bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Matrix Metalloproteinases 9 and 2 Are Necessary for the Migration of Langerhans Cells and Dermal Dendritic Cells from Human and Murine Skin
Authors: Ratzinger Gudrun , Stoitzner Patrizia , Ebner Susanne , Lutz Manfred B. , Layton Guy T. , Rainer Christian , Senior Robert M. , Shipley J. Michael , Fritsch Peter , Schuler Gerold , Romani Nikolaus
Published: April 2014

Dendritic cells migrate from the skin to the draining lymph nodes. They transport immunogenic MHC-peptide complexes, present them to Ag-specific T cells in the T areas, and thus generate immunity. Migrating dendritic cells encounter physical obstacles, such as basement membranes and collagen meshwork. Prior work has revealed that matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) contributes to mouse Langerhans cell migration. In this study, we use mouse and human skin explant culture models to further study the role of MMPs in the migration and maturation of skin dendritic cells. We found that MMP-2 and MMP-9 are expressed on the surface of dendritic cells from the skin, but not from other sources. They are also expressed in migrating Langerhans cells in situ. The migration of both Langerhans cells and dermal dendritic cells is inhibited by a broad spectrum inhibitor of MMPs (BB-3103), by Abs to MMP-9 and -2, and by the natural tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP), TIMP-1 and TIMP-2. Inhibition by anti-MMP-2 and TIMP-2 define a functional role for MMP-2 in addition to the previously described function of MMP-9. The importance of MMP-9 was emphasized using MMP-9-deficient mice in which Langerhans cell migration from skin explants was strikingly reduced. However, MMP-9 was only required for Langerhans cell migration and not maturation, since nonmigrating Langerhans cells isolated from the epidermis matured normally with regard to morphology, phenotype, and T cell stimulatory function. These data underscore the importance of MMPs, and they may be of relevance for therapeutically regulating dendritic cell migration in clinical vaccination approaches.
Contrasting the Roles of Costimulation and the Natural Adjuvant Lipopolysaccharide During the Induction of T Cell Immunity
Authors: Maxwell Joseph R. , Ruby Carl , Kerkvliet Nancy I. , Vella Anthony T.
Published: April 2014

The requirements for circumventing tolerance induction in favor of memory T cell development are poorly understood. Although two signals (Ag and costimulation) are necessary to drive effective T cell clonal expansion, few memory T cells remain after the response wanes. The adjuvant LPS can increase numbers of long-lived Ag-specific T cells, but its mechanism of action is not understood. In this report, it is shown that LPS, when combined with two-signal stimulation, profoundly enhances T cell survival in vivo. This survival does not appear to be dependent on the cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IFN-γ, nor is it dependent on the transcription factor NF-κB. However, in vivo proliferation of NF-κB-deficient T cells was comparable to that of wild-type T cells, yet their early accumulation in the lymph nodes was severely reduced unless the mice were treated with LPS and an agonistic CD40 mAb. Most importantly, we found that activation of two different costimulatory signals, CD40 and OX40, could not substitute for LPS in rescuing T cells from peripheral deletion. Perhaps surprisingly, these data show that LPS delivers a qualitatively different signal than multiple costimulatory signals.
On CD28/CD40 Ligand Costimulation, Common γ-Chain Signals, and the Alloimmune Response
Authors: Demirci Gülçin , Gao Wenda , Zheng Xin Xiao , Malek Thomas R. , Strom Terry B. , Li Xian Chang
Published: April 2014

Activation and robust expansion of naive T cells often require T cell costimulatory signals and T cell growth factors. However, the precise growth and costimulation requirements for activation and expansion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in vivo in allograft response are still not clearly defined. In the present study, we critically examined the role of CD28/CD40 ligand (CD40L) costimulation and the common γ-chain (γc) signals, a shared signaling component by receptors for all known T cell growth factors (i.e., IL-2, IL-4, IL-7, IL-9, IL-15, IL-21), in activation and expansion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the allogeneic hosts. We found that CD28/CD40L costimulation and the γc signals are differentially involved in proliferation and clonal expansion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in response to alloantigen stimulation. CD8+ T cells are highly dependent on the γc signals for survival, expansion, and functional maturation, whereas in vivo expansion of alloreactive CD4+ T cells is largely γc independent. T cell costimulation via CD28 and CD40L, however, is necessary and sufficient for activation and expansion of CD4+ T cells in vivo. In a skin transplant model, blocking both CD28/CD40L and the γc pathways induced prolonged skin allograft survival. Our study provides critical insights that the CD4 and CD8 compartments are most likely governed by distinct mechanisms in vivo, and targeting both costimulatory and γc signals may be highly effective in certain cytopathic conditions involving activation of both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells.
Competition Between CTL Narrows the Immune Response Induced by Prime-Boost Vaccination Protocols
Authors: Palmowski Michael J. , Choi Ed Man-Lik , Hermans Ian F. , Gilbert Sarah C. , Chen Ji-Li , Gileadi Uzi , Salio Mariolina , Van Pel Aline , Man Stephen , Bonin Eivor , Liljestrom Peter , Dunbar P. Rod , Cerundolo Vincenzo
Published: April 2014

Recombinant vaccines encoding strings of virus- or tumor-derived peptides and/or proteins are currently being designed for use against both cancer and infectious diseases. These vaccines aim to induce cytotoxic immune responses against several Ags simultaneously. We developed a novel tetramer-based technique, based on chimeric HLA A2/H-2Kb H chains, to directly monitor the CTL response to such vaccines in HLA-A2 transgenic mice. We found that priming and boosting with the same polyepitope construct induced immune responses that were dominated by CTL of a single specificity. When a mixture of viruses encoding single proteins was used to boost the polyepitope primed response, CTL of multiple specificities were simultaneously expanded to highly effective levels in vivo. In addition, we show that a preexisting response to one of the epitopes encoded within a polyepitope construct significantly impaired the ability of the vaccine to expand CTL of other specificities. Our findings define a novel vaccination strategy optimized for the induction of an effective polyvalent cytotoxic response.
Generation of CD4+CD25+ Regulatory T Cells from Autoreactive T Cells Simultaneously with Their Negative Selection in the Thymus and from Nonautoreactive T Cells by Endogenous TCR Expression
Authors: Kawahata Kimito , Misaki Yoshikata , Yamauchi Michiko , Tsunekawa Shinji , Setoguchi Keigo , Miyazaki Jun-ichi , Yamamoto Kazuhiko
Published: April 2014

