bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of Antibodies against Aspergillus fumigatus: Comparison between Double Immunodiffusion, ELISA and Immunoblot Analysis
Authors: Brouwer J.
Published: August 2009

The performance of ELISA to detect IgG and IgM antibodies to Aspergillus fumigatus has been evaluated in strongly precipitin-positive, weakly precipitin-positive and precipitin-negative patient sera, with immunoblot analysis as the confirmatory test. All strongly precipitin-positive sera contained increased IgG titers and showed clearly positive immunoblot patterns. Most of the weakly precipitin-positive sera contained ELISA titers within the normal range established with sera of healthy blood donors and showed normal immunoblot patterns. Increased titers of IgG and/or IgM were measured in one-sixth of the precipitin-negative patient sera. Immunoblot analysis confirmed the presence of antibodies to A. fumigatus in 55% of the precipitin-negative sera with increased antibody titers. ELISAs for A. fumigatus-specific IgG and IgM are sensitive tests for screening of patient sera. However, positive results with ELISA should be confirmed by means of immunoblot analysis.
Effect of Bordetella pertussis Adjuvant on Parasite-Specific IgE Response in Paragonimus ohirai-lnfected Rats
Authors: Ikeda Teruaki , Fujita Koichiro
Published: August 2009

Parasite-specific IgE response in rats infected with metacercariae of the lung fluke, Paragonimus ohirai, was enhanced about 8 times by Bordetella pertussis adjuvant. In rats infected by intraperitoneal transplantation of adult worms, the adjuvant markedly increased the usually low or absent parasite-specific IgE response. The most effective time of the adjuvant administration was different between the two modes of infections.
Factors Affecting the Clinical Course of Treponema pallidum Infection in Guinea Pigs
Authors: Wicher Konrad , Wicher Victoria , Jakubowski Adam , Gruhn Ronald
Published: August 2009

The clinical course of infection with Treponema pallidum (Nichols) in inbred strain 2 guinea pigs was shown to be affected by age, sex and site of inoculation.
Effect of Drugs Used in the Treatment of Asthma on the Production of Eosinophil-Activating Factor by Monocytes
Authors: Thorne Kareen J.I. , Richardson Brian A. , Butterworth Anthony E. , Hay Ian , Higenbottam Tim W.
Published: August 2009

The cytotoxic activity of eosinophils, as measured by their ability to kill antibody-coated schistosomula of Schistosoma mansoni, is enhanced by a factor (eosinophil-activating factor, EAF) which is secreted by peripheral blood monocytes from certain moderately eosinophilic individuals. The secretion of this factor by monocytes is inhibited by methylprednisolone (1 μg/ml), beclomethasone (10 μg/ml) and theophylline (100 μg/ml), but not by sodium cromoglycate or salbutamol. Methylprednisolone, beclomethasone and theophylline do not inhibit either eosinophil cytotoxic activity or enhancement of eosinophil cytotoxic activity by EAF at these concentrations.
Identification of IgA Subclasses in Skin of Dermatitis Herpetiformis Patients
Authors: Barghuthy Fikry S. , Kumar Vijay , Valeski Edward , Beutner Ernst H. , Chorzelski Tadeusz P.
Published: August 2009

There is a controversy as to the origin and to the subclass of IgA in dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) skin. The present study was undertaken to reexamine the subclasses of IgA and the presence of J-chain in biopsies of DH patients. Skin biopsies from 12 DH patients were examined for IgA, its subclasses and for J-chain by a modified direct immunofiuorescence (IF) method. All DH skin biopsies were positive for IgA. Ten of the twelve biopsies were positive for IgA1. IgA2 was detected in only 3 cases, notably in those which gave the strongest IgA reactions. In general, the fluorescent staining intensity for IgA2 was weaker than IgA1 and IgA1 was less than the total IgA. This may be due to differences in the concentrations of the immunoglobulin subclasses in the skin and may also be due to the restricted specificity of antisera used in the study. Direct IF studies of the presence of J-chain yielded negative findings in all DH cases examined including those which were positive for IgA2. The higher frequency of IgA1 over that of IgA2 and the absence of J-chain indicate that the IgA immune deposits in the DH skin may not necessarily be of mucosal origin.
Interleukin-1 Production by Monocytes from Patients with Allergic Asthma after Stimulation in vitro with Lipopolysaccharide and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus Mite Allergen
Authors: Enk C. , Mosbech H.
Published: August 2009

Monocytes from 6 patients with asthma and positive bronchial challenge with extract from the house dust mite Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dp) were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and allergen extract from Dp. In order to neutralize putative endotoxin contamination of the allergen extract, some cultures were incubated in the presence of polymyxin B. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) activity was assayed by the comitogenic activity of the crude monocyte supernatants on phytohemagglutinin-stimulated murine thymocytes. Our results suggest that, upon stimulation with LPS and allergen, monocytes from atopic patients possess a normal capacity to produce IL-1. Like monocytes from healthy controls, patient monocytes do not produce IL-1 spontaneously. The specificity of the allergen stimulus is not well-defined, and further characterization of the IL-1-inducing property awaits the availability of endotoxin-free allergen preparations.
Studies on the Formation of a Unique Cellular Intermediate (EAC 14256) from EAC142 and C56
Authors: Kitamura Hajime , Tsuboi Mutsumi
Published: August 2009

