1. |
- Kvarnström, Maria, 1971-, et al.
(author)
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Effect of cryopreservation on expression of Th1 and Th2 cytokines in blood mononuclear cells from patients with different cytokine profiles, analysed with three common assays: an overall decrease of interleukin-4 : An overall decrease of interleukin-4
- 2004
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In: Cryobiology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0011-2240 .- 1090-2392. ; 49:2, s. 157-168
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Studies on cytokine expression in blood cells are commonly performed on cryopreserved cells. Previous studies show that cryopreservation affects cytokine expression, but the findings are not consistent. This may be due to divergent effects of freezing on different cytokines, different stimuli, and different patient groups or to the use of different assays in the studies. This study was designed to investigate the effect of freezing on spontaneous, auto-antigen, allergen, and mitogen induced cytokine secretion from peripheral blood mononuclear cells from several groups of patients expressing different cytokine profiles; multiple sclerosis, atopic children, non-atopic children, and pregnant women. The expression of IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-5, IL-9, IL-10, and IL-13 was analysed with ELISA, ELISPOT and/or real time RT-PCR. Our data provide evidence that the process of cryopreservation and thawing does affect the expression of cytokines, both at the protein and the mRNA level. Moreover, the effect varied among different cytokines, different stimuli, and different patient groups, which partly may be explained by differences in optimal freezing conditions for non-activated and activated cells. An increase of allergen and PHA stimulated IFN-γ secretion in atopic children was found following cryopreservation, but no such increase in auto-antigen induced IFN-γ was seen in MS-patients. The most consistent finding was that expression of IL-4 was generally decreased in spontaneous and auto-antigen/allergen induced expression in cryopreserved cells. In conclusion, this study points out the importance of investigation of the effects of freezing for each cytokine, stimuli and patient group before using frozen cells in studies of in vitro cytokine secretion.
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2. |
- Dzidic, Majda, et al.
(author)
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Allergy development is associated with consumption of breastmilk with a reduced microbial richness in the first month of life
- 2020
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In: Pediatric Allergy and Immunology. - : WILEY. - 0905-6157 .- 1399-3038. ; 31, s. 250-257
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Early colonization with a diverse microbiota seems to play a crucial role for appropriate immune maturation during childhood. Breastmilk microbiota is one important source of microbes for the infant, transferred together with maternal IgA antibodies. We previously observed that allergy development during childhood was associated with aberrant IgA responses to the gut microbiota already at 1 month of age, when the IgA antibodies are predominantly maternally derived in breastfed infants. Objective To determine the microbial composition and IgA-coated bacteria in breastmilk in relation to allergy development in children participating in an intervention trial with pre- and post-natal Lactobacillus reuteri supplementation. Methods A combination of flow cytometric cell sorting and 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to characterize the bacterial recognition patterns by IgA in breastmilk samples collected one month post-partum from 40 mothers whose children did or did not develop allergic and asthmatic symptoms during the first 7 years of age. Results The milk fed to children developing allergic manifestations had significantly lower bacterial richness, when compared to the milk given to children that remained healthy. Probiotic treatment influenced the breastmilk microbiota composition. However, the proportions of IgA-coated bacteria, the total bacterial load and the patterns of IgA-coating were similar in breastmilk between mothers of healthy children and those developing allergies. Conclusion Consumption of breastmilk with a reduced microbial richness in the first month of life may play an important role in allergy development during childhood.
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3. |
- Karlsson, Anna, 1985-, et al.
(author)
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The effect of tinzaparin on biomarkers in FIGO stages III-IV ovarian cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy – the TABANETOC trial: study protocol for a randomized clinical multicenter trial
- 2024
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In: Acta Oncologica. - Uppsala : Medical Journals Sweden. - 0284-186X .- 1651-226X. ; 63, s. 580-585
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Tinzaparin, a low-molecular weight heparin (LMWH), has shown anti-neoplastic properties in animal models and in in vitro studies of human cancer cell lines. The reduction of CA-125 levels during neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) co-varies with the prognosis; the larger the decrease in CA-125, the better the prognosis.Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the potential anti-neoplastic effects of tinzaparin by investigating changes in serum CA-125 levels in advanced EOC patients who receive NACT.Material and methods: This is an open randomized multicenter pilot trial. Forty patients with EOC selected to receive NACT will be randomized 1:1 to receive daily addition of tinzaparin or no tinzaparin. The processing and treatment of the patients will otherwise follow the recommendations in the Swedish National Guidelines for Ovarian Cancer. Before every cycle of chemotherapy, preoperatively, and 3 weeks after the last cycle of chemotherapy, a panel of biomarkers, including CA-125, will be measured.Patients: Inclusion criteria are women aged 18 years or older, World Health Organization performance status 0–1, histologically confirmed high-grade serous, endometrioid or clear cell EOC, International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stages III-IV. In addition, a CA-125 level of ≥ 250 kIE/L at diagnosis. Exclusion criteria are contraindications to LMWH, ongoing or recent treatment with unfractionated heparin, LMWH, warfarin or non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants.Interpretation: This study will make an important contribution to the knowledge of the anti-neoplastic effects of tinzaparin in EOC patients and may thus guide the planning of a future study on the impact of tinzaparin on survival in EOC.
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4. |
- Permert, Johan, et al.
(author)
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Life Science på östgötska : förslag till Life science-satsning i Östergötland.
- 2018
-
Reports (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Östergötland är inte någon traditionell Life Science-nod i Sverige, men beslutade våren 2017 att undersöka möjligheterna att finna en position baserat på erkänd kunskapsbas kring mötet människa – teknik. En förstudie initierades med Region Direktören som beställare och uppdraget innebar att kartlägga, analysera och ge förslag till hur en Life Science-satsning skulle kunna vara genomförbar i Östergötland. Triple Helix-modellen, det vill säga samhandling mellan offentlig sektor, universitet och näringsliv är den anmodade modellen för Life Science-satsningar i Sverige. Den tidigare Life Science-satsningen i Östergötland hade fallit på grund av obalans i styrka hos Triple Helixens ingående parter.Ett lyckat Triple Helix-initiativ i Östergötland, som även fått internationell genomslagskraft är CMIV, där radiologin är världskänt genom samarbetet mellan RÖ, LiU och Sectra. Detta initiativ är ett exempel på Triple Helix-samhandling som gett resultat för alla ingående parter. Runt CMIV kan såväl samhällsnytta som patientnytta och tillväxt tydligt identifieras. Ytterligare ett exempel som lyftes fram i direktivet är utveckling av kliniska beslutsstöd för användning i klinisk verksamhet och vidare forskning på kliniska data.För att få en rik bild av CMIV, och andra initiativ kring Life Science i Östergötland, har arbetsgruppen använt sig av berättarteknik och på djupet studerat fem fall inom Life Science-området. Analys av dessa fall har sedan jämförts med erfarenheter av Life Science från andra regioner och ett förslag till lösning har successivt växt fram i diskussioner med arbetsgruppen och den taktiska styrgruppen. Triple Helix-samhandling är tämligen utmanande i praktiken då de olika aktörerna i vård, forskning- och näringsliv måste samhandla för att uppnå ett gemensamt mål. Berättelserna vittnar om att det krävs vilja, mod och förmåga att korsa såväl ämnes- som organisatoriska gränser. Slutsatsen är därför att det finns behov av att träna denna förmåga, men också att skapa en ”en väg in” där möten kan uppstå för att identifiera, matcha och förfina initiativ som kan lösas med hjälp av Triple Helix-samhandling.Förstudien visar att det finns goda förutsättningar att genomföra en Life Science-satsning i Östergötland. Ett flerfakultetsuniversitet samt ett komplett sjukvårdssystem ger den mylla av kunskap, problem/behov samt kritiska massa som visat sig krävas för den här typen av satsningar. Att begränsa den möjligheten till enbart vidareutveckling av CMIV och byggandet av kliniska beslutsstöd vore dock inte att göra möjligheterna rättvisa. Istället föreslås två interrelaterade verksamheter vars huvuduppdrag är att facilitera och stödja innovation och utveckling inom Life Science-sektorn i Östergötland; Triple Helix-Labb och Triple Helix-Akademi. I Triple Helix-Labbet kan problem/behov och lösningar mötas, matchas och förfinas i en vägledningsprocess som kan leda till såväl ökad patientnytta som ökad tillväxt i Östergötland. I Triple Helix-Akademin stärks förmågan till samhandling i Triple Helix för att överbyggakunskap, förståelse och respekt för de värdesystem som korsas. Genom dessa interorganisatoriska strukturer finns förutsättningar att adressera vårdens problem, samtidigt som dessa kan agera tillväxtmotor i Östergötland. I förstudien identifieras fyra olika växtvägar som kan stimuleras via ovan nämna strukturer.För att få utväxling av ovanstående förslag behöver strukturer med närliggande och överlappande uppdrag ses över och ersättas/integreras i Triple Helix-Labbet. Detta arbete är påbörjat i förstudien, men behöver förfinas i det etableringsuppdrag som är nästa steg för att kraftsamla kring Life Science i Östergötland. En Life Science-satsning är en långsiktig handling och kräver en politisk överenskommelse för att bli hållbar över tid. Därför ses detta som en förutsättning för att starta det etableringsprojekt som föreslås i föreliggande rapport.Den här förstudien handlar om Östergötland. Redan idag finns dock etablerade samarbeten med Sydöstra sjukvårdsregionen men även nationellt och internationellt. Östergötland är därmed en nod i flera större nav, beroende på vilket perspektiv som antas. Nodtänkandet är en av förstudiens viktigaste grundpelare, men samtidigt måste förändringsarbetet starta hos var och en av de ingående parterna i en Life Science-satsning och därmed adresserar förstudien främst samhandling mellan de parter som utgör själva hjärtat i satsningen; RÖ och LiU.Den största risken för att en Life Science-satsning ska fallera även denna gång är att den politiska överenskommelsen uteblir, eller att RÖ och LiU stannar i sina invanda samverkanspositioner, och därmed inte antar samhällsutmaningen om ökad patientnytta och ökad tillväxt.Förstudien beslutades av Regionstyrelsen 2018-11-08.
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5. |
- Svenvik, Maria, 1973-, et al.
(author)
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Plasma oxylipin levels associated with preterm birth in preterm labor✰
- 2021
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In: Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids. - : Elsevier. - 0952-3278 .- 1532-2823. ; 166
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction Preterm labor is a common clinical problem in obstetrics. Since the majority of women with preterm labor eventually deliver at full term, biomarkers are needed to more accurately predict who will deliver preterm. Oxylipins, given their importance in inflammation regulation, are highly interesting in this respect since labor is an inflammatory process.Methods Eighty women with preterm labor before 34 weeks of gestation were enrolled in a prospective observational multi-center cohort study. Oxylipin levels of 67 analytes in plasma samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry.Results Twenty-one (26%) of the women delivered before 34 weeks of gestation, and of those women, fourteen delivered within 48 h of admission. Logistic multivariate regression showed that lower levels of 9,10-DiHODE were associated with delivery before 34 weeks of gestation (aOR 0.12 (0.024–0.62)) and within 48 h ((aOR 0.13 (0.019–0.93)). Furthermore, higher levels of 11,12-DiHETrE were associated with delivery before 34 weeks of gestation ((aOR 6.19 (1.17–32.7)) and higher levels of 8-HETE were associated with delivery within 48 h ((aOR 5.01 (1.13–22.14)).Conclusions The oxylipin 9,10-DiHODE may be protective in preterm labor, both for delivery after 34 weeks of gestation and for delivery later than 48 h of admission, whereas 11,12-DiHETrE and 8-HETE display the opposite effect. Larger studies are needed to validate these mediators as biomarkers for prediction of preterm birth following preterm labor.
