Tesis sobre el tema "Toll-like receptor 5 (TLR5)"

The extreme susceptibility to infection with Salmonella Typhimurium of wild-derived MOLF/Ei has been linked to one chromosomal region (Ity3). Toll-like receptor 5 (Tlr5) is located within the Ity3 interval and its candidacy as a Salmonella-susceptibility gene was evaluated in vitro and in vivo by comparing the Tlr5 C57BL/6J and MOLF/Ei alleles (85). In vitro studies using NF-kappaB-dependent reporter genes showed that sequence variants found within the coding region of MOLF/Ei Tlr5 did not affect the response of Tlr5 to flagellin compared to C57BL/6J. MOLF/Ei promoter had a slightly stronger basal activity than the C57BL/6J allele. In vivo study using Ity3 congenic mice showed that mice homozygous for MOLF/Ei allele at Ity3 had a stronger response to flagellin as measured by IL-6 secretion in the serum. Finally, we can conclude that Tlr5 is involved in the disease phenotype underlying Ity3 however, it is not clear if the impact of Tlr5 is primary or secondary.

De par sa capacité à détecter les microorganismes et à mettre en place une défense anti-infectieuse rapide, l’immunité innée représente la première ligne de défense de l’hôte. La réponse immunitaire innée est déclenchée par des motifs microbiens moléculaires universels et conservés reconnus par des récepteurs innés parmi lesquels les "Toll-like Receptors" (TLR). L’activation de ces récepteurs induit une inflammation locale et une réponse antimicrobienne adaptée au pathogène. Ces propriétés biologiques ont permis de d’envisager l’utilisation des TLR comme cible thérapeutique antiinfectieuse. Dans ce contexte il a été montré que la flagelline, le composant majeur des flagelles bactériens et le seul agoniste de TLR5 décrit à ce jour, possédait des propriétés anti-infectieuses. Des études chez la souris ont montré que la flagelline induisait une forte production, par des cellules lymphoïdes innées, d’IL-22, une cytokine impliquées dans la protection des muqueuses. Par ailleurs, la forte expression de TLR5 par les cellules épithéliales laisse présager un rôle de ces cellules dans les propriétés anti-infectieuses de la flagelline. Toutefois, les mécanismes moléculaires et cellulaires effecteurs responsables des effets antimicrobiens de l’agoniste de TLR5 restent à définir.Au cours de ce travail de thèse, nous avons étudié les capacités anti-infectieuses de la flagelline dans deux modèles infectieux chez la souris. Nous avons tout d’abord montré que l’administration systémique de flagelline, en prophylaxie c’est-à-dire préalablement au challenge infectieux, permettait de protéger d’une infection intestinale par Yersinia pseudotuberculosis. La protection induite par la flagelline est observable lors d’une infection par la voie muqueuse mais est absente lors d’un challenge infectieux par la voie systémique, démontrant ainsi le caractère muqueux de la protection. L’effet protecteur de la flagelline dans notre modèle est dépendant de l’expression de TLR5 et indépendant de l’IL-22. Cette étude suggère donc un mécanisme original de protection médié par la flagelline, indépendant de l’IL-22.Nous avons également analysé la capacité anti-infectieuse de la flagelline dans un modèle murin d’infection respiratoire à Streptococcus pneumoniae. Nous avons notamment montré que la flagelline pouvait être utilisée en thérapeutique lorsqu’elle était associée à un antibiotique. En effet, l’association d’amoxicilline ou de co-trimoxazole avec la flagelline (voie intranasale) a permis de protéger des souris infectées par une dose létale de S. pneumoniae comparativement à l’antibiotique seul. L’efficacité de cette thérapie est dépendante de l’activation de TLR5 et est associée à une infiltration pulmonaire importante de polynucléaires neutrophiles. Ce traitement combinatoire améliore également la protection dans un modèle de surinfection pneumococcique post-grippale. Ces résultats montrent que la combinaison agoniste de TLR5/antibiotique améliore la réponse anti-infectieuse pulmonaire et permettent d’envisager de nouvelles stratégies antibactériennes dans le cas d’infections où les antibiotiques montrent leurs limites (infections nosocomiales, bactéries multirésistantes…)
With its ability to sense micro-organisms and to induce a rapid defense against infections, innate immunity represents the first line of host’s defense. The innate immune response is triggered by universal and conserved microbial molecular patterns recognized by innate receptors including the Toll-like receptors (TLRs). Activation of these receptors induces local inflammation and antimicrobial response against pathogens. These biological properties have allowed considering the use of TLR as anti-infective therapeutic target. In this context it has been shown that flagellin, the major component of bacterial flagella and the agonist of TLR5, had anti-infectious properties. It was shown that flagellin induces a strong production by innate lymphoid cells of IL-22, a cytokine involved in the protection of mucosa. Furthermore, the strong expression of TLR5 by epithelial cells suggests a role for these cells in the anti-infectious properties of flagellin. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms responsible for the antimicrobial effects of the TLR5 agonist remained to be defined.In this thesis, we studied the anti-infectious properties of flagellin in two infectious murine models. We first showed that systemic administration of flagellin, prior to infectious challenge, protect against an intestinal infection with Yersinia pseudotuberculosis. The protection induced by flagellin is observable upon infection by mucosal route but is absent during a challenge by the systemic route, thus demonstrating the role of the mucosa for the protection. The anti-bacterial effect in this model is dependent on the expression of TLR5 and independent of the innate lymphoid cells’ IL-22 production. This study suggests a novel mechanism of flagellin-mediated protection, independent of the IL-22.We also analyzed the anti-infectious abilities of flagellin in a murine model of respiratory infection by Streptococcus pneumoniae. In particular, we showed that flagellin could be used in therapy when combined to an antibiotic. Indeed, the combination of amoxicillin or co-trimoxazole with flagellin protected mice infected with a lethal dose of S. pneumoniae compared to antibiotic standalone. The effectiveness of this therapy was dependent on the activation of TLR5 and was associated with pulmonary infiltration of neutrophils. This combinatory treatment also improved the protection in a model of post-influenza pneumococcal superinfection. These results show that the combination of TLR5 agonist / antibiotic ameliorates pulmonary anti-infectious response and allow to consider new antibacterial strategies against infections when antibiotics reach their limits (nosocomial infections, multiresistant bacteria ...)

Os receptores do tipo Toll (TLRs) são as primeiras proteínas do sistema imune a identificarem distúrbios, reconhecem patógenos como bactérias, fungos e vírus. Como o processo inflamatório possui um importante papel em diversas doenças, os TLRs foram considerados potenciais alvos em estratégias terapêuticas, incluindo o tratamento de câncer. No entanto, o papel dos TLRs permanece ambíguo. Esse estudo teve como objetivos analisar os níveis de expressão dos TLRs presentes em membrana plasmática, TLRs (TLR1, TLR2, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6) em astrocitomas de diferentes graus de malignidade (grau II-IV), tumor mais prevalente do Sistema Nervoso Central (SNC). Nós demonstramos que a expressão dos TLRs foi mais alta em amostras de astrocitomas comparadas com tecido cerebral não-neoplásico, por qRT-PCR. A expressão gênica e proteica foi observada em células de linhagem de glioblastoma (GBM) U87MG e A172, mostrando sua presença em células tumorais. Foi observada expressão associada entre os heterodímeros TLR1- TLR2. Em GBMs, o subtipo mesenquimal mostrou maior nível de expressão dos TLRs comparados aos subtipos clássico e proneural. Com o objetivo de identificar o papel dos TLRs nas células tumorais, foi selecionado dentre os TLRs o que apresentou maior nível de expressão, o TLR4, e realizamos ensaios funcionais estimulando a U87MG com LPS, um agonista natural para TLR4. A taxa de proliferação da célula tratada com LPS foi similar a não tratada. No entanto, foi observado a ativação do NF-kB após 12hrs do estímulo com LPS. Quando a sinalização do receptor foi inibida por um composto químico (VGX-1027), o nível de proliferação da U87MG decaiu. Adicionalmente, análise in silico revelou uma forte associação dos TLRs hiperexpressos com aumento da expressão de genes relacionados à sinalização do ciclo celular, inflamassoma e ripoptossoma. O que sugere serem os TLRs alvos para complementação do tratamento do câncer
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are the first to identify disturbances in the immune system, recognizing pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Since the inflammation process plays an important role in several diseases, TLRs have been considered potential therapeutic targets, including treatment for cancer. However, TLRs\' role in cancer remains ambiguous. This study aims to analyze the expression levels of plasmatic cell membrane TLRs (TLR1, TLR2, TLR4, TLR5, and TLR6) in different grades (II-IV) of human astrocytoma, the most prevalent tumor of CNS. We demonstrated that TLR expressions were higher in astrocytoma samples compared to non-neoplastic brain tissue, by qRT-PCR. The genes and proteins expressions were observed in U87MG and A172 GBM cell lines, proving their presence in the tumor cells. Associated expressions between the known heterodimers TLR1-TLR2 were found in diffusely infiltrative astrocytoma. In GBM, the mesenchymal subtype showed higher levels of TLR expressions in relation to classical and proneural subtypes. Aiming to indentify the role of TLRs in tumor cells, we chose the highest TLR expressed in GBM cells, the TLR4, and performed functional assays stimulating U87MG-GBM cell line with LPS, a natural agonist for TLR4. The proliferation rate was similar in treated and non-treated cell with LPS. However, NF-kB activation was detected after 12hrs of LPS stimulation. When TLR4 signaling pathway was inhibited by a chemical compound (VGX-1027) a decrease in the proliferation rate was observed. Additionally, in silico analysis revealed a strong association of TLRs upregulation with increased expression level of genes related to cell cycle, inflammasome and ripoptosome pathways, further highlighting TLRs as interesting targets for cancer complementary treatment