Normal T cell repertoire contains regulatory T cells that control autoimmune responses in the periphery. One recent study demonstrated that CD4+CD25+ T cells were generated from autoreactive T cells without negative selection. However, it is unclear whether, in general, positive selection and negative selection of autoreactive T cells are mutually exclusive processes in the thymus. To investigate the ontogeny of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells, neo-autoantigen-bearing transgenic mice expressing chicken egg OVA systemically in the nuclei (Ld-nOVA) were crossed with transgenic mice expressing an OVA-specific TCR (DO11.10). Ld-nOVA × DO11.10 mice had increased numbers of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells in the thymus and the periphery despite clonal deletion. In Ld-nOVA × DO11.10 mice, T cells expressing endogenous TCR αβ chains were CD4+CD25− T cells, whereas T cells expressing autoreactive TCR were selected as CD4+CD25+ T cells, which were exclusively dominant in recombination-activating gene 2-deficient Ld-nOVA × DO11.10 mice. In contrast, in DO11.10 mice, CD4+CD25+ T cells expressed endogenous TCR αβ chains, which disappeared in recombination-activating gene 2-deficient DO11.10 mice. These results indicate that part of autoreactive T cells that have a high affinity TCR enough to cause clonal deletion could be positively selected as CD4+CD25+ T cells in the thymus. Furthermore, it is suggested that endogenous TCR gene rearrangement might critically contribute to the generation of CD4+CD25+ T cells from nonautoreactive T cell repertoire, at least under the limited conditions such as TCR-transgenic models, as well as the generation of CD4+CD25− T cells from autoreactive T cell repertoire.
NF-κB2 Is Required for Optimal CD40-Induced IL-12 Production but Dispensable for Th1 Cell Differentiation
Authors: Speirs Kendra , Caamano Jorge , Goldschmidt Michael H. , Hunter Christopher A. , Scott Phillip
Published: April 2014

NF-κB is a ubiquitously expressed transcription factor involved in the regulation of innate and adaptive immunity. As part of studies to define the role of various NF-κB family members in Th cell development and maintenance, we infected NF-κB2−/− and control mice with Leishmania major and followed disease progression. NF-κB2−/− mice on a normally resistant background develop chronic nonhealing lesions associated with uncontrolled parasite replication and a failure to develop an IFN-γ response. We show that there are no intrinsic defects in Th cell differentiation in the absence of NF-κB2. Indeed, NF-κB2−/− T cells are able to develop a Th1 phenotype and protect recombination-activating gene−/− mice from progressive cutaneous leishmaniasis. We demonstrate instead that the susceptibility of NF-κB2−/− mice to L. major is the result of an IL-12 deficiency, and we provide evidence for a specific impairment in CD40-induced IL-12 production by macrophages lacking this transcription factor.
Aberrant Expression of Fas Ligand in Mice Deficient for the MHC Class II Transactivator
Authors: Gourley Tania S. , Patel Dipak R. , Nickerson Kevin , Hong Soon-Cheol , Chang Cheong-Hee
Published: April 2014

The MHC class II transactivator (CIITA) is a critical regulator of MHC class II genes and other genes involved in the Ag presentation pathway. CIITA-deficient mice lack MHC class II expression on almost all APCs. In this study, we show that these mice also have aberrant Fas ligand expression on both CD4 T cells and B cells. We found that Fas ligand expression was greatly increased on CIITA-deficient CD4 T cells during the Th1 differentiation process. However, both CIITA-deficient and control Th1 effector cells up-regulated Fas ligand to similar levels if cells were reactivated. The introduction of CIITA into primary CD4 T cells via retroviral infection resulted in a reduction in the level of Fas ligand and delay in apoptosis after activation. Interestingly, activated B cells from the CIITA-deficient mice also showed increased levels of Fas ligand that could be to some degree inhibited by the introduction of IL-4.
CTLA-4 Suppresses Proximal TCR Signaling in Resting Human CD4+ T Cells by Inhibiting ZAP-70 Tyr319 Phosphorylation: A Potential Role for Tyrosine Phosphatases
Authors: Guntermann Christine , Alexander Denis R.
Published: April 2014

The balance between positive and negative signals plays a key role in determining T cell function. CTL-associated Ag-4 is a surface receptor that can inhibit T cell responses induced upon stimulation of the TCR and its CD28 coreceptor. Little is known regarding the signaling mechanisms elicited by CTLA-4. In this study we analyzed CTLA-4-mediated inhibition of TCR signaling in primary resting human CD4+ T cells displaying low, but detectable, CTLA-4 cell surface expression. CTLA-4 coligation with the TCR resulted in reduced downstream protein tyrosine phosphorylation of signaling effectors and a striking inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 activation. Analysis of proximal TCR signaling revealed that TCR ζ-chain phosphorylation and subsequent ζ-associated protein of 70 kDa (ZAP-70) tyrosine kinase recruitment were not significantly affected by CTLA-4 engagement. However, the association of p56lck with ZAP-70 was inhibited following CTLA-4 ligation, correlating with reduced actions of p56lck in the ZAP-70 immunocomplex. Moreover, CTLA-4 ligation caused the selective inhibition of CD3-mediated phosphorylation of the positive regulatory ZAP-70 Y319 site. In addition, we demonstrate protein tyrosine phosphatase activity associated with the phosphorylated CTLA-4 cytoplasmic tail. The major phosphatase activity was attributed to Src homology protein 2 domain-containing tyrosine phosphatase 1, a protein tyrosine phosphatase that has been shown to be a negative regulator of multiple signaling pathways in hemopoietic cells. Collectively, our findings suggest that CTLA-4 can act early during the immune response to regulate the threshold of T cell activation.
Downstream of Kinase, p62dok, Is a Mediator of FcγRIIB Inhibition of FcεRI Signaling
Authors: Ott Vanessa L. , Tamir Idan , Niki Masaru , Pandolfi Pier Paolo , Cambier John C.
Published: April 2014