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6. |
- Svenvik, Maria, 1973-
(author)
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Prediction of Spontaneous Preterm Birth : Clinical and Immunological Aspects
- 2021
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Background: Preterm birth (PTB), defined as birth before 37 weeks of gestation, accounts for most neonatal death and morbidity. Accurate prediction is a pre-requisite for the prevention and proper management of PTB. However, methods for prediction are unsatisfactory, although sonographic cervical length has a moderate predictive value. For clinical utility, adding a biomarker could increase the predictive accuracy. The immune system has an important regulatory role during pregnancy. Thus, presumptive predictive biomarkers may be searched for among immune-related molecules, such as cytokines, chemokines and other inflammation-associated mediators. The aims of this thesis were to identify clinical risk factors and immunological prediction markers for PTB, both in women at increased risk of PTB because of preterm labour (PTL) or preterm prelabour rupture of the membranes (PPROM), and in asymptomatic women in early pregnancy. An additional aim was to explore immune reaction patterns in PTL and PPROM compared to normal pregnancy. Material and methods: In a retrospective registry study, including 20,643 women who delivered during a five-year period, risk factors for Apgar score <7 at five minutes and risk factors for PTB <32 weeks were investigated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Furthermore, in a multi-centre mixed case-control and prospective cohort study of women with PTL <34 weeks of gestation (n=80), PPROM (n=40), as well as antenatal controls (n=44) and controls in labour at term (n=40), plasma levels of cytokines and chemokines representing different types of immune responses were analysed with a multiplex bead assay. In addition, an extended protein analysis exploring 92 inflammation-associated plasma proteins using proximity extension assay (PEA) was performed, as well as analysis of 67 different oxylipins by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. Finally, the PEA technique was used also to explore plasma proteins in a case-control study including 46 women with PTB and 46 women with normal pregnancies and delivery at term. Results and conclusions: A number of partly preventable clinical risk factors for PTB <32 weeks were identified, for example smoking (odds ratio (OR) 1.61 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.07-2.41)); preeclampsia (OR 5.48 (95% CI 3.39-8.86)); and multiple gestation (OR 15 (95% CI 10-24)). The most evident risk factor for low Apgar scores was PTB; the more preterm the higher the risk. This provides important information for health care professionals, and offers motivations for preventive strategies regarding smoking cessation. Both PTL and PPROM were associated with a more pro-inflammatory profile compared to antenatal controls, with an increase in CXCL1. In addition, PTL showed higher CCL17 levels, and PPROM showed higher IL-6 levels compared with normal pregnancy. The inflammatory profile was even higher in labour at term, reflected by higher levels of CXCL1, CXCL8, and IL-6 compared with PTL, probably due to the more advanced stage of the parturition process in these women. To identify women with PTL and subsequent PTB <34 weeks of gestation, we found that a combination of the proteins IL-6, IL-17C, IL-10RB, and FGF-23 strongly correlated with PTB <34 weeks with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.90; inferring a sensitivity of 90%, and specificity of 74%. For the prediction of delivery within 48 hours in women with PTL, the combination of IL-6 and IL-17C displayed an AUC of 0.88, with a sensitivity of 100%, and a specificity of 71%. Additionally, plasma levels of oxylipins were associated with time of birth. Lower levels of 9,10-DiHODE were associated with PTB <34 weeks (adjusted (a) OR 0.12 (0.024-0.62)) and with delivery within 48 hours (aOR 0.13 (0.019-0.93)), while higher levels of 11,12-DiHETre were associated with delivery <34 weeks (aOR 6.19 (1.17-32.7)) and higher levels of 8-HETE were associated with delivery within 48 hours (aOR 5.01 (1.13-22.14)). In asymptomatic women, plasma levels of combinations of inflammation-associated proteins in the first and the second trimester also revealed predictive information regarding subsequent risk for PTB <34 weeks. Combining MMP10trim1, sCD40trim2, MCSFtrim2, Flt3Ltrim2, and FGF-21diff (diff= difference in protein levels comparing the first and second trimesters) provided a prediction model with an AUC of 0.90. Proteins from the first trimester exclusively (sCD40 and MMP10) rendered an AUC of 0.76. This work provides valuable knowledge in the field of PTB and PTL with useful information on risk factors for PTB. Important associations between levels of inflammation-associated proteins and oxylipins with PTB following PTL were found. Before these findings can have clinical implications, they need to be validated in other cohorts. Additionally, in order to be clinically useful as a prediction tool for PTB, a bedside test is needed. Since the PEA technique is PCR-based, this might be achievable. For prediction of PTB in early pregnancy, we have interesting findings with acceptable accuracy based on samples from both the first and the second trimesters. However, as preventive interventions for PTB are preferably initiated early in pregnancy, a prediction tool has better value if it is based on plasma samples from the first trimester. Therefore, we plan to extend this study and evaluate other potential protein biomarkers.
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7. |
- Ahlbeck, Lars, 1964-, et al.
(author)
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Intralymphatic allergen immunotherapy against pollen allergy. A 3-year open follow-up study of 10 patients
- 2018
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In: Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. - : Elsevier. - 1081-1206 .- 1534-4436. ; 121:5, s. 626-627
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- To date, allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is the only treatment that affects the long-term development of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and induces clinical tolerance primarily by stimulating regulatory T (Treg) cells, attenuating T helper 2 (Th2) responses and synthesis of blocking antibodies1. Conventional AIT with subcutaneous injections, sublingual tablets or drops is effective, but consumes time and resources 2.
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8. |
- Ahlbeck, Lars, 1964-
(author)
-
Intralymphatic Immunotherapy : A Novel Route to Ameliorate Allergic Rhinitis Due to Pollen
- 2024
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Allergy to pollen and animal dander is a major public health problem. Close to 30% of the population have symptoms from the upper and/or lower respiratory tract when they meet fur animals or pollen. Whereas symptom-relieving medications have a good to sufficient effect on about 80% of those affected, a large group of 10–20% have severe symptoms, despite medication, with an impact on well-being and ability to work. In Sweden, the annual cost of allergy was calculated at €1.3 billion in 2014.Immunotherapy is effective in treating and preventing pollen allergy and allergic asthma, but is expensive, complicated, requiring 40 injections, and takes more than three years to complete if subcutaneous injections are used. Tablets placed under the tongue are another method, with one tablet taken every day for three years. Only 1.5‰ receive such treatment, yet just over 3% would need it.With intralymphatic immunotherapy, a small dose of allergen is given in a lymph node in the groin on 3 occasions, one month apart. As this method takes only eight weeks, it is a much faster and less costly treatment. However, although several studies have shown that the treatment is safe, its efficacy remains the subject of doubt.Our pilot study in 2012, with a 3-year follow-up to 2015, showed encouraging results, and was followed by a double-blind randomised study with 72 participants from 2014 to 2018. The research subjects then received treatment with birch and grass pollen extract or one extract and a placebo. Regardless of treatment, symptoms, quality of life and medication consumption improved during the birch and grass pollen seasons in the 3 years after treatment. Increased frequencies of T-regulatory lymphocytes may explain the non-specific effects.In 2017 to 2018, we conducted a double-blind study with 38 participants, half of whom received placebo and half, active treatment. In this study, we saw no difference between the treatment groups in the first year after treatment. However, after discontinuation and unblinding in 2019, i.e., two years after treatment, the actively treated group improved in terms of symptoms, and quality of life was improved compared with the placebo group despite less need for medication. T-regulatory lymphocytes increased one year after treatment only in the actively treated group.A long-term follow-up of the research subjects from our two larger studies in 2022, i.e., five to eight years after treatment, showed in the double-blind study without a pure placebo that the scores for symptoms, medication use, and quality of life remained as low as after the first three years. In the placebo-controlled study, a statistically significant improvement in symptoms remained during the grass pollen season. Analysing the two studies together, symptom improvement was significant even during the birch pollen season. Thus, although the effect does not seem to diminish, those who did not receive birch, but only grass, needed to use more medication during the birch pollen season in 2022, seven to eight years after treatment. Moreover, those who did not receive grass but only birch needed more medication during the grass pollen season. This may suggest that the non-specific effect begins to wane after seven to eight years.Allergy to pollen is a major problem for individuals and society, where symptom-relieving treatment with drugs is not enough for many. They can be helped with immunotherapy, which takes at least three years, is expensive and fraught with side effects. In contrast, intralymphatic immunotherapy involves three injections over eight weeks. Our three studies show that the treatment is safe and indicate that it has a clinical effect up to eight years after treatment. T-regulatory cells appear to be important to the immunological mechanism, leading to tolerance to pollen.
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9. |
- Ahlbeck, Lars, 1964-, et al.
(author)
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Intralymphatic immunotherapy with one or two allergens renders similar clinical response in patients with allergic rhinitis due to birch and grass pollen
- 2022
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In: Clinical and Experimental Allergy. - Chichester, United Kingdom : Wiley-Blackwell Publishing Inc.. - 0954-7894 .- 1365-2222. ; 52:6, s. 747-759
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- IntroductionThere is a need for a fast, efficient and safe way to induce tolerance in patients with severe allergic rhinitis. Intralymphatic immune therapy has been shown to be effective. MethodsPatients with severe birch and timothy allergy were randomized and received three doses of 0.1 ml of birch and 5-grass allergen extracts (10,000 SQ units/ml, ALK-Abello), or birch and placebo or 5-grass and placebo by ultrasound-guided injections into inguinal lymph nodes at monthly intervals. Rhinoconjunctivitis total symptom score, medication score and rhinoconjunctivitis quality of life questionnaire were evaluated before treatment and after each birch and grass pollen season during three subsequent years. Circulating proportions of T helper subsets and allergen-induced cytokine and chemokine production were analysed by flow cytometry and Luminex.Results The three groups reported fewer symptoms, lower use of medication and improved quality of life during the birch and grass pollen seasons each year after treatment at an almost similar rate independently of treatment with one or two allergens. Mild local pain was the most common adverse event. IgE levels to birch decreased, whereas birch-induced IL-10 secretion increased in all three groups. IgG4 levels to birch and timothy and skin prick test reactivity remained mainly unchanged. Conjunctival challenge tests with timothy extract showed a higher threshold for allergen. In all three groups, regulatory T cell frequencies were increased 3 years after treatment.Conclusions Intralymphatic immunotherapy with one or two allergens in patients with grass and birch pollen allergy was safe, effective and may be associated with bystander immune modulatory responses.
