{"title":"Epigenetic regulation of B cell response in autoimmune diseases","authors":"Jingjing Chen , Xiaoming Wang","doi":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102582","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102582","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The maintenance of peripheral tolerance depends on various regulatory mechanisms. Thus, the breakdown of self-tolerance leads to the development of autoimmunity. Although the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases is complex, they are primarily antibody mediated. Notably, autoreactive antibodies are detectable in ∼70% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and have pathogenic effects. Hence, it is important to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying B cell response in autoimmune diseases. Recent studies have shed light on the alterations in epigenetic modifications that accompany the development of autoimmune diseases. In this review, we will discuss the recent advances in this field, which may provide precise clues for the diagnosis and therapies for patients with autoimmune disorders.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11361,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Immunology","volume":"95 ","pages":"Article 102582"},"PeriodicalIF":6.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144184458","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Zeyu Chen , Suyang Lin , Lian Cui , Qian Yu , Yuling Shi
{"title":"Targeted immunotherapy of psoriasis: focusing on Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription signaling pathway","authors":"Zeyu Chen , Suyang Lin , Lian Cui , Qian Yu , Yuling Shi","doi":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102583","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102583","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects approximately 1%–3% of the global population. The advent of biologic therapies has markedly improved the management of moderate-to-severe cases. While the efficacy and safety of these novel agents are well documented, many patients value the convenience of oral therapies, which not only eliminate the risk of injection site infections and complications but also alleviate the fear and discomfort associated with needles. The Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway plays a crucial role in mediating the psoriatic inflammatory responses. Current research is focused on developing oral therapies, particularly JAK/STAT inhibitors, that provide improved efficacy and safety. In contrast to existing reviews, our scoping review not only evaluates randomized controlled trials of pan-JAK, selective JAK, and selective tyrosine kinase 2 inhibitors but also delves into mechanistic insights regarding both therapeutic effects and mechanisms of relapse.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11361,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Immunology","volume":"95 ","pages":"Article 102583"},"PeriodicalIF":6.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144177420","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Chi Fang , Pian Yu , Jie Li , Xiang Chen , Cong Peng
{"title":"Epigenetics of atopic dermatitis: pathogenesis and therapeutic prospects","authors":"Chi Fang , Pian Yu , Jie Li , Xiang Chen , Cong Peng","doi":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102581","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102581","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that poses a serious threat to human physical and mental health. Its main clinical features include itching, lichenification, and dry skin. The etiology of AD is not yet fully understood, and its pathogenesis is only partially elucidated. An increasing body of evidence suggests that this refractory disease is associated with epigenetic alterations, including specific modifications in immune cells and keratinocytes that play a key role in the pathogenesis of AD. The latest advances in epigenetic research have provided new insights into the pathogenesis of AD and potential therapeutic targets. In this review, we discuss the impact of DNA methylation, noncoding RNAs, and histone modifications on the pathogenesis of AD, emphasizing the potential of epigenetic modifications as targeted biomarkers, which pave the way for the development of novel targeted therapies and personalized medical approaches.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11361,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Immunology","volume":"95 ","pages":"Article 102581"},"PeriodicalIF":6.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144177421","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Loukas Chatzis , Andreas V Goules , Athanasios G Tzioufas
{"title":"Can we cure Sjogren’s disease? Unmet needs and raising questions in the era of Precision medicine","authors":"Loukas Chatzis , Andreas V Goules , Athanasios G Tzioufas","doi":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102578","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102578","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The wide spectrum of Sjögren's disease (SjD) clinical manifestations coupled with its multifaceted pathogenesis has complicated drug target development, optimal clinical trial design, identification of suitable SjD subgroups, selection of appropriate outcome measures, and interpretation of treatment efficacy. Despite recent advancements in biologic treatments for autoimmune diseases, the targeted therapy(ies) for SjD remain an unmet need, with no regulatory approvals, so far. Recent large, randomized studies have suggested some patient benefits; however, reproducibility is needed, and assessment of treatment efficacy requires refinement. In this review, we explore the potential for curing SjD taking into consideration the main pathogenetic mechanisms, clinical phenotypes, and underlying endotypes. We provide an overview of current recommendations and targeted treatments, identify potential reasons for treatment failures, and propose strategies (in and out of the box) for future directions. By addressing these areas, we offer a comprehensive perspective that may inform future research and therapeutic strategies for SjD.