O sistema imune neonatal tem sido considerado funcionalmente imaturo e recentes estudos sugerem que a suscetibilidade do neonato às infecções pode ser devido a alterações funcionais de células apresentadoras de antígenos que podem levar a deficiências secundárias nas respostas adaptativas. A ativação das células apresentadoras de antígenos é desencadeada pela estimulação de receptores, como os Toll-like Receptors (TLRs) e alterações na ativação desses receptores podem levar a uma subsequente redução da ativação de proteínas da via de sinalização intracelular e consequente alterações dos níveis das citocinas pró- e anti-inflamatórias, contribuindo assim, para uma resposta imune ineficiente do neonato. O Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2) é um receptor essencial para o reconhecimento seletivo de vários antígenos bacterianos e virais, em especial, o peptideoglicano, que compreende cerca de 50% da parede celular de bactérias Grampositivas, como os estafilococos, que são agentes infecciosos que prevalecem nas Unidades de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a ativação e resposta de monócitos de sangue do cordão umbilical de recém-nascidos pré-termo saudáveis < 34 semanas de gestação (Grupo 1), recém-nascidos pré-termo : 34 e < 37 semanas de gestação (Grupo 2) e recém-nascidos a termo (Grupo 3) e de adultos saudáveis, como controles, após a estimulação de TLR-2 ex-vivo com Pam3CSK4. Após a estimulação dos monócitos, foram determinados os níveis de expressão dos marcadores de ativação celular, os níveis das citocinas pró- e anti-inflamatórias e a expressão de moléculas envolvidas na sinalização intracelular. A caracterização das populações leucocitárias, bem como a capacidade fagocítica de Staphylococcus aureus e geração de burst oxidativo por monócitos e neutrófilos foram analisados por Citometria de Fluxo. Os resultados demonstraram que as células dendríticas e monócitos de neonatos expressam TLR-2 em níveis semelhantes aos de adultos. A expressão adequada de TLR-2 sugere um reconhecimento antigênico eficiente que é refletido em uma ativação apropriada das moléculas da cascata de sinalização e uma potente produção de citocinas pró-inflamatórias, apesar da reduzida produção de IL-10. Fagócitos neonatais apresentaram capacidade fagocítica de S. aureus reduzida em relação aos adultos e geração do burst oxidativo semelhante entre os grupos, no entanto neonatos prétermo apresentaram produção de peróxido de hidrogênio deficiente, o que poderia contribuir com uma reduzida morte intracelular deste microrganismo. Em conclusão, o recém-nascido não apresenta uma imaturidade funcional, mas sim, um desequilíbrio em sua resposta imune inata, com uma aparente menor produção de fatores antiinflamatórios, o que pode levar a predisposição à sepse
The neonatal immune system has been considered functionally immature and recent studies suggest that susceptibility of the neonate to infections may be due to functional alterations in antigen-presenting cells that can prompt to secondary deficiencies in adaptive responses. The activation of antigen-presenting cells is triggered by stimulation of receptors such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and changes in the activation of these receptors may lead to a subsequent reduction in the activation of intracellular signaling pathway proteins and consequent changes in pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine levels, thus contributing to an inefficient immune response of the neonate. Toll-like Receptor 2 (TLR-2) is an essential receptor for the selective recognition of several bacterial and viral antigens, in particular, peptidoglycan, which comprises about 50% of the Gram-positive bacteria cell wall, such as staphylococci, which are infectious agents that prevail in Neonatal Intensive Care Units. The aim of this study was to evaluate the activation and response of monocytes derived from umbilical cord blood of healthy preterm newborns <34 weeks of gestation (Group 1), preterm newborns :34 and <37 weeks of gestation (Group 2) and term newborns (Group 3) and from healthy adults, as controls, after ex-vivo TLR-2 stimulation with Pam3CSK4. After monocyte stimulation, it was determined the expression levels of cellular activation markers, pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine levels and the expression of molecules involved in downstream intracellular signaling. The characterization of leukocyte populations, as well as the phagocytic ability of Staphylococcus aureus and generation of oxidative burst by monocytes and neutrophils were analyzed by flow cytometry. The results demonstrated that neonatal dendritic cells and monocytes express TLR- 2 at similar levels to those of adults. The proper expression of TLR-2 suggests an efficient antigen recognition which is reflected in an appropriate activation of downstream signaling molecules and potent production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, in spite of the reduced production of IL-10. Neonatal phagocytes showed reduced phagocytic capacity of S. aureus compared to adults and similar generation of oxidative burst between groups, however preterm neonates showed deficient production of hydrogen peroxide, which could contribute to a reduced intracellular killing of this microorganism. In conclusion, the newborn does not present a functional immaturity, but an imbalance in its innate immune response, with an apparent lower production of antiinflammatory factors, which can lead to a predisposition to sepsis

Les récepteurs Toll-like 7 et 8 jouent un rôle important dans l’activation de la réponse immunitaire innée et adaptative. Leur stimulation conduit à la production des cytokines pro-inflammatoires et d’interférons de type I. L’imiquimod et son dérivé le résiquimod sont les premières molécules de faible poids moléculaire décrites comme agonistes du TLR7 et TLR8. Ces deux molécules ont montré des activités anticancéreuses et adjuvantes très importantes. Récemment, les TLR 7 et 8 ont fait l’objet de plusieurs publications visant à développer de nouveaux agonistes TLR7 et/ou TLR8 dans la perspective d’être utilisés comme adjuvants vaccinaux. Malgré les rôles essentiels de TLR7 et TLR8 dans la stimulation du système immunitaire, une activation immunitaire chronique peut être responsable de plusieurs maladies infectieuses et auto-immunes. D’où l’importance de développer également des antagonistes TLR7 et/ou TLR8.Ce travail de thèse est consacré à la synthèse et le développement de nouvelles molécules hétérocycliques, analogues de l’imiquimod et de résiquimod, dans le but d’identifier de nouveaux ligands TLR7 et/ou TLR8. Des voies de synthèse innovantes, permettant une modulation chimique importante grâce à des couplages croisés pallado-catalysés, ont été mises au point et ont permis d’obtenir une cinquantaine de molécules appartenant à trois séries chimiques différentes de type imidazo[1,2-a]pyrazine, imidazo[1,5-a]quinoxaline et pyrazolo[1,5-a]quinoxaline. De nombreux essais d’alkylation ont été tentés sur ces trois séries chimiques afin d’introduire une large variété de substituants sur le cycle à cinq sommets. L’application du couplage croisé de Sonogashira nous a permis d’établir une liaison C-C et introduire diverses chaines alkyles. Ces composés ont été testés pour leur activité agoniste et antagoniste TLR7 et 8. Aucun des composés cibles n'a présenté d’activité agoniste TLR7 et TLR8, dans l'intervalle des concentrations testées. Par contre, tous les composés ont montré une activité antagoniste sélective du TLR7. Les composés les plus actifs, 5.35a et 5.35b, membres de la série pyrazolo[1,5-a]quinoxaline ont montré des IC50 de l’ordre de 10 μM. Ces résultats prometteurs nous ont permis la découverte d’une activité antagoniste TLR7 importante pour la série pyrazolo[1,5-a]quinoxaline, une série très peu développée dans la littérature. La modulation chimique des molécules actives nous permet de donner naissance à de nouveaux leaders, qui peuvent jouer un rôle important dans la thérapie de plusieurs maladies infectieuses et auto-immunes
Toll-like receptors 7 and 8 play an important role in immune system activation. Their stimulation leads to the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and type I interferons. Both receptors recognize viral ssRNA, as well as synthetic tricyclic imidazoquinoline derivatives such as imiquimod (TLR7 agonist) and resiquimod (TLR7/8 agonist). These two molecules showed significative anti-cancer and adjuvant activities. Many reports in the literature have been focused on the development of new TLR7/8 agonists belonging to different chemical series. These agonists strongly induce the production of T helper 1-polarizing cytokines and may therefore serve as promising candidate vaccine adjuvants. Despite the essential roles of TLR7 and TLR8 in the immune system stimulation, chronic immune activation may be responsible for several infectious and autoimmune diseases. Consequently, the development of TLR7 inhibitors may play an important role in the therapy of these diseases.In this study, we are interested in the synthesis and development of new heterocyclic molecules, analogs of imiquimod and resiquimod, in order to identify new TLR7 and/or TLR8 ligands. Different synthetic pathways have been developed, using cross coupling reactions, in order to obtain a wide variety of molecules belonging to three chemical series: imidazo[1,2-a]pyrazine, imidazo[1,5-a]quinoxaline et pyrazolo[1,5-a]quinoxaline. Various alkylation reactions were attempted on these three chemical series in order to introduce a wide variety of substituents on the five-membered ring. The application of Sonogashira's cross-coupling allowed us to establish a C-C bond and introduce various alkyl chains. All compounds have been tested for their TLR7/8 agonistic and antagonistic activity using HEK-Blue™-hTLR7/8 cells. The synthesized compounds are completely inactive as TLR7/8 agonists and are selective TLR7 antagonists. Two compounds of the pyrazolo[1,5-a]quinoxaline series, compound 5.35a and 5.35b, bearing butyl and isobutyl chain respectively, are potent and selective TLR7 antagonists with low micromolar IC50. Results allowed us to discover significative activity for the pyrazolo[1,5-a]quinoxaline series as selective TLR7 antagonists, which may therefore play an important role in the therapy of several infectious or autoimmune diseases

The precise mechanism by which TLRs recognise their ligands and lead to downstream signalling is currently largely unclear. The major aim of this work was to begin to understand the nature of the interaction between human toll-like receptors and their ligands, using biochemical, structural, cell biological and fluorescence imaging techniques. This research aimed to elucidate the mechanism by which two TLRs recognise their ligands; TLR5 and its bacterial protein ligand flagellin and TLR8 and its viral ligand ssRNA and a synthetic ligand, resiquimod. Initial studies were to express and purify the extracellular domain of the receptors to generate purified protein to study the receptor/ligand interactions by biophysical and structural methods. Creating sufficiently pure protein in the baculovirus expression system was unachievable due to the fairly low levels of expression and the inability of insect cells to secrete the recombinant proteins. Alternative approaches to study the receptor/ligand interactions were pursued using cell based systems. This included the use of NF-κB reporter assays to study receptor activation in cells and fluorescent protein fusion receptors with confocal microscopy to determine the cellular localisation of the receptors in transiently transfected cells. Mutagenesis studies of TLR8 were also performed to determine residues that were critical for NF-κB activation and protein expression of these mutants was shown to be similar to wild-type receptors by microscopy. Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) was performed to look at possible receptor/receptor interactions before and after stimulation with ligand in live cells. Fluorescent ligands were able to show the likely interaction site of receptor and ligand in transiently transfected cells. All together these techniques lead to insights as to how and where these two TLRs interact with their ligands and possible models for receptor/ligand interaction can now be proposed.