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10. |
- Bensberg, Maike, 1993-
(author)
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DNA methylation in T cell leukaemia
- 2024
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- T cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (T-ALL) is a predominantly paediatric cancer that stems from malignant transformation of developing T cells. While the disease has an overall survival rate of 80%, the intense chemotherapy treatment causes severe toxicity and long-term side effects. Furthermore, the survival rate for patients in relapse is less than 25%. Consequently, there is a need for improved therapy options to reduce treatment-related side effects and improve the survival rate of relapsed patients. Targeting aberrant DNA methylation with hypomethylating agents (HMAs) has been successful in the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes and acute myeloid leukaemia but has not been routinely used in the treatment of T-ALL, despite DNA hypomethylation being observed in T-ALL patients. In this work, we employed a comprehensive set of molecular and sequencing-based techniques to explore the possibilities of HMAs as a treatment option for T-ALL.We made the discovery that the DNA demethylating enzyme ten-eleven translocation 2, TET2, is downregulated or completely silenced in primary T-ALL. Moreover, the TET2 promoter was highly methylated in a group of patients, suggesting that TET2 itself can be silenced through DNA methylation in T-ALL. By treatment with HMAs, TET2 was demethylated in T-ALL cell lines and was one of few genes that was activated upon loss of DNA methylation, indicating that TET2 expression is regulated by DNA methylation in T-ALL cell lines. The development of a novel HMA, the DNMT1-specific inhibitor GSK-3685032, offers a tool to reveal the mechanism of action of the traditional HMAs, 5- azacytidine and decitabine, and to study the effects of acute loss of DNA methylation on cancer cells. We found that 5-azacytidine and decitabine are cytotoxic to T-ALL cells primarily by creating DNA double strand breaks. In contrast, GSK did not prompt a DNA damage response and instead reduced global DNA methylation to as little as 18% with limited cytotoxicity only occurring after levels of DNA methylation had dropped below 30%, a level of demethylation not achieved with DEC or AZA.T-ALL is more than two times more common in boys than girls and mutations in X-linked tumour suppressor genes that escape X inactivation, have been suggested as an underlying cause for the observed sex-bias. In theory, these aberrations would be more detrimental in XYmale cells than in XX-female cells due to the presence of an extra protective copy of the gene in females. We profiled DNA methylation during T cell development and created a map of sex-specific gene expression and expression from the inactive X chromosome, finding that some, but not all, suggested tumour suppressor genes in fact escape X inactivation. These results highlight the importance of profiling the healthy cells that T-ALL arises from to correctly judge the functional impact of gene dysregulation in cancer.In the last study, we aimed to investigate the role of N6-adenine methylation (6mdA) during T cell differentiation. While 6mdA is common in bacteria it is much rarer in humans. Nevertheless, 6mdA has previously been associated with several cellular processes, including cancer progression. Our study calls the presence of 6mdA in mammals into question by exposing limitations of the techniques used in its analysis. We show that contamination with bacterial DNA or 6mAcontaining RNA, nonspecific antibody binding, and low precision of third-generation sequencing techniques all hinder the detection and investigation of rare DNA modifications, such as 6mdA.Together, this work is an in-depth study of the function and the potential of DNA methylation in the biology of healthy and malignant T cells.
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11. |
- Bruno, Valentina, 1986-
(author)
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Clinical and immunological aspects on recurrent pregnancy loss
- 2020
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Paper I. Effects of low molecular weight heparin on the polarization and cytokine profile of macrophages and T helper cells in vitro. Sci Rep 2018. In paper I low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) in vitro effects on activation and polarization of central regulatory immune cells, such as Th cells and macrophages, were assessed, since LMWH has been widely used as an empiric treatment in recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and its immunological effects are not fully known. Isolated blood monocytes and T helper (Th) cells under different activation and polarizing conditions were cultured without or with LMWH at different concentrations. LMWH exposure induced an activated phenotype of macrophages, with high expression of HLA-DR and CD206 assessed by flow cytometry, associated with increased secretion of Th17-associated CCL20, and decreased secretion of CCL2 (M2-associated) and CCL22 (Th2), as measured by multiplex bead array. In accordance, LMWH exposure to Th cells reduced the proportion of CD25highFoxp3+ regulatory Tcells, and intensified IFN-γ secretion. Collectively, a mainly pro-inflammatory effect was noted on two essential tolerance-promoting cells, suggesting that potential immunological effects of LMWH may be effective mainly at an earlier gestational age to provide an appropriate implantation process in women with recurrent miscarriage. Paper II. Low-molecular-weight-heparin increases Th1- and Th17-associated chemokine levels during pregnancy in women with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss: a randomized controlled trial. Sci Rep 2019.In paper II we investigated whether LMWH could modulate immune responses in vivo during pregnancy of women with unexplained RPL. A Swedish open multi-centre randomized controlled trial included 45 women treated with tinzaparin and 42 untreated women. Longitudinally collected plasma samples were obtained at gestational weeks (gw) 6, 18, 28 and 34 and analyzed by multiplex bead technology for levels of 11 cytokines and chemokines, chosen to represent inflammation and T-helper subset-associated immunity. LMWH-treated and untreated women showed differences during pregnancy of the Th1-associated chemokines CXCL10 (p = 0.01), CXCL11 (p < 0.001) and the Th17- associated chemokine CCL20 (p = 0.04), while CCL2, CCL17, CCL22, CXCL1, CXCL8, CXCL12, CXCL13 and IL-6 did not differ. Significantly higher plasma levels of CXCL10 and CXCL11 in treated women were detected at gw 28 and 34, compared to the untreated ones. Thus, a potential proinflammatory effect, linked mainly to Th1 immunity, was shown, suggesting an unfavorable effect of LMWH treatment, since Th1 responsea are responsible for breaking the fetal-maternal immune tolerance. Paper III. First-trimester trophoblasts obtained by chorionic villus sampling maintain tolerogenic and proteomic features in successful pregnancies despite a history of unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss. Am J Reprod Immunol. 2020.In paper III we investigate the “local” immune changes in women with RPL, since they potentially could reveal important mechanisms in RPL. Supernatants from superfluous chorionic villus sampling material culture was used in an ex vivo model, to determinate the immune proteomics profile and to perform functional assays for M2 like macrophages and regulatory T cells polarization, assessed by flow cytometry technique. Chorionic villi, human fetally derived placental tissue, were shown to induce an M2 like-phenotype and an expansion of Treg cells in an ex vivo model, and these immunological properties were maintained despite a history of RPL. Accordingly, no differences in the inflammation proteomic profile were found in RPL, compared to controls. Trophoblasts in an ex vivo model thus maintain tolerogenic and proteomic profile features in successful pregnancies, despite a history of RPL.
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12. |
- Böttcher, Malin, 1969-, et al.
(author)
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Allergen-induced cytokine secretion in atopic and non-atopic asthmatic children
- 2003
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In: Pediatric Allergy and Immunology. - : Wiley. - 0905-6157 .- 1399-3038. ; 14:5, s. 345-350
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Atopic asthma is characterized by excessive T helper 2 (Th2)-like immunity to allergens in the bronchial mucosa. The Th2-cytokine interleukin (IL)-4 induces IgE production, while the Th2-cytokine IL-5 promotes eosinophilic inflammation in the airways of asthmatics. Most asthmatics are atopic, but a subgroup is non-atopic. We hypothesize that allergen-induced Th2, particularly IL-5, responses can be observed in peripheral blood in both atopic and non-atopic asthmatic children but not in healthy control children. The aim of the present study was to determine IL-4, IL-5, IL-9, IL-10, IL-13 and IFN-γ secretion induced from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) by a broad panel of inhalant allergens (timothy, cat, birch, dog and house dust mite) in asthmatic children with and without sensitization. The study included 13 atopic asthmatic, 5 non-atopic asthmatic, and 12 non-atopic non-asthmatic children. PBMC were stimulated with allergens and cytokine production was measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Higher levels of cat and dog antigen-induced IL-5 release were more commonly observed in both atopic and non-atopic asthmatics than in controls. Children with atopic, but not non-atopic, asthma produced higher levels of allergen-induced IL-4 and IL-9 than controls. Non-atopic asthmatics produced more IL-10 than atopic asthmatics after cat stimulation. High levels of eosinophilia-associated IL-5 responses are induced by cat and dog allergen in both atopic and non-atopic asthmatic children. The Th2 cytokines IL-4 and IL-9 were associated only with atopic asthma, probably due to their IgE-inducing properties.
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13. |
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14. |
- Böttcher, Malin, 1969-, et al.
(author)
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Cytokine, chemokine and secretory IgA levels in human milk in relation to atopic disease and IgA production in infants
- 2003
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In: Pediatric Allergy and Immunology. - : Wiley. - 0905-6157 .- 1399-3038. ; 14:1, s. 35-41
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The relationship between breast-feeding, IgA production and development of atopic disease in children is a matter of controversy. Some of this controversy might be due to individual differences in the composition of breast milk. The aim of this study was to relate the levels of cytokines, chemokines and secretory (S)-IgA antibodies in breast milk to the development of atopic manifestation and salivary IgA production in infants. Cytokine, chemokine and SIgA levels, as measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), in colostrum and mature milk were analyzed in relation to the development of positive skin-prick tests (SPT), allergic symptoms and salivary IgA antibody production during the first 2 years of life in 53 infants. There was no association between levels of IL-4, -5, -6, -8, -10, -13, -16, IFN-γ, TGF-β1, -β2, RANTES, eotaxin or SIgA levels in the breast milk with either SPT-positivity, development of allergic symptoms or salivary IgA levels during the first 2 years of life in the infants. Thus, differences in the composition of cytokines, chemokines and SIgA in breast milk did not, to any major degree, affect the development of a positive SPT, atopic symptoms, nor salivary IgA antibody production during the first 2 years of life.
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15. |
- Böttcher, Malin, 1969-, et al.
(author)
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Cytokines in breast milk from allergic and nonallergic mothers
- 2000
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In: Pediatric Research. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0031-3998 .- 1530-0447. ; 47:1, s. 157-162
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The allergy-preventing effect of breast-feeding remains controversial, possibly because of individual variations in the composition of the breast milk. The aim of this study was to investigate the concentrations of cytokines involved in allergic reactions and IgA antibody production in breast milk from allergic and nonallergic mothers. The cytokine concentrations were determined in colostrum and 1-mo milk samples from 24 mothers with, and 25 mothers without, atopic symptoms, using commercial ELISA kits. The immunosuppressive cytokine transforming growth factor-β was predominant and was detectable in all milk samples. IL-6 was detected in the majority of colostral and mature milk samples, whereas the other cytokines were less commonly detected. The concentrations of IL-6, IL-10, and transforming growth factor-β, which are all involved in IgA synthesis, correlated with each other and with total IgA concentrations in colostrum. The concentrations of IL-4 were higher in colostrum from allergic than nonallergic mothers, and similar trends were seen for IL-5 and IL-13. In conclusion, transforming growth factor-β and IL-6 were the predominant cytokines in human milk. The correlation between the concentrations of cytokines involved in IgA synthesis, i.e. IL-10, IL-6, and transforming growth factor-β, may explain the stimulatory effect on IgA production in breast-fed babies. Varying concentrations of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 may explain some of the controversy regarding the possible allergy-preventive effect of breast-feeding.
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16. |
- Böttcher, Malin, 1969-, et al.
