximately 8 million patients infected by Trypanosoma cruzi. Even though the Th1 T cell-rich myocarditis plays a pivotal role in CCC pathogenesis, little is known about the factors controlling inflammatory cell migration to CCC myocardium. Methods and Results Using confocal immunofluorescence and quantitative PCR, we studied cell surface staining and gene expression of the CXCR3, CCR4, CCR5, CCR7, CCR8 receptors and their chemokine ligands in myocardial samples from end-stage CCC patients. CCR5+, CXCR3+, CCR4+, CCL5+ and CXCL9+ mononuclear cells were observed in CCC myocardium. mRNA expression of the chemokines CCL5, CXCL9, CXCL10, CCL17, CCL19 and their receptors was upregulated in CCC myocardium. CXCL9 mRNA expression directly correlated with the intensity of myocarditis, as well as with mRNA expression of CXCR3, CCR4, CCR5, CCR7, CCR8 and their ligands. We also analyzed single-nucleotide polymorphisms for genes encoding the most highly expressed chemokines and receptors in a cohort of Chagas disease patients. CCC patients with ventricular dysfunction displayed reduced genotypic frequencies of CXCL9 rs10336 CC, CXCL10 rs3921 GG, and increased CCR5 rs1799988CC as compared to those without dysfunction. Significantly, myocardial samples from CCC patients carrying the CXCL9/CXCL10 genotypes associated to a lower risk displayed a 2–6 fold reduction in mRNA expression of CXCL9, CXCL10, and other chemokines and receptors, along with reduced intensity of myocarditis, as compared to those with other CXCL9/CXCL10 genotypes. Conclusions Results may indicate that genotypes associated to reduced risk in closely linked CXCL9 and CXCL10 genes may modulate local expression of the chemokines themselves, and simultaneously affect myocardial expression of other key chemokines as well as intensity of myocarditis. Taken together our results may suggest that

Successful treatment by double-filtration plasmapheresis of a patient with bullous pemphigoid: effects in vivo on transcripts of several genes for chemokines and cytokines in peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

PubMed

Hatano, Y; Katagiri, K; Arakawa, S; Umeki, T; Takayasu, S; Fujiwara, S

2003-03-01

The involvement of various cytokines and chemokines has been reported in the pathogenesis of bullous pemphigoid (BP). Double-filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) is an effective treatment for BP but the mechanism of action remains unclear. Using semiquantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, we examined levels of transcripts for various cytokines and chemokines in freshly isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells in a patient with BP before and after DFPP treatment. DFPP was performed four times. Relative levels of transcripts for interleukin (IL)-8, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1alpha and IL-5, and the ratio of relative levels of transcripts for IL-4 and interferon (IFN)-gamma, were higher, before treatment, than in healthy controls, and decreased when the extent of the lesions was reduced. Relative levels of transcripts for tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and IL-4 also decreased with regression of lesions, although they were similar to or lower than the corresponding levels in healthy individuals. When eruptions recurred, relative levels of transcripts for IL-8, MIP-1alpha, RANTES (regulated upon activation normal T cell expressed and secreted), IL-2, IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha were very much higher than those prior to the recurrence, while relative levels of mRNAs for IL-4 and IL-5 did not increase. Relative levels of transcripts for IL-8, MIP-1alpha, TNF-alpha and IL-2 were lower at the end of each individual DFPP and after the four treatments than at the beginning of treatment. Our observations suggest that cytokines and chemokines produced in mononuclear cells play important roles in the pathogenesis of BP and that regulation of their expression might be involved in the therapeutic effects of DFPP in BP.

The atypical chemokine receptor ACKR2 drives pulmonary fibrosis by tuning influx of CCR2+ and CCR5+ IFNγ-producing γδT cells in mice.

PubMed

Russo, Remo Castro; Savino, Benedetta; Mirolo, Massimiliano; Buracchi, Chiara; Germano, Giovanni; Anselmo, Achille; Zammataro, Luca; Pasqualini, Fabio; Mantovani, Alberto; Locati, Massimo; Teixeira, Mauro M

2018-02-22

Chemokines coordinate lung inflammation and fibrosis by acting on chemokine receptors expressed on leukocytes and other cell types. Atypical chemokine receptors (ACKRs) bind, internalize and degrade chemokines, tuning homeostasis and immune responses. ACKR2 recognizes and decreases levels of inflammatory CC chemokines. The role of ACKR2 in fibrogenesis is unknown. Investigate the role of ACKR2 in the context of pulmonary fibrosis. The effects of ACKR2 expression and deficiency during inflammation and fibrosis were analyzed using a bleomycin-model of fibrosis, ACKR2-deficient mice, bone marrow chimeras and antibody-mediated leukocyte depletion. ACKR2 was up-regulated acutely in response to bleomycin and normalized over time. ACKR2-/- mice showed reduced lethality and lung fibrosis. Bone marrow chimeras showed that lethality and fibrosis depended on ACKR2 expression in pulmonary resident (non-hematopoietic) cells but not on leukocytes. ACKR2-/- mice exhibited decreased expression of tissue remodeling genes, reduced leukocyte influx, pulmonary injury, and dysfunction. ACKR2-/- mice had early-increased levels of CCL5, CCL12, CCL17 and IFNγ, and increased number of CCR2+ and CCR5+ IFNγ-producing γδT cells in the airways counterbalanced by low Th17 lymphocyte influx. There was reduced accumulation of IFNγ-producing γδT cells in CCR2-/- and CCR5-/- mice. Moreover, depletion of γδT cells worsened the clinical symptoms induced by bleomycin and reversed the phenotype of ACKR2-/- mice exposed to bleomycin. ACKR2 controls the CC chemokine expression that drives the influx of CCR2+ and CCR5+ IFNγ-producing γδT cells tuning the Th17 response that mediate pulmonary fibrosis triggered by bleomycin instillation.