The binding reaction of C56 to EAC142 was studied. The following was observed: (1) C56 can bind to EAC142, without participation of C3 or C7, to form EAC14256; (2) the efficiency of EAC 14256 formation from EAC142 and C56 depends highly on the ionic strength of the buffer; (3) EAC14256, generated from EAC142 and C56, decays spontaneously by elution of C56 into the medium and thus the reaction between C56 and EAC142 is reversible; (4) the receptor on EAC142 for C56 is C2 or C42 on the cell surface, and (5) the binding of C56 to C2 or C42 on cells is independent of the usual (C3-dependent) complement cascade activation. These observations, together with the results of our previous report, indicate that the binding of C56, generated from the activation of C5 by C42 (without C3), to EAC142 may be the initial step of membrane attack complex formation in C3-independent immune hemolysis.
Erythrocyte CR1 Receptors in Patients with Hypogammaglobulinaemia
Authors: Lever A.M.L. , Webster A.D.B.
Published: August 2009

Erythrocyte CR1 receptors were measured in 16 patients with primary hypogammaglobulinaemia and compared with those in 14 normal controls. There was no significant difference in the number of receptors in the two populations. One patient with hypogammaglobulinaemia had a very low number of receptors and subsequently developed red cell aplasia.
Comparison of NiSO4 and NiCl2 as Sensitizers in the Guinea Pig
Authors: Dorn Richard , Warner Ronald D. , Ahmed Wael
Published: August 2009

Nickel sulfate (NiSO4) and nickel chloride (NiCl2) were evaluated as sensitizers in the Guinea Pig Maximization Test (GPMT). The highest concentrations of NiSO4 or NiCl2 used as an intradermal challenge (0.25 and 0.5%) yielded responses that were significantly different (p < 0.05) between exposed and control guinea pigs at 24 h, and the highest concentration (0.5%) yielded significant differences (p < 0.05) at 48 h. The responses at the 0.125% NiSO4 challenge site were significantly greater (p < 0.05) than for controls at both 24 and 48 h. Using the lymphocyte transformation test (LTT), the stimulation indices for the NiSO4- and NiCl2-exposed guinea pigs were nearly identical; however, the difference between exposed and control groups was greater for NiSO4 than for NiCl2. The results of both intradermal skin challenge and lymphocyte transformation indicated that NiSO4 may be preferable to NiCl2 in the GPMT. Because the skin test yielded statistically significant results while LTT did not, the skin test may be of more value when using these sensitizers in the GPMT.
Phosphorylation of Nuclear Proteins of Peripheral Blood T Lymphocytes Activated by Nickel Sulfate and Mercuric Chloride
Authors: Holst M. , Nordlind K.
Published: August 2009

The phosphorylation of nuclear proteins of peripheral blood T lymphocytes activated by nickel sulfate or mercuric chloride, and from nickel-allergic subjects, was studied in polyacrylamide gel separations of 32P-labeled proteins. With a preincubation period of the metal salts for 48 h, a marked increase of 32P label into nonhistone proteins, especially the 30- to 40-kilodalton region, was found compared to the control cultures. This increase was most pronounced in mercuric-chloride-treated cultures, which also showed an increase in labeling of histone H4. The increase in nuclear protein phosphorylation probably reflects an activation of the lymphocytes. Moreover, the difference in phosphorylation pattern between mercuric-chloride- and nickel-sulfate-activated lymphocytes might be due to different mechanisms of action for polyclonal and monoclonal activators, respectively.
Histamine Release from Human Leukocytes by Platelet-Activating Factor
Authors: Okuda Yasuhisa , Tsuyuguchi Izuo , Yamatodani Atsushi
Published: August 2009

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) was found to induce histamine release from human basophils in mixed leukocytes in the presence of cytochalasin B. The reaction was rapid and dependent on temperature. The release was lower at a high concentration of PAF and was inhibited by EDTA, suggesting a noncytolytic mechanism. CV-3988, a PAF antagonist, inhibited the reaction dose-dependently. PAF acted as an IgE-independent stimulus, but PAF-induced histamine release from leukocytes of allergic asthmatics, who had elevated serum IgE levels, was significantly higher than that from leukocytes of controls. These results suggest that PAF-induced histamine release is useful for studying the role of PAF in the pathogenesis of allergic disorders including bronchial asthma.
IgG and IgA Subclass Distribution of Antitoxin Antibody Responses after Oral Cholera Vaccination or Cholera Disease
Authors: Jertborn M. , Svennerholm A.-M. , Holmgren J.
Published: August 2009

The immunoglobulin subclass distribution of cholera antitoxin antibody responses in serum was studied in Swedish volunteers after different routes of immunization with a cholera B subunit-whole cell vaccine (B + WCV) and in Bangladeshi patients convalescing from cholera disease. Both oral and parenteral immunization induced antitoxin antibodies of all the different IgG subclasses (IgG1, IgG2, IgG3 and IgG4) whilst the IgA antibodies were restricted to the IgA1 subclass. A single oral dose of B + WCV induced proportionally higher levels of IgG4 antitoxin in previously cholera-immunized volunteers than in a matched group who had not been cholera-vaccinated before, suggesting that repeated immunization preferentially stimulate formation of IgG4 antibodies. The IgG and IgA subclass distribution of antitoxin antibodies in orally vaccinated Swedes closely resembled that in Bangladeshi cholera patients.
Changes in Leucocyte Numbers without Diapedesis in Rats Given Platelet-Activating Factor (PAF-Acether)
Authors: Spicer B.A. , Hatt P.A. , Smith H.
Published: August 2009