(author)
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Effects of breast milk from allergic and non-allergic mothers on mitogen- and allergen-induced cytokine production
- 2003
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In: Pediatric Allergy and Immunology. - : Wiley. - 0905-6157 .- 1399-3038. ; 14:1, s. 27-34
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Breast milk contains several components that provide specific immunity and affect the maturation of the infant's immune system. The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of breast milk, on mitogen- and allergen-induced cytokine production from cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMC), and if those effects differ between allergic and non-allergic mothers. The cells were incubated for 96 h with phytohemagglutinin (PHA), ovalbumin or cat dander in the presence of various dilutions of colostrum. Colostrum inhibited both mitogen- and cat-induced IFN-γ and mitogen-induced interleukin-4 (IL-4) production. The inhibition on IFN-γ production was to some extent caused by TGF-β, as the effect was modified when an anti-TGF-β antibody was added to the cultures. In contrast, colostrum enhanced allergen-induced production of the Th2-like cytokines IL-5 and IL-13, and this was accompanied with increased production of IL-10. No differences were found between allergic and non-allergic mothers. The inhibitory effect of breast milk on IFN-γ production, which was partly due to the high levels of TGF-β, together with the enhancing effect on IL-10 secretion, confirm that breast milk is anti-inflammatory. Although the production of IL-5 and IL-13 was enhanced by colostrum, this was accompanied with an increased production of IL-10. Together with the high levels of TGF-β in breast milk and inhibitory effect of colostrum on IL-4 production, this suggests a possible mechanism whereby breast-feeding may protect against the development of allergy. Despite differences in the composition of breast milk between allergic and non-allergic mothers, the effects of breast milk on cytokine production from CBMC were independent of the atopic status of the mothers.
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17. |
- Böttcher, Malin, 1969-, et al.
(author)
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Human milk polyunsaturated long-chain fatty acids and secretory immunoglobulin A antibodies and early childhood allergy
- 2000
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In: Pediatric Allergy and Immunology. - : Wiley. - 0905-6157 .- 1399-3038. ; 11:1, s. 29-39
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The possible protective effect of breast milk against atopic manifestations in infancy, i.e. atopic eczema and food allergy, has been controversial for the last decades. Besides the methodological problems, differences in the composition of human milk could explain these controversies. The aim of this study was to investigate the composition of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and secretory immunoglobulin A (S-IgA) levels to food proteins (ovalbumin and ▀-lactoglobulin) and an inhalant allergen (cat) in milk from mothers of allergic and non-allergic children. Blood samples were obtained at birth and at 3 months from 120 children. Skin prick tests were performed at 6, 12 and 18 months, and the development of atopic diseases was assessed in the children. Breast milk samples were collected from their mothers at birth and monthly during the lactation period. Milk PUFA composition was measured by gas chromatography, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure total S-IgA, anti-cat S-IgA, anti-ovalbumin S-IgA, and anti-▀-lactoglobulin S-IgA. Allergic disease developed in 44/120 children (22/63 children of allergic mothers and 22/57 children of non-allergic mothers). Lower levels of eicosapentaenoic acid, C20:5 n-3 (EPA), docosapentaenoic acid C22:5 n-3 (DPA), and docosatetraenoic acid C22:4 n-6 (DHA) (p < 0.05 for all) were found in mature milk from mothers of allergic as compared to milk from mothers of non-allergic children. The total n-6 : total n-3 and the arachidonic acid, C20:4 n-6 (AA) : EPA ratios were significantly lower in transitional and mature milk from mothers of allergic children, as compared to milk from mothers of non-allergic children. The PUFA levels in serum of allergic and non-allergic children were largely similar, except for higher levels of C22:4 n-6 and C22:5 n-6 (p < 0.05 for both) and a higher AA:EPA ratio in serum phospholipids in the former group (p < 0.05). Changes in the levels of milk PUFA were reflected in changes in PUFA serum phospholipids, particularly for the n-6 PUFA. The AA:EPA ratio in maternal milk was related, however, to the AA:EPA only in serum from non-allergic children, while this was not the case in allergic children. The levels of total S-IgA, anti-cat S-IgA, anti-ovalbumin S-IgA, and anti-▀-lactoglobulin S-IgA in milk from mothers of allergic, as compared to non-allergic, children were similar through the first 3 months of lactation. Low levels of n-3 PUFA in human milk, and particularly a high AA:EPA ratio in maternal milk and serum phospholipids in the infants, were related to the development of symptoms of allergic disease at 18 months of age. The milk PUFA composition influenced the composition of PUFA in serum phospholipids of the children. We also showed that the lower levels of colostral anti-ovalbumin S-IgA and lower total S-IgA in mature milk from atopic mothers did not influence the development of allergic disease in the children up to 18 months of age. The findings indicate that low a-linolenic acid, C18:3 n-3 (LNA) and n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCP) 20-22 carbon chains, but not the levels of S-IgA antibodies to allergens, are related to the development of atopy in children.
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18. |
- Böttcher, Malin, 1969-, et al.
(author)
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Total and allergen-specific immunoglobulin a levels in saliva in relation to the development of allergy in infants up to 2 years of age
- 2002
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In: Clinical and Experimental Allergy. - : Wiley. - 0954-7894 .- 1365-2222. ; 32:9, s. 1293-1298
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: The association between salivary IgA levels and development of allergy is controversial and the employed methodology has been questioned. Objective: The aim of the study was to relate the levels of total IgA, SIgA and allergen-specific IgA antibodies in saliva to the development of allergy in infants during the first 2 years of life. Methods: Saliva samples from 80 infants participating in a prospective study regarding the development of allergy were collected at 3 or 6, and 12 and 24 months of age. Total IgA, SIgA and Fel d 1 and ▀-lactoglobulin specific IgA levels were analysed with ELISA. Results: The levels of total IgA and SIgA increased with age. The number of samples with detectable IgA to Fel d 1 tended to increase with age, whereas the opposite was observed for IgA to ▀-lactoglobulin. Infants who developed allergy tended to have higher levels of total IgA, and allergen-specific IgA was more commonly detected than in non-allergic children. In contrast, non-allergic children tended to have higher levels of SIgA. Furthermore, the levels of SIgA were higher in sensitized infants with no allergic symptoms than in sensitized children with symptoms. Infants with allergic parents had lower SIgA levels than infants without. Direct exposure to cat and cow's milk did not influence the levels of allergen-specific IgA levels, nor was there any association between breast-feeding and IgA production. Conclusion: The kinetics of food and inhalant allergen-specific IgA in saliva during the first 2 years of life is similar to what has earlier been shown for IgG in serum. Development of allergy tended to be associated with high levels of total and allergen-specific IgA antibodies, but low levels of SIgA. Furthermore, high levels of SIgA seemed to protect sensitized children from developing allergic symptoms during the first 2 years of life, supporting a possible protective role of SIgA against development of allergy.
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19. |
- Casas, Rosaura, 1954-, et al.
(author)
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Cat allergen-induced cytokine secretion and Fel d 1–immunoglobulin G immune complexes in cord blood
- 2004
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In: Clinical and Experimental Allergy. - : Wiley. - 0954-7894 .- 1365-2222. ; 34:4, s. 591-596
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background We have recently obtained evidence for the presence of immune complexes (IC) in cord blood from allergic and non-allergic mothers. Such complexes could conceivably provide the fetus with the initial trigger for the priming of the T cell system already in utero.Objective To relate the presence of Fel d 1–IgG IC to T cell cytokine production in cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMCs) after stimulation with cat allergen.Methods CBMC obtained from babies of 15 allergic and 22 non-allergic mothers were cultured in the presence of cat allergen. The production of IFN-γ, IL-5, IL-10 and IL-13 was determined by ELISA. Furthermore, IgG1 and IgG4 antibodies to cat allergen in cord blood samples were measured by ELISA. A more sensitive ELISA was used to measure Fel d 1–IgG IC.Results The prevalence and levels of IC were similar in cord blood from children of allergic and non-allergic mothers. The production of IL-5, IL-10. IL-13 and IFN-γ by CBMC was not influenced by maternal atopy, but IFN-γ was less commonly detected in samples with IC. There was no association between the presence of IC and any other cytokines. The levels of IgG1 and IgG4 antibodies were similar in both groups, and tended to be associated with the presence of IC.Conclusion Immune complexes in cord blood may represent a normal mechanism for inducing primary immune responses, as the responses in babies from allergic and non-allergic mothers were largely similar. Low levels of IFN-γ seems to be related with the presence of IC in cord blood.
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20. |
- Copland, DA, et al.
(author)
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Monoclonal antibody-mediated CD200 receptor signaling suppresses macrophage activation and tissue damage in experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis
- 2007
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In: American Journal of Pathology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0002-9440 .- 1525-2191. ; 171:2, s. 580-588
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Macrophage responses are regulated by multiple secreted factors as well as by cell surface receptors, including the inhibitory signals resulting from ligation of myeloid CD200 receptors (CD200R) by the widely distributed CD200. In the absence of CD200, animals display increased susceptibility to autoimmunity and earlier onset aggressive autoimmune disease. In these current experiments, an agonist monoclonal rat anti-mouse CD200R (DX109) antibody delivered a negative signal to bone marrow-derived macrophages, which suppressed interferon (IFN)-mediated nitric oxide (NO) and interleukin-6 production. Experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis (EAU) was used as a model of organ-specific autoimmunity in the eye, a tissue with extensive neuronal and endothelial CD200 expression. In mice lacking CD200 (CD200-/-), increased numbers of retina-infiltrating macrophages displaying heightened NO responses were observed during EAU. In addition, we aimed to suppress disease by maintaining tonic suppression of macrophage activation via CD200R. Systemically administered DX109 monoclonal antibody suppressed EAU despite maintained T-cell proliferation and IFN production. Furthermore, locally administered DX109 monoclonal antibody resulted in an earlier resolution of disease. These experiments demonstrate that promoting CD200R-mediated signaling can successfully prevent full expression of IFN-mediated macrophage activation and protect against tissue damage during autoimmune responses.
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21. |
- Ekerfelt, Christina, 1957-, et al.
(author)
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Detection of spontaneous and antigen-induced human interleukin-4 responses in vitro : Comparison of ELISPOT, a novel ELISA and real-time RT-PCR
- 2002
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In: JIM - Journal of Immunological Methods. - 0022-1759 .- 1872-7905. ; 260:1-2, s. 55-67
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is an important T-helper cell type 2 (Th2) cytokine in man, driving Th2 polarisation and exerting the most antagonistic effects to the Th1 cytokine interferon-? (IFN-?). Nevertheless, few data on spontaneous and antigen-specific secretion of IL-4 in man are available, mainly due to difficulties in the detection of IL-4. In this study, we compared three assays that can detect antigen-induced IL-4 responses, ELISPOT, ELISA after blocking the IL-4 receptor during cell culture, and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Spontaneous, antigen- and allergen-induced responses were analysed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from three groups with different secretion patterns for IL-4: atopic individuals, nonatopic individuals and pregnant women. ELISPOT displayed the highest sensitivity and was the only assay that could detect spontaneous secretion of IL-4 in all analysed samples. The IL-4 receptor blocking ELISA was considered best for the detection of in vitro antigen- and allergen-induced responses, since the results obtained from the ELISPOT and real-time RT-PCR displayed lower specificity, possibly because of seemingly aberrant IL-4 responses in the group of pregnant women. The real-time RT-PCR for detection of IL-4 mRNA proved to be sensitive, but expression of IL-4 mRNA was not correlated with the secretion of IL-4.
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22. |
- Ewerman, Lea, et al.
