bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Respiratory Syncytial Virus G Protein and G Protein CX3C Motif Adversely Affect CX3CR1+ T Cell Responses
Authors: Harcourt Jennifer , Alvarez Rene , Jones Les P. , Henderson Christine , Anderson Larry J. , Tripp Ralph A.
Published: April 2014

Interactions between fractalkine (CX3CL1) and its receptor, CX3CR1, mediate leukocyte adhesion, activation, and trafficking. The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) G protein has a CX3C chemokine motif that can bind CX3CR1 and modify CXCL1-mediated responses. In this study, we show that expression of the RSV G protein or the G protein CX3C motif during infection is associated with reduced CX3CR1+ T cell trafficking to the lung, reduced frequencies of RSV-specific, MHC class I-restricted IFN-γ-expressing cells, and lower numbers of IL-4- and CX3CL1-expressing cells. In addition, we show that CX3CR1+ cells constitute a major component of the cytotoxic response to RSV infection. These results suggest that G protein and the G protein CX3C motif reduce the antiviral T cell response to RSV infection.
CD4+CD25+ Regulatory T Cells Inhibit the Antigen-Dependent Expansion of Self-Reactive T Cells In Vivo
Authors: Zwar Tricia D. , Read Simon , van Driel Ian R. , Gleeson Paul A.
Published: April 2014

A deficiency of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (CD25+ Tregs) in lymphopenic mice can result in the onset of autoimmune gastritis. The gastric H/K ATPase α (H/Kα) and β (H/Kβ) subunits are the immunodominant autoantigens recognized by effector CD4+ T cells in autoimmune gastritis. The mechanism by which CD25+ Tregs suppress autoimmune gastritis in lymphopenic mice is poorly understood. To investigate the antigenic requirements for the genesis and survival of gastritis-protecting CD25+ Tregs, we analyzed mice deficient in H/Kβ and H/Kα, as well as a transgenic mouse line (H/Kβ-tsA58 Tg line 224) that lacks differentiated gastric epithelial cells. By adoptive transfer of purified T cell populations to athymic mice, we show that the CD25+ Treg population from mice deficient in either one or both of H/Kα and H/Kβ, or from the H/Kβ-tsA58 Tg line 224 mice, is equally effective in suppressing the ability of polyclonal populations of effector CD4+ T cells to induce autoimmune gastritis. Furthermore, CD25+ Tregs, from either wild-type or H/Kα-deficient mice, dramatically reduced the expansion of pathogenic H/Kα-specific TCR transgenic T cells and the induction of autoimmune gastritis in athymic recipient mice. Proliferation of H/Kα-specific T cells in lymphopenic hosts occurs predominantly in the paragastric lymph node and was dependent on the presence of the cognate H/Kα Ag. Collectively, these studies demonstrate that the gastritis-protecting CD25+ Tregs do not depend on the major gastric Ags for their thymic development or their survival in the periphery, and that CD25+ Tregs inhibit the Ag-specific expansion of pathogenic T cells in vivo.
MR1-Restricted Vα19i Mucosal-Associated Invariant T Cells Are Innate T Cells in the Gut Lamina Propria That Provide a Rapid and Diverse Cytokine Response
Authors: Kawachi Izumi , Maldonado Jorge , Strader Carey , Gilfillan Susan
Published: April 2014

Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells reside primarily in the gut lamina propria and require commensal flora for selection/expansion. They are restricted by the highly conserved MHC class I-related molecule MR1 and, like most NK T cells, express an invariant TCRα chain. Although they probably contribute to gut immunity, MAIT cells have not been functionally characterized because they are so rare. To create a model in which they are more abundant, we generated transgenic mice expressing only the TCRα chain (Vα19i) that defines MAIT cells. By directly comparing Vα19i transgenic mice on MR1+/+ and MR1−/− backgrounds, we were able to distinguish and characterize a population of Vα19i T cells dependent on MR1 for development. MR1-restricted Vα19i transgenic T cells recapitulate what is known about MAIT cell development. Furthermore, a relatively high proportion of transgenic MAIT cells express NK1.1, and most have a cell surface phenotype similar to that of Vα14i NK T cells. Finally, MR1-restricted Vα19i T cells secrete IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10 following TCR ligation, and we provide evidence for what may be two functionally distinct MAIT cell populations. These data strongly support the idea that MAIT cells contribute to the innate immune response in the gut mucosa.
Cross-Positive Selection of Thymocytes Expressing a Single TCR by Multiple Major Histocompatibility Complex Molecules of Both Classes: Implications for CD4+ versus CD8+ Lineage Commitment
Authors: Eshima Koji , Suzuki Harumi , Shinohara Nobukata
Published: April 2014