Changes occurring in the blood and the peritoneal cavity following the intraperitoneal injection of platelet-activating factor (PAF-acether) into rats were compared with those when antigen was injected intraperitoneally into actively sensitised rats. A blood eosinophilia had been produced in the rats by an intravenous injection of Sephadex G200 6 days before either challenge. 5 min after PAF-acether, the total number of cells in the peritoneal washings had decreased and the concentration of extravasated dye-labelled plasma protein had increased with no change in histamine levels. On the other hand, antigen at this time produced nor only a decrease in cells and an increase in dye but also an increase in histamine concentration. Only antigen produced a cellular infiltration into the peritoneal cavity with an increase in numbers of neutrophils in the peritoneal washings at 4 h and of mononuclear cells and eosinophils at 24 h. In the blood at 4 h after either challenge, there was a neutrophilia and an eosinopenia. When PAF-acether and antigen were injected together into actively sensitised rats, leucocyte counts in the peritoneal washings increased by a similar amount, both at 4 and 24 h, as those in rats given antigen alone.
Regulation by T Cells of Delayed Hypersensitivity Reaction in Mouse Lung as Reflected by Mononuclear Cells, Mast Cells and Mucus-Producing Cells
Authors: Enander I. , Ulfgren A. , Nygren H. , Larsson P. , Holmdahl R. , Klareskog L. , Ahlstedt S.
Published: August 2009

The appearance of mononuclear cells, mast cells and mucus-producing cells in the lung and their linkage to the development of delayed hypersensitivity (DH) reactions were studied. Adoptive transfer of immune lymph node cells, spleen cells and serum and in vivo treatment with monoclonal antibodies to L3T4-positive T cells in Balb/c mice were performed to investigate the cellular regulation of the number of mononuclear cells, mast cells and mucus-producing cells in the lung. Immune lymph node cells and, to a lesser extent, immune spleen cells from mice sensitized epicutaneously with picrylchloride transferred DH reactions to the recipients as assessed by ear thickness increase after challenge. Serum from sensitized mice was not able to transfer a DH reaction. Cyclophosphamide treatment of donor mice increased the DH reaction in the recipient mice. Adoptive transfer of immune lymph node cells and spleen cells gave a slight increase in the number of mononuclear cells in the lung of recipient mice compared with controls. This weak accumulation of mononuclear cells in the lungs of recipient mice, however, was not accompanied by a consistent increase in the number of mucus-producing cells and mast cells. The number of spleen cells expressing the L3T4 antigen decreased after in vivo treatment with the monoclonal GK1.5 (anti-L3T4) antibody as assessed by immunohistochemistry. This antibody treatment also resulted in an inhibition of the DH reaction and a decrease in the number of mononuclear cells and mucus-producing cells, but not in mast cells in the lung of sensitized and challenged mice. The present results indicate that T cells, beside mediating the cutaneous DH reactions, also regulate the accompanying lung reaction seen after local challenge.
Heterophile Hanganutziu-Deicher Antigen in Ganglioside Fractions of Human Melanoma Tissues
Authors: Kawachi Shigeo , Saida Toshiaki , Uhara Hisashi , Uemura Kei-ichi , Taketomi Tamotsu , Kano Kyoichi
Published: August 2009

Gangliosides were purified from melanoma tissue extracts obtained from 5 patients. GM3 and GD3 were identified as the major components in ganglioside fractions of the melanoma tissues. Following thin-layer chromatography, enzyme immunostaining with Hanganutziu-Deicher (H-D) antigen-specific chicken antisera demonstrated the presence of NeuGc-neolactotetraosylceramide(H-D5) and NeuGc-lacto-N-norhexaosylceramide (H-D7) in all 5 melanoma extracts.
Human C5a Induces a Substantial Histamine Release in Human Basophils but Not in Tissue Mast Cells
Authors: Jürgensen H. , Braam U. , Pult P. , Kownatzki E. , Schmutzler W.
Published: August 2009

The histamine-releasing effect of human C5a was compared with that of concanavalin A in blood basophils and isolated adenoidal mast cells from the same donors. In basophils, C5a (10 ng/ml) induced a significant histamine release (7.5 ± 2.1 %, corrected value). In isolated adenoidal mast cells C5a had only a marginal effect (2% histamine release), although the cells responded markedly to concanavalin A stimulation (about 13% release). The results support the view that the heterogeneity of mast cells and basophils is also reflected in the expression of anaphylatoxin receptors on their surface.
Regulation of Human IgE Synthesis by Soluble Factors
Authors: Alevy Yael G. , Compas Mary Beth , Shaffer Alex , Rup Bonnie , Kahn Larry E.
Published: August 2009

A novel mechanism for the release of helper and suppressor factors for human IgE synthesis is described. When FcE receptor-positive RPMI-1788 cells are treated with papain, a helper factor(s) for human IgE synthesis is released. At the same time a significant decrease in the number of cell surface FcE receptors is observed. The immunoglobulin synthesis-enhancing activity is IgE isotype-specific inasmuch as the same supernatant suppresses the synthesis of human IgA myeloma cells. When the FcE receptor-positive RPMI-1788 cells are treated with tunicamycin and then with papain, a suppressor factor(s) for human IgE synthesis is released. The mechanism by which these factors affect human myeloma IgE synthesis is unclear at present. Our results indicate that enhanced IgE synthesis is not due to increased numbers of secreting cells nor to an increased release of presynthesized IgE. In summary, papain treatment of FcE receptor-positive, but not FcE receptor-negative cells, generates a factor that regulates IgE synthesis. These results also provide evidence for the close relationship between the IgE regulatory factors and the low affinity receptors for IgE present on lymphocytes.
Con A-Propagated, Auto-Reactive T Cell Clones that Secrete Factors Promoting High IgA Responses
Authors: Maghazachi Azzam Al , Phillips-Quagliata Julia M.
Published: August 2009