Syk-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of 3BP2 is required for optimal FcRγ-mediated phagocytosis and chemokine expression in U937 cells.

PubMed

Chihara, Kazuyasu; Kato, Yuji; Yoshiki, Hatsumi; Takeuchi, Kenji; Fujieda, Shigeharu; Sada, Kiyonao

2017-09-13

The adaptor protein c-Abl SH3 domain binding protein-2 (3BP2) is tyrosine phosphorylated by Syk in response to cross-linking of antigen receptors, which in turn activates various immune responses. Recently, a study using the mouse model of cherubism, a dominant inherited disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding 3BP2, showed that 3BP2 is involved in the regulation of phagocytosis mediated by Fc receptor for IgG (FcγR) in macrophages. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying 3BP2-mediated regulation of phagocytosis and the physiological relevance of 3BP2 tyrosine phosphorylation remains elusive. In this study, we established various gene knockout U937 cell lines using the CRISPR/Cas9 system and found that 3BP2 is rapidly tyrosine phosphorylated by Syk in response to cross-linking of FcγRI. Depletion of 3BP2 caused significant reduction in the Fc receptor γ chain (FcRγ)-mediated phagocytosis in addition to the FcγRI-mediated induction of chemokine mRNA for IL-8, CCL3L3 and CCL4L2. Syk-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of 3BP2 was required for overcoming these defects. Finally, we found that the PH and SH2 domains play important roles on FcγRI-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation of 3BP2 in HL-60 cells. Taken together, these results indicate that Syk-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of 3BP2 is required for optimal FcRγ-mediated phagocytosis and chemokine expression.

IL-27 Modulates Chemokine Production in TNF-α -Stimulated Human Oral Epithelial Cells.

PubMed

Hosokawa, Yoshitaka; Hosokawa, Ikuko; Ozaki, Kazumi; Matsuo, Takashi

2017-01-01

Interleukin-27 (IL-27) is a cytokine which belongs to the IL-12 family. However, the role of IL-27 in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease is uncertain. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of IL-27 on chemokine production in TNF-α-stimulated human oral epithelial cells (TR146). We measured chemokine production in TR146 by ELISA. We used western blot analysis to detect the phosphorylation levels of signal transduction molecules, including STAT1 and STAT3 in TR146. We used inhibitors to examine the role of STAT1 and STAT3 activation. IL-27 increased CXCR3 ligands production in TNF-α-stimulated TR146. Meanwhile, IL-27 suppressed IL-8 and CCL20 production induced by TNF-α. STAT1 phosphorylation level in IL-27 and TNF-α-stimulated TR146 was enhanced in comparison to TNF-α-stimulated TR146. STAT3 phosphorylation level in IL-27-treated TR146 did not change by TNF-α. Both STAT1 inhibitor and STAT3 inhibitor decreased CXCR3 ligands production. STAT1 inhibitor overrode the inhibitory effect of IL-27 on IL-8 and CCL20 production in TNF-α-stimulated TR146. Meanwhile, STAT3 inhibitor did not modulate IL-8 and CCL20 production. IL-27 might control leukocyte migration in periodontal lesion by modulating chemokine production from epithelial cells. © 2017 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.

Pirfenidone Inhibits T Cell Activation, Proliferation, Cytokine and Chemokine Production, and Host Alloresponses

PubMed Central

Visner, Gary A.; Liu, Fengzhi; Bizargity, Peyman; Liu, Hanzhong; Liu, Kaifeng; Yang, Jun; Wang, Liqing; Hancock, Wayne W.

2009-01-01

Background We previously showed that pirfenidone, an anti-fibrotic agent, reduces lung allograft injury/rejection. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that pirfenidone has immune modulating activities and evaluated its effects on the function of T cell subsets, which play important roles in allograft rejection. Method We first evaluated whether pirfenidone alters T cell proliferation and cytokine release in response to T cell receptor (TCR) activation, and whether pirfenidone alters regulatory T cells (CD4+CD25+) suppressive effects using an in vitro assay. Additionally, pirfenidone effects on alloantigen-induced T cell proliferation in vivo were assessed by adoptive transfer of CFSE-labeled T cells across a parent->F1 MHC mismatch, as well as using a murine heterotopic cardiac allograft model (BALB/c->C57BL/6). Results Pirfenidone was found to inhibit the responder frequency of TCR-stimulated CD4+ cell total proliferation in vitro and in vivo, whereas both CD4 and CD8 proliferation index were reduced by pirfenidone. Additionally, pirfenidone inhibited TCR-induced production of multiple pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Interestingly, there was no change on TGF-β production by purified T cells, and pirfenidone had no effect on the suppressive properties of naturally occurring regulatory T cells. Pirfenidone alone showed a small but significant (p < 0.05) effect on the in vivo allogeneic response while the combination of pirfenidone and low dose rapamycin had more remarkable effect in reducing the alloantigen response with prolonged graft survival. Conclusion Pirfenidone may be an important new agent in transplantation, with particular relevance to combating chronic rejection by inhibiting both fibroproliferative and alloimmune responses. PMID:19667934

Oral administration of Lactococcus chungangensis inhibits 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene-induced atopic-like dermatitis in NC/Nga mice.