(author)
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Immunomodulating Effects Depend on Prolactin Levels in Patients with Hyperprolactinemia
- 2020
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In: Hormone and Metabolic Research. - Stuttgart : Thieme Medical Publishers. - 0018-5043 .- 1439-4286. ; 52:04, s. 228-235
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Prolactin is known to have immune modulatory effects acting through the prolactin receptor, which is present on a variety of immune cells. Certain chemokines contribute to form the type of T helper (Th) preponderance in the immune response. The objective of this work was to assess if hyperprolactinemia not related to pregnancy is associated with changes in circulating levels of chemokines and other immunological markers. In this cross sectional study, 35 patients with hyperprolactinemia (5 men), and 102 healthy blood donors (19 men) were included. Serum levels of Th1- Th2- and Th17-associated chemokines, C-reactive protein, immunoglobulins, and the B cell attracting chemokine CXCL13 were assessed. The hyperprolactinemic group had significantly higher levels of Th2 associated CCL22 (p=0.022), Th17 associated CXCL1 (p=0.001), B cell attracting CXCL13 (p=0.003), and C-reactive protein (p<0.001) compared to controls, and these proteins were also positively correlated with prolactin levels. While differences in CCL22, CXCL1, CXCL13, and C-reactive protein were present in patients with low or moderate hyperprolactinemia, no differences were observed at high (>3600 mU/l) prolactin levels. To evaluate a possible dose-associated response to prolactin, an in vitro model was used, showing prolactin-induced increase in T-helper cell activation at moderate levels, while activation decreased at higher levels. Hyperprolactinemia seems to have several immunomodulatory effects and was associated with increased levels of chemokines associated with Th2 and Th17 responses and B cell attraction. However, patients with greatly increased prolactin had normal levels of chemokines, and in vitro, high levels of prolactin decreased T-helper cell activation.
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23. |
- Fagerås Böttcher, Malin, 1969-, et al.
(author)
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Cytokine responses to allergens during the first 2 years of life in Estonian and Swedish children
- 2006
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In: Clinical and Experimental Allergy. - : Wiley. - 0954-7894 .- 1365-2222. ; 36:5, s. 619-628
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background The prevalence of atopic disease among children in the formerly socialist countries in Europe, with a life style similar to that prevailing in Western Europe 30–40 years ago, is low, whereas there has been a pronounced increase in industrialized countries over the last decades. The environment during infancy influences the risk of developing allergy for many years, perhaps even for life.Objective To investigate the development of allergen-specific cytokine responses during the first 2 years of life in two geographically adjacent countries with marked differences in living conditions and incidence of atopic diseases, i.e. Estonia and Sweden.Methods The development of immune responses to food (β-lactoglobulin (BLG) and ovalbumin (OVA)) and inhalant (cat and birch) allergens was studied from birth up to the age of 2 years in 30 Estonian and 76 Swedish infants. Clinical investigation and skin prick tests were performed and blood samples were obtained at birth and at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months.Results The levels of IL-5, IL-10 and IL-13 secreted by peripheral blood mononuclear cells stimulated with BLG, OVA and cat allergen in Estonian and Swedish infants declined during the first 3 months of life. All cytokines then progressively increased in the Swedish infants, indicating the replacement of non-specifically responding immature cord blood T cells with specific T memory cells, which are primed postnatally. The resurgence of allergen-specific responses in the Estonian infants was less marked. These differences were particularly notable for birch-specific T cell responses, which correlated with development of atopic disease in the Swedish children.Conclusions The development of specific T cell memory to food and inhalant allergens during the first 2 years of life differs between infants living in Sweden and Estonia, and mirrors the disparate patterns of expression of allergic disease which subsequently develops in the respective populations.
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24. |
- Fagerås Böttcher, Malin, 1969-, et al.
(author)
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Cytokines in breast milk from allergic and nonallergic mothers
- 1999
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In: International Archives of Allergy and Immunology. - : S. Karger AG. - 1018-2438 .- 1423-0097. ; 118:2-4, s. 319-320
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Sorry, there is no abstract. Read the first few lines of the text instead!The allergy–preventing effect of breast–feeding is controversial [1, 2]. This may be due to individual variations of the composition of human milk. Allergy is associated with a bias to production of cytokines involved in IgE synthesis, e.g. IL–4 and IL–13 [3] and the eosinophil chemotactic [4] and survival [5] factor IL–5. In contrast, IFN–=γ, which inhibits IgE synthesis [6], is downregulated [7]. Cytokines involved in IgA production, IL–6, IL–10 and TGF–β [8, 9] have also been proposed to be involved in IgE synthesis [10, 11, 12].
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25. |
- Fagerås-Böttcher, Malin, 1969-, et al.
(author)
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Immune responses to birch in young children during their first 7 years of life
- 2002
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In: Clinical and Experimental Allergy. - : Wiley. - 0954-7894 .- 1365-2222. ; 57, s. 43-43
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background The character of immune responses to allergens during the first years of life may decide whether the individual will become tolerant or develop allergy later in life.Objective To study the development of immune responses to the seasonal inhalant allergen birch over the first 7 years of life.Methods Blood samples were obtained from 21 children who were followed prospectively from the second to the seventh pollen season of life. Birch-induced cytokine production and IgG subclass antibodies to rBet v 1 were analysed with ELISA, mRNA expression with real time PCR, IgE antibodies to birch with Magic LiteTM and birch-induced mononuclear cell proliferation with 3H-thymidine incorporation.Results Birch-induced IFN-γ and IL-10 production increased with age, both in atopic and non-atopic children, while birch-induced IL-13 production decreased. The two children who were sensitized and developed clinical allergy to birch showed persistent IL-4 and IL-5 production and IL-9 mRNA expression, as well as Th2-associated IgG4 responses. Transient Th2-like responses were observed among the other children. Proliferative responses and IgG1 antibodies were seen in all children.Conclusions Immune responses to birch can be demonstrated in all children, during the first 7 years of life, regardless of atopic status. A transient early Th2-like response is down-regulated after the fourth pollen season, except in children who develop clinical allergy to the particular allergen.
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26. |
- Forsberg, Anna, 1985-
(author)
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Immunomodulatory effects of probiotic supplementation during pregnancy and infancy in allergy prevention studies
- 2017
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- The incidence of allergic diseases is increasing, possibly due to a reduced intensity and diversity of microbial stimulation. More knowledge is needed on the immunological mechanisms underlying the eczema preventive effect of pre- and postnatal probiotic supplementation. The pregnancy period seems to be of essential importance, since both epidemiological and experimental animal studies show the importance of microbial exposure during gestation on allergy prevention.We have performed a study where the probiotic lactic acid producing bacteria Lactobacillus reuteri was supplemented to pregnant women, at risk of having an allergic infant. The pregnant mothers received the study product from gestational week 36 until delivery, and the infants then continued with the same product until one year of age. The probiotic, as compared with placebo, supplemented infants had less IgE-associated eczema at two years of age.In order to investigate how the supplementation affected the immune system peripheral blood was collected and immune cells were stimulated with common allergens and TLR ligands. The probiotic treated group responded with a more regulated response to allergens and TLR2 ligands in comparison to the placebo supplemented group. We also investigated how the probiotic supplementation affected the epigenetic methylation pattern in circulating T helper cells during infancy, observing the most pronounced effects at birth.In a follow up study, supplementation was started earlier to possibly gain a stronger allergy preventive effect via changes in maternal immune regulation. Supplementation with Lactobacillus reuteri and ω-3 fatty acids started at gestational week 20 and throughout pregnancy. After 20 weeks of supplementation, some immunomodulatory effects among circulating activated regulatory T cells and a subpopulation of monocytes were noted. Several systemic immune modifying effects of pregnancy were observed.In summary, probiotics show several immunomodulatory effects in infants and pregnant women. However, more research is needed to better understand the effects of the probiotic supplementation to aid future identification of more efficacious allergy preventive strategies.
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27. |
- Gad, Helge, et al.
(author)
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MTH1 inhibition eradicates cancer by preventing sanitation of the dNTP pool
- 2014
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In: Nature. - : Nature Publishing Group. - 0028-0836 .- 1476-4687. ; 508:7495, s. 215-221
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Cancers have dysfunctional redox regulation resulting in reactive oxygen species production, damaging both DNA and free dNTPs. The MTH1 protein sanitizes oxidized dNTP pools to prevent incorporation of damaged bases during DNA replication. Although MTH1 is non-essential in normal cells, we show that cancer cells require MTH1 activity to avoid incorporation of oxidized dNTPs, resulting in DNA damage and cell death. We validate MTH1 as an anticancer target in vivo and describe small molecules TH287 and TH588 as first-in-class nudix hydrolase family inhibitors that potently and selectively engage and inhibit the MTH1 protein in cells. Protein co-crystal structures demonstrate that the inhibitors bindin the active site of MTH1. The inhibitors cause incorporation of oxidized dNTPs in cancer cells, leading to DNA damage, cytotoxicity and therapeutic responses in patient-derived mouse xenografts. This study exemplifies the non-oncogene addiction concept for anticancer treatment and validates MTH1 as being cancer phenotypic lethal.
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28. |
- Generó, Magalí Martí, 1983-, et al.
(author)
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A protocol for characterization of extremely preterm infant gut microbiota in double-blind clinical trials
- 2021
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In: STAR Protocols. - Cambridge, MA, United States : Cell press. - 2666-1667. ; 2:3
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- 16S rRNA gene sequencing enables microbial community profiling, but recovering fecal DNA from extremely premature infants is challenging. Here, we describe an optimized protocol for fecal DNA isolation, library preparation for 16S rRNA gene sequencing, taxonomy assignation, and statistical analyses. The protocol is complemented with a quantitative PCR for probiotic L. reuteri identification. This protocol describes how to characterize preterm infant gut microbiota and relate it to probiotic supplementation and clinical outcomes. It is customizable for other clinical trials. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Martí et al. (2021) and Spreckels et al. (2021).
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29. |
- Hellberg, Sandra, 1986-
(author)
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Effects of Pregnancy and Hormones on T cell Immune Regulation in Multiple Sclerosis
- 2019
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is characterized by a dysregulated immune system leading to chronic inflammation in the central nervous system. Despite increasing number of treatments, many patients continue to deteriorate. A better understanding of the underlying disease mechanisms involved in driving disease is a pre-requisite for finding new biomarkers and new treatment targets. The improvement of MS during pregnancy, comparable to the beneficial effects of the most effective treatment, suggests that the transient and physiological immune tolerance established during pregnancy could serve as a model for successful immune regulation. Most likely the immune-endocrine alterations that take place during pregnancy to accommodate the presence of the semi-allogenic fetus contribute to the observed disease improvement.The aim of this thesis was to characterize the dysregulated immune system in MS and define potential factors and mechanisms established during pregnancy that could be involved in the pregnancy-induced effects in MS, focusing on CD4+ T cells as one of the main drivers in immunity and in the MS pathogenesis. Using a network-based modular approach based on gene expression profiling, we could show that CD4+ T cells from patients with MS displayed an altered dynamic gene response to activation, in line with a dysregulated immune system in MS. The resulting gene module disclosed cell activation and chemotaxis as central components in the deviating response, results that form a basis for further studies on its modulation during pregnancy. Moreover, a combination of secreted proteins (OPN+CXCL1-3+CXCL10-CCL2), identified from the module, could be used to separate patients and controls, predict disease activity after 2 years and discriminate between high and low responders to treatment, highlighting their potential use as biomarkers for predicting disease activity and response to treatment.The pregnancy hormone progesterone (P4), a potential factor involved in the pregnancy-induced amelioration of MS, was found to significantly dampen CD4+ T cell activation. Further detailed transcriptomic profiling revealed that P4 almost exclusively down-regulated immune-related pathways in activated T cells, several related to or downstream of T cell activation such as JAKSTAT signaling, T cell receptor signaling and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction. In particular, P4 significantly affected genes of relevance to diseases known to be modulated during pregnancy, where genes associated to MS were most significantly affected, supporting a role for P4 in the pregnancy-induced immunomodulation. By using another approach, the role of thymus in T cell regulation during pregnancy was assessed. Two established measures of thymic output, CD31 expression and TREC content, were used and showed that thymic output of T cells is maintained during human pregnancy, or even possibly increased in terms of regulatory T cells.This thesis further supports a pivotal role for CD4+ T cells and T cell activation in the MS pathogenesis and adds to the knowledge of how they could be involved in driving disease. We identified a novel strategy for capturing central aspects of the deviating response to T cell activation that could be translated into potentially clinically relevant biomarkers. Further, P4 is emerging as a promising candidate for the pregnancy-induced immunomodulation that could be of importance as a future treatment option. Lastly, maintained thymic output of T cells during human pregnancy challenges the rodent-based dogma of an inactive thymus during pregnancy. Thymic dysfunction has been reported not only in MS but also in rheumatoid arthritis, another inflammatory disease that improves during pregnancy, which highlights a potential role for thymus in immune regulation that could be involved in the pregnancy-induced amelioration.