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11361,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Immunology","volume":"95 ","pages":"Article 102578"},"PeriodicalIF":6.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144177489","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Is there a path to cure myasthenia gravis?","authors":"Rozen Le Panse","doi":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102577","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102577","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by muscle fatigability caused by autoantibodies targeting components of the neuromuscular junction, primarily the acetylcholine receptor (AChR). In AChR-MG, the thymus plays a central role as the initiating site of sensitization, fostering a highly inflammatory environment that supports the production of autoreactive T and B cells. Current treatments mainly focus on symptom relief and broad immunosuppressive therapies but fall short of providing a definitive cure. This review examines the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying MG and discusses emerging therapeutic strategies aiming to achieve long-term remission or even a cure. By combining targeted elimination of autoreactive cell sources through thymectomy in AChR-MG with strategies to reset and restore immune tolerance, we may be on the path to a true cure for this complex autoimmune disorder.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11361,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Immunology","volume":"95 ","pages":"Article 102577"},"PeriodicalIF":6.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144167705","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Linxuan Wu , Tingrui Han , Yinghan Wang , Shuli Li , Chunying Li
{"title":"Epigenetic regulation in vitiligo: mechanisms, challenges, and therapeutic opportunities","authors":"Linxuan Wu , Tingrui Han , Yinghan Wang , Shuli Li , Chunying Li","doi":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102580","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102580","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Vitiligo, characterized by epidermal melanocytes loss causing skin depigmentation, affects millions globally. This review explores its pathogenesis, emphasizing the role of epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modification, noncoding RNAs, chromatin remodeling, and 3D genome regulation. These mechanisms interact with genetic and environmental factors, contributing to melanocyte destruction. DNA methylation dysregulation, particularly in genes such as TYR and POMC, disrupts melanocyte homeostasis. Histone modification imbalances, including excessive histone deacetylase (HDAC) activation, promote melanocyte apoptosis. Noncoding RNAs, such as miR-211 and lncRNAs, regulate gene expression and immune responses. Chromatin remodeling and 3D genome interactions further influence gene expression, impacting melanogenesis. Despite advancements, challenges remain, including sample heterogeneity, limited model systems, and data integration complexities. Future directions include multiomics studies, organoid models, and personalized treatments. Epigenetic drugs like HDAC inhibitors and CRISPR-dCas9 show promise, with combination therapies offering synergistic effects. This review underscores the potential of epigenetics in advancing vitiligo research and clinical applications.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11361,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Immunology","volume":"95 ","pages":"Article 102580"},"PeriodicalIF":6.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144167706","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Novel approaches to prevent or cure allergic diseases","authors":"Serena Zadoo , Carla McGuire Davis","doi":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102569","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102569","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Prevention remains a critical goal to improve quality of life, given the chronic nature of allergic conditions and the interplay between them contributing to the atopic march. In this review, we will highlight key novel approaches to preventing allergic disease using a top-down approach (primary to secondary to tertiary). Significant advancements in the field have resulted in cutting-edge therapies and options for patients to optimize their health and quality of life. These include early introduction of allergenic foods; oral, sublingual, epicutaneous, and subcutaneous immunotherapy; biologic therapy; and elimination of allergen or irritant skin exposures. Further research and developments are necessary to prevent the atopic march and continue the progression of diagnostic and treatment modalities in allergic diseases.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11361,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Immunology","volume":"95 ","pages":"Article 102569"},"PeriodicalIF":6.