Estudos recentes têm demonstrado uma participação importante do receptor toll-like 4 (TLR4) na evolução de doenças envolvendo desordens metabólicas, como a doença do fígado gorduroso não-alcoólico (NAFLD). No entanto, as alterações do metabolismo lipídico que poderiam ser influenciadas pela ativação do TLR4 são desconhecidas. Neste estudo propomos caracterizar o papel do receptor TLR4 no metabolismo de lipídios no fígado de camundongos deficientes para o receptor de LDL, um modelo que desenvolve NAFLD quando submetido a uma dieta rica em gordura saturada e colesterol. Camundongos controle (C57 black6), deficientes para o receptor de LDL (LDLrKO), deficientes para o receptor TLR4 (TLR4KO) ou deficientes para ambos (duplo KO) receberam dieta controle ou hiperlipídica por quatro, oito ou doze semanas. Após o tratamento e sacrifício dos animais, avaliamos o perfil de lipídios plasmáticos, o conteúdo de lipídios do fígado e a expressão gênica de enzimas relacionadas à síntese e degradação de triglicerídeos (TG) e colesterol no fígado. O perfil inflamatório no fígado também foi avaliado. A dieta hiperlipídica induziu uma hipertrigliceridemia e hipercolesterolemia nos animais LDLr KO e duplo KO, sendo que o grupo duplo KO apresentou níveis séricos inferiores de triglicérides (TG) e ácidos graxos livres a partir de oito semanas de tratamento em comparação aos animais LDLrKO. A dieta hiperlipídica também induziu um aumento significativo no conteúdo de TG e de colesterol no fígado de todos os grupos. Na análise da expressão gênica não foram encontradas diferenças na expressão de proteínas relacionadas à síntese de triglicérides e colesterol (ApoB100, MTTP, GPAT1 e GPAT4) entre os grupos. Porém houve aumento significativo na expressão de proteínas relacionadas à oxidação de ácidos graxos (CPT1, MTP, ACOX, PBE, tiolase) e à síntese de ácidos biliares (CYP7a1) no grupo duplo KO em comparação ao grupo LDLr KO. No perfil inflamatório, a expressão de F4/80 demonstrou infiltração de macrófagos significativamente elevada no grupo LDLrKO tratado com a dieta hiperlipídica comparada a todos os outros grupos. No entanto, houve maior expressão de IL-6, IL-1beta e TNF-alfa no grupo duplo KO em comparação ao grupo LDLr KO. Nossos dados sugerem que a ativação do TLR4 no fígado de animais alimentados com uma dieta hiperlipídica pode contribuir para o acúmulo de lipídios e início da esteatose hepática. Estratégias para a inativação hepática do TLR4 podem diminuir a NAFLD não somente devido a diminuição da inflamação, mas por aumentar a oxidação de ácidos graxos no fígado
Recent studies have shown an important role of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in the evolution of diseases involving metabolic disorders, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, changes in lipid metabolism regulated by TLR4 activation are still unknown. In this study, we characterized the role of TLR4 receptor in hepatic lipid metabolism of mice deficient for the LDL receptor, a model that develops NAFLD when exposed to a diet rich in saturated fat and cholesterol. We investigated the role of TLR4 activation in the pathogenesis of diet-induced NAFLD by crossing LDLr KO mice with the TLR4 knockout mice (double KO). Animals were fed for 4, 8 or 12 weeks with high-fat diet (HFD) containing 18% saturated fat and 1.25% cholesterol. We evaluated plasma lipid profile, hepatic lipid content and gene expression of enzymes related to the synthesis and degradation of triglycerides and cholesterol in the liver. Liver inflammatory status was also investigated. We observed that HFD induced hypertriglyceri-demia and hypercholesterolemia in LDLr KO and double KO mice, but double KO animals presented lower serum levels of triglycerides and free fatty acids after eight weeks of treatment. HFD also induced a significant increase in liver contents of triglycerides (TG) and of cholesterol in all groups. We did not find differences in the expression of proteins related to triglycerides and cholesterol synthesis (ApoB100, MTTP, GPAT1, GPAT4) between the groups. However, we observed a significant increase in the expression of proteins related to fatty acid oxidation (CPT1, MTP, ACOX, PBE, tiolase ) and bile acid synthesis (CYP7a1) in double KO group in comparison to LDLr KO. Regarding the inflammatory process, F4/80 expression was elevated in LDLr KO mice fed HFD when compared to all groups. On the other hand, IL-6, IL-1beta e TNF-alfa expression was induced by HFD only in double KO mice. Taken together, our results show that TLR4 activation in liver from mice fed on a high-fat diet may contribute to lipid accumulation and steatosis onset. Strategies regarding localized TLR4 inactivation may increase the oxidation of fatty acids and improve NAFLD not only due to decreased inflammation

A doença de Behçet tem sua fisiopatologia caracterizada por hiperatividade neutrofílica, particularmente em relação à quimiotaxia, e períodos de atividade da doença podem ser desencadeados por exposição a estreptococos. Uma vez que células do sistema imune inato são ativadas pelo ácido lipoteicoico (LTA) de bactérias gram-positivas via receptor toll-like (TLR) 2 e CD14, cujas expressões são reguladas pelos fatores estimulantes de colônias de granulócitos (G-CSF) e granulócitos-macrófagos (GM-CSF), o objetivo principal deste estudo foi determinar se há hiperexpressão de TLR2 em neutrófilos de DB ativa e se a quimiotaxia de polimorfonucleares (PMN) neutrófilos na DB poderia ser hiperestimulada pelo LTA. Além do TLR2, foram medidas as expressões de TLR4, CD14, CD114 (receptor de G-CSF) e CD116 (receptor de GM-CSF) nos neutrófilos e nos monócitos de pacientes com doença de Behçet (DB), as concentrações séricas de CD14 solúvel (CD14s) e as respostas quimiotáxicas dos PMNs de DB sob diferentes estímulos. A expressão dos receptores foi medida pela citometria de fluxo, as concentrações séricas por ELISA e as respostas quimiotáxicas foram avaliadas em câmara de Boyden. Nos PMNs, os receptores foram igualmente expressos nos dois grupos e, estimulados com LTA, suas respostas quimiotáxicas também foram similares. Somente à incubação com plasma os PMNs de DB desenvolveram hiperquimiotaxia em relação aos PMNs controles. A expressão do TLR2 foi maior em monócitos de DB em relação aos controles, e a concentração de CD14s sérica, de origem monocitária, foi maior nos pacientes com DB ativa. Em conjunto, os resultados demonstram que PMNs de DB, isoladamente, não reagem exacerbadamente ao LTA, e suas respostas migratórias são estritamente dependentes de fatores estimulantes solúveis.
Expressions of toll-like receptor (TLR) 2, TLR4, CD14, CD114 and CD116 were assessed on polymorphonuclear (PMN) neutrophils and monocytes of patients with Behçets disease (BD). PMN chemotactic responses under different stimulations were also measured. The objective was to determine if BD PMN chemotaxis may be overstimulated by lipoteichoic acid (LTA) from gram-positive bacteria. Receptor expressions were measured by flow cytometry and PMN chemotaxis was assessed in a Boyden chamber. Only TLR2 expression was higher on monocytes of the BD group than in control group. On PMNs, however, TLR2 expression was similar in both groups and, when stimulated with LTA, BD PMN cells showed chemotactic responses similar to the controls. These cells only exhibited increased chemotaxis when incubated with plasma. In conclusion, isolated BD PMN did not overreact to LTA, and its hyperchemotaxis is strictly dependent on soluble stimulating factors