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30. |
- Humbert, Marion, et al.
(author)
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Functional SARS-CoV-2 cross-reactive CD4+ T cells established in early childhood decline with age
- 2023
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In: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. - : National Academy of Sciences. - 0027-8424 .- 1091-6490. ; 120:12
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Pre-existing SARS-CoV-2-reactive T cells have been identified in SARS-CoV-2-unexposed individuals, potentially modulating COVID-19 and vaccination outcomes. Here, we provide evidence that functional cross-reactive memory CD4+ T cell immunity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is established in early childhood, mirroring early seroconversion with seasonal human coronavirus OC43. Humoral and cellular immune responses against OC43 and SARS-CoV-2 were assessed in SARS-CoV-2-unexposed children (paired samples at age two and six) and adults (age 26 to 83). Pre-existing SARS-CoV-2-reactive CD4+ T cell responses targeting spike, nucleocapsid, and membrane were closely linked to the frequency of OC43-specific memory CD4+ T cells in childhood. The functional quality of the cross-reactive memory CD4+ T cell responses targeting SARS-CoV-2 spike, but not nucleocapsid, paralleled OC43-specific T cell responses. OC43-specific antibodies were prevalent already at age two. However, they did not increase further with age, contrasting with the antibody magnitudes against HKU1 (β-coronavirus), 229E and NL63 (α-coronaviruses), rhinovirus, Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), and influenza virus, which increased after age two. The quality of the memory CD4+ T cell responses peaked at age six and subsequently declined with age, with diminished expression of interferon (IFN)-γ, interleukin (IL)-2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and CD38 in late adulthood. Age-dependent qualitative differences in the pre-existing SARS-CoV-2-reactive T cell responses may reflect the ability of the host to control coronavirus infections and respond to vaccination. Copyright © 2023 the Author(s).
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31. |
- Huoman, Johanna, et al.
(author)
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Combined prenatal Lactobacillus reuteri and omega-3 supplementation synergistically modulates DNA methylation in neonatal T helper cells
- 2021
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In: Clinical Epigenetics. - : BMC. - 1868-7083 .- 1868-7075. ; 13:1
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BackgroundEnvironmental exposures may alter DNA methylation patterns of T helper cells. As T helper cells are instrumental for allergy development, changes in methylation patterns may constitute a mechanism of action for allergy preventive interventions. While epigenetic effects of separate perinatal probiotic or omega -3 fatty acid supplementation have been studied previously, the combined treatment has not been assessed. We aimed to investigate epigenome-wide DNA methylation patterns from a sub-group of children in an on-going randomised double-blind placebo-controlled allergy prevention trial using pre- and postnatal combined Lactobacillus reuteri and omega -3 fatty acid treatment. To this end,>866000 CpG sites (MethylationEPIC 850K array) in cord blood CD4+ T cells were examined in samples from all four study arms (double-treatment: n=18, single treatments: probiotics n=16, omega -3 n=15, and double placebo: n=14). Statistical and bioinformatic analyses identified treatment-associated differentially methylated CpGs and genes, which were used to identify putatively treatment-induced network modules. Pathway analyses inferred biological relevance, and comparisons were made to an independent allergy data set.ResultsComparing the active treatments to the double placebo group, most differentially methylated CpGs and genes were hypermethylated, possibly suggesting induction of transcriptional inhibition. The double-treated group showed the largest number of differentially methylated CpGs, of which many were unique, suggesting synergy between interventions. Clusters within the double-treated network module consisted of immune-related pathways, including T cell receptor signalling, and antigen processing and presentation, with similar pathways revealed for the single-treatment modules. CpGs derived from differential methylation and network module analyses were enriched in an independent allergy data set, particularly in the double-treatment group, proposing treatment-induced DNA methylation changes as relevant for allergy development.ConclusionPrenatal L. reuteri and/or omega -3 fatty acid treatment results in hypermethylation and affects immune- and allergy-related pathways in neonatal T helper cells, with potentially synergistic effects between the interventions and relevance for allergic disease. Further studies need to address these findings on a transcriptional level, and whether the results associate to allergy development in the children. Understanding the role of DNA methylation in regulating effects of perinatal probiotic and omega -3 interventions may provide essential knowledge in the development of efficacious allergy preventive strategies.Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, ClinicalTrials.gov-ID: NCT01542970. Registered 27th of February 2012-Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01542970.
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32. |
- Huoman, Johanna, 1987-
(author)
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Immune maturation and modulation in childhood allergies : Aspects of epigenetic, mucosal and systemic immune mediators in allergy development and prevention
- 2020
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- The prevalence of allergic diseases has in the past century increased among children in affluent societies. Underlying causes are incompletely disentangled, but decreased diversity in environmental and microbial exposures could drive allergy development. Allergic individuals possess imbalanced immune responses, skewed in favour of Th2 cells along with lesser Th1 and Treg responses. As allergy development early in life increases the risk of developing further allergic manifestations later, early prevention is key. Thus, interventions in pregnancy, early life and childhood may modulate immunity towards tolerance, although underpinnings of immune maturation and modulation in allergy prevention throughout childhood are not entirely understood. In this thesis, these questions are addressed in children with a high propensity of developing allergic disease or who already have manifested allergies.Chemokines are crucial for immune cell recruitment to the allergic reaction site, and associate with allergy development in childhood. In Paper I, circulating levels of the allergy-related chemokines CCL17, CCL18, CCL22, CXCL10 and CXCL11 were studied in the natural course of allergic disease. Elevated levels of the Th2/Treg-regulated chemokine CCL18 in infancy and childhood associated with development of asthma and/or sensitisation. Moreover, this finding conferred higher odds of developing asthma and sensitisation from early school age until adolescence. Additionally, increased levels of the Th1-associated chemokines CXCL10 after birth, and decreased levels of CXCL11 at birth, preceded asthma development later in life. Hence, Paper I showed that circulating chemokine levels in different ways precede allergy development.Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, comprise a link between the genetic setup and environmental exposures, and regulate processes such as Th cell differentiation. Perinatal treatment with Lactobacillus reuteri and ω-3 fatty acids prevent development of some IgE-mediated manifestations. However, the drivers of the immunostimulating and pro-resolving effects of these treatments are sparsely examined. In Papers II and III, epigenome-wide DNA methylation patterns in CD4+ cells upon pre-and postnatal L. reuteri supplementation alone or in combination with ω-3 fatty acids were studied. In Paper II, the greatest epigenome wide differential methylation was evident at birth, mainly directed towards hypomethylation, indicating transcriptional availability of affected genes. Network analyses revealed several immune related pathways, and a relationship of differentially methylated genes to allergy development. Thus, prenatal L. reuteri treatment seemingly poises Th cells towards immune activation at birth, possibly influencing immune maturation as well as allergy development in the child.In Paper III, epigenome-wide DNA methylation patterns were surveyed at birth. In this on-going trial, mothers are treated during the latter half of pregnancy with a combination of L. reuteri and ω-3 fatty acids. Four different treatment groups were studied, and the largest differential methylation was seen in the double active treatment group. In contrast to Paper II, most CpGs and genes were hypermethylated, indicating repressed gene transcription. In line with Paper II, network analyses showed that T cell and immune mediated pathways were affected by treatment, and synergistic effects of the double treatment were indicated. Taken together, prenatal treatment with L. reuteri and/or ω-3 fatty acids altered the epigenome to different extents at birth, mainly towards hypermethylation, and often affected immune related pathways.Immunomodulatory effects of sublingual immunotherapy in children and adolescents are scarcely investigated. In Paper IV, circulating and salivary immune mediators were investigated in timothy grass-pollen allergic children treated with sublingual immunotherapy. Actively treated children had elevated levels of timothy grass pollen-specific IgA antibodies in saliva, along with increased circulating levels of the Th1-associated chemokines CXCL10 and CXCL11, both after treatment ending and two years later. Taken together, sublingual immunotherapy modulates local and peripheral immune responses in children with timothy grass pollen-induced allergy, by augmenting Th1-responses, lessening Th2-responses and inducing immunomodulatory responses, suggesting induction of tolerance, also partly in the long-term.Altogether, the studies in this thesis have shown altered immune regulation in children developing allergies. Moreover, immunomodulatory effects of prenatal treatment with probiotics and ω-3 fatty acids, and sublingual immunotherapy in children with grass pollen-induced allergic disease, were revealed. DNA methylation patterns and immunologic mediators in blood and saliva could potentially serve as appropriate biomarkers for allergic disease. Long term health benefits can be reached by intervening early in life, and further knowledge about the mechanisms behind this could promote the prevention of allergic diseases and hence improve the quality of life for children and adolescents.
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33. |
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34. |
- Jenmalm, Maria, 1971-, et al.
(author)
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Allergen-induced Th1 and Th2 cytokine secretion in relation to specific allergen sensitization and atopic symptoms in children
- 2001
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In: Clinical and Experimental Allergy. - : Wiley. - 0954-7894 .- 1365-2222. ; 31:10, s. 1528-1535
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Allergic diseases are believed to be due to T helper (Th)2-like immunity to allergens in affected tissues, and immune responses to allergens are characterized by a cross-regulation between Th1 and Th2 cells. Atopic individuals may develop IgE antibodies to only one or more allergens. However, the mechanisms behind sensitization to a specific allergen, e.g. why an individual develops IgE to cat but not birch, are not known. Our aim was to study birch- and cat-induced Th1 and Th2 cytokine secretion in children who were sensitized to birch but not to cat, and vice versa. Materials and methods: The subjects in the study were 60 12-year-old children. Seventeen of the children were sensitized (skin prick test and circulating IgE positive) to birch but not cat, 13 were sensitized to cat but not birch, 11 were sensitized both to birch and cat, and 19 children were skin prick test and circulating IgE negative. Forty-six children had a history of atopic symptoms, and 42 of them had current symptoms. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were separated from venous blood and stimulated with cat or birch allergen. The levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-9, IL-10, IL-13 and IFN-? in the cell supernatants were analysed by ELISA. Results: Sensitized children produced more of the Th2 cytokines IL-4, IL-5, IL-9 and IL-13 than non-sensitized atopic and non-atopic children in response to stimulation with the allergen they were sensitized to. High levels of the Th2 cytokines IL-4 and IL-5 and low levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 were associated with atopic symptoms, and high cat-induced IL-9 levels with asthma. Conclusions: The Th2 cytokines IL-4, IL-5, IL-9 and IL-13 were all commonly detected in sensitized children after stimulation with the specific, in contrast to an unrelated, allergen. Atopic symptoms were associated with increased levels of IL-4 and IL-5 and tended to be associated with low levels of IL-10, and asthma with high cat-induced IL-9 levels.