PubMed

Choi, Woo Jin; Konkit, Maytiya; Kim, Yena; Kim, Mi-Kyung; Kim, Wonyong

2016-09-01

Interest is increasing in the potentially beneficial role of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of atopic diseases. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of Lactococcus chungangensis CAU 28(T) against atopic dermatitis using murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells, human keratinocyte HaCaT cells, human mast cell line HMC-1 cells, and a 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene-induced atopic dermatitis model (NC/Nga mice). The results showed that L. chungangensis CAU 28(T) exhibited potent antiinflammatory activity by inhibiting the production of the proinflammatory mediators nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2 in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Treatment with L. chungangensis CAU 28(T) reduced the release of β-hexosaminidase and histamine in HMC-1 cells stimulated with mast cell activator compound 48/80. In addition, the back skin and ears of NC/Nga mice exhibited reduced histological manifestations of atopic skin lesions such as erosion, hyperplasia of the epidermis and dermis, and inflammatory cell infiltration. Oral administration of L. chungangensis CAU 28(T) suppressed the production of IL-4, IL-5, IL-12, IFN-γ, tumor necrosis factor-α, and thymus- and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC) in skin lesions, indicating that it strongly drives the local immune system with efficacy comparable to that of tacrolimus, a topical immunomodulatory drug used for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. The findings indicate that L. chungangensis CAU 28(T) could be a novel probiotic candidate for controlling the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Copyright © 2016 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Down-regulated peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) in lung epithelial cells promotes a PPARγ agonist-reversible proinflammatory phenotype in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

PubMed

Lakshmi, Sowmya P; Reddy, Aravind T; Zhang, Yingze; Sciurba, Frank C; Mallampalli, Rama K; Duncan, Steven R; Reddy, Raju C

2014-03-07

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive inflammatory condition and a leading cause of death, with no available cure. We assessed the actions in pulmonary epithelial cells of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), a nuclear hormone receptor with anti-inflammatory effects, whose role in COPD is largely unknown. We found that PPARγ was down-regulated in lung tissue and epithelial cells of COPD patients, via both reduced expression and phosphorylation-mediated inhibition, whereas pro-inflammatory nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activity was increased. Cigarette smoking is the main risk factor for COPD, and exposing airway epithelial cells to cigarette smoke extract (CSE) likewise down-regulated PPARγ and activated NF-κB. CSE also down-regulated and post-translationally inhibited the glucocorticoid receptor (GR-α) and histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2), a corepressor important for glucocorticoid action and whose down-regulation is thought to cause glucocorticoid insensitivity in COPD. Treating epithelial cells with synthetic (rosiglitazone) or endogenous (10-nitro-oleic acid) PPARγ agonists strongly up-regulated PPARγ expression and activity, suppressed CSE-induced production and secretion of inflammatory cytokines, and reversed its activation of NF-κB by inhibiting the IκB kinase pathway and by promoting direct inhibitory binding of PPARγ to NF-κB. In contrast, PPARγ knockdown via siRNA augmented CSE-induced chemokine release and decreases in HDAC activity, suggesting a potential anti-inflammatory role of endogenous PPARγ. The results imply that down-regulation of pulmonary epithelial PPARγ by cigarette smoke promotes inflammatory pathways and diminishes glucocorticoid responsiveness, thereby contributing to COPD pathogenesis, and further suggest that PPARγ agonists may be useful for COPD treatment.

CDIP-2, a synthetic peptide derived from chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 13 (CCL13), ameliorates allergic airway inflammation

PubMed Central

Mendez-Enriquez, E; Melendez, Y; Martinez, F; Baay, G; Huerta-Yepez, S; Gonzalez-Bonilla, C; Fortoul, T I; Soldevila, G; García-Zepeda, E A

2008-01-01

Airway inflammation is characterized by selective recruitment of mononuclear and granulocytic cells. This recruitment is mediated by the action of chemotactic cytokines, such as chemokines. A number of chemokines and their receptors have been identified and proposed as potential therapeutic agents in allergic airway inflammation. One of these chemokines is chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 13 (CCL13), a CC chemokine that has been associated with allergic inflammatory diseases such as asthma and allergic rhinitis. To investigate alternative therapeutic agents to alleviate allergic inflammatory diseases, a number of chemokine-derived synthetic peptides were designed and tested for their ability to modulate in vitro and in vivo chemokine-mediated functions. Our results show that one of these peptides, CDIP-2, displayed antagonist functions in in vitro chemotaxis assays using monocytic cell lines. In addition, we found that CDIP-2 significantly reduced peribronchial, perivascular infiltrate and mucus overproduction in an ovalbumin-induced allergic lung inflammation murine model. Thus, CDIP-2 may be considered as part of a novel group of anti-inflammatory agents based on chemokine-derived synthetic peptides. PMID:18336592

CDIP-2, a synthetic peptide derived from chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 13 (CCL13), ameliorates allergic airway inflammation.

PubMed

Mendez-Enriquez, E; Melendez, Y; Martinez, F; Baay, G; Huerta-Yepez, S; Gonzalez-Bonilla, C; Fortoul, T I; Soldevila, G; García-Zepeda, E A

2008-05-01

Airway inflammation is characterized by selective recruitment of mononuclear and granulocytic cells. This recruitment is mediated by the action of chemotactic cytokines, such as chemokines. A number of chemokines and their receptors have been identified and proposed as potential therapeutic agents in allergic airway inflammation. One of these chemokines is chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 13 (CCL13), a CC chemokine that has been associated with allergic inflammatory diseases such as asthma and allergic rhinitis. To investigate alternative therapeutic agents to alleviate allergic inflammatory diseases, a number of chemokine-derived synthetic peptides were designed and tested for their ability to modulate in vitro and in vivo chemokine-mediated functions. Our results show that one of these peptides, CDIP-2, displayed antagonist functions in in vitro chemotaxis assays using monocytic cell lines. In addition, we found that CDIP-2 significantly reduced peribronchial, perivascular infiltrate and mucus overproduction in an ovalbumin-induced allergic lung inflammation murine model. Thus, CDIP-2 may be considered as part of a novel group of anti-inflammatory agents based on chemokine-derived synthetic peptides.