Um papel importante foi atribuído ao receptor toll-like 4 (TLR4) no desenvolvimento da placa aterosclerótica. O TLR4 foi primeiramente descrito como um receptor para bactérias gram-negativas; posteriormente foi demonstrado que sua expressão está aumentada em placas ateroscleróticas e que pacientes que possuem um polimorfismo disfuncional do TLR4 são menos suscetíveis ao desenvolvimento dessa doença. Portanto, o objetivo desse estudo foi o de investigar, em um modelo experimental de aterosclerose, a influência da deleção do TLR4 na formação e morfologia da placa aterosclerótica, no perfil lipídico e em marcadores inflamatórios. Camundongos duplo knockout (DKO), deficientes no receptor de LDL e TLR4, foram gerados cruzando-se camundongos deficientes para o receptor de LDL (LDLrKO) com camundongos deficientes para o TLR4 (TLR4KO). Todos os grupos receberam dieta rica em gordura e colesterol por 12 semanas. As concentrações plasmáticas de colesterol e triglicérides foram medidas por ensaio colorimétrico. Cortes seriados da raiz aórtica foram corados com Oil red O e as áreas de lesão quantificadas por analisador de imagens. O colágeno foi medido por coloração de picrossirius. A formação de nitrotirosina e expressão de CD40L, MMP9 e iNOS nas placas foram feitas por imunohistoquímica. As comparações foram feitas por ANOVA com pós teste de Student Newman-Keuls. Os dados foram expressos como média ± EPM. Camundongos DKO desenvolveram placas menores que camundongos LDLrKO (117.6 ±1.4 vs 198.8 ± 3.3 104m2). Camundongos TLR4KO não formaram placa. As placas dos camundongos DKO apresentaram menor núcleo lipídico que as dos LDLrKO (76.2± 13.2 vs 161.7 ± 2.9 104m2). O colágeno ao redor do núcleo lipídico é maior nos camundongos DKO do que nos LDLrKO (24.9 ± 1.8 vs 16.5 ± 2.5 % da placa). A distribuição do colágeno nos camundongos DKO ocorre principalmente ao redor da placa, de forma mais organizada, enquanto que nos LDLrKO onde sua distribuição é mais difusa. As placas dos camundongos DKO apresentaram menor expressão de CD40L e iNOS do que as dos LDLrKO (13.1 ± 0.7 vs 18.5 ± 2.5 AU e 7.7 ± 0.9 vs 10.2 ± 0.4 AU, respectivamente). A expressão de MMP9 foi menor nas placas dos camundongos DKO do que as dos LDLrKO (2.99 ± 0.3 vs 1.99 ± 0.2 AU). A marcação para nitrotirosina foi maior nos camundongos LDLrKO quando comparada com as dos grupos DKO e TLR4KO (142.89 ± 208.5, 77.16 ± 227.7 e 71.73 ± 95.9 10m2, respectivamente). Todos esses resultados sugerem que o processo inflamatório é menor na ausência do TLR4. As concentrações plasmáticas de colesterol não foram diferentes entre os grupos LDLrKO e DKO mas os camundongos LDLrKO apresentaram concentrações plasmáticas de triglicérides maiores do que os camundongos DKO após a dieta (265.2 ± 27.6 vs 150.5 ± 8.8 mg/dL). O receptor toll-like 4 influencia na estrutura e formação da placa aterosclerótica independentemente dos níveis séricos de colesterol
A crucial role has been suggested for toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in atherosclerotic plaque formation and development. TLR4 was described primarily, as a receptor for gram-negative bacteria lipopolisacharide; later it was showed that its expression is increased in atherosclerotic plaques and patients that carries a TLR4 dysfunctional polymorphism are less susceptible to development of this disease. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate, in an experimental model of atherosclerosis, the influence of TLR4 deletion in atherosclerotic plaque formation and morphology, cholesterol profile and inflammatory markers. Double knockout mice (DKO), deficient in LDL receptor and TLR4, were generated by breeding LDL receptor knockout mice (LDLrKO) with TLR4 knockout mice (TLR4KO). All three experimental groups, LDLrKO, TLR4KO and DKO were fed a high fat-cholesterol diet for 12 weeks. Plasma cholesterol and triacylglicerol concentrations were measured by colorimetric assay. Cross sections of aortic sinus were stained with Oil red O and lesion areas were quantified by an image analyzer. Collagen content was measured by picrossirius staining. We also measured nitrotyrosine formation, CD40L, MMP9 and iNOS expression by immunohistochemistry. Comparisons were made by ANOVA followed by Student-Newman-Keuls post- test. Data are mean ± SEM. DKO mice developed smaller plaques than LDLrKO mice (117.6 ±1.4 vs 198.8 ± 3.3 104m2). TLR4KO mice developed no plaque. Plaques from DKO mice have also a smaller lipid core than the ones from LDLrKO mice (76.2± 13.2 vs 161.7 ± 2.9 104m2). Collagen content around the lipid core is higher in DKO mice compared to LDLrKO mice (24.9 ± 1.8 vs 16.5 ± 2.5 % of the whole plaque). Interestingly, collagen distribution in DKO mice seems to occur mainly on the plaque periphery, in a more organized manner, while in LDLrKO mice it is fuzzier, being present also inside the plaque. Plaques from DKO present lower expression of CD40L and iNOS than LDLrKO mice (13.1 ± 0.7 vs 18.5 ± 2.5 AU and 7.7 ± 0.9 vs 10.2 ± 0.4 AU, respectively). MMP9 expression is lower in DKO mice as compared to LDLrKO mice (2.99 ± 0.3 vs 1.99 ± 0.2 AU). Nitrotyrosine staining was higher in LDLrKO mice as compared to DKO and TLR4KO groups (142. 89 ± 208.5, 77.16 ± 227.7 and 71.73 ± 95.9 10m2, respectively). All together, these findings suggest that inflammatory process is milder in the absence of TLR4. Serum cholesterol were not different between LDLrKO and DKO mice but LDLrKO presented higher triacylglicerol serum levels after 12 weeks on high fat high cholesterol diet as compared to DKO mice (265.2 ± 27.6 vs 150.5 ± 8.8). Toll like receptor 4 influences atherosclerotic plaque formation and structure independently from serum cholesterol levels

INTRODUÇÃO: O Sarcoma de Kaposi (SK) é a neoplasia mais frequente dos doentes com Aids. É causada pelo herpes-vírus 8 (HHV-8). As células dendríticas plasmocitóides (CDp) são especializadas na produção de interferon tipo 1 e participam da resposta imune aos vírus. Os receptores \"toll-like\" são os principais receptores de reconhecimento de padrão, sendo que os receptores toll-like (TLR) 3 e 9 têm função no reconhecimento de vírus. O D2-40 é o anticorpo que reconhece a podoplanina, uma proteína transmembrana, presente no endotélio linfático e que tem função na imunidade. OBJETIVO: Demonstrar e comparar os componentes da imunidade inata: CDp e TLR 3 e 9, nas lesões cutâneas de SK associado a Aids e esporádico. Identificar a presença do HHV-8 nas CDp. Verificar o componente endotelial linfático na progressão das lesões de SK e comparar a expressão dos elementos da imunidade inata estudados, nas lesões com menor e maior componente endotelial linfático. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo de 50 biopsias de pacientes com diagnóstico de SK, todos com comprovação pelo exame histopatológico e demonstração do antígeno nuclear associado à latência (LANA) do HHV-8. Foram avaliados 11 biopsias de SK da forma clássica (SKc), 22 lesões de doentes com Aids (SK-Aids) e de 17 de doentes com Aids submetidos a tratamento com terapia antirretroviral altamente eficaz (SK-Aids/HAART). Os espécimes foram submetidos a exame por técnica imuno-histoquímica para evidenciar a presença de CDp (anticorpo CD303/BDCA-2), a expressão de TLR 3 e 9, bem como de podoplanina (anticorpo D2-40). Foi realizada também técnica de dupla marcação com CD303 e LANA, objetivando a identificação de CDp infectadas pelo HHV-8.Vinte e três espécimes de granuloma piogênico constituíram o grupo controle. A população de CDp e expressão de TLR 3 e TLR 9 também foi comparada nas lesões cutâneas de SK de doentes com e sem comprometimento visceral pela neoplasia; lesões não tumorais (máculo-papulares/placas) foram comparadas às lesões tumorais (nodulares) e de acordo com níveis sanguíneos de linfócitos T CD4+ (menor e igual ou maior que 350 células/mm3). RESULTADOS: As CDp foram mais numerosas nos espécimes de SK-Aids quando comparado com o granuloma piogênico. Foram identificadas CDp infectadas pelo HHV-8. A expressão de TLR 3 foi menor nas lesões de SK, independente da forma epidemiológica, do que no granuloma piogênico. Para todas as outras comparações da densidade de CDp e expressão de TLR 3 e de TLR 9 não houve diferença entre os grupos. Não houve diferença no componente endotelial linfático das lesões máculo-papulares/placas e tumorais do SK, assim como na expressão dos elementos da imunidade inata estudados entre as lesões com maior e menor componente endotelial linfático. CONCLUSÕES: Demonstrou-se pela primeira vez a presença de CDp e a expressão de TLR 3 e 9 em lesões cutâneas do Sarcoma de Kaposi, bem como a infecção de CDp pelo HHV-8 \"in situ\" nos tumores. Os resultados obtidos sugerem a participação das células CDp e do TLR 3 na patogênese das lesões cutâneas do Sarcoma de Kaposi, independente da presença do vírus da imunodeficiência humana. A imunomarcação de SK com o anticorpo D2-40, tanto nas fases precoce como tardia das lesões, confirma a natureza endotelial linfática das células neoplásicas. Esta parece não ter relação com a expressão dos elementos da imunidade inata estudados
Introduction: Kaposi\'s sarcoma (KS) is the most common Aids-associated malignancy. It is caused by human herpesvirus-8. Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) are professional interferon producing cells, and participate in the immune response against viruses. Toll-like receptors (TLR) are the main pattern recognition receptors, and TLR 3 and TLR 9 participate in the recognition of viruses. Podoplanin, recognized by antibody D2-40, is a transmembrane protein identified on lymphatic endothelial cells with functions inimmunity. Objective: Demonstrate and compare some innate immunity components: pDC, TLR 3 and TLR 9, in cutaneous lesions of Aids-associated Kaposi\'s sarcoma and classic Kaposi\'s sarcoma. Identify the infection of pDC by HHV-8. Compare the lymphatic endothelial component in the course of tumor progression and compare the expression of innate immunity elements in lesions with a predominance of lymphatic endothelial components or not. Methods: Retrospective study of 50 biopsies diagnosed as Kaposi\'s sarcoma withpositive staining for latency-associated nuclear antigen (LANA) of HHV-8. Eleven classic KS, 22 Aids-associated KS and 17 Aids-associated KS from patients undergoing highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) were assessed. Paraffinembedded tissue was submitted to immunohistochemistry technique in order to demonstrate pDC (CD303/BDCA-2 antibody), expression of TLR 3, TLR 9 and podoplanin (D2-40 antibody). We performed double staining with CD303 and LANA in order to identify pDC infection with HHV-8. Twenty-three pyogenic granuloma(PG) specimens were analyzed as a control group. Plasmacytoid dendritic cells population, TLR 3 and TLR 9 expressions were compared between patients with and without visceral disease, nodular stageandpatch/plaque stage and according to bloodlymphocytes T CD4 count(=350 cells/mm3). Results: Plasmacytoid dendritic cells density in Aids-associated SK was higher than in PG. We could identify pDC infection by HHV-8. The expression of TLR 3 in all forms of KS was less extensive than PG. All others comparisons about pDC density, TLR 3 and 9expressions were similar. We found no difference in D2-40 expression between nodular and patch/plaque stages. When comparing tumors with extensive expression of D2-40 (>= 50% of cells) and tumors with less expression (<50% of cells), we found no differences in density of pDC and expression of TLR 3 and TLR 9. Conclusion: This is the first time that pDC, TLR 3 and TLR 9 have been demonstrated in skin lesions of KS, as well as the infection of pDC in the lesions. Our results suggest that pDC and TLR 3 participate in the pathogenesis of KS, independently of HIV presence. The positive staining with D2-40 antibody, in all the stages of KS, confirmsthe lymphatic nature of neoplastic cells. It seems that podoplanin is not related to the innate immunity elements studied here