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35. |
- Jenmalm, Maria C., 1971-
(author)
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Development of IgG subclass antibodies to allergens in early childhood
- 1999
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Background: Immune responses to allergens in young children include both Thl and Th2 like immunity, which may regulate the secretion of IgG subclass antibodies differently. The time, route and level of exposure to an allergen, as well as maternally transferred immunity, may be decisive whether sensitisation or tolerance will ensue. To study this, we established sensitive methods and investigated the development of IgG subclass antibodies to food and inhalant allergens during childhood.Material and Methods: The study group comprised a cohort of 96 children participating in a prospective study. IgG subclass antibodies to ß-lactoglobulin, ovalbumin, Bet v 1 and cat dander were analysed at birth, 6 and 18 months and 8 years by ELISA. At 8 years of age, PBMC from 55 of the children were stimulated with birch and ß-lactoglobulin. Production of IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IL-13 and IFN-y was analysed by ELISA and expression of IL-4 and IL-9 mRNA by semiquantitative RTPCR.Results: High cord blood levels of IgG antibodies to inhalant, but not to food, allergens were associated with less development of atopy in the children during the first eight years of life. IgG subclass antibody responses to allergens were commonly detected during childhood and were largely restricted to the IgG1 subclass. The production of this opsonising and complement activating subclass was associated with Thllike immunity at 8 years of age. IgG subclass antibodies to food allergens peaked in infancy, whereas antibodies to the inhalant perennial allergen cat, but not the inhalant seasonal allergen birch, increased with age. Exposure to cow's milk during the first three months of life was associated with high IgG subclass antibodies to ß-lactoglobulin up to eight years. Exposure to cat and birch tended to be associated with high antibody levels to those allergens, whereas antibody levels to ovalbumin were not related to the introduction of egg in the diet. Atopic symptoms and the presence of positive skin prick tests and circulating IgE antibodies to allergens were associated with high levels of IgG subclass, especially Th2 associated IgG4, antibody responses to allergens. For the food allergens, the differences were mostly marked early in life. Birch induced IL-4 expression may be the major factor determining IgE antibody formation to that allergen, while allergen induced IL-5, IL-6 and IL-10 secretion in PBMC was associated with atopic symptoms.Conclusions: Maternally derived antibodies may modulate immune responses. The tolerance-inducing mechanisms in the intestinal mucosa may be less effective during the first months of life. Responses to food and inhalant allergens show different kinetics. Thl like associated IgG1 antibodies to allergens are commonly observed in both atopic and non-atopic children, whereas Th2 like associated IgG4 responses are more atopy dependent.
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36. |
- Jenmalm, Maria, 1971-, et al.
(author)
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Cord blood levels of immunoglobulin G subclass antibodies to food and inhalant allergens in relation to maternal atopy and the development of atopic disease during the first 8 years of life
- 2000
-
In: Clinical and Experimental Allergy. - : Wiley. - 0954-7894 .- 1365-2222. ; 30:1, s. 34-40
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Factors that either protect from or enhance the development of atopic disease appear to be acting early in life. The gestational environment, including maternal immune responses, such as transplacentally transferred immunoglobulin (Ig) G antibodies to allergens, may be of importance in this respect, since allergen-specific immunity has been demonstrated to develop in utero. Objective: To evaluate the relation between cord blood IgG subclass antibodies to allergens, maternal atopy and development of atopic disease in the children. Material and methods: The study group comprised a cohort of 96 children participating in a prospective study up to 8 years of age. Cord blood IgG subclass antibodies to ovalbumin, ▀-lactoglobulin, Bet v 1 and cat dander were analysed by ELISA. Results: The levels of all IgG subclass antibodies to ovalbumin and rBet v 1 were higher in newborn infants with an atopic mother, as compared with babies with nonatopic mothers. IgG1 antibody levels to cat and IgG4 antibody levels to ▀-lactoglobulin and cat were also higher in atopic than in nonatopic mothers, whereas the other subclass antibody levels to those allergens were similar. High levels of cord blood IgG antibodies to cat and birch, but not to the food allergens, were associated with less atopic symptoms in the children during the first 8 years of life. Moreover, children who developed IgE antibodies to cat had lower levels of IgG antibodies to that allergen at birth. Conclusions: High levels of cord blood IgG subclass, especially IgG4, antibodies to food and inhalant allergens are associated with maternal atopy. High levels of IgG antibodies to inhalant, but not food, allergens are associated with less development of atopy in the children.
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37. |
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38. |
- Jenmalm, Maria, 1971-, et al.
(author)
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Exposure to cow's milk during the first 3 months of life is associated with increased levels of IgG subclass antibodies to beta-lactoglobulin to 8 years
- 1998
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In: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. - : Elsevier. - 0091-6749 .- 1097-6825. ; 102, s. 671-678
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Exposure to allergens early in life influences the development of allergen-specific immune responses. In animal models, the development of tolerance to proteins delivered to the gastrointestinal and the respiratory mucosa is influenced by age and genetic background. Late introduction of cow's milk in infants is associated with slower increase and lower peak IgG antibody responses to milk during early childhood, but the long-term effects have not been investigated, nor is the relation to atopic disease later in life clear. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the development of IgG subclass antibodies to beta-lactoglobulin in relation to early exposure to cow's milk, atopic heredity, and the development of atopic disease. METHODS: IgG subclass antibodies to beta-lactoglobulin were analyzed by ELISA at birth, at 6 and 18 months, and at 8 years in 96 children followed prospectively. RESULTS: The levels of IgG subclass antibodies to beta-lactoglobulin peaked in early childhood and then declined up to 8 years of age. Exposure to cow's milk during the first 3 months of life was associated with high IgG subclass antibody levels to beta-lactoglobulin up to 8 years, particularly in children with maternal atopy. Children with atopic symptoms and sensitivity to allergens often had high levels of IgG4 antibodies to beta-lactoglobulin at 8 years of age, even if they were not exposed to cow's milk during the first 3 months of life. Furthermore, atopic dermatitis was associated with high levels of IgG subclass antibodies to beta-lactoglobulin in early childhood. CONCLUSIONS: IgG subclass antibody levels to milk peak during early infancy, with particularly high levels in children with atopic dermatitis, and decline thereafter. Exposure to cow's milk during early infancy has long-lasting effects on the humoral antigen-specific responses, indicating less effective tolerance-inducing mechanisms in the intestinal mucosa during the first months of life.
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39. |
- Jenmalm, Maria, 1971-, et al.
(author)
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Expression of and responses to CD2 and CD3 in 18-month-old children with and without atopic dermatitis
- 2000
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In: Pediatric Allergy and Immunology. - : Wiley. - 0905-6157 .- 1399-3038. ; 11:3, s. 175-182
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We hypothesize that atopy is associated with a reduced T-cell function early in life and an imbalance in cytokine production. The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression of and responses to CD2 and CD3 in children who did or did not develop atopic dermatitis early in life. The expression of CD2 and CD3 was analyzed by flow cytometry, and proliferation of CD2 and CD3 was studied by 3H-thymidine incorporation in phytohaemagglutinin (PHA)- and anti-CD3-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of 18-month-old children, 25 with and 29 without atopic dermatitis. Exogenous interleukin (IL)-2 was added to compensate for possible functional differences in accessory cells. Anti-CD3-induced secretion of IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IL-13, and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) was analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Atopy was associated with a low proportion of CD2+ lymphocytes. Responsiveness to PHA, which activates lymphocytes partly via the sheep erythrocyte receptor, CD2, was reduced in the allergic children. The anti-CD3-induced proliferation declined more rapidly with antibody dilution in the allergic than in the non-allergic children. Atopic dermatitis was associated with high levels of anti-CD3-stimulated IL-5 secretion. The IL-4/IL-10 and IL-4/IFN-γ ratios were higher in children with elevated total immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels. Skin prick test-negative children with eczema produced higher levels of IL-10 than skin prick test-positive children. In conclusion, atopic children have a reduced T-cell function. Atopic dermatitis is associated with increased IL-5 production, while high total IgE levels are associated with high IL-4/IFN-γ and IL-4/IL-10 ratios.
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40. |
- Jenmalm, Maria, 1971-, et al.
(author)
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Regulation of myeloid cell function through the CD200 receptor
- 2006
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In: Journal of Immunology. - 0022-1767 .- 1550-6606. ; 176:1, s. 191-199
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Myeloid cells play pivotal roles in chronic inflammatory diseases through their broad proinflammatory, destructive, and remodeling capacities. CD200 is widely expressed on a variety of cell types, while the recently identified CD200R is expressed on myeloid cells and T cells. CD200 deletion in vivo results in myeloid cell dysregulation and enhanced susceptibility to autoimmune inflammation, suggesting that the CD200-CD200R interaction is involved in immune suppression. We demonstrate in this study that CD200R agonists suppress mouse and human myeloid cell function in vitro, and also define a dose relationship between receptor expression and cellular inhibition. IFN-γ- and IL-17-stimulated cytokine secretion from mouse peritoneal macrophages was inhibited by CD200R engagement. Inhibitory effects were not universal, as LPS-stimulated responses were unaffected. Inhibition of U937 cell cytokine production correlated with CD200R expression levels, and inhibition was only observed in low CD200R expressing cells, if the CD200R agonists were further cross-linked. Tetanus toxoid-induced human PBMC IL-5 and IL-13 secretion was inhibited by CD200R agonists. This inhibition was dependent upon cross-linking the CD200R on monocytes, but not on cross-linking the CD200R on CD4+ T cells. In all, we provide direct evidence that the CD200-CD200R interaction controls monocyte/macrophage function in both murine and human systems, further supporting the potential clinical application of CD200R agonists for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases. Copyright © 2005 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.