Roles of hepatocyte and myeloid CXC chemokine receptor-2 in liver recovery and regeneration after ischemia/reperfusion in mice.

PubMed

Van Sweringen, Heather L; Sakai, Nozomu; Quillin, Ralph C; Bailey, Jeff; Schuster, Rebecca; Blanchard, John; Goetzman, Holly; Caldwell, Charles C; Edwards, Michael J; Lentsch, Alex B

2013-01-01

Previous studies have demonstrated the significance of signaling through the CXC chemokine receptor-2 (CXCR2) receptor in the process of recovery and regeneration of functional liver mass after hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). CXCR2 is constitutively expressed on both neutrophils and hepatocytes; however, the cell-specific roles of this receptor are unknown. In the present study, chimeric mice were created through bone marrow transplantation (BMT) using wild-type and CXCR2-knockout mice, yielding selective expression of CXCR2 on hepatocytes (Hep) and/or myeloid cells (My) in the following combinations: Hep+/My+; Hep-/My+; Hep+/My-; and Hep-/My-. These tools allowed us to assess the contributions of myeloid and hepatocyte CXCR2 in the recovery of the liver after I/R injury. Flow cytometry confirmed the adoption of the donor phenotype in neutrophils. Interestingly, Kupffer cells from all chimeras lacked CXCR2 expression. Recovery/regeneration of hepatic parenchyma was assessed by histologic assessment and measurement of hepatocyte proliferation. CXCR2(Hep+/My+) mice showed the least amount of liver recovery and hepatocyte proliferation, whereas CXCR2(Hep-/My-) mice had the greatest liver recovery and hepatocyte proliferation. CXCR2(Hep+/My-) mice had enhanced liver recovery, with hepatocyte proliferation similar to CXCR2(Hep-/My-) mice. Myeloid expression of CXCR2 directly regulated CXC chemokine expression levels after hepatic I/R, such that mice lacking myeloid CXCR2 had markedly increased chemokine expression, compared with mice expressing CXCR2 on myeloid cells. The data suggest that CXCR2 on myeloid cells is the predominant regulator of liver recovery and regeneration after I/R injury, whereas hepatocyte CXCR2 plays a minor, secondary role. These findings suggest that myeloid cell-directed therapy may significantly affect liver regeneration after liver resection or transplantation. Copyright © 2012 American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

Environmental Mold and Mycotoxin Exposures Elicit Specific Cytokine and Chemokine Responses

PubMed Central

Rosenblum Lichtenstein, Jamie H.; Hsu, Yi-Hsiang; Gavin, Igor M.; Donaghey, Thomas C.; Molina, Ramon M.; Thompson, Khristy J.; Chi, Chih-Lin; Gillis, Bruce S.; Brain, Joseph D.

2015-01-01

Background Molds can cause respiratory symptoms and asthma. We sought to use isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) to understand changes in cytokine and chemokine levels in response to mold and mycotoxin exposures and to link these levels with respiratory symptoms in humans. We did this by utilizing an ex vivo assay approach to differentiate mold-exposed patients and unexposed controls. While circulating plasma chemokine and cytokine levels from these two groups might be similar, we hypothesized that by challenging their isolated white blood cells with mold or mold extracts, we would see a differential chemokine and cytokine release. Methods and Findings Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from blood from 33 patients with a history of mold exposures and from 17 controls. Cultured PBMCs were incubated with the most prominent Stachybotrys chartarum mycotoxin, satratoxin G, or with aqueous mold extract, ionomycin, or media, each with or without PMA. Additional PBMCs were exposed to spores of Aspergillus niger, Cladosporium herbarum and Penicillium chrysogenum. After 18 hours, cytokines and chemokines released into the culture medium were measured by multiplex assay. Clinical histories, physical examinations and pulmonary function tests were also conducted. After ex vivo PBMC exposures to molds or mycotoxins, the chemokine and cytokine profiles from patients with a history of mold exposure were significantly different from those of unexposed controls. In contrast, biomarker profiles from cells exposed to media alone showed no difference between the patients and controls. Conclusions These findings demonstrate that chronic mold exposures induced changes in inflammatory and immune system responses to specific mold and mycotoxin challenges. These responses can differentiate mold-exposed patients from unexposed controls. This strategy may be a powerful approach to document immune system responsiveness to molds and other inflammation

A possible role for CD26/DPPIV enzyme activity in the regulation of psoriatic pruritus.