The low-affinity receptor for IgG, FcγRIIB, is expressed widely in the immune system and functions to attenuate Ag-induced immune responses. In mast cells, coaggregation of FcγRIIB with the high-affinity IgE receptor, FcεRI, leads to inhibition of Ag-induced degranulation and cytokine production. FcγRIIB inhibitory activity requires a conserved motif within the FcγRIIB cytoplasmic domain termed the immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif. When coaggregated with an activating receptor (e.g., FcεRI, B cell Ag receptor), FcγRIIB is rapidly phosphorylated on tyrosine and recruits the SH2 domain-containing inositol 5-phosphatase (SHIP). However, the mechanisms by which SHIP mediates FcγRIIB inhibitory function in mast cells remain poorly defined. In this report we demonstrate that FcγRIIB coaggregation with FcεRI stimulates enhanced SHIP tyrosine phosphorylation and association with Shc and p62dok. Concurrently, enhanced p62dok tyrosine phosphorylation and association with RasGAP are observed, suggesting that SHIP may mediate FcγRIIB inhibitory function in mast cells via recruitment of p62dok and RasGAP. Supporting this hypothesis, recruitment of p62dok to FcεRI is sufficient to inhibit FcεRI-induced calcium mobilization and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 activation. Interestingly, both the amino-terminal pleckstrin homology and phosphotyrosine binding domains and the carboxyl-terminal proline/tyrosine-rich region of p62dok can mediate inhibition, suggesting activation of parallel downstream signaling pathways that converge at extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 activation. Finally, studies using gene-ablated mice indicate that p62dok is dispensable for FcγRIIB inhibitory signaling in mast cells. Taken together, these data suggest a role for p62dok as a mediator of FcγRIIB inhibition of FcεRI signal transduction in mast cells.
CD28 Costimulation Induces δ Opioid Receptor Expression During Anti-CD3 Activation of T Cells
Authors: Nguyen Khanh , Miller Bonnie C.
Published: April 2014

Previous studies have demonstrated that naive splenic mouse T cells express no or only very low levels of the δ-type opioid receptor (δOR), but stimulation of mouse splenocytes with Con A results in induction of δOR mRNA and protein. In this report we have shown that stimulation of highly purified populations of naive mouse T cells with anti-CD3 mAb alone results in T cell activation, as evidenced by sustained IL-2 secretion and cell proliferation, but fails to elicit δOR expression. However, δOR expression is induced by costimulation of these very pure T cells with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 mAbs. The δOR induction by anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 costimulation was completely blocked by inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase with wortmannin. Because phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activation in T cells is linked to costimulation, these results suggest that induction of δOR expression during T cell activation is strictly dependent on costimulation. It also appears that costimulatory receptors other than CD28 can provide the signaling required for δOR expression because δOR mRNA was induced by Con A stimulation of splenocytes from CD28-deficient mice.
Prostaglandin E2 Inhibits IL-18-Induced ICAM-1 and B7.2 Expression Through EP2/EP4 Receptors in Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Takahashi Hideo K. , Iwagaki Hiromi , Yoshino Tadashi , Mori Shuji , Morichika Toshihiko , Itoh Hideyuki , Yokoyama Minori , Kubo Shinichiro , Kondo Eisaku , Akagi Tadaatsu , Tanaka Noriaki , Nishibori Masahiro
Published: April 2014

Costimulatory molecules play important roles in immune responses. In the present study we investigated the effects of PGE2 on the expression of ICAM-1, B7.1, and B7.2 on monocytes in IL-18-stimulated PBMC using FACS analysis. Addition of PGE2 to PBMC inhibited ICAM-1 and B7.2 expression elicited by IL-18 in a concentration-dependent manner. We examined the involvement of four subtypes of PGE2 receptors, EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4, in the modulatory effect of PGE2 on ICAM-1 and B7.2 expression elicited by IL-18, using subtype-specific agonists. ONO-AE1–259-01 (EP2R agonist) inhibited IL-18-elicited ICAM-1 and B7.2 expression in a concentration-dependent manner with a potency slightly less than that of PGE2, while ONO-AE1-329 (EP4R agonist) was much less potent than PGE2. The EP2/EP4R agonist 11-deoxy-PGE1 mimicked the effect of PGE2 with the same potency. ONO-D1-004 (EP1R agonist) and ONO-AE-248 (EP3R agonist) showed no effect on IL-18-elicited ICAM-1 or B7.2 expression. These results indicated that EP2 and EP4Rs were involved in the action of PGE2. Dibutyryl cAMP and forskolin down-regulated ICAM-1 and B7.2 expression in IL-18-stimulated monocytes. As EP2 and EP4Rs are coupled to adenylate cyclase, we suggest that PGE2 down-regulates IL-18-induced ICAM-1 and B7.2 expression in monocytes via EP2 and EP4Rs by cAMP-dependent signaling pathways. The fact that anti-B7.2 as well as anti-ICAM-1 Ab inhibited IL-18-induced cytokine production implies that PGE2 may modulate the immune response through regulation of the expression of particular adhesion molecules on monocytes via EP2 and EP4Rs.
Generation of CD8+ T Cell Memory in Response to Low, High, and Excessive Levels of Epitope
Authors: Wherry E. John , McElhaugh Michael J. , Eisenlohr Laurence C.
Published: April 2014