Four BALB/c T cell clones from among a set propagated in the presence of concanavalin A (Con A) were selected on the basis of their ability to produce supernatant factors promoting high IgA plaque-forming cell (PFC) responses by 2,4,6-trinitrophenyl-conjugated keyhole limpet hemocyanin (TNP-KLH)-primed splenic B cells in the presence of TNP-SRBC. Such clones could be derived from cultures containing T cells not only from gut-associated lymphoid tissue, but also from the spleen. The selected clones all proliferated well in the presence of syngeneic, irradiated APC without either Con A or exogenous IL-2, but required both APC and Con A to produce helper factors. Factors from three of the clones helped B cells both to proliferate and to differentiate into IgM, IgG and IgA PFC. Factors from the fourth clone helped B cells differentiate into IgA and IgG PFC and may have promoted switching to these isotypes but did not support either B cell proliferation or generation of IgM PFC. Cross-linking of B cell receptors for antigen was not required for the response to the helper factors since TNP-SRBC were unnecessary and high concentrations of them were actually inhibitory.
Further Biochemical Characterization of Human Basophil-Like Cell-Promoting Activity and Its Distinction from Human Interleukin-3-Like Activity
Authors: Tadokoro Kenji , Stadler Beda M. , de Weck Alain L.
Published: August 2009

Supernatants from lectin-stimulated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells contained two activities; basophil-like cell-promoting activity (BaPA) and a growth factor for murine interleukin-3-dependent cell lines (IL-3-like activity). BaPA had a MW of 24,000 and a pI of 6.0–7.5, while human IL-3-like activity had a MW of 18,000 and a pI of 5.0–5.9. Beside the biochemical differences between the two activities, supernatants from a T cell line were found that contained BaPA and GM-CSF but no IL-3-like activity. These data suggest that BaPA and IL-3-like activity are two different molecular entities.
Inhalant Allergies to Fungi: Reactions to Bakers’ Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and Identification of Bakers’ Yeast Enolase as an Important Allergen
Authors: Baldo B.A. , Baker R.S.
Published: August 2009

Forty-seven subjects diagnosed as having inhalant allergies to fungi were tested for allergic sensitivity to bakers’ yeast. Skin prick tests with yeast extract showed that 35 subjects responded with wheal reactions that were at least 3 mm while 32 subjects were regarded as clearly RAST-positive to bakers’ yeast antigens. Skin and RAST testing with purified enolase from bakers’ yeast and comparisons with the whole yeast extract showed that the enzyme is a major allergenic component of the extract. This conclusion was supported by results of electroblotting studies. RAST inhibition experiments demonstrated allergenic cross-reactivity between bakers’ yeast, bakers’ yeast enolase and Candida albicans.
Short-Term Sensitizing Antibodies in Bakers’ Asthma
Authors: Popp W. , Zwick H. , Rauscher H.
Published: August 2009

In a prospective study the occurrence of rye-specific IgG4 was investigated. We compared 17 bakers with clinical symptoms of bakers’ asthma and a more than 100% increase in specific airway resistance following rye dust provocation to 16 bakers who showed neither symptoms of asthma nor an increase in specific airway resistance following rye dust provocation. In the group of patients with allergic type I responses, specific IgG4 was found in 15 cases by an indirect immunofluorescent test on rye grains. In none of the asymptomatic bakers was rye-specific IgG4 detected. In 15 symptomatic subjects rye-specific IgE alone or together with rye-specific IgG4 was found. In 2 cases only rye-specific IgG4 – the so-called short-term sensitizing antibody – was demonstrated to explain the allergic bronchial response.
Pollen Count, Symptom and Medicine Score in Birch Pollinosis
Authors: Taudorf Ebbe , Moseholm Lars
Published: August 2009

This study investigates the correlation between the daily birch pollen counts, hay fever symptoms and medicine scores. Fifteen birch pollinosis patients were studied during two consecutive birch pollen seasons. All had a positive history for birch hay fever and a positive skin prick test, nasal provocation test and/or conjunctival provocation test to birch pollen. The patients recorded daily symptom and medicine scores during February through May for two seasons. According to nasal/conjunctival sensitivity and medicine consumption the group was divided into three groups: very sensitive, sensitive, and fairly sensitive. The mathematical calculations were based only on the results from the two most sensitive groups. The relationship between symptom scores and medicine scores as a function of the pollen load was nonlinear. A mathematical model was calculated. It was found that simply adding symptom scores and medicine scores to a total symptom/medication score was not meaningful as a basis for a quantitative analysis. It was further shown that the response caused by a given pollen load decays exponentially with time and that this decay had a characteristic half-life period of about 1–2 days indicating a long-lasting effect, i.e. contribution of the late allergic reaction to symptoms. Both groups showed the development of increased medicine intake during the season for a constant pollen load. This indicates the development of a higher sensitivity to birch pollen during the season. The overall response was divided into characteristic levels based on dose-response relationships, and pollen concentration intervals for forecasting purposes are suggested.
Histamine-Binding Lymphocytes as a Measure of Reactivity to Bee Venom
Authors: Ruby Janet , Czarny Daniel , Muller Konrad
Published: August 2009

Reduced lymphocyte histamine-binding after in vitro exposure of whole blood samples to bee venom appears related to allergen reactivity. The reactivity demonstrated using this method matched the clinical findings and was used to monitor declining responses to allergen during desensitization therapy for hypersensitivity to bee venom. After successful desensitization to bee venom, patients’ lymphocytes did not show decreased histamine binding following in vitro exposure to venom. We conclude that lymphocyte histamine-binding sites are down-regulated by allergen-mediated histamine release in hypersensitive subjects, and that this response diminishes with immunotherapy. This report describes a novel method for the in vitro assessment of reactivity to bee venom.
Lack of Passive Transfer of Renal Tubulointerstitial Disease by Serum or Monoclonal Antibody Specific for Renal Tubular Antigens in the Mouse
Authors: Evans Brenda D. , Dilwith Robert L. , Balaban Stuart L. , Rudofsky Ulrich H.
Published: August 2009

