Fetal and neonatal immune system is known to be immature and antigen stimulation can cause tolerance rather than effector responses. Monocytes in peripheral blood differentiate to macrophages and dendritic cells (DC) which drive adaptive immunity, and they also likely provide cytokine support for T-independent B cell responses. We have recently identified two populations of monocytes (CD14+) in cord blood, CD36hi and CD36low and shown that the CD36hi monocytes drive development of regulatory T (Treg) cells. Study suing specific inhibitors showed that induction of Tregs require TGF-? signaling while IL-10, retinoic acid, or aryl hydrocarbon receptor signaling is not required. CD36h monocytes express the latent form of TGF-? complex on the cell surface. We hypothesize that the immunosuppressive state of infants is due in part to the predominance of these immunosuppressive CD36hi monocytes which promote expansion of Treg cells. We also hypothesize that membrane-bound TGF-? provides a signaling process required for generation of Tregs.
In Aim 1, we will examine the mechanism by which TGF-? is attached to the cell membrane of CD36hi monocytes.
In Aim 2, we will monitor localization of TGF-? receptor complex and its down stream target molecules during induction of Foxp3+ Tregs by CD36hi monocytes. Results from these studies are expected to provide a basis for understanding fetal/neonatal tolerance and will help developing safer and long lasting immunesuppression. The outcomes of this study will also help overcoming the immunocompromised state of infants by a combination of more effective vaccine adjuvants that will abrogate the immunosuppressive state of infants as well as enhance their immunity.

Public Health Relevance

This study focuses on subpopulations of monocytes that induce regulatory T cells and may be responsible for the immunocompromised state of infants. By determining the mechanism these monocytes use to induce regulatory cells, we expect to identify molecules that can be used as safe immunosuppressive drug to induce immunological tolerance.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Type
Exploratory/Developmental Grants (R21)
Project #
1R21AI100565-01A1
Application #
8461805
Study Section
Transplantation, Tolerance, and Tumor Immunology (TTT)
Program Officer
Prabhudas, Mercy R
Project Start
2013-02-01
Project End
2015-01-31
Budget Start
2013-02-01
Budget End
2014-01-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2013
Total Cost
$179,889
Indirect Cost
$54,889
Name
Loyola University Chicago
Department
Microbiology/Immun/Virology
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
791277940
City
Maywood
State
IL
Country
United States
Zip Code
60153
Iwashima, Makio; Love, Robert (2013) Potential of targeting TGF-? for organ transplant patients. Future Med Chem 5:281-9