The magnitude of a virus-specific memory CTL population can dramatically influence the outcome of secondary infections, yet little is known about the determinants of memory size. We investigated the impact of epitope levels on CTL memory generation by using a recombinant vaccinia virus system that allows for a broad range of epitope expression with the same infectious dose of virus. The size of the memory pool was examined using MHC class I/peptide tetramer staining and IFN-γ ELISPOT analysis following priming with viruses expressing low, high, or excessive epitope levels. The size of the epitope-specific CD8+ T cell memory population correlates with Ag dose at the low and high levels of epitope expression. However, at excessive epitope levels, the number of functional, IFN-γ-producing, epitope-specific memory cells is significantly reduced compared with the number of tetramer+ cells. These results demonstrate that the level of epitope expressed during an acute viral infection in vivo can dramatically influence CTL memory size. Furthermore, when epitope is overexpressed, the quality of the response can be adversely affected. Therefore, epitope expression level is an important consideration when developing approaches to optimize CTL memory induction.
Alefacept, an Immunomodulatory Recombinant LFA-3/IgG1 Fusion Protein, Induces CD16 Signaling and CD2/CD16-Dependent Apoptosis of CD2+ Cells
Authors: da Silva Antonio J. , Brickelmaier Margot , Majeau Gerard R. , Li Zhifang , Su Lihe , Hsu Yen-Ming , Hochman Paula S.
Published: April 2014

Alefacept, an immunomodulatory recombinant fusion protein composed of the first extracellular domain of LFA-3 fused to the human IgG1 hinge, CH2, and CH3 domains, has recently been shown in phase II and III clinical trials to safely reduce disease expression in patients with chronic plaque psoriasis. Alefacept modulates the function of and selectively induces apoptosis of CD2+ human memory-effector T cells in vivo. We have sought to gain further understanding of the mechanisms of action that influence the biological activity of alefacept and may contribute to its efficacy and patient responsiveness. Specifically evaluated is the ability of alefacept to activate intracellular signals mediated via CD2 and/or FcγRIII (CD16). Experimentation using isoforms of alefacept engineered to have amino acid substitutions in the IgG1 CH2 domain that impact FcγR binding indicate that alefacept mediates cognate interactions between cells expressing human CD2 and CD16 to activate cells, e.g., increase extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation, up-regulate cell surface expression of the activation marker CD25, and induce release of granzyme B. In the systems used, this signaling is shown to require binding to CD2 and CD16 and be mediated through CD16, but not CD2. Experimentation using human CD2-transgenic mice and isoforms of alefacept confirmed the requirement for FcγR binding for detection of the pharmacological effects of alefacept in vivo. Thus alefacept acts as an effector molecule, mediating cognate interactions to activate FcγR+ cells (e.g., NK cells) to induce apoptosis of sensitive CD2+ target cells.
A Role for IFN-γ in Primary and Secondary Immunity Generated by NK Cell-Sensitive Tumor-Expressing CD80 In Vivo
Authors: Kelly Janice M. , Takeda Kazuyoshi , Darcy Phillip K. , Yagita Hideo , Smyth Mark J.
Published: April 2014

We have investigated the primary and secondary immunity generated in vivo by a MHC class I-deficient tumor cell line that expressed CD80 (B7-1). CD80 expression enhanced primary NK cell-mediated tumor rejection in vivo and T cell immunity against secondary tumor challenge. CD80 expression enhanced primary NK cell-mediated tumor rejection, and both NK cell perforin and IFN-γ activity were critical for the rejection of MHC class I-deficient RMA-S-CD80 tumor cells. This primary rejection process stimulated the subsequent development of specific CTL and Th1 responses against Ags expressed by the MHC class I-deficient RMA-S tumor cells. The development of effective secondary T cell immunity could be elicited by irradiated RMA-S-CD80 tumor cells and was dependent upon NK cells and IFN-γ in the priming response. Our findings demonstrate a key role for IFN-γ in innate and adaptive immunity triggered by CD80 expression on tumor cells.
The Src Family Kinase Fyn Mediates Signals Induced by TCR Antagonists
Authors: Tang Qizhi , Subudhi Sumit K. , Henriksen Kammi J. , Long Catherine G. , Vives Franklin , Bluestone Jeffrey A.
Published: April 2014

FcR nonbinding anti-CD3ε mAbs elicit partial TCR signaling that leads to T cell unresponsiveness and tolerance in vivo. In this study, the membrane-proximal events that promote T cell inactivation by FcR nonbinding anti-CD3 mAbs were examined. In the context of FcR nonbinding anti-CD3, TCR complexes did not aggregate and failed to translocate into glycolipid-enriched membrane microdomains. Furthermore, FcR nonbinding anti-CD3 mAbs induced tyrosine phosphorylation of the Fyn substrate Cbl, but not the ZAP-70 substrate linker for activation of T cells. Overexpression of Fyn, but not Lck, restored the mitogenicity of FcR nonbinding anti-CD3 in primary T cells. Taken together, these results suggest that Fyn mediates the partial signaling induced by TCR antagonists.
IFN Regulatory Factor-1 Regulates IFN-γ-Dependent Cathepsin S Expression
Authors: Storm van’s Gravesande Karin , Layne Matthew D. , Ye Qiang , Le Louis , Baron Rebecca M. , Perrella Mark A. , Santambrogio Laura , Silverman Eric S. , Riese Richard J.
Published: April 2014