Mice immunized with rabbit renal basement membranes form autoantibodies to their kidney glomerular and tubular basement membranes (GBM/TBM). Development of renal tubular disease (RTD) consists of deposition of autoantibodies along the GBM/TBM with the inter- and intratubular accumulation of lymphocytes and macrophages and destruction of the TBM. Transfer of this disease in mice with either serum or monoclonal antibodies, however, has been difficult to demonstrate and, therefore, attempts were made to confirm a report that RTD is passively transferred by anti-TBM autoantibodies. Using the revised protocol in this later report, we found that 12 weeks after transfer autoantibodies were deposited along the GBM and/or TBM of the recipients, yet RTD was not observed. Although qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the antibody may play a role in the pathogenesis in the murine model of RTD, we could not obtain evidence to support and confirm this study.
Allergenic Properties of the Genetic Variants A and B of Bovine Beta-Lactoglobulin
Authors: Malik Zahida , Bottomley Robin , Austen Brian
Published: August 2009

The principal allergen in cow’s milk is β-lactoglobulin (β-Lg) which is normally found as equal mixtures of the A and B genetic variants in pooled milk. The A and B variants were purified in large amounts and fed to guinea pigs. After 15 days, circulating immunoglobulins IgG1 and IgG2 to the milk proteins were detected, with a somewhat higher response to β-Lg A than B. Sensitised guinea pigs succumbed to anaphylactic shock when challenged intracardially with either variant. The higher response is likely to be due to amino acid residues found only in the A variant, lying in surface regions of the molecule.
Phenotypic and Functional Analyses on T-Cell Subsets in Lymph Nodes of MRL/Mp-lpr/lpr Mice
Authors: Igarashi Satoshi , Takiguchi Masafumi , Kariyone Ai , Kano Kyoichi
Published: August 2009

By means of killing and/or FACS sorting the double-negative (DN) Lyt2––, L3T4–– cells, Lyt2+ or L3T4+ cells and B220–– cell populations were separated from T-cell-enriched lymph node (LN) cells of 4- to 5-month-old MRL/Mp-lpr/lpr mice. These highly purified cell populations were examined for their proliferative responses, interleukin 2 (IL2) production and expression of IL2 receptor (IL2R) in response to phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) and the calcium ionophore A23187 (A2) or PMA plus concanavalin A. The DN T-cell population was unable to respond to the stimuli and did not express IL2R. Thus the DN T cells, the major population responsible for the lymphadenopathy, possess fundamental defects in signal transduction as well as in the IL2-IL2R-mediated function. On the other hand, Lyt2+ or L3T4+ T cells obtained by sorting or B220–– cells purified by the sorting after killing B220+ cells, exhibited proliferative responses indistinguishable from that of LN cells of the congenic MRL/Mp- +/+ (+/+) mice. These cells also expressed IL2R after stimulation, however, the amount of IL2 produced was significantly lower than that produced by congenic +/+ cells. This suggested that phenotypically normal Lyt2+ or L3T4+ T cells of lpr LNs also possess a partial defect in the signal transduction system for IL2 production under the influence of the lpr gene.
Inhibition of Allergic Histamine Release from Rat Peritoneal Mast Cells by Azelastine
Authors: Chand Naresh , Pillar John , Diamantis William , Sofia Duane
Published: August 2009

The in vitro interaction of azelastine (a new antiallergic/antiasthmatic drug) with albuterol (a β2 bronchodilator), theophylline (a phosphodiesterase inhibitor), disodium cromoglycate (DSCG, a mast cell-stabilizing agent) and prednisolone (a steroid) was studied for effects on allergic histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMCs). The RPMCs preincubated with albuterol, theophylline, DSGC (10 min) and prednisolone (2 h) caused a 2- to 18-fold decrease in the IC30 for azelastine. Significant potentiation (synergism) was seen only with albuterol (0.01, 0.1 and 1.0 μM, 10 min) and theophylline (1.0 μM, 10 min). The pre-exposure of RPMCs with DSCG (0.1, 1.0 and 10 μM) for a period of 10 min produced a slight leftward shift of azelastine’s concentration-effect curve (0.01, 0.1 and 10 μM added immediately before antigen challenge). This effect was not dependent on the concentration of DSCG. These data demonstrated (1) the lack of cross-tachyphylaxis between DSCG and azelastine, and (2) the synergistic interaction between azelastine and albuterol or theophylline.
Release of Highly-Sulphated Glycosaminoglycans and Histamine from Human Basophils
Authors: Reilly K.M. , Dawes J. , Yap P.L. , Barnetson R.St.C. , MacGregor I.R.
Published: August 2009

A new assay for highly-sulphated glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) has been applied to the study of allergen (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus)-induced release of GAG from human basophils. Highly-sulphated GAG, which was not heparin, was found only in basophil-containing cellular fractions of whole blood. Its release, like that of histamine, was Ca++-dependent. However, allergen-induced release of GAG from the basophils of atopic individuals exhibited a different time-course and dose-response from that of histamine, and may occur at least in part by a different mechanism.
Detection of Human Auto-Anti-Idiotypic Antibodies (Ab2)
Authors: Castracane John M. , Rocklin Ross E.
Published: August 2009