This study has investigated the cross-reactivity upon thymic selection of thymocytes expressing transgenic TCR derived from a murine CD8+ CTL clone. The Idhigh+ cells in this transgenic mouse had been previously shown to mature through positive selection by class I MHC, Dq or Lq molecule. By investigating on various strains, we found that the transgenic TCR cross-reacts with three different MHCs, resulting in positive or negative selection. Interestingly, in the TCR-transgenic mice of H-2q background, mature Idhigh+ T cells appeared among both CD4+ and CD8+ subsets in periphery, even in the absence of RAG-2 gene. When examined on β2-microglobulin−/− background, CD4+, but not CD8+, Idhigh+ T cells developed, suggesting that maturation of CD8+ and CD4+ Idhigh+ cells was MHC class I (Dq/Lq) and class II (I-Aq) dependent, respectively. These results indicated that this TCR-transgenic mouse of H-2q background contains both classes of selecting MHC ligands for the transgenic TCR simultaneously. Further genetic analyses altering the gene dosage and combinations of selecting MHCs suggested novel asymmetric effects of class I and class II MHC on the positive selection of thymocytes. Implications of these observations in CD4+/CD8+ lineage commitment are discussed.
Early Autoimmune Destruction of Islet Grafts Is Associated with a Restricted Repertoire of IGRP-Specific CD8+ T Cells in Diabetic Nonobese Diabetic Mice
Authors: Wong Carmen P. , Li Li , Frelinger Jeffrey A. , Tisch Roland
Published: April 2014

β cell replacement via islet or pancreas transplantation is currently the only approach to cure type 1 diabetic patients. Recurrent β cell autoimmunity is a critical factor contributing to graft rejection along with alloreactivity. However, the specificity and dynamics of recurrent β cell autoimmunity remain largely undefined. Accordingly, we compared the repertoire of CD8+ T cells infiltrating grafted and endogenous islets in diabetic nonobese diabetic mice. In endogenous islets, CD8+ T cells specific for an islet-specific glucose-6-phosphatase catalytic subunit-related protein derived peptide (IGRP206–214) were the most prevalent T cells. Similar CD8+ T cells dominated the early graft infiltrate but were expanded 6-fold relative to endogenous islets. Single-cell analysis of the TCR α and β chains showed restricted variable gene usage by IGRP206–214-specific CD8+ T cells that was shared between the graft and endogenous islets of individual mice. However, as islet graft infiltration progressed, the number of IGRP206–214-specific CD8+ T cells decreased despite stable numbers of CD8+ T cells. These results demonstrate that recurrent β cell autoimmunity is characterized by recruitment to the grafts and expansion of already prevalent autoimmune T cell clonotypes residing in the endogenous islets. Furthermore, depletion of IGRP206–214-specific CD8+ T cells by peptide administration delayed islet graft survival, suggesting IGRP206–214-specific CD8+ T cells play a role early in islet graft rejection but are displaced with time by other specificities, perhaps by epitope spread.
NKT Cells and IFN-γ Establish the Regulatory Environment for the Control of Diabetogenic T Cells in the Nonobese Diabetic Mouse
Authors: Cain Judith A. , Smith Judith A. , Ondr Jennifer K. , Wang Bo , Katz Jonathan D.
Published: April 2014

In type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), T cell-mediated destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic β cells leads to the acute onset of hyperglycemia. The nonobese diabetic mouse model of human T1DM reveals that T cells capable of inducing diabetes can escape normal central tolerance, and can cause T1DM if left unchecked. However, several regulatory T cell subsets can temper autoaggressive T cells, although it remains undetermined when and how, and by which subset, homeostatic control of diabetogenic T cells is normally achieved in vivo. Using a cotransfer model, we find that NKT cells efficiently dampen the action of diabetogenic CD4+ T cells, and do so in an indirect manner by modifying the host environment. Moreover, the NKT cell-containing population modifies the host via production of IFN-γ that is necessary for driving the inhibition of diabetogenic T cells in vivo.
The Nucleotide Targets of Somatic Mutation and the Role of Selection in Immunoglobulin Heavy Chains of a Teleost Fish
Authors: Yang Feixue , Waldbieser Geoffrey C. , Lobb Craig J.
Published: April 2014