Cathepsin S is a cysteine protease with potent endoproteolytic activity and a broad pH profile. Cathepsin S activity is essential for complete processing of the MHC class II-associated invariant chain within B cells and dendritic cells, and may also be important in extracellular matrix degradation in atherosclerosis and emphysema. Unique among cysteine proteases, cathepsin S activity is up-regulated by IFN-γ. Given its importance, we sought to elucidate the pathway by which IFN-γ increases cathepsin S expression. Our data demonstrate that the cathepsin S promoter contains an IFN-stimulated response element (ISRE) that is critical for IFN-γ-induced gene transcription in a cell line derived from type II alveolar epithelial (A549) cells. IFN response factor (IRF)-2 derived from A549 nuclear extracts associates with the ISRE oligonucleotide in gel shift assays, but is quickly replaced by IRF-1 following stimulation with IFN-γ. The time course of IRF-1/ISRE complex formation correlates with increased levels of IRF-1 protein and cathepsin S mRNA. Overexpression of IRF-1, but not IRF-2, markedly augments cathepsin S promoter activity in A549 cells. Furthermore, overexpression of IRF-1 increases endogenous cathepsin S mRNA levels in 293T epithelial cells. Finally, freshly isolated bone marrow cells from IRF-1−/− mice fail to up-regulate cathepsin S activity in response to IFN-γ. Thus, IRF-1 is the critical transcriptional mediator of IFN-γ-dependent cathepsin S activation. These data elucidate a new pathway by which IRF-1 may affect MHC class II processing and presentation.
Vitamin A Enhances in Vitro Th2 Development Via Retinoid X Receptor Pathway
Authors: Stephensen Charles B. , Rasooly Reuven , Jiang Xiaowen , Ceddia Michael A. , Weaver Casey T. , Chandraratna Roshantha A. S. , Bucy R. Patterson
Published: April 2014

Vitamin A deficiency diminishes Th2-mediated Ab responses, and high-level dietary vitamin A or treatment with the vitamin A metabolite retinoic acid (RA) enhances such responses. To identify a potential mechanism(s) underlying this in vivo activity of vitamin A, we examined the effects of all-trans and 9-cis RA on development of Th1 and Th2 cell populations using in vitro stimulation of Ag-naive Th0 cells from the DO11.10 TCR-transgenic mouse. Treatment with 9-cis, but not with all-trans RA, at primary stimulation strongly enhanced Th2 development. IL-4-neutralizing Ab blocked this activity, but IL-12- and IFN-γ-neutralizing Ab did not. Because 9-cis RA regulates gene transcription via either RA receptors or retinoid X receptors (RXRs), we tested the Th2-enhancing activities of the RXR- and RA receptor-selective agonists AGN194204 and 4-((E)-2-(5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-5,5,8,8-tetramethyl-2-naphthalenyl)-1-propenyl)benzoic acid (TTNPB). AGN194204 strongly enhanced Th2 development, whereas TTNPB did not. This RXR agonist also enhanced Th2 development when purified, naive Th0 cells (L-selectinhigh/CD4+) were stimulated with CD3 and CD28 Abs in the absence of APCs. During primary antigenic stimulation of naive Th0 cells from DO11.10 mice, AGN194204 increased IL-4 and IL-5 production, decreased IFN-γ production, increased mRNA in responding T cells for genes involved in Th2 development (IL-4, GATA-3, and c-maf), and decreased mRNA for genes involved in Th1 development (IFN-γ, T-bet, and IL-12R). These data show that stimulation of the RXR pathway enhances Th2 development, perhaps by affecting the relative expression of pertinent transcription factors, cytokines, and cytokine receptors.
Tissue-Level Regulation of Th1 and Th2 Primary and Memory CD4 T Cells in Response to Listeria Infection
Authors: Marzo Amanda L. , Vezys Vaiva , Williams Kristina , Tough David F. , Lefrançois Leo
Published: April 2014

Ag-specific Th1 and Th2 cytokine-producing CD4 T cells were quantitated in secondary lymphoid and tertiary tissues following oral Listeria monocytogenes infection. Although the response to Listeria was previously believed to be predominately Th1 like, CD4 T cells producing IL-4 or IL-5 comprised a substantial proportion of the overall primary and memory response. The frequency of IFN-γ-, IL-4-, or IL-5-producing primary effector or memory CD4 T cells was significantly higher in lung, liver, and intestinal lamina propria (LP) as compared with spleen and lymph node. However, maximum numbers of IL-4- and IL-5-producing cells were detected in the LP several days after the peak of the Th1 response, and IL-5 production was skewed toward the mucosal tissues. Remarkably, the recall response resulted in sustained Th1 and Th2 responses in tertiary, but not lymphoid tissues and long-term retention of Th1 and Th2 memory cells in equal proportions in the LP. Finally, CD40 ligand was essential for induction of IFN-γ in the spleen and LP, but not in the liver and lung, while the IL-4 response required CD40 ligand only in the spleen. Therefore, the rules governing the effector phenotype, and the overall magnitude of the CD4 response, are regulated at the level of individual tissues.
Expression of the Tyrosine Phosphatase Src Homology 2 Domain-Containing Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1 Determines T Cell Activation Threshold and Severity of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Deng Caishu , Minguela Alfredo , Hussain Rehana Z. , Lovett-Racke Amy E. , Radu Caius , Ward E. Sally , Racke Michael K.
Published: April 2014