The present study demonstrates the cross-reactivity of a murine monoclonal antibody (MoAb) directed against purified ragweed antigen E (AgE) with human Abl. This antiragweed AgE MoAb (clone SC7H.1G, IgM kappa) was used to detect Ab2 in the sera obtained from the three groups of subjects. Utilizing an ELISA assay, we found that immunoglobulins from 12 nonatopic subjects bound to a significantly greater extent to SC7H.1G (mean ± SE; OD = 0.353 ± 0.052) than immunoglobulins from 14 untreated ragweed atopies (OD = 0.149 ± 0.020). However, immunoglobulins from 9 immunotherapy-treated patients (OD = 0.395 ± 0.120) bound to the mouse anti-AgE MoAb to the same extent as nonatopic sera. Furthermore, an additional 7 patients with ragweed-allergic rhinitis were studied prospectively while undergoing immunotherapy and Ab2 levels were found to increase with time posttreatment. We also found an inverse correlation between Ab1 and Ab2 levels in the nonatopic and untreated atopic groups. These data indicate that immunotherapy stimulates the production of Ab2 in atopic patients and may be involved in the regulation of the antiragweed IgE response.
Evidence that Interleukin 2 Actively Promotes Both Cell Division and Immunoglobulin Secretion in Human B Cells
Authors: Gallagher G. , Willdridge J.
Published: August 2009

Three human Epstein-Barr virus transformed B cell lines were seeded at densities below their capacity for autostimulatory growth and exposed to recombinant human interleukin 2 (IL-2). IL-2 was found to stimulate DNA synthesis in all three lines, and the level of immunoglobulin secreted was also greatly increased. The experiments were repeated, but in this case the final cell numbers were established by the MTT method and the immunoglobulin secreted per 1,000 cells calculated. Both of these parameters were significantly elevated, indicating that the higher immunoglobulin levels recorded were due to the rate of secretion having been actively increased by IL-2 and were not merely artifactual, resulting from increased cell growth. Thus, IL-2 can actively promote DNA synthesis and cell division and can also increase immunoglobulin secretion in human B cells.
Induction of Intestinal Mastocytosis in Nude Mice by Repeated Injection of Interleukin-3
Authors: Abe T. , Ochiai H. , Minamishima Y. , Nawa Y.
Published: August 2009

The number of mast cells in various tissues of nude mice was examined after daily injection of Interleukin-3 (IL-3), which was purified from the media conditioned by WEHI-3B cell line. Repeated intraperitoneal injection of IL-3 caused a significant increase in the number of mucosal mast cells (MMC) in the epithelium of small intestine more than 30-fold and also to a lesser extent in the villous lamina propria of small intestine and caecum. The number of mast cells in the spleen, approximately 60% of which were formalin-resistant and were assumed as connective tissue type mast cells (CTMC), increased 3-fold by IL-3 treatment. Although statistically not significant, the number of mast cells in the ear skin also slightly increased.
Retained T-Cell Reactivity of Rye Grass Pollen Extract following Cleavage with Cyanogen Bromide and Nitrothiocyanobenzoic Acid
Authors: Wheeler A.W. , Spackman V.M. , Cottam G.P. , Moran D.M.
Published: August 2009

Rye grass pollen extract was fragmented by sequential treatments with cyanogen bromide and 2-nitro-5-thiocyanobenzoic acid, and a fraction containing fragments of molecular weight greater than 10,000 Mr was isolated. The in vitro reactivity of the extract with specific IgE was extensively reduced by fragmentation. Less reduction in activity was shown either by skin testing or by inhibition of an extract-specific IgG-binding assay. Reactivity with, and ability to induce, extract-specific mouse T cells were retained by the fragment preparation, and the ability to cause transformation of lymphocytes from atopic donors was unchanged. Fragments did not induce extract-specific IgG antibody in mice, were unable to stimulate the production of T-helper cells which could collaborate in an adoptive cell-transfer system, and did not induce delayed hypersensitivity reactions in guinea pigs. The possibility that such T-cell-reactive modified allergens (T’allergoids) might be used to stimulate selectively T-cell subsets and, therefore, could be used to advantage in immunotherapy is discussed.
Standardization of Rye-Grass Pollen (Lolium perenne) Extract
Authors: Stewart G.A. , Turner K.J. , Baldo B.A. , Cripps A.W. , Ford A. , Seagroatt V. , Lowenstein H. , Ekramoddoullah A.K.M.
Published: August 2009

Six candidate extracts of Lolium perenne (rye-grass) pollen have been studied in 6 laboratories using a variety of immunochemical and physicochemical techniques. Radioallergosorbent test inhibition, crossed immunoelectrophoresis, crossed radio-immunoelectrophoresis, sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis combined with immunoblot, thin-layer isoelectric focusing and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay inhibition were used to evaluate each of the coded extracts. The source materials were also studied for identity and possible contamination by light microscopy. On the basis of these data, the Rye-Grass Working Party recommended to the Steering Committee of the Allergen Standardization Subcommittee of the International Union of Immunological Societies that the extract coded C be chosen as the candidate international reference preparation.
Cord Blood Basophil Releasability: Evaluation of Histamine Release and Leukotriene C4 Generation
Authors: Miadonna Antonio , Leggieri Ennio , Tedeschi Alberto , Lorini Maurizio , Motta Giuliano , Lucci Gina , Froldi Marco , Marini Antonio , Zanussi Carlo
Published: August 2009

This study was performed to evaluate mediator (histamine and leukotriene C4) release from cord blood and adult blood basophils, challenged with IgE-independent (calcium ionophore A23187) and IgE-mediated (anti-IgE) stimuli. IgE-independent mediator release was similar in adult blood and umbilical blood basophils. Conversely, the anti-IgE-induced histamine and immunoreactive leukotriene C4 (iLTC4) release was significantly reduced in cord blood basophils. Passive sensitization with an IgE-rich serum was followed by a significant increase in the number of eluted IgE molecules from cord blood basophils and by an increase in IgE-mediated histamine release. iLTC4 production was not affected by passive sensitization of umbilical blood basophils. The IgE-dependent mediator release from cord blood basophils was not correlated with the number of cell-bound IgE. In addition, histamine secretion and leukotriene C4 production from cord blood basophils seem to be independent events.
Effect of a Novel Leukotriene D4 Antagonist with 5-Lipoxygenase and Cyclooxygenase Inhibitory Activity, Wy-45,911, on Leukotriene-D4- and Antigen-Induced Bronchoconstriction in the Guinea Pig
Authors: Chang Joseph , Musser John H. , Hand James M.
Published: August 2009