Introdução e objetivo: Existem poucos estudos a respeito da imunidade inata em dermatofitoses (tinhas), este trabalho estudou a expressão dos receptores toll-like 2 e 4 em dermatofitoses por T. rubrum. Casuística e método: Estudaram-se sete pacientes com dermatofitose extensa, definida como pelo menos três segmentos corporais acometidos, e oito com a forma localizada. Inexistia qualquer imunodepressão primária ou secundária nos pacientes. Realizou-se em cada doente biópsia de área da pele lesada e sã, esta última distando pelo menos 4 cm da lesão. Outros 20 fragmentos de pele foram obtidos a partir de cirurgias estéticas. Utilizou-se a imuno-histoquímica com anticorpos anti-TLR2 e TLR4. As imagens foram analisadas pelo programa Image Pro Plus. A epiderme foi dividida em superficial e profunda, para análise da imunomarcação, considerando-se o ponto de divisão como 50% da sua espessura. Resultados: A análise da expressão do TLR4 em pacientes com tinha na epiderme superficial apresentou menores índices de densidade óptica (IDO), média 108,8±7,73 e 110,86±15,57 em pacientes com tinha localizada e extensa, respectivamente, em relação aos controles (145,26 ±21,88) com significância estatística. Também houve redução da expressão do TLR4 na epiderme profunda com IDO de 111,19±13,45 em dermatofitoses extensas e 144,65±17,20 nos controles (p=0,001). A análise da expressão do TLR2 na epiderme profunda em indivíduos com dermatofitose localizada evidenciou menor expressão na área lesada do que na sã do mesmo indivíduo, média 109,28±30,9 e 118,75±36,84, respectivamente (p 0.018). Embora não tenha havido redução da expressão do TLR2 na epiderme superficial comparativamente aos controles, na epiderme profunda encontrou-se, na área lesada das dermatofitoses extensas, menor expressão em relação aos controles, sendo 6,29±9,73 e 27,8±18,6, respectivamente. Conclusões: Encontrou-se menor expressão de TLR4 na epiderme superficial e profunda em indivíduos com dermatofitose comparativamente aos controles sadios. Em dermatofitoses extensas também a expressão de TLR2 está diminuída na epiderme profunda. Não existe diminuição da expressão do TLR2 na epiderme superficial provavelmente para manter a função de barreira da epiderme, onde este receptor é importante para coesão dos queratinócitos. Observou-se ainda menor expressão de TLR2 na pele lesada comparada à sã de indivíduos com dermatofitose localizada o que justificaria o fato destas lesões permanecerem limitadas a uma única área.
Introduction & Objectives: There are few studies to concern the role of innate immune response in dermatophytosis, so we conducted an investigation to define the involvement of TLRs in the course of tinea due T. rubrum infection. Patients & Methods: We allocated 8 patients with localised dermatophytosis and 7 with widespread one, defined as at least on three body segments. The skin was biopsied in two points: from lesion (active lesion) and healthy skin distant at least 4 cm. Twenty controls were obtained from cosmetic surgery. We use immunohistochemical staining with antibodies for antigens TLR 2 and 4. Images were analyzed. Results: (i) analysis of the expression of TLR4 of patients with tinea, found on the upper epidermis, average optical density index of 108,8±7,73 and 110,86±15,57 in localised and widespread tinea, respectively, and 145,26 ±21,88 in control skin; similar reduction maintain at lower one with average optical density index 111,19±13,45 in widespread tinea and 144,65±17,20 in controls p=0,001; (ii) analysis of TLR2 expression in the lower epidermis of patients with tinea met reduced optical density index in skin with localised tinea than in healthy skin, average 109,28±30,9 and 118,75±36,84, respectively, p 0.018. There were no reduction in TLR2 expression in upper epidermis compared to controls, although it was significant reduced in lower epidermis in widespread tinea, average 27,8±18,6 and 6,29±9,73. Conclusions: We found reduced expression of TLR4 in the lower and upper epidermis skin with tinea compared to controls in widespread and localised dermatophytosis. There was no reduction of TLR2 at upper epidermis probably in order to mantain the epidermal barrier function. We found yet a reduced expression of TLR2 in the infected skin compared to healthy one of the same patient with localised dermatophytosis which could explain that in these cases the tinea was not spread in extension.

INTRODUÇÃO: Os receptores Toll-like 2 e 4 (TLR-2 e TLR-4) são capazes de ativar células imunes inatas em resposta a bactérias Gram-positivas e Gram-negativas, respectivamente. Na artrite psoriásica (APs), doença articular inflamatória crônica, fatores genéticos, ambientais e infecciosos parecem estar envolvidos. OBJETIVO: Avaliar as expressões dos receptores: TLR-2; TLR-4; CD114 e do CD116 em monócitos e neutrófilos do sangue periférico de pacientes com APs e adicionalmente a prevalência do HLA-B27. MÉTODOS: Quarenta e cinco pacientes com diagnóstico de APs conforme os critérios CASPAR e 32 indivíduos saudáveis foram estudados. Dentre os 45 pacientes, 27 apresentavam APs ativa (DAS28 > 2,6) e 18 APs inativa (DAS28 < 2,5). A leitura das expressões do TLR-2, TLR-4, CD14, CD66, CD114, CD116 e do HLA-B27 foi realizada por citometria de fluxo no FACSCalibur da marca Becton-Dickson, utilizando anticorpos monoclonais da BD Biosciences, anti-humanos produzidos em murino. Os anticorpos monoclonais (AcMo) para marcar receptores de membrana empregados foram: CD14 conjugado com PerCP-Cy5.5 para marcar população de monócitos; CD66 conjugado com PE e FITC para população de neutrófilos; CD114 para marcar receptor de fator estimulatório de colônias de granulócitos e CD116 para marcar receptor de fator estimulatório de colônia de granulócitos-macrófagos. A análise estatística utilizou o teste U de Mann-Whitney e o teste exato de Fisher. Os valores obtidos em porcentagem foram expressos como média ± intervalo interquartil, de acordo com uma distribuição não-paramétrica, avaliados pelo teste de Shapiro-Wilk. RESULTADOS: Demonstramos aumento de expressão do TLR-2 em monócitos periféricos de pacientes com APs, APs ativa e APs inativa comparados aos controles (p < 0,002; p < 0,001 e p < 0,04, respectivamente). A expressão do TLR-4 foi similar nos pacientes com APs, APs ativa e APs inativa e controles (p < 0,23; p < 0,33 e p < 0,29, respectivamente). A expressão do receptor GCSF (CD114) e do receptor GM-CSF (CD116) foi similar nos pacientes e controles nas populações de monócitos e neutrófilos (p > 0,05). O HLA-B27 foi positivo em 1/3 dos pacientes com APs e 6% dos controles. Nos pacientes HLA-B27+ comparados aos controles HLA-B27+, a porcentagem de expressão do TLR-2 nos monócitos foi significantemente maior (p < 0,004). CONCLUSÃO: O aumento da expressão do TLR-2 em monócitos de pacientes com APs reforça o papel da imunidade inata e sugere que a exposição a bactérias Gram-positivas possa ter um papel na indução da resposta inflamatória nesta doença
INTRODUCTION: Toll-Like receptors 2 and 4 (TLR-2 and TLR-4) are able of activating innate immune cells in response to Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, respectively. In Psoriatic Arthritis (APs), chronic inflammatory joint disease and genetic, environmental and infectious factors seems to be involved. OBJECTIVES: Evaluate expressions of TLR-2; TLR-4; CD114 and CD116 receptors in monocytes and neutrophils from peripheral blood patients with APs and additionally the prevalence of HLA-B27. METHODS: Forty five patients diagnosed with APs according with CASPAR criteria and 32 health individuals were studied. Among the 45 patients, 27 presented active APs (DAS28 > 2,6) and 18 inactive APs (DAS28 < 2,5). The evaluation of the TRL-2, TLR-4, CD14, CD66, CD114, CD116 and HLA-B27 expressions was held by flow cytometry in FACSCalibur from Becton-Dickson, utilizing BD Biosciences\' monoclonal antibodies, anti-human produced in mice. The monoclonal antibodies (AcMo) used to mark membrane receptors were: CD14 in conjunction with PerCP-Cy 5.5 to mark population of monocytes; CD66 in conjunction with PE and FITC for population of neutrophils; CD114 to mark stimulatory factor receptor for granulocyte colonies and CD116 to mark stimulatory factor receptor for granulocyte-macrophage colony. The statistical analysis utilized Mann-Whitney\'s U test and Fisher\'s exact test. The values obtained as percentages were expressed as median ± interquartile range, consistent with a non-parametrical distribution, assessed by Shapiro-Wilk\'s test. RESULTS: Increased expression of TLR-2 in peripheral monocytes of patients with APs, active APs and inactive APs compared to controls (p < 0.002; p < 0.001 and p < 0.04, respectively). TLR-4 expression was similar in patients with APs, active APs and inactive APs and controls (p < 0.23; p < 0.33 and p < 0.29 respectively). The expression of the G-CSF (CCD114) receptor and GM-CSF (CD116) receptor were similar in patients and controls in populations of monocytes and neutrophils (p > 0.05). HLA-B27 was positive in 1/3 of the patients with APs and 6% of the controls. The percentage of expression of TLR-2 in HLA-B27 + patients compared to HLA-B27 + controls was significantly higher (p < 0.004). CONCLUSION: Increased of TLR-2 receptors expression in patients with APs monocytes reinforces the role of innate immunity and suggests that the exposure to Gram-positive bacteria may have a role in the induction of the inflammatory response in this diseases