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a CD4 Th1-mediated inflammatory demyelinating disorder of the CNS and a well-established animal model for multiple sclerosis. Src homology 2 domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 (SHP-1) is a cytosolic tyrosine phosphatase that is involved in regulating the T cell activation cascade from signals initiated through the TCR. To study the role of SHP-1 in EAE pathogenesis, we immunized B10.PL mice heterozygous for deletion of the SHP-1 gene (mev+/−) and B10.PL wild-type mice with the immunodominant epitope of myelin basic protein (MBP Ac1-11). T cell proliferation and IFN-γ production were significantly increased in mev+/− mice after immunization with MBP Ac1-11. The frequency of MBP Ac1-11-specific CD4 T cells, analyzed by staining with fluorescently labeled tetramers (MBP1-11[4Y]: I-Au complexes), was increased in the draining lymph node cells of mev+/− mice compared with wild-type mice. In addition, mev+/− mice developed a more severe course of EAE with epitope spreading to proteolipid protein peptide 43-64. Finally, expansion of MBP Ac1-11-specific T cells in response to Ag was enhanced in mev+/− T cells, particularly at lower Ag concentrations. These data demonstrate that the level of SHP-1 plays an important role in regulating the activation threshold of autoreactive T cells.
The CD3γ Leucine-Based Receptor-Sorting Motif Is Required for Efficient Ligand-Mediated TCR Down-Regulation
Authors: von Essen Marina , Menné Charlotte , Nielsen Bodil L. , Lauritsen Jens Peter H. , Dietrich Jes , Andersen Peter S. , Karjalainen Klaus , Ødum Niels , Geisler Carsten
Published: April 2014

TCR down-regulation plays an important role in modulating T cell responses both during T cell development and in mature T cells. At least two distinct pathways exist for down-regulation of the TCR. One pathway is activated following TCR ligation and is dependent on tyrosine phosphorylation. The other pathway is dependent on protein kinase C (PKC)-mediated activation of the CD3γ di-leucine-based receptor-sorting motif. Previous studies have failed to demonstrate a connection between ligand- and PKC-induced TCR down-regulation. Thus, although an apparent paradox, the dogma has been that ligand- and PKC-induced TCR down-regulations are not interrelated. By analyses of a newly developed CD3γ-negative T cell variant, freshly isolated and PHA-activated PBMC, and a mouse T cell line, we challenged this dogma and demonstrate in this work that PKC activation and the CD3γ di-leucine-based motif are indeed required for efficient ligand-induced TCR down-regulation.
Toll-Like Receptor 4 Is Required for Optimal Development of Th2 Immune Responses: Role of Dendritic Cells
Authors: Dabbagh Karim , Dahl Martin E. , Stepick-Biek Pamela , Lewis David B.
Published: April 2014

LPS potently induces dendritic cell maturation and the production of proinflammatory cytokines, such as IL-12, by activation of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). Since IL-12 is important for the generation and maintenance of Th1 responses and may also inhibit Th2 cell generation from naive CD4 T cell precursors, it has been inferred that TLR4 signaling would have similar effects via the induction of IL-12 secretion. Surprisingly, we found that TLR4-defective mice subjected to sensitization and pulmonary challenge with a protein allergen had reductions in airway inflammation with eosinophils, allergen-specific IgE levels, and Th2 cytokine production, compared with wild-type mice. These reduced responses were attributable, at least in part, to decreased dendritic cell function: Dendritic cells from TLR4-defective mice expressed lower levels of CD86, a costimulatory molecule important for Th2 responses. They also induced less Th2 cytokine production by antigenically naive CD4 T cells in vitro and mediated diminished CD4 T cell Ag-specific pulmonary inflammation in vivo. These results indicate that TLR4 is required for optimal Th2 responses to Ags from nonpathogenic sources and suggest a role for TLR4 ligands, such as LPS derived from commensal bacteria or endogenously derived ligands, in maturation of the innate immune system before pathogen exposure.
Quantitative Expression of Toll-Like Receptor 1–10 mRNA in Cellular Subsets of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells and Sensitivity to CpG Oligodeoxynucleotides
Authors: Hornung Veit , Rothenfusser Simon , Britsch Stefanie , Krug Anne , Jahrsdörfer Bernd , Giese Thomas , Endres Stefan , Hartmann Gunther
Published: April 2014

The Toll-like receptor (TLR)9 is critical for the recognition of immunostimulatory CpG motifs but may cooperate with other TLRs. We analyzed TLR1–10 mRNA expression by using quantitative real-time PCR in highly purified subsets of human PBMC and determined the sensitivity of these subsets to CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN). TLR1 and TLR6 were expressed in all cell types examined. TLR10 was highly expressed in B cells and weakly expressed in plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDC). High expression of TLR2 was characteristic for monocytes. PDC and B cells expressed marked levels of TLR7 and TLR9 and were directly sensitive to CpG ODN. In CpG ODN-stimulated PDC and B cells, TLR9 expression rapidly decreased, as opposed to TLR7, which was up-regulated in PDC and decreased in B cells. In monocytes, NK cells, and T cells, TLR7 was absent. Despite low expression of TLR9, monocytes, NK cells, and T cells did not respond to CpG ODN in the absence of PDC but were activated in the presence of PDC. In conclusion, our studies provide evidence that PDC and B cells, but not monocytes, NK cells, or T cells, are primary targets of CpG ODN in peripheral blood. The characteristic expression pattern of TLR1–10 in cellular subsets of human PBMC is consistent with the concept that TLR9 is essential in the recognition of CpG ODN in PDC and B cells. In addition, selective regulation of TLR7 expression in PDC and B cells by CpG ODN revealed TLR7 as a candidate TLR potentially involved in modulating the recognition of CpG motifs.
Friend of GATA Is Expressed in Naive Th Cells and Functions As a Repressor of GATA-3-Mediated Th2 Cell Development
Authors: Kurata Hirokazu , Lee Hyun-Jun , McClanahan Terri , Coffman Robert L. , O’Garra Anne , Arai Naoko
Published: April 2014