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144137775","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Thetis cells: regulators of intestinal immune tolerance","authors":"Vanja Cabric , Chrysothemis C Brown","doi":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102570","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102570","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Our body’s mucosal surfaces interface with the external environment and are potential sites of entry for pathogens as well as noxious substances. Yet, these barrier sites are also colonized with symbiotic microbes and are in contact with harmless environmental antigens. Different barrier epithelia harbor distinct microbial communities that shape both the epithelial layer and local immune cells that maintain tissue homeostasis and tolerance to symbiotic microbes. This seemingly paradoxical peaceful co-existence of immune cells and microbes has fascinated immunologists for decades: how does the immune system balance inflammatory and tolerogenic responses? The mechanisms underlying peripheral immune tolerance to harmless foreign antigens have been most widely studied within the intestine, where the immune system must establish and maintain tolerance to harmless food and commensal antigens. Dysregulated immune responses to these antigens are linked to several human diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, and food allergy. Understanding the cellular and molecular cues that promote intestinal immune tolerance is key to the development of effective therapeutic strategies for these pathologies. Here, we review recent insights into mechanisms of intestinal tolerance with a focus on recently identified RORγt<sup>+</sup> antigen-presenting cells.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11361,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Immunology","volume":"95 ","pages":"Article 102570"},"PeriodicalIF":6.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144137774","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Tipping the balance: innate and adaptive immunity in mitochondrial disease","authors":"Andrew Phillip West , Peter J McGuire","doi":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102566","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102566","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Mitochondrial diseases (MtD) provide a unique window into the complex interplay between metabolism and immune function. These rare disorders, caused by defects in oxidative phosphorylation, result in bioenergetic deficiencies that disrupt multiple organ systems. While traditionally studied for their metabolic impact, MtD also profoundly affect the immune system, altering both innate and adaptive responses. This review explores how mitochondrial dysfunction shapes immune dysregulation, influencing thymocyte maturation, regulatory T cells, and B cell function while also driving innate immune activation through mitochondrial DNA instability and type I interferon signaling. Additionally, MtD highlight an emerging overlap between inborn errors of metabolism and inborn errors of immunity, revealing shared pathways that connect mitochondrial dysfunction to immune deficiencies and inflammatory disease. Studying MtD not only advances our understanding of immunometabolism but also provides critical insights into more common inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, offering potential therapeutic targets that extend beyond rare mitochondrial disorders.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11361,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Immunology","volume":"95 ","pages":"Article 102566"},"PeriodicalIF":6.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144134385","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Mirjam Kolev , Andreas E Kremer , Christiane Sokollik , Merill Eric Gershwin , Benedetta Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli
{"title":"Unmet needs in autoimmune liver diseases","authors":"Mirjam Kolev , Andreas E Kremer , Christiane Sokollik , Merill Eric Gershwin , Benedetta Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli","doi":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102565","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.coi.2025.102565","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis are well-defined autoimmune liver diseases, the pathophysiology of which remains enigmatic. While major therapeutic advances have been achieved for many other autoimmune diseases, precision therapy for these diseases has lagged. For example, limited data exist on the use of innovative drugs targeting the immune system, such as monoclonal antibodies that block immune checkpoint, mRNA vaccines, the influence of infections, the microbiome, and drugs on loss of tolerance in liver autoimmunity. The knowledge on recent radiological techniques, on the expanding role of artificial intelligence in medicine, and on the relationship between the pediatric and adult phenotypes also urgently needs to be advanced in liver autoimmunity. Increased patient involvement focusing on individual symptom burden is also crucial for improving long-term quality of treatment. The fourth Swiss Autoimmune Liver Disease Meeting provided a unique interdisciplinary platform for experts and patients to discuss critical gaps. This opinion paper highlights the discussions on unmet needs and potential solutions in autoimmune liver diseases.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11361,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Immunology","volume":"95 ","pages":"Article 102565"},"PeriodicalIF":6.6,"publicationDate":"2025-05-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144123526","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}