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HVEM: An unusual TNF receptor family member important for mucosal innate immune responses to microbes
Jr-Wen Shui1, Mitchell Kronenberg
1Division of Developmental Immunology, La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA.
Abstract:
The herpes virus entry mediator (HVEM or CD270) is a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF), and therefore it is also known as TNFRSF14. We have recently provided evidence showing a novel signaling pathway downstream of HVEM leading to signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) activation in epithelial cells. As STAT3 regulates the expression of genes important for host defense in epithelial cells, as well as the differentiation of retinoid-related orphan receptor (ROR)γt+ Th17 and innate lymphoid cells (ILC), our finding that HVEM activates STAT3 has revealed fresh insights into the potential regulatory function of HVEM in different cellular contexts. Therefore, although further investigations will be required, HVEM is emerging as a major player in mucosal host defense, capable of regulating several cellular responses.
Insights
Herpes virus entry mediator (HVEM) activates signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in epithelial cells. This discovery highlights HVEM's role in mucosal host defense and cellular regulation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Herpes virus entry mediator (HVEM), also known as TNFRSF14, is part of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily.
- HVEM's role in cellular signaling and host defense is under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate a novel signaling pathway downstream of HVEM in epithelial cells.
- To understand the regulatory function of HVEM in mucosal host defense.
Main Methods:
- Investigated signaling pathways involving HVEM.
- Analyzed the activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3).
Main Results:
- Identified a novel pathway where HVEM activation leads to STAT3 activation in epithelial cells.
- STAT3 activation by HVEM influences genes critical for host defense and immune cell differentiation.
Conclusions:
- HVEM plays a significant role in mucosal host defense by activating STAT3.
- HVEM regulates epithelial cell responses, including immune cell differentiation, highlighting its potential as a key regulator in cellular immunity.
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