PubMed

Komiya, Eriko; Hatano, Ryo; Otsuka, Haruna; Itoh, Takumi; Yamazaki, Hiroto; Yamada, Taketo; Dang, Nam H; Tominaga, Mitsutoshi; Suga, Yasushi; Kimura, Utako; Takamori, Kenji; Morimoto, Chikao; Ohnuma, Kei

2017-06-01

Psoriasis (PSO) is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin diseases, and pruritus affects approximately 60-90% of patients with PSO. However, the pathogenesis of pruritus in PSO remains unclear. Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV) enzyme activity is involved in the regulation of peptide hormones, chemokines and neurotransmitters. Our aim is to evaluate for a potential association between DPPIV and an increased risk of pruritus, and to identify possible underlying treatment targets in affected patients. Utilizing clinical serum samples of PSO patients and in vivo experimental pruritus models, we evaluated for a potential association between DPPIV and an increased risk for pruritus, and attempted to identify possible underlying treatment targets in pruritus of PSO. We first showed that levels of DPPIV enzyme activity in sera of patients with PSO were significantly increased compared to those of healthy controls. We next evaluated levels of substance-P (SP), which is a neurotransmitter for pruritus and a substrate for DPPIV enzyme. Truncated form SP cleaved by DPPIV was significantly increased in sera of PSO. In an in vivo pruritus model induced by SP, scratching was decreased by treatment with a DPPIV inhibitor. Moreover, DPPIV-knockout mice showed attenuation of scratching induced by SP. Finally, scratching was decreased following the administration of a DPPIV inhibitor in an imiquimod-induced PSO model. On the other hand, scratching induced by imiquimod was increased in DPPIV overexpressing-mice. These results suggest that inhibition of DPPIV enzyme activity regulates pruritus in PSO. Copyright © 2017 Japanese Society for Investigative Dermatology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Th2-like chemokine levels are increased in allergic children and influenced by maternal immunity during pregnancy.

PubMed

Abelius, Martina S; Lempinen, Esma; Lindblad, Karin; Ernerudh, Jan; Berg, Göran; Matthiesen, Leif; Nilsson, Lennart J; Jenmalm, Maria C

2014-06-01

The influence of the intra-uterine environment on the immunity and allergy development in the offspring is unclear. We aimed to investigate (i) whether the pregnancy magnifies the Th2 immunity in allergic and non-allergic women, (ii) whether the maternal chemokine levels during pregnancy influenced the offspring's chemokine levels during childhood and (iii) the relationship between circulating Th1/Th2-associated chemokines and allergy in mothers and children. The Th1-associated chemokines CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, and the Th2-associated chemokines CCL17, CCL18 and CCL22 were quantified by Luminex and ELISA in 20 women with and 36 women without allergic symptoms at gestational week (gw) 10-12, 15-16, 25, 35, 39 and 2 and 12 months post-partum and in their children at birth, 6, 12, 24 months and 6 years of age. Total IgE levels were measured using ImmunoCAP Technology. The levels of the Th2-like chemokines were not magnified by pregnancy. Instead decreased levels were shown during pregnancy (irrespectively of maternal allergy status) as compared to post-partum. In the whole group, the Th1-like chemokine levels were higher at gw 39 than during the first and second trimester and post-partum. Maternal CXCL11, CCL18 and CCL22 levels during and after pregnancy correlated with the corresponding chemokines in the offspring during childhood. Increased CCL22 and decreased CXCL10 levels in the children were associated with sensitisation and increased CCL17 levels with allergic symptoms during childhood. Maternal chemokine levels were not associated with maternal allergic disease. Allergic symptoms and sensitisation were associated with decreased Th1- and increased Th2-associated chemokine levels during childhood, indicating a Th2 shift in the allergic children, possibly influenced by the maternal immunity during pregnancy. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Inhibition of oncogene-induced inflammatory chemokines using a farnesyltransferase inhibitor

PubMed Central

DeGeorge, Katharine C; DeGeorge, Brent R; Testa, James S; Rothstein, Jay L

2008-01-01

Background Farnesyltransferase inhibitors (FTI) are small molecule agents originally formulated to inhibit the oncogenic functions of Ras. Although subsequent analysis of FTI activity revealed wider effects on other pathways, the drug has been demonstrated to reduce Ras signaling by direct measurements. The purpose of the current study was to determine if FTI could be used to inhibit the inflammatory activities of a known Ras-activating human oncoprotein, RET/PTC3. RET/PTC3 is a fusion oncoprotein expressed in the thyroid epithelium of patients afflicted with thyroid autoimmune disease and/or differentiated thyroid carcinoma. Previous studies have demonstrated that RET/PTC3 signals through Ras and can provoke nuclear translocation of NFκB and the downstream release of pro-inflammatory mediators from thyroid follicular cells in vitro and in vivo, making it an ideal target for studies using FTI. Methods For the studies described here, an in vitro assay was developed to measure FTI inhibition of RET/PTC3 pro-inflammatory effects. Rat thyrocytes transfected with RET/PTC3 or vector control cDNA were co-cultured with FTI and examined for inhibition of chemokine expression and secretion measured by RT-PCR and ELISA. Immunoblot analysis was used to confirm the level at which FTI acts on RET/PTC3-expressing cells, and Annexin V/PI staining of cells was used to assess cell death in RET/PTC3-expressing cells co-cultured with FTI. Results These analyses revealed significant mRNA and protein inhibition of chemokines Ccl2 and Cxcl1 with nanomolar doses of FTI. Neither RET/PTC3 protein expression nor apoptosis were affected at any dose of FTI investigated. Conclusion These data suggest that FTI may be applied as an effective inhibitor for RET/PTC3-oncogene induced pro-inflammatory mediators. PMID:18304343

Treatment with the CC chemokine-binding protein Evasin-4 improves post-infarction myocardial injury and survival in mice.

