Characterization of Herpes Virus Entry Mediator as a Factor Linked to Obesity

Abstract

Herpes virus entry mediator (HVEM) is a member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily (TNFRSF14), which serves as a receptor for herpes viruses and cytokines such as lymphotoxin‐α (LT‐α) and LIGHT (lymphotoxin‐like inducible protein that competes with glycoprotein D for herpes virus entry on T cells). We aimed to explore the associations of HVEM with human obesity. HVEM gene expression and protein levels were studied in total adipose tissue and in their fractions (isolated adipocytes and stromovascular cells (SVCs)) obtained from 81 subjects during elective surgical procedures. HVEM −241GA and −14AG gene polymorphisms were also studied and associated with obesity measures in 840 subjects. Visceral adipose tissue had significantly higher expression of HVEM than subcutaneous adipose tissue (P < 0.0001). Obese patients had significantly higher subcutaneous HVEM gene expression (P = 0.03) and protein levels (P = 0.01) than lean subjects. HVEM gene expression and protein levels were found in both isolated adipocytes and SVCs. These findings were confirmed in primary cultures from human preadipocytes, in which a significant increase in HVEM was observed during the differentiation process. HVEM −241GA and −14AG gene polymorphisms were associated with obesity, diastolic pressure, several inflammatory parameters (C‐reactive protein and interleukin 18 (IL‐18)), and circulating LIGHT concentrations. A sample of men with the G241A gene polymorphism also showed an increased serum titer of IgG antiherpes virus 1. These results provide evidences of an existing relationship between HVEM and obesity, which suggest that this TNF superfamily receptor could be involved in the pathogenesis of obesity and inflammation‐related activity.

Association between HSV1 Seropositivity and Obesity: Data from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey, 2007–2008

“…Future research could examine contributing factors. For example, the distribution of body fat in the body has been shown to contribute to the effects for metabolic disorders [36]. Therefore, it is possible that such factors could possibly play a role in the association of BMI and the susceptibility to HSV1.…”

Use of a proximity extension assay proteomics chip to discover new biomarkers for human atherosclerosis

“…Tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 14 is known to act as a co-stimulatory molecule in T-cells [25]. This protein is also expressed in endothelial cells and adipocytes [26] and mediates adhesion of platelets to the endothelium [27], indicating a role in vascular function, thrombosis and metabolism. This is the first time circulating levels of this protein have been linked to human atherosclerosis.…”

TNF superfamily in inflammatory disease: translating basic insights

“…Obese subjects have significantly higher subcutaneous HVEM gene expression in adipose tissue compared to lean subjects. HVEM gene polymorphisms additionally have shown an association with obesity measurements in a selective group of subjects, correlating with high levels of C-reactive protein, IL-18, and soluble LIGHT [55]. Furthermore, HVEM -deficient mice on a high-fat diet have fewer macrophages and T cells infiltrating adipose tissue, and display less glucose intolerance and better insulin sensitivity [56].…”