Wy-45,911 (4-∣hydroxy-[3-(2-quinolinylmethoxy)phenyl]amino∣-4-oxabutanoic acid, methyl ester) was found to inhibit competitively leukotriene D4 (LTD4)-induced contractions of the isolated guinea pig trachea but not those of leukotriene C4 (LTC4), even in the presence of a γ-glutamyltranspeptidase inhibitor, reduced glutathione (GSH). Tracheal contractions induced by histamine or pilocarpine were also not significantly altered by Wy-45,911. The drug inhibited the tracheal contractions induced by antigen, even in the presence of GSH. This latter effect resulted from inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase(5-LO), as the synthesis of 5-LO products by rat polymorphonuclear leukocytes and by mouse macrophages was markedly reduced by Wy-45,911. The drug inhibited both LTD4-induced and antigen-induced bronchoconstriction when injected intraduodenally or intragastrically into intact guinea pigs though it was more potent against LTD4-induced bronchoconstriction. We conclude that Wy-45,911 is a novel, orally active LTD4 antagonist in the guinea pig, with some 5-LO inhibitory activity.
Differential Effects of Human Alpha and Gamma Interferons on Mixed Lymphocyte Culture and on T-Cell-Mediated Cytotoxicity
Authors: Chae F. , Oleszak E. , Fox F.E. , Trotta P. , Mele C.A. , Hawrylko E. , Platsoucas C.D.
Published: August 2009

We compared the effects of natural and recombinant (r) alpha (IFN-α) and gamma (IFN-γ) interferons on the proliferative responses of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells to mitogens and allogeneic cells in mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC) and on the generation of specific T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity. In 14 of 19 donors, natural IFN-γ and rIFN-γ had no significant effect on the proliferative responses to mitogens or allogeneic cells in MLC, even at very high IFN-γ concentrations (10,000 U/ml). In the remaining 5 donors, a statistically significant (p <0.001) enhancement by 49 ± 8% of the proliferative responses was observed. In contrast, natural IFN-α and rIFN-α2 significantly inhibited (p <0.001) proliferative responses to mitogens and to allogeneic cells, even at concentrations as low as 10 U/ml, in agreement with previous reports. Although natural and recombinant IFN-α significantly inhibited these proliferative responses, they did not affect interleukin-2 (IL-2) production in these cultures, suggesting that they inhibit proliferation by a mechanism that does not involve inhibition of IL-2 production. rlFN-γ did not affect the generation of specific cytotoxicity in MLC, although it was significantly enhanced by natural IFN-α and rIFN-α2. Additionally, we compared the ability of human rIFN-α subtypes to inhibit proliferative responses to allogeneic cells in MLC. rIFN-α2, rIFN-α4, and rIFNα7 displayed the most potent inhibitory activity of allogeneic responses and were active at concentrations as low as 0.3–0.6 ng/ml. The rIFN-α2/α1 hybrid molecule was also capable of significantly inhibiting proliferative responses in MLC at concentrations of 0.6 ng/ml or higher. rIFN-α1 and rIFN-δ4α1 inhibited at considerably higher concentrations (30 ng/ml or higher).
Phenotypic and Functional Analysis of Cellular Cytotoxicity after Splenectomy
Authors: Müller C. , Zielinski C.C. , Klepetko W. , Knoflach P. , Wolf H. , Eibl MM.
Published: August 2009

Phenotypic and functional aspects of cellular cytotoxicity were investigated in patients after splenectomy. While assays testing for natural killer cell (NK) activity and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity showed a significantly reduced (p < 0.005 and p < 0.025, respectively) activity of the relevant cell populations, lectin-dependent cellular cytotoxicity was either normal or, in one dilution of phytohemagglutinin, even significantly increased (p < 0.025), as compared to healthy control persons. In a search for a possible explanation for this phenomenon, it was found that the total lymphocyte count was significantly increased (p < 0.01) in patients after splenectomy, when compared with healthy control individuals. However, neither the absolute cell count nor the percentage of Leu7+ lymphocytes showed significant differences between splenectomized patients and controls. In contrast, the percentages of (Leu7 + Leu2) + , OKT11 + , OKT4+ and Leu2a+ lymphocytes were significantly decreased (p < 0.0025, p < 0.01 and p < 0.005, respectively) in splenectomized patients with not only the percentage, but also the absolute number of DR+ lymphocytes being significantly increased (p < 0.005 and p < 0.05, respectively). We thus conclude that in patients after splenectomy NK activity is decreased which may possibly be due to the lack of a NK subset. In contrast, the overall percentages of T cells (OKT11+), T helper/inducer (OKT4+) and T suppressor cells (Leu2a+) were significantly decreased in patients after splenectomy, although this defect could be compensated by a significant increase in the absolute lymphocyte number.
New Allergens from Hen’s Egg White and Egg Yolk
Authors: Walsh B.J. , Barnett D. , Burley R.W. , Elliott C. , Hill D.J. , Howden M.E.H.
Published: August 2009

