Global histone modification analysis reveals hypoacetylated H3 and H4 histones in B Cells from systemic lupus erythematosus patients

Objective: Histone modification is an epigenetic alteration which either activates or suppresses gene transcription. Studies revealed the association of altered global histone modification in T cells and monocytes with the pathogenesis of Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Herein, we investigated the level of global histone 3 (H3) and histone 4 (H4) acetylation in B cells of SLE patients. Methods: Total 20 SLE patients and 10 healthy donors were recruited. Global H3 and H4 acetylation in B cells was assessed by Epigentek assay kits. Expression of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) in B cells was analyzed by staining cells with anti-CD19/20 and anti-DNMT1 antibody. The concentration of BAFF and APRIL was measured using LegendPlex Human B cells panel and circulating ANAs were determined using indirect immunofluorescence. Results: Compared to healthy donors, B cells from SLE patients were found to be hypoacetylated on both H3 and H4 histones together with a decrease in the expression of DNMT1. Indeed, stratification of SLE patients on the basis of disease activity did not show any variation, as the amount of H3 and H4 acetylation in both inactive and active SLE patients was almost uniform. Conclusion: These findings suggest that SLE-B cells were manifested with aberrant histone acetylation levels.

Automated summary

B cells from SLE patients showed hypoacetylation on both H3 and H4 histones, as well as decreased expression of DNMT1. The aberrant histone acetylation levels in SLE-B cells suggest potential implications for the pathogenesis of Systemic lupus erythematosus.