Sequence analysis of H chain cDNA derived from the spleen of an individual catfish has shown that somatic mutation occurs within both the VH- and JH-encoded regions. Somatic mutation preferentially targets G and C nucleotides with approximately balanced frequencies, resulting in the predominant accumulation of G-to-A and C-to-T substitutions that parallel the activation-induced cytidine deaminase nucleotide exchanges known in mammals. The overall mutation rate of A nucleotides is not significantly different from that expected by sequence-insensitive mutations, and a significant bias exists against mutations occurring in T. Targeting of mutations is dependent upon the sequence of neighboring nucleotides, allowing statistically significant hotspot motifs to be identified. Dinucleotide, trinucleotide, and RGYW analyses showed that mutational targets in catfish are restricted when compared with the spectrum of targets known in mammals. The preferential targets for G and C mutation are the central GC positions in both AGCT and AGCA. The WA motif, recognized as a mammalian hotspot for A mutations, was not a significant target for catfish mutations. The only significant target for A mutations was the terminal position in AGCA. Lastly, comparisons of mutations located in framework region and CDR codons coupled with multinomial distribution studies found no substantial evidence in either independent or clonally related VDJ rearrangements to indicate that somatic mutation coevolved with mechanisms that select B cells based upon nonsynonymous mutations within CDR-encoded regions. These results suggest that the principal role of somatic mutation early in phylogeny was to diversify the repertoire by targeting hotspot motifs preferentially located within CDR-encoded regions.
Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase Functions as a Ras Effector in the Signaling Cascade That Regulates Dephosphorylation of the Actin-Remodeling Protein Cofilin after Costimulation of Untransformed Human T Lymphocytes
Authors: Wabnitz Guido H. , Nebl Gabriele , Klemke Martin , Schröder Andreas J. , Samstag Yvonne
Published: April 2014

The activity of cofilin, an actin-remodeling protein, is required for T lymphocyte activation with regard to formation of the immunological synapse, cytokine production, and proliferation. In unstimulated T PBL (PB-T), cofilin is present in its Ser3-phosphorylated inactive form. Costimulation of TCR/CD3 and CD28 induces dephosphorylation and, thus, activation of cofilin. In this study we characterized the signaling cascades leading to cofilin activation in untransformed human PB-T. We show that a Ras-PI3K cascade regulates dephosphorylation of cofilin in PB-T. The GTPase Ras is a central mediator of this pathway; transient expression of an activated form of H-Ras in PB-T triggered the dephosphorylation of cofilin. Inhibition of either MAPK/ERK kinase or PI3K blocked both Ras-induced and costimulation-induced cofilin dephosphorylation in PB-T, showing that the combined activities of both signaling proteins are required to activate cofilin. That Ras functions as a central regulator of cofilin dephosphorylation after costimulation through CD3 × CD28 was finally proven by transient expression of a dominant negative form of H-Ras in primary human PB-T. It clearly inhibited costimulation-induced cofilin dephosphorylation, and likewise, activation of PI3K was diminished. Our data, in addition, demonstrate that regarding the downstream effectors of Ras, a clear difference exists between untransformed human PB-T and the T lymphoma line Jurkat. Thus, in PB-T the Ras signaling cascade is able to activate PI3K, whereas in Jurkat cells this is not the case. In addition to the insights into the regulation of cofilin, this finding discloses a to date unrecognized possibility of PI3K activation in T lymphocytes.
Opioids Trigger α5β1 Integrin-Mediated Monocyte Adhesion
Authors: Pello Oscar M. , Duthey Béatrice , García-Bernal David , Rodríguez-Frade José Miguel , Stein Jens V. , Teixido Joaquín , Martínez-A. Carlos , Mellado Mario
Published: April 2014

Inflammatory reactions involve a network of chemical and molecular signals that initiate and maintain host response. In inflamed tissue, immune system cells generate opioid peptides that contribute to potent analgesia by acting on specific peripheral sensory neurons. In this study, we show that opioids also modulate immune cell function in vitro and in vivo. By binding to its specific receptor, the opioid receptor-specific ligand DPDPE triggers monocyte adhesion. Integrins have a key role in this process, as adhesion is abrogated in cells treated with specific neutralizing anti-α5β1 integrin mAb. We found that DPDPE-triggered monocyte adhesion requires PI3Kγ activation and involves Src kinases, the guanine nucleotide exchange factor Vav-1, and the small GTPase Rac1. DPDPE also induces adhesion of pertussis toxin-treated cells, indicating involvement of G proteins other than Gi. These data show that opioids have important implications in regulating leukocyte trafficking, adding a new function to their known effects as immune response modulators.
Characterization of Functional Oligosaccharide Mimics of the Shigella flexneri Serotype 2a O-Antigen: Implications for the Development of a Chemically Defined Glycoconjugate Vaccine
Authors: Phalipon Armelle , Costachel Corina , Grandjean Cyrille , Thuizat Audrey , Guerreiro Catherine , Tanguy Myriam , Nato Farida , Vulliez-Le Normand Brigitte , Bélot Frédéric , Wright Karen , Marcel-Peyre Véronique , Sansonetti Philippe J. , Mulard Laurence A.
Published: April 2014