Three hen egg yolk proteins, apovitellenins I and VI and phosvitin, and one egg white protein, ovomucin, were purified and tested for their ability to bind IgE in the sera of patients hypersensitive to egg. All of the proteins bound IgE from the sera of egg-allergic individuals in the radioallergosorbent test, and they also inhibited binding of IgE to the parent fractions – either egg yolk (apovitellenins I and VI and phosvitin) or egg white (ovomucin). It appears that apovitellenins I and VI are major allergens for some of the individuals tested. This is the first report of the in vitro allergenicity of these proteins.
Investigations of Patients Allergic to the House Dust Mite Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus by Crossed Radioimmunoelectrophoresis Using Purified Mite Bodies and Whole Mite Culture Extracts
Authors: Wahl R. , Maasch H.J. , Geissler W. , Piper J. , Meineke D.
Published: August 2009

Sera of 20 patients allergic to the house dust mite Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus were investigated by crossed radioimmunoelectrophoresis (CRIE) using extracts prepared from purified mite bodies (PMB) and whole mite culture (WMC). By CRIE, different allergen patterns and different numbers of allergens were detected in the two extracts. By summarizing the values of the CRIE patterns of the 20 patients’ sera into allergograms, 6 out of 16 allergens in PMB and 5 out of 10 allergens in WMC extracts could be identified as major allergens. These diverging results, together with the published literature, emphasize the necessity to reevaluate the International Standard for D. pteronyssinus.
Exposure to Microorganisms, Airway Inflammatory Changes and Immune Reactions in Asymptomatic Dairy Farmers
Authors: Larsson K. , Malmberg P. , Eklund L. , Belin L. , Blaschke E.
Published: August 2009

Lung function, bronchial reactivity, serum antibody levels, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and the magnitude of exposure to airborne microorganisms during farm work were studied in 10 healthy farmers with no respiratory symptoms. Lung function and bronchial reactivity were not altered. An increase in the amount of antibodies against several microorganisms could be demonstrated but precipitating antibodies were observed only in two subjects. In the BAL fluid the nonsmoking farmers had elevated proportion of lymphocytes and elevated levels of albumin, fibronectin and angiotensin-converting enzyme while the levels of hyaluronan and procollagen III N-terminal peptide were within normal limits. The lung function, bronchial reactivity, serum antibody levels and BAL findings were not correlated with the exposure to airborne microorganisms. We conclude that healthy farmers, exposed to mold dust, may exhibit signs of alveolitis including albumin leakage, accumulation of inflammatory cells and alveolar macrophage activation.
Bird-Egg Syndrome
Authors: Mandallaz Michèle M. , de Weck Alain L. , Dahinden Clemens A.
Published: August 2009

87 adult patients from our allergy clinic were skin tested with budgerigar and canary feathers, hen’s egg white and egg yolk and common inhalant allergens. Of 59 patients found to be atopic, 17 (29%) were concomitantly sensitized to bird dander and egg proteins, 10 of them being symptomatic to bird dander and/or egg exposure. All but 1 of the egg-symptomatic patients were exposed to pet birds. The patients with strong serological reactivity to bird antigens were also exclusively sensitized to egg proteins, in particular to livetins (water-soluble fractions of egg-yolk proteins). Extensive RAST-inhibition studies demonstrated identical patterns of cross-reactivity between bird dander and hen’s egg proteins, livetins being the major cross-reacting antigens. This peculiar IgE-mediated allergy is designated as ‘bird-egg syndrome’. It is suggested that egg intolerance in adults is mainly due to sensitization to egg-yolk livetins and can be provoked by inhalation of pet bird dander. Thus, it must be distinguished from the common egg-white allergy of atopic children. Our study further underlines the importance of respiratory sensitization in adult food allergy. On the other hand, exposure to cross-reacting antigens by ingestion might also influence the allergic manifestations to inhalant allergens.
Nedocromil Sodium and Cromolyn (Sodium Cromoglycate) Selectively Inhibit Antibody-Dependent Granulocyte-Mediated Cytotoxicity
Authors: Rand Thomas H. , Lopez Angel F. , Gamble Jennifer R. , Vadas Mathew A.
Published: August 2009

Nedocromil sodium and cromolyn (sodium cromoglycate) are prophylactic agents in asthma which were initially found to be inhibitors of mast cell activation. Recent evidence has suggested that their effects on granulocyte-mediated reactions may contribute to their therapeutic effects. Recombinant human granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) enhance the activity of granulocytes in antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). Preincubation of purified neutrophils or eosinophils with nedocromil sodium or cromolyn partially inhibited their ability to mediate ADCC when stimulated by GM-CSF or TNF. Preincubation with nedocromil sodium did not alter the ability of neutrophils to produce superoxide or release lysozyme in response to soluble or phagocytic stimuli, and GM-CSF-enhanced superoxide production triggered by chemotactic peptide was not altered in such drug-treated neutrophils. After nedocromil sodium treatment, neutrophils showed no consistent changes in TNF-stimulated adherence to either plastic culture wells or umbilical vein endothelium. These findings demonstrate that nedocromil sodium and cromolyn directly and selectively affect the function of granulocytes in vitro. While drug-treated granulocytes were impaired in immune-directed cytotoxicity stimulated by GM-CSF or TNF, activation of other granulocyte functions by the same stimuli was intact.
Antigen-Specific Lymphocyte Clone Elimination and Reappearance in Guinea Pigs Using 125I-Labelled Horse Serum Albumin
Authors: Pongrácz Judit , Ölveti Éva , Csaba B.
Published: August 2009

T cells in the blood and spleen of guinea pigs fixed significantly higher quantities of radiolabelled antigen on day 4 following injection than did B cells or macrophages. Fixed radioactivity produced continuous radiation damage on the cells involved and the antigen-specific lymphocyte clone disappeared. This was shown by the absence of antibody production in the sera determined by passive haemagglutination. The reappearance of the specific lymphocyte clone required more than 20 days.