INTRODUÇÃO: Apesar do contínuo progresso no tratamento e suporte clínico a sepse continua sendo uma das principais causas de morbidade e mortalidade nas unidades de terapia intensiva, com desfechos semelhantes ao longo dos últimos 50 anos. A suscetibilidade à infecção grave no recém-nascido é parcialmente devida à imaturidade do sistema imune inato associado à mínima em exposição antigênica in utero e à ação ineficaz das células T efetoras e das célula B. Embora a ativação do sistema imune inato por padrões de reconhecimento (PRR) como os dos receptores Toll-like (TLR) tenham sua importância amplamente reconhecida nos últimos anos, seu comportamento frente a uma infecção in vivo ainda não foi completamente compreendido. Neste trabalho nós analisamos a expressão dos TLR-2 e TLR-4 em células apresentadoras de antígeno em recém-nascidos com e sem sepse. CAUSUÍSTICA E MÉTODO: Trata-se de um estudo prospectivo realizado no período entre fevereiro de 2011 e janeiro de 2013 onde foram incluídos quarenta e cinco recém-nascidos a termo, sem malformação congênita, admitidos na Unidade de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatal do Instituto da Criança-HCFMUSP e divididos em grupos 1 e 2. O grupo 1 consistiu em 27 recém-nascidos com diagnóstico clínico e laboratorial de sepse tardia enquanto que o grupo 2 foi composto por 18 recém-nascidos sem quadro séptico vigente. As citocinas foram determinadas por teste de CBA em sangue periférico. A expressão e MFI dos TLR-2 e TLR-4 foi determinado por imunofenotipagem em APCs e linfócitos no sangue periférico total através de análise pelo citômetro de fluxo BD FACSDiva. RESULTADOS: Os dados clínicos foram semelhantes entre os grupos 1 e 2, exceto para o estado infeccioso. Microrganismos foram identificados em 37 % no grupo 1 e estes tiveram níveis mais elevados de citocinas pró-inflamatórias (IL-8, IL-6, IL-1beta) e de citocina anti-inflamatória (IL-10). Nas células dendríticas, a expressão de TLR-2 e 4 foi semelhante entre os grupos enquanto que houve menor expressão nos pacientes infectados da molécula co-estimuladora CD86 (p < 0,05) e expressão semelhante de CD1a e CD80 em relação aos RN não infectados. No monócito, o MFI para TLR-2 e a freqüência de expressão do TLR-4 foi maior no grupo 1 (p = 0,01). Apesar da frequência de linfócitos totais ter sido mais baixa no grupo 1 (p = 0,002), não foi observada diferença quanto as suas subpopulações exceto em relação a maior frequência de LT efetor no grupo infectado com menor expressão da molécula CD28. Houve maior frequência de LB ativados no grupo 1 enquanto que a população total e as demais subpopulações foram semelhantes em número, moléculas de ativação e na expressão dos TLR-2 e 4 em ambos os grupos. CONCLUSÃO: Este estudo analisou a resposta imune inata no recém-nascido com e sem sepse. As IL-6, IL-8 e IL-10 foram bons indicadores desta doença. Recém-nascidos sépticos, que dependem quase exclusivamente do sistema imune inato, apresentaram pouca resposta in vivo na ativação de células dendríticas e monócitos propiciando uma resposta imune deficiente e maior susceptibilidade à infecção
INTRODUCTION: Despite continuous progress in the clinical treatment and other supportive care therapies, sepsis remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the intensive care unit with similar outcome throughout the past 50 years. The susceptibility to severe infection is partially due to newborn immature innate immune system associated to minimal in utero antigen exposure and effector T and B cell impaired function. Although the importance of pattern recognition domains such as Toll-like receptors (TLR) in the innate immune system activation has been fully acknowledged within the last few years its behavior in front of an in vivo infection scenario is still not completely understood. Here we analyzed the TLR-2 and TLR-4 expression in antigen-presenting cell in healthy and septic newborns. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This prospective study was conducted during the period from February 2011 until January 2013 at Sao Paulo University, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Forty-five term newborns without congenital malformation were included from the Newborn Intensive Care Unit at Children\'s Hospital. As group 1, 27 newborns who had clinical and laboratory diagnostic of late onset sepsis were included while 18 newborns were evaluated in a non-septic status and were included at group 2. Cytokines were measured by cytometric bead array in peripheral blood. TLR-2 and TLR-4 expression and MFI were determined by immunophenotyping at peripheral whole blood in APC cells and lymphocytes and analyzed on a BD FACSDiva flow cytometer. RESULTS: Clinical data was similar between septic and non-septic groups except for the infectious status. Group 1 had microorganisms identified in 37 % septic newborns associated with higher levels of pro-inflammatory (IL-8, IL-6, IL-1beta) and anti-inflammatory interleukins (IL-10). When it comes to dendritic cells, the expression of TLR-2 and 4 was similar between groups whereas there was lower expression of co-molecule CD86 (p < 0,05) and similar expression of CD1a and CD80 between infected and non-infected patients. At monocytes, the MFI for TLR-2 and the frequency of TLR-4 expression was higher in infected newborn (p=0,01). There were lower levels of total lymphocytes in infected patients (p=0,002) but no difference was observed in T cells subtypes frequency except for higher levels of effector T cell in infected group with lower expression of CD28 molecule. Group 1 had higher levels of activated B cell whereas total population and the other subsets were similar in number, activation molecules and TLR-2 and 4 expressions in both groups. CONCLUSION: This study investigated the innate immune response in septic and non-septic newborn. Interleukin levels 6, 8 and 10 were good indicators of sepsis. Septic newborns, which count most exclusively with innate immune system, had little in vivo response at dendritic cell and monocyte activation leading to an impaired immune response and increased susceptibility to infection

Acidentes escorpiônicos podem evoluir com edema pulmonar de origem cardiogênica e não cardiogênica. O clearance de edema pulmonar está relacionado principalmente ao transporte ativo de sódio do espaço alveolar para o interstício. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos do veneno de Tityus serrulatus e da dexametasona sobre a expressão dos transportadores de sódio e água e do TLR4 em pulmão de ratos. Foram utilizados ratos Wistar, divididos em três grupos: controle (salina); grupo Vn, que recebeu o veneno de T. serrulatus (3.8 mg/kg) por via intraperitoneal (ip), e o grupo Dx+Vn, que recebeu dexametasona (2.0 mg/kg) por via ip, uma hora antes da injeção do veneno. Os experimentos foram realizados uma hora após a injeção do veneno. Foram realizadas análise bioquímica e dosagens de citocinas no plasma. Nos pulmões foram estudados a expressão de -ENaC, Na+-K+- ATPase, NKCC1, AQP-5 e TRL4 através de western blotting, e a expressão do NF-kB e infiltração de células CD68+ (monócitos/macrófagos) e neutrófilos, através de imunoistoquímica. O veneno de T. serrulatus diminuiu a expressão pulmonar de -ENaC e AQP-5, enquanto aumentou a expressão do NKCC1. A dexametasona preveniu os efeitos do veneno sobre a expressão da -ENaC e NKCC1, mas não da AQP5. Não foi observada alteração da expressão da 1- Na+-K+-ATPase . A expressão do TLR4 foi maior nos animais envenenados que nos grupos Cont e Dx+Vn. O níveis plasmáticos de IL-6, IL-10 e TNF- estavam aumentados nos grupo Vn e Dx+Vn em relação ao controle. O infiltrado de células CD68+ foi maior no grupo Vn. A expressão de NF-kB e o infiltrado ne neutrófilos no tecido pulmonar foi semelhantes nos três grupos avaliados. Os resultados encontrados sugerem que o veneno de T. serrulatus tem efeito sobre as proteínas transportadoras de sódio em células do epitélio alveolar e também sobre a expressão do TLR4 em pulmão; a dexametasona pode regular essas ações
Scorpion envenomation can cause cardiogenic and noncardiogenic pulmonary edema. Pulmonary edema clearance is largely related to active Na+ transport out of the alveoli, rather than to reversal of Starling forces. Our objective was determine the effects of Tityus serrulatus venom and dexamethasone on the pulmonary expression of sodium and water transporters, and Toll-like receptor 4. Wistar rats were divided into groups and injected intraperitoneally: control (saline only); venom (T. serrulatus venom3.8 mg/kg body weight); and dexamethasone+venom (dexamethasone2.0 mg/kg body weight60 min before venom inoculation). At 60 min after venom inoculation, interleukin-6 and -10, together with tumor necrosis factor alpha, were analyzed in plasma. In lungs, we determined expression of the epithelial sodium channel alpha subunit; Na,K-ATPase alpha 1 subunit; Na-K-2Cl cotransporter, NKCC1; aquaporin 5; Toll-like receptor 4 (by Western blotting); and nuclear factor-kappa B. We determined CD68 and neutrophil counts by immunohistochemistry. In venom group lungs, the epithelial sodium channel alpha subunit and aquaporin 5 were markedly downregulated, whereas NKCC1 was elevated, although the Na,K-ATPase alpha 1 subunit was unaffected. Dexamethasone protected the epithelial sodium channel alpha subunit, NKCC1, and Toll-like receptor 4 but not aquaporin 5. Serum interleukin 6, interleukin 10, and tumor necrosis factor alpha were elevated in both groups, as was CD68 expression. Neutrophil counts and nuclear factor-kappa B expression were comparable across groups. Our data show that T. serrulatus venom alters sodium transport in alveolar epithelial cells and increases Toll-like receptor 4 expression. Dexamethasone appears to partially protect against those effects