Protection against reinfection with noncapsulated Gram-negative bacteria, such as Shigella, an enteroinvasive bacterium responsible for bacillary dysentery, is mainly achieved by Abs specific for the O-Ag, the polysaccharide part of the LPS, the major bacterial surface Ag. The use of chemically defined glycoconjugates encompassing oligosaccharides mimicking the protective determinants carried by the O-Ag, thus expected to induce an efficient anti-LPS Ab response, has been considered an alternative to detoxified LPS-protein conjugate vaccines. The aim of this study was to identify such functional oligosaccharide mimics of the S. flexneri serotype 2a O-Ag. Using protective murine mAbs specific for S. flexneri serotype 2a and synthetic oligosaccharides designed to analyze the contribution of each sugar residue of the branched pentasaccharide repeating unit of the O-Ag, we demonstrated that the O-Ag exhibited an immunodominant serotype-specific determinant. We also showed that elongating the oligosaccharide sequence improved Ab recognition. From these antigenicity data, selected synthetic oligosaccharides were assessed for their potential to mimic the O-Ag by analyzing their immunogenicity in mice when coupled to tetanus toxoid via single point attachment. Our results demonstrated that induction of an efficient serotype 2a-specific anti-O-Ag Ab response was dependent on the length of the oligosaccharide sequence. A pentadecasaccharide representing three biological repeating units was identified as a potential candidate for further development of a chemically defined glycoconjugate vaccine against S. flexneri 2a infection.
Glucocorticoids Engage Different Signal Transduction Pathways to Induce Apoptosis in Thymocytes and Mature T Cells
Authors: Wang Dapeng , Müller Nora , McPherson Kirsty G. , Reichardt Holger M.
Published: April 2014

Glucocorticoids (GC) induce apoptosis in a variety of cells, but their exact mode of action is controversial. Although initiation relies on the GC receptor (GR) and de novo gene expression, the effector phase differs among cell types. Proteasomal degradation as well as caspase-3, - 8, and -9 activity are essential for GC-induced apoptosis in murine thymocytes, but the same enzymes are dispensable in splenic T cells. Live imaging by confocal microscopy revealed that lysosomal cathepsin B, an unrecognized component of this pathway to date, becomes rapidly activated in thymocytes after GC exposure. This is followed by leakage of cathepsin B into the cytosol, nuclear condensation, and processing of caspase-8 and -3. According to our model, activation of caspase-3 by caspase-9 in thymocytes occurs both directly as well as indirectly via a lysosomal amplification loop. Interestingly, acute T lymphoblastic leukemia cells depend on caspase activity to undergo GC-induced cell death similar to thymocytes. Collectively, the apoptotic program induced by GCs comprises cell type-specific as well as common features.
Qa-1b and CD94-NKG2a Interaction Regulate Cytolytic Activity of Herpes Simplex Virus-Specific Memory CD8+ T Cells in the Latently Infected Trigeminal Ganglia
Authors: Suvas Susmit , Azkur Ahmet Kursat , Rouse Barry T.
Published: April 2014

After ocular infection, HSV-specific CD8+ T cells migrate to and are specifically retained in the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal ganglia (TG) even at the time when replicating virus is no longer evident. Virus-specific CD8+ T cells maintain an activation phenotype and secrete IFN-γ in the latent TG. In this report we demonstrated that activated virus-specific memory CD8+ T cells, although potentially cytolytic, also expressed the CD94-NK cell receptor subfamily G2a inhibitory molecule and were unable to exert cytotoxicity when engaged by Qa-1b expressing targets. Interestingly, many neurons in the latent TG expressed Qa-1b, and blocking of Qa-1b/CD94-NKG2a interaction in an ex vivo TG culture resulted in neuronal cell lysis. The expression of the inhibitory CD94-NKG2a molecule could be induced by TGF-β1, which was shown to present as a bioactive molecule in the latent TG. Additionally, CD4+ forkhead/winged helix transcription factor 3+ T cells were also determined in the latent TG. Our results demonstrate the operation of a regulatory system in vivo that serves to protect irreplaceable neurons from destruction by the immune system.
Immunity and Tolerance to Aspergillus Involve Functionally Distinct Regulatory T Cells and Tryptophan Catabolism
Authors: Montagnoli Claudia , Fallarino Francesca , Gaziano Roberta , Bozza Silvia , Bellocchio Silvia , Zelante Teresa , Kurup Wiswanath P. , Pitzurra Lucia , Puccetti Paolo , Romani Luigina
Published: April 2014

