Promotion of Th1 and Th2 responses over Th17 in Riemerella anatipestifer stimulation in chicken splenocytes: Correlation of gga-miR-456-3p and gga-miR-16-5p with NOS2 and CCL5 expression

Abstract

Riemerella (R.) anatipestifer poses a significant threat to ducks, resulting in mortality rates ranging from 5–75%. This disease is highly infectious and economically consequential for domestic ducks. Although other avian species, such as chickens, also display susceptibility, the impact is comparatively less severe than in ducks. IL-17A has a pronounced correlation with R. anatipestifer infection in ducks, which is less in chickens. This study performed an in vitro transcriptome analysis using chicken splenic lymphocytes collected at 4-, 8-, and 24-hour intervals following R. anatipestifer stimulation. The primary objective was to discern the differentially expressed genes, with a specific focus on IL-17A and IL-17F expression. Moreover, an association between specific miRNAs with NOS2 and CCL5 was identified. The manifestation of riemerellosis in chickens was linked to heightened expression of Th1- and Th2-associated cells, while Th17 cells exhibited minimal involvement. This study elucidated the mechanism behind the absence of a Th17 immune response, shedding light on its role throughout disease progression. Additionally, through small RNA sequencing, we identified a connection between miRNAs, specifically miR-456-3p and miR-16-5p, and their respective target genes NOS2 and CCL5. These miRNAs are potential regulators of the inflammatory process during riemerellosis in chickens.

Identification of Critical Immune Regulators and Potential Interactions of IL-26 in Riemerella anatipestifer-Infected Ducks by Transcriptome Analysis and Profiling

“…To understand the involvement of IL-17 regulation during RA infection in ducks, we analyzed related Th17 cytokines, including IL-23 and IL-22, and found that in RA infection, IL-23 does not play a critical role in the IL-17A response. Furthermore, in contrast to IL-22, IL-17A is produced by both CD4 + and other splenocytes [17,21]. Interestingly, we found an association of the common cytokine receptor γ chain with the expression of Th17-related cytokines during RA infection [22].…”

“…To a lesser extent than IL-17A, related IL-17 cytokines and IL-17F, but not IL-17D, were also found to be upregulated in RA-infected ducks [15,16]. A comparative analysis of RA-infected chickens and ducks correlated with a more Th1/Th2-driven response in chickens, whereas a Th17-driven response was observed in ducks [15,17]. A targeted approach to reduce IL-17A and related Th17 cytokine expression was also attempted by our research group using natural substances (i.e., berberine and diindolylmethane) and recombinant IL-4 protein.…”

“…Additionally, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis was performed. Our previous reports indicated differential expression of genes in ducks and chickens during RA infection; hence, Homo sapiens was used instead of Gallus gallus for the enrichment analysis [15,17]. A search tool for retrieving interacting genes/proteins (STRING v12.0, https://string-db.org/, accessed on 5 March 2024) was used for protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis of DEGs.…”