PubMed

Braunersreuther, Vincent; Montecucco, Fabrizio; Pelli, Graziano; Galan, Katia; Proudfoot, Amanda E; Belin, Alexandre; Vuilleumier, Nicolas; Burger, Fabienne; Lenglet, Sébastien; Caffa, Irene; Soncini, Debora; Nencioni, Alessio; Vallée, Jean-Paul; Mach, François

2013-10-01

Chemokines trigger leukocyte trafficking and are implicated in cardiovascular disease pathophysiology. Chemokine-binding proteins, called "Evasins" have been shown to inhibit both CC and CXC chemokine-mediated bioactivities. Here, we investigated whether treatment with Evasin-3 (CXC chemokine inhibitor) and Evasin-4 (CC chemokine inhibitor) could influence post-infarction myocardial injury and remodelling. C57Bl/6 mice were submitted in vivo to left coronary artery permanent ligature and followed up for different times (up to 21 days). After coronary occlusion, three intraperitoneal injections of 10 μg Evasin-3, 1 μg Evasin-4 or equal volume of vehicle (PBS) were performed at 5 minutes, 24 hours (h) and 48 h after ischaemia onset. Both anti-chemokine treatments were associated with the beneficial reduction in infarct size as compared to controls. This effect was accompanied by a decrease in post-infarction myocardial leukocyte infiltration, reactive oxygen species release, and circulating levels of CXCL1 and CCL2. Treatment with Evasin-4 induced a more potent effect, abrogating the inflammation already at one day after ischaemia onset. At days 1 and 21 after ischaemia onset, both anti-chemokine treatments failed to significantly improve cardiac function, remodelling and scar formation. At 21-day follow-up, mouse survival was exclusively improved by Evasin-4 treatment when compared to control vehicle. In conclusion, we showed that the selective inhibition of CC chemokines (i.e. CCL5) with Evasin-4 reduced cardiac injury/inflammation and improved survival. Despite the inhibition of CXC chemokine bioactivities, Evasin-3 did not affect mouse survival. Therefore, early inhibition of CC chemokines might represent a promising therapeutic approach to reduce the development of post-infarction heart failure in mice.

Expression of adhesion molecules, chemokines and matrix metallo- proteinases (MMPs) in viable and degenerating stage of Taenia solium metacestode in swine neurocysticercosis.

PubMed

Singh, Satyendra K; Singh, Aloukick K; Prasad, Kashi N; Singh, Amrita; Singh, Avinash; Rai, Ravi P; Tripathi, Mukesh; Gupta, Rakesh K; Husain, Nuzhat

2015-11-30

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is a parasitic infection of central nervous system (CNS). Expression of adhesion molecules, chemokines and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) were investigated on brain tissues surrounding viable (n=15) and degenerating cysticerci (n=15) of Taenia solium in swine by real-time RT-PCR and ELISA. Gelatin gel zymography was performed for MMPs activity. ICAM-1 (intercellular adhesion molecule-1), E-selectin, MIP-1α (macrophage inflammatory protein-1α), Eotaxin-1 and RANTES (regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted) were associated with degenerating cysticerci (cysts). However, VCAM-1 (vascular cell adhesion molecule-1), MCP-1 (monocyte chemotactic protein-1), MMP-2 and MMP-9 were associated with both viable and degenerating cysts. In conclusion, viable and degenerating cysticerci have different immune molecule profiles and role of these molecules in disease pathogenesis needs to be investigated. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Chemokine GPCR Signaling Inhibits β-Catenin during Zebrafish Axis Formation

PubMed Central

Wu, Shu-Yu; Shin, Jimann; Sepich, Diane S.; Solnica-Krezel, Lilianna

2012-01-01

Embryonic axis formation in vertebrates is initiated by the establishment of the dorsal Nieuwkoop blastula organizer, marked by the nuclear accumulation of maternal β-catenin, a transcriptional effector of canonical Wnt signaling. Known regulators of axis specification include the canonical Wnt pathway components that positively or negatively affect β-catenin. An involvement of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) was hypothesized from experiments implicating G proteins and intracellular calcium in axis formation, but such GPCRs have not been identified. Mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ stores generates Ca2+ transients in the superficial blastomeres of zebrafish blastulae when the nuclear accumulation of maternal β-catenin marks the formation of the Nieuwkoop organizer. Moreover, intracellular Ca2+ downstream of non-canonical Wnt ligands was proposed to inhibit β-catenin and axis formation, but mechanisms remain unclear. Here we report a novel function of Ccr7 GPCR and its chemokine ligand Ccl19.1, previously implicated in chemotaxis and other responses of dendritic cells in mammals, as negative regulators of β-catenin and axis formation in zebrafish. We show that interference with the maternally and ubiquitously expressed zebrafish Ccr7 or Ccl19.1 expands the blastula organizer and the dorsoanterior tissues at the expense of the ventroposterior ones. Conversely, Ccr7 or Ccl19.1 overexpression limits axis formation. Epistatic analyses demonstrate that Ccr7 acts downstream of Ccl19.1 ligand and upstream of β-catenin transcriptional targets. Moreover, Ccl19/Ccr7 signaling reduces the level and nuclear accumulation of maternal β-catenin and its axis-inducing activity and can also inhibit the Gsk3β -insensitive form of β-catenin. Mutational and pharmacologic experiments reveal that Ccr7 functions during axis formation as a GPCR to inhibit β-catenin, likely by promoting Ca2+ transients throughout the blastula. Our study delineates a novel negative, Gsk3�

Structural Evidence for the Tetrameric Assembly of Chemokine CCL11 and the Glycosaminoglycan Arixtra™

PubMed Central

Dykstra, Andrew B.; Sweeney, Matt D.; Leary, Julie A.