The inherent resistance to diseases caused by Aspergillus fumigatus suggests the occurrence of regulatory mechanisms that provide the host with adequate defense without necessarily eliminating the fungus or causing unacceptable levels of host damage. In this study, we show that a division of labor occurs between functionally distinct regulatory T cells (Treg) that are coordinately activated by a CD28/B-7-dependent costimulatory pathway after exposure of mice to Aspergillus conidia. Early in infection, inflammation is controlled by the expansion, activation and local recruitment of CD4+CD25+ Treg capable of suppressing neutrophils through the combined actions of IL-10 and CTLA-4 on indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase. The levels of IFN-γ produced in this early phase set the subsequent adaptive stage by conditioning the indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase-dependent tolerogenic program of dendritic cells and the subsequent activation and expansion of tolerogenic Treg, which produce IL-10 and TGF-β, inhibit Th2 cells, and prevent allergy to the fungus. The coordinate activation of Treg may, however, be subverted by the fungus, as germinating conidia are capable of interfering with anti-inflammatory and tolerogenic Treg programs. Thus, regulation is an essential component of the host response in infection and allergy to the fungus, and its manipulation may allow the pathogen to overcome host resistance and promote disease.
Experimental African Trypanosomiasis: A Subset of Pathogenic, IFN-γ-Producing, MHC Class II-Restricted CD4+ T Cells Mediates Early Mortality in Highly Susceptible Mice
Authors: Shi Meiqing , Wei Guojian , Pan Wanling , Tabel Henry
Published: April 2014

Infections of highly susceptible BALB/c mice with virulent strains of Trypanosoma congolense or Trypanosoma brucei result in rapid death (8 days). We have previously shown that this mortality is IFN-γ dependent. In this study we show that IFN-γ is produced predominantly by CD3+Thy1.2+TCRβ+CD4+ T cells shortly before the death of infected mice. Mortality may therefore be dependent on IFN-γ-producing CD4+ T cells. Surprisingly, infected CD4+/+ and CD4−/− BALB/c mice have similar parasitemia and survival time. In infected CD4−/− mice, the production of both IFN-γ and IL-10 is very low, suggesting that both cytokines are predominantly produced by CD4+ T cells and that the outcome of the disease might depend on the balance of their effects. Infected BALB/c mice partially depleted of CD4+ T cells or MHC class II function have lower parasitemia and survive significantly longer than infected normal BALB/c mice or infected BALB/c mice whose CD4+ T cells are fully depleted. Partial depletion of CD4+ T cells markedly reduces IFN-γ secretion without a major effect on the production of IL-10 and parasite-specific IgG2a Abs. Based on our previous and current data, we conclude that a subset of a pathogenic, MHC class II-restricted CD4+ T cells (Tp cells), activated during the course of T. congolense infection, mediates early mortality in infected BALB/c mice via excessive synthesis of IFN-γ. IFN-γ, in turn, exerts its pathological effect by enhancing the cytokine release syndrome of the macrophage system activated by the phagocytosis of parasites. We speculate that IL-10-producing CD4+ T cells might counteract this effect.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Induces TLR3 Protein and Protein Kinase R, Leading to Increased Double-Stranded RNA Responsiveness in Airway Epithelial Cells
Authors: Groskreutz Dayna J. , Monick Martha M. , Powers Linda S. , Yarovinsky Timur O. , Look Dwight C. , Hunninghake Gary W.
Published: April 2014