INTRODUÇÃO: O receptor tipo Toll 4 (TLR4) pertencente a uma família de receptores do sistema imune inato, reconhece o padrão molecular de lipopolissacarídeos (LPS), expressos por bactérias Gram negativas. Sua cascata de sinalização, nas células apresentadoras de antígeno, ocorre por duas vias principais: MyD88-dependente, que resulta na ativação de NF-B e na expressão de genes de resposta inflamatória e MyD88-independente, responsável pela ativação dos fatores IRF3 e IRF7, culminando na síntese de interferons e , envolvidos na resposta anti-viral e anti-bacteriana. Células não-imunes, de diversos tecidos, também expressam TLR4, incluindo células pancreáticas murinas e humanas. Devido ao seu papel nos processos inflamatórios, os TLR estão implicados em doenças crônicas como obesidade e diabetes. Estudo anterior do grupo identificou TLR4 como uma molécula que ativa sinais inflamatórios e provoca alterações na homeostase das células . Neste trabalho, investigamos qual via é ativada por LPS e quais os efeitos da expressão do TLR4 na viabilidade celular e na produção de insulina em células murinas. MÉTODOS: Células MIN6 (linhagem celular de insulinoma de camundongo) foram cultivadas em condições de hipo (2,8mM glicose), normo (5,6mM glicose) e hiperglicemia (11,2mM glicose), por 4 dias. Após esse período, foi adicionado LPS (50 ng/mL) por 48h e foram feitas análises por PCR em tempo real, Western Blot, ELISA e citometria de fluxo. RESULTADOS: Os resultados confirmam o aumento de TLR4 em células em condições de hiperglicemia e a via de sinalização ativada por LPS é a via MyD88-dependente, envolvida na produção de citocinas pró-inflamatórias. A via de indução de intérferons tipo 1 está ausente nestas células. Além disso, TLR4 ativado por LPS aumentou secreção de insulina em resposta a glicose, mas não induziu a morte celular. CONCLUSÃO: A expressão de TLR4 em células pancreáticas murinas é induzida em resposta ao aumento da glicemia, constituindo um novo elo entre a agressão à célula causada por altos níveis de glicose e a alteração da função celular induzida por LPS
INTRODUCTION: Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) belongs to a family of innate immunity receptors and recognizes the molecular pattern present in lipopolysaccharides (LPS), typical of Gram-negative bacteria. There are two TLR4 signaling pathways, typically in antigen-presenting cells: one is MyD88-dependent, activating NF-kB transcription factor and triggering inflammatory cytokine production and the other is MyD88-independent, leading to activation of IRF3 and IRF-7 and production of interferons e , involved in antiviral and antibacterial immune responses. Non-immune cells in several tissues also express TLR4, including human and murine pancreatic cells. Due to their role in inflammatory processes, TLRs have been implicated in chronic diseases like obesity and diabetes. Our previous study identified TLR4 as a molecule which activates inflammatory signals and induces changes in cell homeostasis. In this study, we investigated which of the TLR4 pathways is activated by LPS and the effects of glucose levels on cell viability and insulin production in a mouse insulinoma cell line. METHODS: MIN6 cells were maintained in low (2,8mM), normal (5,6mM) and high (11,2mM) glucose levels for 4 days, and then incubated with LPS (50 ng/mL) for 48 hours. Analyses were done by real-time PCR, Western Blot, ELISA and flow cytometry. RESULTS: Analysis confirmed increase in TLR4 gene expression in hyperglycemic conditions and showed that the signaling pathway activated by LPS is MyD88-dependent. The interferon induction pathway is absent in these cells. Furthermore, upon activation by LPS, TLR4 impacts on insulin secretion in response to glucose, but without triggering cell death. CONCLUSION: We conclude that TLR4 expression in mouse pancreatic cells is induced in response to increased glucose levels, constituting a new link in the chain of events leading to cell stress caused by high glucose levels with concomitant changes in cell function induced by LPS

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a dynamic interface, mainly consisting of highly specialized brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) that segregate the central nervous system (CNS) from the peripheral circulation. Impairment of the BBB, due to disruption of tight junction (TJ) proteins and inflammatory responses, may initiate and/or contribute to the progress of CNS disorders, including stroke. Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide. It has been shown that aging and environmental pollutants can induce brain endothelium dysfunction, and are considered as risk factors for stroke. Deficiency of telomerase is highly linked with aging-associated vascular diseases. Evidence indicates that patients with shorter telomere length are at higher risk of heart disease or stroke. Results in this dissertation address the influence of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), a key component of telomerase, on the BBB integrity in the context of ischemic stroke induced brain injury. Our results indicate that aging-related BBB alterations aggregate the stroke outcomes by inducing oxidative stress and stimulating proinflammatory responses on the brain microvessels. The ability of the BBB to protect the brain from harmful compounds indicates that the BBB may be targeted by chemical toxicants in the peripheral circulation. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants that frequently bind to nanoparticles (NPs) in the environment. Our results demonstrate that binding PCB153, one of the most abundant PCB congeners in the environment, to silica nanoparticles (PCB153-NPs) potentiates cerebrovascular toxicity and stroke outcomes via stimulation of inflammatory responses and disruption of BBB integrity. These events are mediated by activation of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), which subsequently recruits tumor necrosis factor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) and initiates the production of multiple inflammatory mediators. Research presented in this dissertation demonstrates that aging and environmental pollutants play crucial roles in modifying the function of the BBB through alterations of inflammatory responses and TJ protein expression, which further contribute to the progression of stroke-induced cerebral ischemic injury.

Malária é uma das principais causas de doença e morte no mundo, principalmente de crianças. É considerada a força de seleção evolucionária mais forte que se conhece na história recente do genoma humano. Além dos fatores ambientais e do próprio parasito, fatores genéticos do hospedeiro têm um papel fundamental tanto na suscetibilidade como na evolução clínica da infecção. O sistema imune inato reconhece os plasmódios através de um número limitado de receptores de reconhecimento padrão (PRRs) e inicia vários mecanismos de defesa que resultam no desenvolvimento de inflamação e resistência do hospedeiro à infecção. Mas, a eliminação completa do parasito requer respostas imunes adaptativas que são amplificadas pela ativação do sistema imune inato. As manifestações clínicas de malária são dependentes dos níveis de citocinas próinflamatórias circulantes produzidas, as quais em níveis altos contribuem para a imunopatologia da doença. O balanço entre respostas pró e antiinflamatórias dirigidas contra o parasito é considerado crítico para a proteção clínica, assim a resposta imune inata pode contribuir tanto para proteção da malária como para modular a resposta imune adaptativa. Neste estudo, nós investigamos polimorfismos de um único nucleotídeo (SNP) dos genes de três PRRs: TLR, MBL e CR1 de indivíduos infectados por Plasmodium e residentes em áreas endêmicas de malária no Brasil. Os SNPs TLR1 (I602S), TLR4 (D229G), TLR6 (S249P), TLR9 (T-1237C/ -1486C), MBL [exon 1 nos códons 52, 54, e 57 (MBL2*A ou D, A ou B e A ou C, respectivamente); na região do promotor na posição -221 (*X ou *Y); e na posição +4 da região não traduzida (*P ou *Q)] e CR-1(C5507G) foram determinados por PCR-RFLP. Nós observamos associações entre os polimorfismos TLR1 I602S, TLR6 S249P e da região não traduzida +4 (*Q) e manifestações clínicas de malária e entre os polimorfismos TLR9 T-1486C, TLR T-1237C, MBL*D (códon 52) e do diplótipo de produção insuficiente de MBL (XA+O/O) e parasitemias mais altas. Nenhuma associação foi observada entre o polimorfismo CR-1 C5507G e manifestações clínicas de malária ou com parasitemia. Ao analisarmos juntos os polimorfismos de MBL e TLR, observamos que indivíduos com diplótipo de produção suficiente de MBL (YA/YA+YA/XA+YA/O+XA/XA) TLR1 I602S tinham menos manifestações clínicas de malária e indivíduos com diplótipo de produção suficiente de MBL e não carreadores do alelo TLR9 -1486C tinham parasitemias mais baixas do que os indivíduos com diplótipo de produção insuficiente de MBL e carreadores dos alelos variantes de TLR1 I602S e TLR9 -1486C, respectivamente. Juntos, nossos dados indicam que polimorfismos do promotor de TLR-9 e os diplótipos de produção insuficiente de MBL (XA+O/O) devem de algum modo controlar o nível de parasitemia por plasmódios enquanto a deficiência de TLR1 parece predispor para a presença de manifestações clínicas de malária. Também, podemos sugerir que existe uma cooperação entre TLR1, TLR9 e MBL na ativação da resposta imune inata na malária. Estes achados genéticos devem contribuir para o entendimento da patogênese da malária e levantar uma questão potencialmente interessante que é digna de investigações posteriores em outras populações a fim de validar a contribuição genética destes loci na patogênese da malária
Malaria is one of the major causes of disease and death worldwide, mainly of children. It is also the strongest known force for evolutionary selection in the recent history of the human genome. Besides environmental and parasite factors, host genetic factors play a major role in determining both susceptibility to malaria and the course of infection. Innate immune mechanisms directed against Plasmodium parasites both contribute to protection from malaria and modulate adaptive immune responses. The innate immune system recognizes Plasmodium via a limited number of pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) and initiates a broad spectrum of defense mechanisms that result in the development of inflammation and host resistance to infection. But, the complete control of the infection requires adaptive immune responses; and the innate immune system is also very efficient in instructing the cellular mediators of adaptive immunity to lead a powerful additional strike force against the parasite. Clinical malaria is characterized by high levels of circulating proinflammatory cytokines, which are thought to contribute to the immunopathology of the disease. The balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory responses toward the parasite is considered critical for clinical protection. The innate immune system initiates and thus sets the threshold of immune responses. In this study, we investigated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the genes of three PRRs: TLR, MBL and CR1 in Plasmodium-infected individuals living in endemic areas of Brazil. The SNPs TLR1 (I602S), TLR4 (D229G), TLR6 (S249P), TLR9 (T-1237C/ -1486C), MBL [in the coding sequence of exon 1 at codons 52, 54, and 57 (MBL2*A or D, A or B, and A or C, respectively); in the promoter region at position -221 (*X or *Y); and in the untranslated sequence at position +4 (*P or *Q)] and CR-1(C5507G) were determined by PCR-RFLP. We observed associations of the TLR1 I602S, TLR6 S249P and untranslated sequence at position +4 MBL (*Q) variants with clinical manifestations of malaria and of the TLR9 T-1486C, TLR9 T-1237C, MBL2*D and MBL-insufficient diplotype (XA+O/O) with higher parasitemias. No association was observed to the CR-1 C5507G ) and clinical manifestations of malaria or parasitemia. Also, we observed that individuals with MBLsufficient haplotype (YA/YA+YA/XA+YA/O+XA/XA) and not bearing the allele TLR1 I602S had less clinical manifestations of malaria and individuals with MBL-sufficient haplotype and not bearing TLR9 -1486C had lower parasitemias when compared to individuals with MBL-insufficient diplotype and bearing the variant alleles TLR1 I602S and TLR9 -1486C, respectively. Altogether, our data indicate that TLR-9 promoter and MBL-insufficient haplotype (XA+O/O) polymorphisms to some extent may control the level of Plasmodium parasitemia while TLR1 deficiency seems to predispose to mild malaria. Also, they could suggest cooperation among TLR1, TLR9 and MBL in the immune response against malaria. These genetic findings may contribute to the understanding of the pathogenesis of malaria and raise a potentially interesting issue that is worthy of further investigation in other population in order to validate the genetics contribution of these loci to the pathogenesis of malaria