2013-01-01

Understanding chemokine interactions with glycosaminoglycans (GAG) is critical as these interactions have been linked to a number of inflammatory medical conditions, such as arthritis and asthma. To better characterize in vivo protein function, comprehensive knowledge of multimeric species, formed by chemokines under native conditions, is necessary. Herein is the first report of a tetrameric assembly of the human chemokine CCL11, which was shown bound to the GAG Arixtra™. Isothermal titration calorimetry data indicated that CCL11 interacts with Arixtra, and ion mobility mass spectrometry (IM-MS) was used to identify ions corresponding to the CCL11 tetrameric species bound to Arixtra. Collisional cross sections (CCS) of the CCL11 tetramer-Arixtra noncovalent complex were compared to theoretical CCS values calculated using a preliminary structure of the complex deduced using X-ray crystallography. Experimental CCS values were in agreement with theoretical values, strengthening the IM-MS evidence for the formation of the noncovalent complex. Tandem mass spectrometry data of the complex indicated that the tetramer-GAG complex dissociates into a monomer and a trimer-GAG species, suggesting that two CC-like dimers are bridged by Arixtra. As development of chemokine inhibitors is of utmost importance to treatment of medical inflammatory conditions, these results provide vital insights into chemokine-GAG interactions. PMID:24970196

Structural Evidence for the Tetrameric Assembly of Chemokine CCL11 and the Glycosaminoglycan Arixtra™.

PubMed

Dykstra, Andrew B; Sweeney, Matt D; Leary, Julie A

2013-11-06

Understanding chemokine interactions with glycosaminoglycans (GAG) is critical as these interactions have been linked to a number of inflammatory medical conditions, such as arthritis and asthma. To better characterize in vivo protein function, comprehensive knowledge of multimeric species, formed by chemokines under native conditions, is necessary. Herein is the first report of a tetrameric assembly of the human chemokine CCL11, which was shown bound to the GAG Arixtra™. Isothermal titration calorimetry data indicated that CCL11 interacts with Arixtra, and ion mobility mass spectrometry (IM-MS) was used to identify ions corresponding to the CCL11 tetrameric species bound to Arixtra. Collisional cross sections (CCS) of the CCL11 tetramer-Arixtra noncovalent complex were compared to theoretical CCS values calculated using a preliminary structure of the complex deduced using X-ray crystallography. Experimental CCS values were in agreement with theoretical values, strengthening the IM-MS evidence for the formation of the noncovalent complex. Tandem mass spectrometry data of the complex indicated that the tetramer-GAG complex dissociates into a monomer and a trimer-GAG species, suggesting that two CC-like dimers are bridged by Arixtra. As development of chemokine inhibitors is of utmost importance to treatment of medical inflammatory conditions, these results provide vital insights into chemokine-GAG interactions.

ICAMs Redistributed by Chemokines to Cellular Uropods as a Mechanism for Recruitment of T Lymphocytes

PubMed Central

del Pozo, Miguel Angel; Cabañas, Carlos; Montoya, María C.; Ager, Ann; Sánchez-Mateos, Paloma; Sánchez-Madrid, Francisco

1997-01-01

The recruitment of leukocytes from the bloodstream is a key step in the inflammatory reaction, and chemokines are among the main regulators of this process. During lymphocyte–endothelial interaction, chemokines induce the polarization of T lymphocytes, with the formation of a cytoplasmic projection (uropod) and redistribution of several adhesion molecules (ICAM-1,-3, CD43, CD44) to this structure. Although it has been reported that these cytokines regulate the adhesive state of integrins in leukocytes, their precise mechanisms of chemoattraction remain to be elucidated. We have herein studied the functional role of the lymphocyte uropod. Confocal microscopy studies clearly showed that cell uropods project away from the cell bodies of adhered lymphocytes and that polarized T cells contact other T cells through the uropod structure. Time-lapse videomicroscopy studies revealed that uropod-bearing T cells were able, through this cellular projection, to contact, capture, and transport additional bystander T cells. Quantitative analysis revealed that the induction of uropods results in a 5–10-fold increase in cell recruitment. Uropod-mediated cell recruitment seems to have physiological relevance, since it was promoted by both CD45R0+ peripheral blood memory T cells as well as by in vivo activated lymphocytes. Additional studies showed that the cell recruitment mediated by uropods was abrogated with antibodies to ICAM-1, -3, and LFA-1, whereas mAb to CD43, CD44, CD45, and L-selectin did not have a significant effect, thus indicating that the interaction of LFA-1 with ICAM-1 and -3 appears to be responsible for this process. To determine whether the increment in cell recruitment mediated by uropod may affect the transendothelial migration of T cells, we carried out chemotaxis assays through confluent monolayers of endothelial cells specialized in lymphocyte extravasation. An enhancement of T cell migration was observed under conditions of uropod formation, and this

Plasma levels of cytokines and chemokines and the risk of mortality in HIV-infected individuals: a case-control analysis nested in a large clinical trial