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) preferentially infects airway epithelial cells, causing bronchiolitis, upper respiratory infections, asthma exacerbations, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations, and pneumonia in immunocompromised hosts. A replication intermediate of RSV is dsRNA. This is an important ligand for both the innate immune receptor, TLR3, and protein kinase R (PKR). One known effect of RSV infection is the increased responsiveness of airway epithelial cells to subsequent bacterial ligands (i.e., LPS). In this study, we examined a possible role for RSV infection in increasing amounts and responsiveness of another TLR, TLR3. These studies demonstrate that RSV infection of A549 and human tracheobronchial epithelial cells increases the amounts of TLR3 and PKR in a time-dependent manner. This leads to increased NF-κB activity and production of the inflammatory cytokine IL-8 following a later exposure to dsRNA. Importantly, TLR3 was not detected on the cell surface at baseline but was detected on the cell surface after RSV infection. The data demonstrate that RSV, via an effect on TLR3 and PKR, sensitizes airway epithelial cells to subsequent dsRNA exposure. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that RSV infection sensitizes the airway epithelium to subsequent viral and bacterial exposures by up-regulating TLRs and increasing their membrane localization.
DC-SIGN Is a Receptor for Human Herpesvirus 8 on Dendritic Cells and Macrophages
Authors: Rappocciolo Giovanna , Jenkins Frank J. , Hensler Heather R. , Piazza Paolo , Jais Mariel , Borowski Luann , Watkins Simon C. , Rinaldo Charles R.
Published: April 2014

Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) causes Kaposi’s sarcoma and pleural effusion lymphoma. In this study, we show that dendritic cell-specific ICAM-3 grabbing nonintegrin (DC-SIGN; CD209) is a receptor for HHV-8 infection of myeloid DCs and macrophages. DC-SIGN was required for virus attachment to these cells and DC-SIGN-expressing cell lines. HHV-8 binding and infection were blocked by anti-DC-SIGN mAb and soluble DC-SIGN, and mannan, a natural ligand for DC-SIGN. Infection of DCs and macrophages with HHV-8 led to production of viral proteins, with little production of viral DNA, similar to HHV-8 infection of vascular endothelial cells. Infection of DCs resulted in down-regulation of DC-SIGN, a decrease in endocytic activity, and an inhibition of Ag stimulation of CD8+ T cells. We propose that DC-SIGN serves as a portal for immune dysfunction and oncogenesis caused by HHV-8 infection.
CD25+ Regulatory T Cell Depletion Augments Immunotherapy of Micrometastases by an IL-21-Secreting Cellular Vaccine
Authors: Comes Alberto , Rosso Ombretta , Orengo Anna Maria , Di Carlo Emma , Sorrentino Carlo , Meazza Raffaella , Piazza Tiziana , Valzasina Barbara , Nanni Patrizia , Colombo Mario P. , Ferrini Silvano
Published: April 2014

IL-21 is an IL-2-like cytokine, signaling through a specific IL-21R and the IL-2R γ-chain. Because the TS/A mammary adenocarcinoma cells genetically modified to secrete IL-21 (TS/A-IL-21) are strongly immunogenic in syngeneic mice, we analyzed their application as vaccine. In mice bearing TS/A-parental cell (pc) micrometastases, vaccination with irradiated TS/A-IL-21 cells significantly increased the animal life span, but cured only 17% of mice. Spleen cells from cured mice developed CTL activity and produced IFN-γ in response to stimulation by the AH1 epitope of the gp70env Ag of TS/A-pc. We tested whether the low therapeutic outcome might be due to CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Treg) present in TS/A-pc tumors and draining lymph nodes and whether IL-21 had any effect on these cells. Indeed, CD4+CD25+ cells suppressed IFN-γ production by splenocytes from immune mice in response to stimulation by the AH1 peptide. Low concentrations of IL-21 (10 ng/ml) failed to reverse the inhibitory activity of CD4+CD25+ cells in an allogeneic MLR, whereas 60 ng/ml rIL-21 partially restored responder T cell proliferation. IL-21R expression on CD25− lymphocytes suggested that IL-21 could be more effective in mice depleted of CD25+ cells. Depletion of Treg cells by a single dose of anti-CD25 mAb combined with TS/A-IL-21 cell vaccine cured >70% of mice bearing micrometastases, whereas anti-CD25 mAb treatment alone had no effect. Successful combined immunotherapy required NK cells, CD8+ T cells, and IFN-γ. In conclusion, immunotherapy of micrometastases by an IL-21-based cellular vaccine is strongly potentiated by CD25+ cell depletion.
Immunological Characterization and Antibacterial Function of Persisting Granulocytes in Leukemic Patients Receiving Pulse Cytosine Arabinoside-Consolidation Chemotherapy on Days 1, 3, and 5
Authors: Krauth Maria-T. , Florian Stefan , Böhm Alexandra , Sonneck Karoline , Agis Hermine , Samorapoompichit Puchit , Hauswirth Alexander W. , Sperr Wolfgang R. , Valent Peter
Published: April 2014