Sepse é a resposta inflamatória sistêmica decorrente de infecção grave, com alto índice de mortalidade, tornando-se um grave problema de saúde pública. Apesar dos inúmeros estudos realizados em busca de alternativas terapêuticas, o entendimento acerca dos mecanismos envolvidos na doença permanece restrito. A interação entre o metabolismo lipídico e a resposta inflamatória tem sido intensamente investigada. Neste estudo, avaliou-se a influência da proteína de transferência de colesterol esterificado (CETP) - glicoproteína plasmática que promove a transferência de lípides entre lipoproteínas - na resposta inflamatória. Inicialmente, foram comparados camundongos transgênicos para CETP humana (CETP) e controles irmãos não transgênicos (WT) submetidos ao modelo de sepse polimicrobiana de ligadura e perfuração do ceco (CLP), avaliando a taxa de sobrevida e o perfil inflamatório entre os grupos. Em seguida, a resposta inflamatória em macrófagos de peritônio de camundongos estimulados com LPS na ausência ou presença da CETP exógena (CETP humana recombinante) e endógena (macrófagos de animais CETP) foi analisada. Verificou-se que camundongos CETP apresentaram maior taxa de sobrevida, maior migração de linfócitos para o foco infeccioso, menores concentrações plasmáticas de IL-6 e menor expressão proteica do receptor Toll-like 4 (TLR4) e da enzima aciloxiacilo hidrolase (AOAH) no fígado, comparados aos WT. Nos macrófagos, observou-se que a presença da CETP recombinante foi capaz de se ligar ao LPS, pela análise da microscopia confocal, e, em cultura, reduziu de forma dose dependente a captação de LPS, a expressão de TLR4, a ativação do NF-kB (p65) e a secreção de IL-6 para o sobrenadante do cultivo celular. Os dados obtidos com os macrófagos de animais CETP corroboraram, em parte, os encontrados com a utilização da CETP exógena. Houve redução da captação de LPS e da ativação do NF-kB (p65), sem alteração na expressão de TLR4 e secreção de IL-6. Entretanto, apresentaram redução das concentrações de TNF-alfa celular e no sobrenadante de cultura. Dessa maneira, foi possível concluir que a CETP atua como agente modulador da resposta inflamatória induzida pela CLP e em macrófagos estimulados pelo LPS. Esses achados devem ser considerados nas doenças inflamatórias e nos futuros estudos relacionados à inibição da CETP, além de estabelecer novas perspectivas de tratamento da sepse
Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response due to serious infection with high mortality rate, which has become a serious problem for public health. Despite numerous studies seeking for therapeutic alternatives, the understanding of the mechanisms involved in this disease remains limited. The interaction between lipid metabolism and inflammatory response has been intensively investigated. In the present study it was evaluated the influence of CETP (cholesteryl ester transfer protein) - plasma glycoprotein that promotes the transfer of lipids between lipoprotein - in the inflammatory response. Initially transgenic mice for human CETP (CETP) were compared to non transgenic control mice (WT) after polymicrobial sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), to determine survival rate and the inflammatory profile between groups. Then, macrophages isolated from peritoneal cavity stimulated with LPS in the presence or absence of exogenous CETP (recombinant human CETP) and endogenous CETP (macrophages from CETP mice) were analyzed. It was found that CETP mice showed a higher survival rate, a greater lymphocyte migration to infectious focus, a lower IL-6 plasma concentration and a decrease in Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and acyloxyacyl hydrolase enzyme (AOAH) protein expression in the liver in comparison to WT mice. In macrophages, recombinant CETP was able to bind to LPS, by confocal microscopy analysis and in cell culture, it was observed that in the presence of the recombinant CETP macrophages presented decreased in LPS uptake, TLR4 expression, NF-kB activation (p65) and IL-6 secretion into the cell culture medium. Furthermore, the results with macrophages from animals CETP corroborate partly with what was found in the exogenous experiments. LPS uptake and NF-kB activation (p65) were reduced, but no difference regarding the expression of TLR4, nor the IL-6 secretion to the cell culture medium. However, the CETP group also showed reduced levels of TNF-alfa both in macrophages and in the culture supernatant. Thus, we conclude that CETP acts as modulator of the inflammatory response induced by CLP and in the macrophages stimulated by LPS. In addition, new therapeutic perspectives could be established

River buffalo are economically important to many countries and only recently has their genome been explored for the purpose of mapping genetic variation in traits of economic and biologic interest. The purpose of this research is to characterize the genetic and evolutionary profile of Toll-like receptor 5 (TLR5), which mediates the mammalian innate immune response to bacterial flagellin. This study is comprised of three parts: 1) generating a radiation hybrid (RH) map of river buffalo chromosome 5 (BBU5) where the TLR5 gene is located and building a comparative map with homologous cattle chromosomes; 2) conducting a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) survey of the TLR5 gene to reveal variation within river buffalo and other species; and 3) performing an evolutionary study by inferring phylogenetic trees of TLR5 across multiple taxa and determining the possible evolutionary constraints within the TLR5 coding region. River buffalo chromosome 5 is a bi-armed chromosome with arms corresponding to cattle chromosomes 16 and 29. A BBU5 RH map was developed using the previously published river buffalo RH mapping panel and cattle-derived markers. The RH map developed in this study became an integral part of the first river buffalo whole genome RH map. Genetic variation of the TLR5 gene was evaluated in a small domestic herd of river buffalo. Sequencing of the TLR5 coding region and partial associated 5'- and 3'-untranslated regions yielded 16 novel SNPs. Six SNPs were identified as non-synonymous with one predicted to potentially code for a functionally altered product. For the evolutionary study of the TLR5 coding region, phylogenetic trees were inferred based on TLR5 variation across multiple orders and another for artiodactyla. Species that are closely related to river buffalo appear to have undergone negative selection in TLR5 while those that diverged from river buffalo earlier may be retaining alleles that river buffalo are removing from the population. In conclusion, putative chromosomal rearrangements were identified between river buffalo and cattle, the variation that was uncovered in the TLR5 coding region could potentially lead to differential immunity across species, and there appears be some evolutionary flexibility in the DNA sequence of the TLR5 coding region.

A platform for vaccine development has been developed at Georgia State University utilizing recombinant Salmonella typhimurium flagellin (FliC) fused to an antigen that can be overexpressed in Escherichia coli grown in a two-stage fermentation. The flagellin acts as an adjuvant to increase the immunopotency of the fused antigen. Flagellin is the ligand for Toll-like Receptor 5 (TLR5), a part of the innate immune system. Binding of the flagellin:antigen recombinant protein to TLR5 triggers a strong innate and adaptive immune response to the fused antigen leading to a potentially strong protective immunity to the antigen. Purification of the recombinant FliC fusion protein must meet rigorous criteria in order to be used as a vaccine. One of the major issues in purifying recombinant proteins expressed in a Gram-negative bacterium is the removal of endotoxin. Small amounts of endotoxin present in a vaccine can lead to serious complications, including death. Recombinant proteins are also expressed as either soluble or insoluble protein when over expressed in E. coli. Soluble proteins expressed by the bacterium are properly folded and biologically active, however removal of contaminants such as endotoxin, can be problematic. Insoluble protein is improperly folded and biologically inactive. The insoluble proteins aggregate into inclusion bodies with little or no contaminants associated with the protein, making purification easier. However, in order to restore the biological activity of the insoluble protein, it must first be solubilized and then refolded. This process is often expensive and time consuming, as there is currently no standardized method for protein refolding. In this study a purification method for the soluble protein of two FliC constructs, full-length FliC and FliC fused to a Marburg virus antigen, was evaluated for effectiveness in purification, removal of endotoxin and maintaining TLR5 activity. The proteins of interest were purified utilizing only the soluble protein containing the properly folded and biologically active recombinant protein. Utilizing methods for purification that take advantage of physical and chemical properties of the protein the recombinant proteins were purified and the level of endotoxin reduced to levels acceptable for use as a vaccine. The TLR5 activity of the soluble recombinant proteins was compared to recombinant protein that had been purified using a denaturing and refolding step. The soluble protein elicited a higher TLR5 response at a lower concentration of protein than the refolded protein. Purification of the soluble fraction also involved fewer step and less time than purification of both the soluble and insoluble protein.

Gain-of-function polymorphisms in the gene encoding human interferon regulatory factor-5 (IRF5) are associated with an increase in risk for the development of the autoimmune disease Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). IRF5 is a transcription factor that participates in the activation of the immune system through its role in both innate and adaptive immune cells. To determine the role of IRF5 in lupus pathogenesis in vivo, we evaluated the effect of Irf5-deficiency in the MRL/lpr mouse lupus model. We find that Irf5-deficient (Irf5-/-) MRL/lpr mice develop much less severe disease than their Irf5-sufficient (Irf5+/+) littermates, demonstrating an important role for IRF5 in disease pathogenesis in vivo. Patients with SLE are at increased risk for the development of atherosclerosis due in large part to poorly-defined lupus-specific risk factors. One such lupus-specific risk factor is thought to be chronic inflammation associated with the autoimmune process. As IRF5 is involved in pro-inflammatory responses we hypothesized that Irf5-deficiency would ameliorate atherosclerosis development in the context of autoimmunity. We therefore examined the role of IRF5 in the gld.apoE-/- mouse model of lupus and lupus-associated atherosclerosis. Irf5-deficiency led to a decrease in splenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, anti-nuclear autoantibody production and the severity of kidney disease. Surprisingly, despite the reduction in systemic autoimmunity, Irf5-deficiency led to a marked increase in the severity of atherosclerosis and to metabolic dysregulation characterized by hyperlipidemia, increased adiposity and insulin-resistance. Bone marrow chimera studies revealed that the pathogenic role of IRF5 in lupus was solely due to its expression in hematopoietic cells. The atheroprotective effect of Irf5 and the suppression of adiposity were found to be due to Irf5 expression in both hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic cells, whereas protection from hyperlipidemia was solely due to the expression of Irf5 in non-hematopoietic cells. Together, our results reveal a role for IRF5 in metabolic homeostasis, as well as in protection against atherosclerosis even in the setting of reduced lupus severity.