Enthesitis-related arthritis (ERA), a common subtype of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), carries a poor prognosis. We hypothesised that potentially pathogenic immune cell subsets communicate between the circulatory and synovial compartments of ERA patients, where the joint microenvironment facilitates chemoattraction and activation of these subsets to cause inflammation. We first interrogated, via mass cytometry, the systemic immunomes of active ERA patients and healthy paediatric controls. The ERA systemic immunome is structurally and functionally similar to healthy blood, except for an expanded CXCR3+CCR6+CD4+ effector T cell (Teff) population. We then compared the ERA systemic and microenvironmental immunomes, which revealed synovial Th1 and Th17 expansion. Importantly, CXCR3+CCR6+CD4+ Teffs may migrate along a pathogenic chemokine gradient into the synovium, where they accumulate and activate. Single-cell ATAC-seq uncovered high CXCR3 and CCR6 accessibility in synovial CD4+ T cells, including those committed to Th1 and Th17 pathways. In-vitro, CXCR3+CCR6+CD4+ Teffs differentiate into Th1 and Th17 cells following TCR activation. Although CXCR3+CCR6+ CD4+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) also accumulate in the joint and were shown in-vitro to be bona fide Tregs, they may not be sufficiently expanded in the microenvironment. Elucidating the interdependence of CXCR3+CCR6+CD4+ T cells, the associated chemokine gradient, and Th1 and Th17 effectors may refine ERA therapy.
23 Mar 2023 @ 09:00 - 23 Mar 2023 @ 10:00
TAY SHI HUANIBM PhD PROGRAM (INTAKE 2018)
To enjoy the full experience, please upgrade your browser