High-dose cytosine arabinoside (HiDAC) and intermediate-dose cytosine arabinoside (IDAC) have been introduced as effective and safe consolidation chemotherapy in acute myeloid leukemia, with relatively low rates of life-threatening infections despite the high total dose of the cytostatic drug. To explore the biological background of low toxicity, we examined the numbers, immunophenotype, and functional properties of granulocytes in patients with acute myeloid leukemia receiving HiDAC or IDAC. Interestingly, the absolute numbers of neutrophils remained >500/μl until day 10 in 92 of 125 (74%) HiDAC cycles and in 106 of 113 (94%) IDAC cycles. As assessed by electron microscopy, these day-10 granulocytes surviving chemotherapy were found to be mature cells containing secondary granules and phagolysosomes. They also expressed opsonization- and phagocytosis-linked surface Ags (C3biR, CR1, C1qR, C5aR, FcγRI, FcγRII, FcγRIII, and G-CSF and GM-CSF receptors) like neutrophils in healthy controls. Moreover, these day-10 neutrophils exhibited oxidative burst activity and took up and digested bacteria in the same way as neutrophils in healthy controls. There was a negative correlation between absolute neutrophil counts and severe infections in HiDAC- and IDAC-treated patients with a later onset of infections in IDAC patients (median: IDAC, day 18; HiDAC, day 16). Together, functionally mature neutrophils are detectable at least until day 10 in patients treated with HiDAC or IDAC, and may explain the relatively low hematologic toxicity of these consolidation protocols. IDAC is a superior protocol in this regard and may therefore be most suitable for elderly patients and those at high risk for severe infections.
Deficiency of Mannose-Binding Lectin Greatly Increases Susceptibility to Postburn Infection withPseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Møller-Kristensen Mette , Ip W. K. Eddie , Shi Lei , Gowda Lakshmi D. , Hamblin Michael R. , Thiel Steffen , Jensenius Jens Chr. , Ezekowitz R. Alan B. , Takahashi Kazue
Published: April 2014

Burn injury disrupts the mechanical and biological barrier that the skin presents against infection by symbionts like the Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a Gram-negative bacteria. A combination of local factors, antimicrobial peptides, and resident effector cells form the initial response to mechanical injury of the skin. This activity is followed by an inflammatory response that includes influx of phagocytes and serum factors, such as complement and mannose-binding lectin (MBL), which is a broad-spectrum pattern recognition molecule that plays a key role in innate immunity. A growing consensus from studies in humans and mice suggests that lack of MBL together with other comorbid factors predisposes the host to infection. In this study we examined whether MBL deficiency increases the risk of P. aeruginosa infection in a burned host. We found that both wild-type and MBL null mice were resistant to a 5% total body surface area burn alone or s.c. infection with P. aeruginosa alone. However, when mice were burned then inoculated s.c. with P. aeruginosa at the burn site, all MBL null mice died by 42 h from septicemia, whereas only one-third of wild-type mice succumbed (p = 0.0005). This result indicates that MBL plays a key role in containing and preventing a systemic spread of P. aeruginosa infection following burn injury and suggests that MBL deficiency in humans maybe a premorbid variable in the predisposition to infection in burn victims.
Bacillus anthracisEdema Toxin Acts as an Adjuvant for Mucosal Immune Responses to Nasally Administered Vaccine Antigens
Authors: Duverger Alexandra , Jackson Raymond J. , van Ginkel Frederick W. , Fischer Romy , Tafaro Angela , Leppla Stephen H. , Fujihashi Kohtaro , Kiyono Hiroshi , McGhee Jerry R. , Boyaka Prosper N.
Published: April 2014

Anthrax edema toxin (EdTx) is an AB-type toxin that binds to anthrax toxin receptors on target cells via the binding subunit, protective Ag (PA). Edema factor, the enzymatic A subunit of EdTx, is an adenylate cyclase. We found that nasal delivery of EdTx enhanced systemic immunity to nasally coadministered OVA and resulted in high OVA-specific plasma IgA and IgG (mainly IgG1 and IgG2b). The edema factor also enhanced immunity to the binding PA subunit itself and promoted high levels of plasma IgG and IgA responses as well as neutralizing PA Abs. Mice given OVA and EdTx also exhibited both PA- and OVA-specific IgA and IgG Ab responses in saliva as well as IgA Ab responses in vaginal washes. EdTx as adjuvant triggered OVA- and PA-specific CD4+ T cells which secreted IFN-γ and selected Th2-type cytokines. The EdTx up-regulated costimulatory molecule expression by APCs but was less effective than cholera toxin for inducing IL-6 responses either by APCs in vitro or in nasal washes in vivo. Finally, nasally administered EdTx did not target CNS tissues and did not induce IL-1 mRNA responses in the nasopharyngeal-associated lymphoepithelial tissue or in the olfactory bulb epithelium. Thus, EdTx derivatives could represent an alternative to the ganglioside-binding enterotoxin adjuvants and provide new tools for inducing protective immunity to PA-based anthrax vaccines.
Induction of Positive Cellular and Humoral Immune Responses by a Prime-Boost Vaccine Encoded with Simian Immunodeficiency Virusgag/pol
Authors: Someya Kenji , Ami Yasushi , Nakasone Tadashi , Izumi Yasuyuki , Matsuo Kazuhiro , Horibata Shigeo , Xin Ke-Qin , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Okuda Kenji , Yamamoto Naoki , Honda Mitsuo
Published: April 2014

