Endothelial CD74 mediates macrophage migration inhibitory factor protection in hyperoxic lung injury

Maor Sauler1, Yi Zhang1, Jin-Na Min1

  • 1Sections of *Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine and Rheumatology, Yale School of Medicine, and Department of Chemistry, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.

Insights

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) protects lung endothelial cells from hyperoxia injury via its receptor CD74. Targeting the MIF-CD74 pathway may offer novel treatments for acute lung injury.

Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Immunology
  • Pulmonary Medicine

Background:

  • Hyperoxia exposure causes acute lung injury, characterized by endothelial cell damage.
  • Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) exhibits protective effects on lung endothelial cells, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of the MIF receptor, CD74, in mediating the protective effects of MIF against hyperoxia-induced lung injury.
  • To explore the therapeutic potential of targeting the MIF-CD74 axis for acute oxidative stress.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized wild-type, MIF-deficient, and CD74-deficient mice models exposed to hyperoxia.
  • Administered MIF receptor inhibitors to assess their impact on hyperoxia sensitivity.
  • Examined primary murine lung endothelial cells (MLECs) to evaluate MIF's protective mechanisms, including effects on AKT and H2AX phosphorylation.

Main Results:

  • MIF deficiency or CD74 deficiency significantly reduced median survival following hyperoxia exposure.
  • MIF receptor inhibition increased bronchoalveolar lavage protein and lactate dehydrogenase levels, indicating enhanced lung injury.
  • Inhibition of CD74 in MLECs abolished MIF's protective effects, including reduced AKT phosphorylation and anti-apoptotic benefits.

Conclusions:

  • The MIF receptor CD74 is crucial for mediating the cytoprotective effects of MIF on lung endothelial cells during hyperoxia.
  • Therapeutic strategies targeting the MIF-CD74 axis show promise for protecting against acute oxidative stress and lung injury.