The commitment of naive T cells to polarized Th cells requires specific changes in their transcription factors. Retrovirally overexpressed GATA-3 has been reported to induce the Th2 cytokine profile in developing Th1 cells. In this study, we examined the role of the N-terminal finger (Nf) of GATA-3 in Th2 cell development. The Nf, as well as the C-terminal finger and the transactivation domain, is critical for the induction of the Th2 phenotype. Using the GATA-3-Nf as a bait, our yeast two-hybrid screening identified friend of GATA (FOG) in the Th2 cell-specific library. Naive T cells express significant levels of FOG mRNA, which was rapidly down-regulated upon commitment to both Th1 and Th2 lineages. In reporter assays, FOG blocked the GATA-3-mediated activation of several cytokine promoters. Finally, retroviral expression of FOG in developing Th2 cells suppressed both IL-4 and IL-5 and allowed for IFN-γ production, which was accompanied by a significant level of T-bet mRNA expression. Serial deletion mutation analysis indicated that the N-terminal region, but not the consensus C-terminal binding protein-binding motif, of FOG is critical for the effects. Our results clearly indicate that 1) FOG is a repressor of GATA-3 in naive T cells and 2) the down-regulation of FOG induces Th2 cell differentiation by releasing GATA-3 from its repression.
Regulation of Human FcεRI α-Chain Gene Expression by Multiple Transcription Factors
Authors: Nishiyama Chiharu , Hasegawa Masanari , Nishiyama Makoto , Takahashi Kyoko , Akizawa Yushiro , Yokota Toyokazu , Okumura Ko , Ogawa Hideoki , Ra Chisei
Published: April 2014

Transcriptional regulation of the gene-encoding human FcεRI α-chain was analyzed in detail. EMSA revealed that either YY1 or PU.1 bound to the region close to that recognized by Elf-1. The α-chain promoter activity was up-regulated ∼2-fold by exogenously expressed YY1 or PU.1 and ∼7-fold by GATA-1, respectively, in KU812 cells. In contrast, coexpression of GATA-1 with either of PU.1 or YY1 dramatically activated the promoter ∼41- or ∼27-fold, respectively. Especially synergic activation by GATA-1 and PU.1 was surprising, because these transcription factors are known to inhibit the respective transactivating activities of each other. These up-regulating effects of PU.1 and YY1 with GATA-1 were inhibited by overexpression of Elf-1, indicating that Elf-1 serves as a repressor for the α-chain gene expression. Transcriptional regulation of the α-chain gene through four transcriptional factors is discussed.
Dominant Effects of Mutations in the Collagenous Domain of Mannose-Binding Protein
Authors: Wallis Russell
Published: April 2014

Individuals heterozygous for mutant alleles encoding serum mannose-binding protein (MBP, also known as mannose-binding lectin) show increased susceptibility to infections caused by a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms. To investigate the molecular defects associated with heterozygosity, wild-type rat serum MBP polypeptides (MBP-A: 56% identical in sequence to human MBP) and rat MBP polypeptides containing mutations associated with human immunodeficiency have been coexpressed using a well-characterized mammalian expression system. The resulting proteins are secreted almost exclusively as heterooligomers that are defective in activating the complement cascade. Functional defects are caused by structural changes to the N-terminal collagenous and cysteine-rich domains of MBP, disrupting interactions with associated serine proteases. The dominant effects of the mutations demonstrate how the presence of a single mutant allele gives rise to the molecular defects that lead to the disease phenotype in heterozygous individuals.
Signaling Pathways Involved in IL-8-Dependent Activation of Adhesion Through Mac-1
Authors: Takami Mimi , Terry Valeri , Petruzzelli Lilli
Published: April 2014

In human neutrophils, IL-8 induces chemotaxis, the respiratory burst, and granule release, and enhances cellular adhesion, a β2 integrin-dependent event. IL-8 stimulates neutrophil adhesion to purified fibrinogen in a Mac-1-dependent manner. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation was detected in human neutrophil lysates after treatment with IL-8 and PMA, but not the activating mAb CBR LFA 1/2. IL-8-stimulated neutrophil adhesion to fibrinogen was blocked 50% by the MAPK/extracellular signal-related kinase-activating enzyme inhibitor PD098059. Adhesion was blocked ∼75% by inhibition of the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) pathway with LY294002, supporting that activation of both MAPK and PI3K may play a role in IL-8-dependent inside-out signals that activate Mac-1. Activation of MAPK was inhibited in IL-8-stimulated cells in the presence of PI3K inhibitors LY294002 or wortmannin, supporting a model in which PI3K is upstream of MAPK. IL-8-stimulated neutrophil adhesion was inhibited 50% by bisindolylmaleimide-I, implicating protein kinase C (PKC) in the intracellular signaling from the IL-8R to Mac-1. A 74-kDa molecular mass species was detected by an activation-specific Ab to PKC when cells were stimulated with PMA or IL-8, but not a β2-activating Ab. Inhibition of either MAPK or PKC resulted in partial inhibition of IL-8-stimulated polymorphonuclear neutrophil adhesion, and treatment with both inhibitors simultaneously completely abolished IL-8-stimulated adhesion to ligand. Inhibition of PI3K blocked MAPK activation, but not PKC activation, suggesting a branch point that precedes PI3K activation. These data suggest that both MAPK and PKC are activated in response to IL-8 stimulation, and that these may represent independent pathways for β2 integrin activation in neutrophils.
Stat5B Shuttles Between Cytoplasm and Nucleus in a Cytokine-Dependent and -Independent Manner
Authors: Zeng Rong , Aoki Yutaka , Yoshida Minoru , Arai Ken-ichi , Watanabe Sumiko
Published: April 2014

