CHRFAM7A diversifies human immune adaption through Ca²⁺ signalling and actin cytoskeleton reorganization

Human restricted genes contribute to human specific traits in the immune system. CHRFAM7A, a uniquely human fusion gene, is a negative regulator of the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7 nAChR), the highest Ca²⁺ conductor of the ACh receptors implicated in innate immunity. Understanding the mechanism of how CHRFAM7A affects the immune system remains unexplored.

Two model systems are used, human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and human primary monocytes, to characterize α7 nAChR function, Ca²⁺ dynamics and decoders to elucidate the pathway from receptor to phenotype.

CHRFAM7A/α7 nAChR is identified as a hypomorphic receptor with mitigated Ca²⁺ influx and prolonged channel closed state. This shifts the Ca²⁺ reservoir from the extracellular space to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) leading to Ca²⁺ dynamic changes. Ca²⁺ decoder small GTPase Rac1 is then activated, reorganizing the actin cytoskeleton. Observed actin mediated phenotypes include cellular adhesion, motility, phagocytosis and tissue mechanosensation.

CHRFAM7A introduces an additional, human specific, layer to Ca²⁺ regulation leading to an innate immune gain of function. Through the actin cytoskeleton it drives adaptation to the mechanical properties of the tissue environment leading to an ability to invade previously immune restricted niches. Human genetic diversity predicts profound translational significance as its understanding builds the foundation for successful treatments for infectious diseases, sepsis, and cancer metastasis.

This work is supported in part by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo (Kinga Szigeti) and in part by NIH grant R01HL163168 (Yongho Bae).