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41. |
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42. |
- Lindau, Robert, 1989-
(author)
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Immune regulation at the foetal-maternal interface; implications for healthy and complicated pregnancies
- 2020
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- For a successful pregnancy, the maternal immune system must acquire tolerance towards the paternal antigens present in the semi-allogeneic foetus. This tolerance is mainly established locally at the foetal-maternal interface, where foetally-derived trophoblasts invade the maternal endometrium (called decidua during pregnancy) and come in close proximity to maternal immune cells. The decidua is populated by maternal immune cells of a unique composition, characterised by their suppressive phenotypes that are essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis. Accordingly, failure of immune tolerance can lead to pregnancy complications. Macrophages and regulatory T-cells are enriched in the decidua and are believed to play important roles in the establishment of tolerance. However, there is limited information regarding the factors that regulate their functions and if their function is compromised in pregnancy complications.The aim of this thesis was to further elucidate which factors are responsible for induction of the regulatory phenotypes of macrophages and T-cells found in the decidua, how tissue resident cells in the decidua contribute to this and if this system is compromised during pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia and recurrent pregnancy loss.Decidual stromal cells (DSCs) constitute the largest population of tissue resident cells in the decidua. In an in vitro system of macrophage differentiation, we found that Isolated peripheral blood monocytes cultured in conditioned medium (CM) from DSCs acquired a high expression of the regulatory M2 markers CD163, CD209 and CD14, and a low expression of CD86, characteristics of decidual macrophages. This induction was in part mediated by macrophage-colony stimulating factor (M-CSF), as neutralising its effects reduced the expression of CD163. However, since only a partial reduction was reached, other factors are involved. Another likely candidate for this polarisation is interleukin (IL)-34, a second ligand for the M-CSF receptor. We showed that IL-34 is expressed by both DSCs and the foetal placenta. Further, in vitro, IL-34 was able to induce macrophages with similar properties as that of M-CSF-induced macrophages, with high expression of CD163, CD209 and CD14. This was also coupled to a cytokine secretion profile similar to M-CSF-induced macrophages, with high production of IL-10, low production of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and no production of IL-12. We found no evidence of IL-34 being aberrantly expressed in placentas from preeclamptic women.In addition to promoting induction of macrophages with a regulatory phenotype, CM from DSCs promoted expansion of Foxp3+CD25bright regulatory T (Treg) cells in an in vitro polarisation system, in a SMAD3 dependent manner. Protein profiling of DSCs revealed limited production of the Th2 related IL-13, IL-4, IL-33 and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), as well as no production of the Th17 related IL-17A and chemokine (C-C motif) ligand (CCL) 20. Instead we found that DSCs were more prone to production of regulatory factors, such as M-CSF, leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, albeit with addition of the more pro-inflammatory IL-6, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand (CXCL) 8 and the Th1-related CXCL10.We also investigated if the placenta´s ability to induce Treg cells and regulatory M2 macrophages is compromised in women with a history of unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (uRPL) and if the placental secreted protein profile is skewed to a pro-inflammatory response in uRPL. Using surplus materials from chorionic villous sampling (CVS), we generated CM from placental tissue taken from healthy and uRPL pregnancies and used this to polarise macrophages and T-cells in vitro. We found no difference in the ability to induce Treg cells and regulatory M2 macrophages between the healthy group and the uRPL group. Likewise, no differences in the protein profile was observed between the two groups.Taken together, our findings imply that DSCs produce a variety of factors promoting foetal tolerance by induction of Treg cells and regulatory M2 macrophages. Furthermore, we also showed that the placenta retained its ability to induce Treg cells and regulatory M2 macrophages in women with a history of uRPL.
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43. |
- Lizano Fallas, Verónica, 1985-
(author)
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Toxicoproteomics, from finding molecular targets to evaluating the impact on human health
- 2023
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- The exposome refers to all exposures, including exposures to chemicals, that an individual may encounter over the whole life, from conception to death, that influence the individual’s health. To date, over 200,000 chemicals have been registered under the legislative framework of the European Union. Exposomics studies have revealed that individuals are exposed to chemical mixtures consisting of hundreds of compounds simultaneously. The risks to human health posed by many of these chemicals and chemical mixtures are still unknown and require evaluation. Traditional methods for assessing chemicals and chemical mixtures have been inadequate in addressing the increasing number of potentially toxic compounds in the environment. Current high-throughput toxicology methods, which involve the application of batteries of in vitro bioassays, can reduce the time and costs of analysis. However, these methods evaluate the impact on well-established pathways that have already been identified as being affected by exposure, making it difficult to discover new modes of action. The goal of this thesis is to provide a method to unravel the targets of chemicals for a better understanding of the mechanisms of action of chemicals and chemical mixtures under the scenario of the exposome. The proteome integral solubility alteration (PISA) assay is a proteome-wide approach for drug-target identification. However, implementing the PISA assay to address toxicological challenges requires different experimental considerations from chemical properties and toxicology principles. Moreover, it is necessary to translate the data from target identification to an understanding of the potential impact on human health. Therefore, three steps were followed to implement the PISA method in the field of toxicology: i) experimental considerations of the method for toxicology and chemical assessment purposes, ii) analysis of the method capability in the field of toxicology, and iii) development of pipelines from the target identification to the understanding of potential impact on human health. The results showed the capability of the PISA assay to identify the protein targets of single chemicals and chemical mixtures, extending, in an unbiased manner, the list of evaluated biological pathways in current available methodologies. The approach presented here reduces the time and cost associated with experimental and data analysis work, which could aid in the chemical risk assessment process in the context of the exposome.
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44. |
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45. |
- Nilsson, Lennart, et al.
(author)
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Vaccination and allergy : EAACI position paper, practical aspects
- 2017
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In: Pediatric allergy and immunology : official publication of the European Society of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology. - : Wiley. - 0905-6157 .- 1399-3038. ; 28:7, s. 628-640
-
Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Immunization is highly effective in preventing infectious diseases and therefore an indispensable public health measure. Allergic patients deserve access to the same publicly recommended immunizations as non-allergic patients unless risks associated with vaccination outweigh the gains. Whereas the number of reported possible allergic reactions to vaccines is high, confirmed vaccine-triggered allergic reactions are rare. Anaphylaxis following vaccination is rare, affecting <1/100 000, but can occur in any patient. Some patient groups, notably those with a previous allergic reaction to a vaccine or its components, are at heightened risk of allergic reaction and require special precautions. Allergic reactions, however, may occur in patients without known risk factors and cannot be predicted by currently available tools. Unwarranted fear and uncertainty can result in incomplete vaccination coverage for children and adults with or without allergy. In addition to concerns about an allergic reaction to the vaccine itself, there is fear that routine childhood immunization may promote the development of allergic sensitization and disease. Thus, although there is no evidence that routine childhood immunization increases the risk of allergy development, such risks need to be discussed.
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46. |
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47. |
- Prescott, SL, et al.
(author)
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Effects of maternal allergen-specific IgG in cord blood on early postnatal development of allergen-specific T-cell immunity
- 2000
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In: Allergy. European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. - 0105-4538 .- 1398-9995. ; 55:5, s. 470-475
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: A wide body of epidemiologic evidence indicates that as yet unknown maternal factor(s) can influence susceptibility to allergic disease in the offspring. It is also well established that the induction of allergen- specific T-cell memory is frequently initiated in utero, and it is likely that maternal factors exert their influence during this period. Methods: This study examines the relationship between maternally derived allergen-specific IgG subclass antibodies and cellular immune responses (lymphoproliferation and cytokine production) against the same allergens in 49 subjects tested at birth and at 2 years of age. Polyclonal production of the Th1 cytokine IFN-? was also examined in the cord-blood samples. Results: At birth, there were positive correlations between both house-dust mite (HDM)- and ovalbumin (OVA)-specific IgG subclass levels in cord blood, maternal atopy, and the magnitude of perinatal lymphoproliferative responses to respective allergens. Inverse relationships were also observed between cord-blood IgG antibody titres and allergen-specific production of some Th2 cytokines. However, there were no consistent relationships between cord-blood allergen-specific IgG antibodies and subsequent immune responses to allergens when the same subjects were retested at 2 years of age. An inverse relationship was observed between maternal history of atopy and perinatal IFN-Ac production capacity. Conclusions: Our results suggest that transplacental transfer of allergen-specific IgG antibody is unlikely to be a major mechanism for maternal regulation of allergen-specific immunity in infancy. An alternative possibility is that maternal effects may operate by influencing IFN-? production by T cells in the offspring.
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48. |
- Qazi, Khaleda Rahman, et al.
(author)
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Extremely Preterm Infants Have Significant Alterations in Their Conventional T Cell Compartment during the First Weeks of Life
- 2020
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In: Journal of Immunology. - : AMER ASSOC IMMUNOLOGISTS. - 0022-1767 .- 1550-6606. ; 204:1, s. 68-77
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Extremely preterm neonates are particularly susceptible to infections, likely because of severely impaired immune function. However, little is known on the composition of the T cell compartment in early life in this vulnerable population. We conducted a comprehensive phenotypic flow cytometry-based longitudinal analysis of the peripheral conventional T cell compartment of human extremely low gestational age neonates (ELGAN) with extremely low birth weight (ELBW; amp;lt;1000 g) participating in a randomized placebo-controlled study of probiotic supplementation. PBMCs from ELGAN/ELBW neonates were collected at day 14, day 28, and postmenstrual week 36. Comparisons were made with full-term 14-d-old neonates. Total CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cell frequencies were markedly lower in the preterm neonates. The reduction was more pronounced among the CD8(+) population, resulting in an increased CD4/CD8 ratio. The preterm infants were also more Th2 skewed than the full-term infants. Although the frequency of regulatory T cells seemed normal in the ELGAN/ELBW preterm neonates, their expression of the homing receptors alpha 4 beta 7, CCR4, and CCR9 was altered. Notably, ELGAN/ELBW infants developing necrotizing enterocolitis before day 14 had higher expression of CCR9 in CD4(+)T cells at day 14. Chorioamnionitis clearly associated with reduced T regulatory cell frequencies and functional characteristics within the preterm group. Finally, probiotic supplementation with Lactobacillus reuteri did not impose any phenotypic changes of the conventional T cell compartment. In conclusion, notable immaturities of the T cell compartment in ELGAN/ELBW neonates may at least partially explain their increased susceptibility to severe immune-mediated morbidities.
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49. |
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50. |
- Rytkonen, J, et al.
(author)
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Effect of heat denaturation on beta-lactoglobulin-induced gastrointestinal sensitization in rats : denatured betaLG induces a more intensive local immunologic response than native betaLG
- 2002
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In: Pediatric Allergy and Immunology. - : Wiley. - 0905-6157 .- 1399-3038. ; 13:4, s. 269-277
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Beta-lactoglobulin (▀LG) is one of the first foreign antigens encountered by a newborn child, and it is the major allergen causing cow's milk allergy. Heat denaturation causes changes to the protein structure, but the significance of heat-induced changes for immunogenicity or allergenicity is not known. To clarify how heat denaturation affects allergenicity and immunogenicity, we immunized Hooded-Lister rat pups with intra-peritoneal injections of native or heat-denatured ▀LG at days 43 and 62 after birth. The animals were then fed native and denatured milk products twice weekly from 73 to 101 days of age with a feeding tube, after which they were allowed cheese and milk ad libitum, until they were killed on day 131. Total immunoglobulin (Ig)E and ▀LG-specific IgG1 and IgG2a levels were determined from serum samples. Spontaneous interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interferon-? (IFN-?) production was measured from duodenal specimens, and specimens of gastrointestinal mucosae were studied for the presence of inflammatory cells. The rats immunized with native ▀LG had higher levels of total serum IgE than the unimmunized controls or the rats immunized with heat-denatured ▀LG, while heat-denatured ▀LG induced a significantly more intensive mononuclear inflammatory cell and eosinophil infiltration in the gastroduodenal mucosa. The ▀LG -specific IgG antibody and IL-4 and IFN-? responses were similar in the two groups of immunized animals. Hence, denaturation modifies the immunogenic and allergenic properties of ▀LG. Heat-denatured ▀LG induces a more intensive local reaction in the gastrointestinal mucosa, while there is some evidence for enhanced systemic allergic sensitization by native ▀LG. ⌐ 2002 Blackwell Munksgaard.
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