In response to cytokine stimuli, Stats are phosphorylated and translocated to the nucleus to activate target genes. Then, most are dephosphorylated and returned to the cytoplasm. Using Ba/F3 cells, we found that the nuclear export of Stat5B by cytokine depletion was inhibited by leptomycin B (LMB), a specific inhibitor of nuclear export receptor chromosome region maintenance 1. Interestingly, LMB treatment in the absence of cytokine led to the accumulation of Stat5B in the nucleus, suggesting that Stat5B shuttles between the nucleus and the cytoplasm as a monomer without cytokine stimulation. This notion is supported by the observation that LMB-induced accumulation of Stat5B in the nucleus was also observed with Stat5B having a mutated tyrosine 699, which is essential for dimer formation. Using a series of mutant Stat5Bs, we identified a part of the coiled coil domain to be a critical region for monomer nuclear import and a more N-terminal region to be critical for the cytokine stimulation dependent import of Stat5B. Taken together, we propose a model in which Stat5B shuttles between the nucleus and cytoplasm by two different mechanisms, one being a factor-independent constitutive shuttling by monomeric form, and the other, a factor stimulation-dependent one regulated by tyrosine phosphorylation and subsequent dimerization.
Recombinant Carp Parvalbumin, the Major Cross-Reactive Fish Allergen: A Tool for Diagnosis and Therapy of Fish Allergy
Authors: Swoboda Ines , Bugajska-Schretter Agnes , Verdino Petra , Keller Walter , Sperr Wolfgang R. , Valent Peter , Valenta Rudolf , Spitzauer Susanne
Published: April 2014

IgE-mediated reactions to fish allergens represent one of the most frequent causes of food allergy. We have constructed an expression cDNA library from carp (Cyprinus carpio) muscle in phage λgt11 and used serum IgE from a fish allergic patient to isolate 33 cDNA clones that coded for two parvalbumin isoforms (Cyp c 1.01 and Cyp c 1.02) with comparable IgE binding capacities. Both isoforms represented calcium-binding proteins that belonged to the β-lineage of parvalbumins. The Cyp c 1.01 cDNA was overexpressed in Escherichia coli, and rCyp c 1.01 was purified to homogeneity. Circular dichroism analysis and mass spectroscopy showed that rCyp c 1.01 represented a folded protein with mainly α-helical secondary structure and a molecular mass of 11,416 Da, respectively. rCyp c 1.01 reacted with IgE from all fish-allergic patients tested (n = 60), induced specific and dose-dependent basophil histamine release, and contained most of the IgE epitopes (70%) present in natural allergen extracts from cod, tuna, and salmon. Therefore, it may be used to identify patients suffering from IgE-mediated fish allergy. The therapeutic potential of rCyp c 1.01 is indicated by our findings that rabbit Abs raised against rCyp c 1.01 inhibited the binding of IgE (n = 25) in fish-allergic patients to rCyp c 1.01 between 35 and 97% (84% mean inhibition) and that depletion of calcium strongly reduced IgE recognition of rCyp c 1.01. The latter results suggest that it will be possible to develop strategies for immunotherapy for fish allergy that are based on calcium-free hypoallergenic rCyp c 1.01 derivatives.
Identification of the Streptococcal M Protein Binding Site on Membrane Cofactor Protein (CD46)
Authors: Giannakis Eleni , Jokiranta T. Sakari , Ormsby Rebecca J. , Duthy Thomas G. , Male Dean A. , Christiansen Dale , Fischetti Vince A. , Bagley Chris , Loveland Bruce E. , Gordon David L.
Published: April 2014

Adherence of group A streptococcus (GAS) to keratinocytes is mediated by an interaction between human CD46 (membrane cofactor protein) with streptococcal cell surface M protein. CD46 belongs to a family of proteins that contain structurally related short consensus repeat (SCR) domains and regulate the activation of the complement components C3b and/or C4b. CD46 possesses four SCR domains and the aim of this study was to characterize their interaction with M protein. Following confirmation of the M6 protein-dependent interaction between GAS and human keratinocytes, we demonstrated that M6 protein binds soluble recombinant CD46 protein and to a CD46 construct containing only SCRs 3 and 4. M6 protein did not bind to soluble recombinant CD46 chimeric proteins that had the third and/or fourth SCR domains replaced with the corresponding domains from another complement regulator, CD55 (decay-accelerating factor). Homology-based molecular modeling of CD46 SCRs 3 and 4 revealed a cluster of positively charged residues between the interface of these SCR domains similar to the verified M protein binding sites on the plasma complement regulators factor H and C4b-binding protein. The presence of excess M6 protein did not inhibit the cofactor activity of CD46 and the presence of excess C3b did not inhibit the ability of CD46 to bind M6 protein by ELISA. In conclusion, 1) adherence of M6 GAS to keratinocytes is M protein dependent and 2) a major M protein binding site is located within SCRs 3 and 4, probably at the interface of these two domains, at a site distinct from the C3b-binding and cofactor site of CD46.
Dual Role for Nitric Oxide in Paracoccidioidomycosis: Essential for Resistance, but Overproduction Associated with Susceptibility
Authors: Nascimento Flávia R. F. , Calich Vera L. G. , Rodríguez Dunia , Russo Momtchilo
Published: April 2014

Using a murine model of susceptibility and resistance to paracoccidioidomycosis, we have previously demonstrated that immunosuppression occurs in susceptible (B10.A), but not in resistant (A/Sn), mouse strains. Accumulating evidence shows that NO is involved in the induction of T cell immunosuppression during infection as well as in the killing of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. In the present work, we focused on NO and other macrophage products that could be associated with resistance or susceptibility to paracoccidioidomycosis. A striking difference was related to NO and TNF production. Macrophages from B10.A mice produced high and persistent NO levels, while in A/Sn animals, TNF production predominated. In in vitro cultures, P. brasiliensis-infected macrophages from A/Sn mice also produced large amounts of TNF, while B10.A macrophages only produced NO. TNF production by B10.A macrophages appeared to be suppressed by NO, because the addition of aminoguanidine sulfate, an inducible NO synthase (NOS2) inhibitor, resulted in TNF production. These results suggested that enhanced TNF or NO production is associated with resistance and susceptibility, respectively. However, regardless of the mouse strain, NOS2-deficient or aminoguanidine sulfate-treated mice presented extensive tissue lesions with increased fungal load in lungs and liver compared with their controls. We conclude that NOS2-derived NO is essential for resistance to paracoccidioidomycosis, but overproduction is associated with susceptibility.