PubMed Central

French, MA; Cozzi-Lepri, A; Arduino, RC; Johnson, M; Achhra, AC; Landay, A

2015-01-01

Background All-cause mortality and serious non-AIDS events (SNAEs) in individuals with HIV-1 infection receiving antiretroviral therapy are associated with increased production of interleukin (IL)-6, which appears to be driven by monocyte/macrophage activation. Plasma levels of other cytokines or chemokines associated with immune activation might also be biomarkers of an increased risk of mortality and/or SNAEs. Methods Baseline plasma samples from 142 participants enrolled into the SMART study who subsequently died, and 284 matched controls, were assayedfor levels of 15 cytokines and chemokines. Cytokine and chemokine levels were analysed individually and when grouped according to function (innate/pro-inflammatory response, cell trafficking and cell activation/proliferation) for their association with the risk of subsequent death. Results Higher plasma levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and tumour necrosis factor-alpha) were associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality but in analyses adjusted for potential confounders, only the association with IL-6 persisted. Increased plasma levels of the chemokine CXCL8 were also associated with all-cause mortality independently of HCV status but not when analyses were adjusted for all confounders. In contrast, higher plasma levels of cytokines mediating cell activation/proliferation were not associated with a higher mortality risk and exhibited a weak protective effect when analysed as a group. Conclusions While plasma levels of IL-6 are the most informative biomarker of cytokine dysregulation associated with all-cause mortality in individuals with HIV-1 infection, assessment of plasma levels of CXCL8 might provide information about causes of mortality and possibly SNAEs. PMID:25695873

Chemokine receptors CCR6 and CXCR3 are necessary for CD4(+) T cell mediated ocular surface disease in experimental dry eye disease.

PubMed

Coursey, Terry G; Gandhi, Niral B; Volpe, Eugene A; Pflugfelder, Stephen C; de Paiva, Cintia S

2013-01-01

CD4(+) T cells are essential to pathogenesis of ocular surface disease in dry eye. Two subtypes of CD4(+) T cells, Th1 and Th17 cells, function concurrently in dry eye to mediate disease. This occurs in spite of the cross-regulation of IFN-γ and IL-17A, the prototypical cytokines Th1 and Th17 cells, respectively. Essential to an effective immune response are chemokines that direct and summon lymphocytes to specific tissues. T cell trafficking has been extensively studied in other models, but this is the first study to examine the role of chemokine receptors in ocular immune responses. Here, we demonstrate that the chemokine receptors, CCR6 and CXCR3, which are expressed on Th17 and Th1 cells, respectively, are required for the pathogenesis of dry eye disease, as CCR6KO and CXCR3KO mice do not develop disease under desiccating stress. CD4(+) T cells from CCR6KO and CXCR3KO mice exposed to desiccating stress (DS) do not migrate to the ocular surface, but remain in the superficial cervical lymph nodes. In agreement with this, CD4(+) T cells from CCR6 and CXCR3 deficient donors exposed to DS, when adoptively transferred to T cell deficient recipients manifest minimal signs of dry eye disease, including significantly less T cell infiltration, goblet cell loss, and expression of inflammatory cytokine and matrix metalloproteinase expression compared to wild-type donors. These findings highlight the important interaction of chemokine receptors on T cells and chemokine ligand expression on epithelial cells of the cornea and conjunctiva in dry eye pathogenesis and reveal potential new therapeutic targets for dry eye disease.

Chemokine Receptors CCR6 and CXCR3 Are Necessary for CD4+ T Cell Mediated Ocular Surface Disease in Experimental Dry Eye Disease

PubMed Central

Coursey, Terry G.; Gandhi, Niral B.; Volpe, Eugene A.; Pflugfelder, Stephen C.; de Paiva, Cintia S.

2013-01-01

CD4+ T cells are essential to pathogenesis of ocular surface disease in dry eye. Two subtypes of CD4+ T cells, Th1 and Th17 cells, function concurrently in dry eye to mediate disease. This occurs in spite of the cross-regulation of IFN-γ and IL-17A, the prototypical cytokines Th1 and Th17 cells, respectively. Essential to an effective immune response are chemokines that direct and summon lymphocytes to specific tissues. T cell trafficking has been extensively studied in other models, but this is the first study to examine the role of chemokine receptors in ocular immune responses. Here, we demonstrate that the chemokine receptors, CCR6 and CXCR3, which are expressed on Th17 and Th1 cells, respectively, are required for the pathogenesis of dry eye disease, as CCR6KO and CXCR3KO mice do not develop disease under desiccating stress. CD4+ T cells from CCR6KO and CXCR3KO mice exposed to desiccating stress (DS) do not migrate to the ocular surface, but remain in the superficial cervical lymph nodes. In agreement with this, CD4+ T cells from CCR6 and CXCR3 deficient donors exposed to DS, when adoptively transferred to T cell deficient recipients manifest minimal signs of dry eye disease, including significantly less T cell infiltration, goblet cell loss, and expression of inflammatory cytokine and matrix metalloproteinase expression compared to wild-type donors. These findings highlight the important interaction of chemokine receptors on T cells and chemokine ligand expression on epithelial cells of the cornea and conjunctiva in dry eye pathogenesis and reveal potential new therapeutic targets for dry eye disease. PMID:24223818

Structure of the CCR5 Chemokine Receptor-HIV Entry Inhibitor Maraviroc Complex

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tan, Qiuxiang; Zhu, Ya; Li, Jian

2013-10-21

The CCR5 chemokine receptor acts as a co-receptor for HIV-1 viral entry. Here we report the 2.7 angstrom–resolution crystal structure of human CCR5 bound to the marketed HIV drug maraviroc. The structure reveals a ligand-binding site that is distinct from the proposed major recognition sites for chemokines and the viral glycoprotein gp120, providing insights into the mechanism of allosteric inhibition of chemokine signaling and viral entry. A comparison between CCR5 and CXCR4 crystal structures, along with models of co-receptor–gp120-V3 complexes, suggests that different charge distributions and steric hindrances caused by residue substitutions may be major determinants of HIV-1 co-receptor selectivity.more » These high-resolution insights into CCR5 can enable structure-based drug discovery for the treatment of HIV-1 infection.« less

Dynamic switching mechanisms of a CC chemokine, CCL5 (RANTES). A simulation study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)