In:
The Journal of Immunology, The American Association of Immunologists, Vol. 198, No. 7 ( 2017-04-01), p. 2661-2670
Abstract:
Circulating autoantibodies and immune complex deposition are pathological hallmarks of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). B cell differentiation into plasma cells (PCs) and some T cell subsets that function as B cell helpers can be therapeutic targets of SLE. Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling is implicated in the formation of B cells and germinal centers (GCs). We assessed the effect of metformin, which inhibits mTOR, on the development of autoimmunity using Roquinsan/san mice. Oral administration of metformin inhibited the formation of splenic follicles and inflammation in kidney and liver tissues. It also decreased serum levels of anti-dsDNA Abs without affecting serum glucose levels. Moreover, metformin inhibited CD21highCD23low marginal zone B cells, B220+GL7+ GC B cells, B220−CD138+ PCs, and GC formation. A significant reduction in ICOS+ follicular helper T cells was found in the spleens of the metformin-treated group compared with the vehicle-treated group. In addition, metformin inhibited Th17 cells and induced regulatory T cells. These alterations in B and T cell subsets by metformin were associated with enhanced AMPK expression and inhibition of mTOR–STAT3 signaling. Furthermore, metformin induced p53 and NF erythroid-2–related factor-2 activity in splenic CD4+ T cells. Taken together, metformin-induced alterations in AMPK–mTOR–STAT3 signaling may have therapeutic value in SLE by inhibiting B cell differentiation into PCs and GCs.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0022-1767
,
1550-6606
DOI:
10.4049/jimmunol.1403088
Language:
English
Publisher:
The American Association of Immunologists
Publication Date:
2017
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1475085-5
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