It is believed likely that immune responses are responsible for controlling viral load and infection. In this study, when macaques were primed with plasmid DNA encoding SIV gag and pol genes (SIVgag/pol DNA) and then boosted with replication-deficient vaccinia virus DIs recombinant expressing the same genes (rDIsSIVgag/pol), this prime-boost regimen generated higher levels of Gag-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses than did either SIVgag/pol DNA or rDIsSIVgag/pol alone. When the macaques were i.v. challenged with pathogenic simian/HIV, the prime-boost group maintained high CD4+ T cell counts and reduced plasma viral loads up to 30 wk after viral challenge, whereas the rDIsSIVgag/pol group showed only a partial attenuation of the viral infection, and the group immunized with SIVgag/pol DNA alone showed none at all. The protection levels were better correlated with the levels of virus-specific T cell responses than the levels of neutralization Ab responses. These results demonstrate that a vaccine regimen that primes with DNA and then boosts with a replication-defective vaccinia virus DIs generates anti-SIV immunity, suggesting that it will be a promising vaccine regimen for HIV-1 vaccine development.
Identification of Cross-Reactive Peptides Using Combinatorial Libraries Circumvents Tolerance against Her-2/neu-Immunodominant Epitope
Authors: Lustgarten Joseph , Dominguez Ana L. , Pinilla Clemencia
Published: April 2014

The majority of the currently defined tumor-associated Ags are often overexpressed products of normal cellular genes. Therefore, tolerance deletes high-affinity T cells directed against the TAAs, leaving only a low-affinity repertoire. We have demonstrated previously that the T cell repertoire against the immunodominant p773–782 A2.1-Her-2/neu-restricted peptide has low affinity in A2xneu mice (Her-2/neu mice crossed with A2.1/Kb mice), compared with A2xFVB mice (A2.1/Kb crossed with FVB-wild-type mice). Immunizations with this peptide have a minor impact in preventing tumor growth in A2xneu mice. Therefore, attempts to expand these responses may be of little clinical value. We hypothesized that if not all possible cross-reactive peptides (CPs) are naturally processed and presented, the possibility exists that T cells against these CPs persist in the repertoire and can be used to induce antitumor responses with higher avidity against native epitopes present on the tumor cells. We have used the positional scanning synthetic peptide combinatorial library methodology to screen the p773–782 T cell clone. The screening data identified potential amino acids that can be substituted in the primary sequences of the p773–782 peptide. The designed CPs induce CTL responses of higher affinity in A2xneu mice compared with the native p773–783 peptide. These CTLs recognize A2+-Her-2/neu+ tumors with high efficiency. Moreover, multiple immunizations with CPs significantly prolonged the survival of tumor-bearing A2xneu mice. These results have demonstrated that it was possible to circumvent tolerance with the identification of CPs and that these peptides could be of significant clinical value.
Human Macrophages Do Not Require Phagosome Acidification to Mediate Fungistatic/Fungicidal Activity againstHistoplasma capsulatum
Authors: Newman Simon L. , Gootee Lisa , Hilty Jeremy , Morris Randall E.
Published: April 2014

Histoplasma capsulatum (Hc) is a facultative intracellular fungus that modulates the intraphagosomal environment to survive within macrophages (Mφ). In the present study, we sought to quantify the intraphagosomal pH under conditions in which Hc yeasts replicated or were killed. Human Mφ that had ingested both viable and heat-killed or fixed yeasts maintained an intraphagosomal pH of ∼6.4–6.5 over a period of several hours. These results were obtained using a fluorescent ratio technique and by electron microscopy using the 3-(2,4-dinitroanilo)-3′-amino-N-methyldipropylamine reagent. Mφ that had ingested Saccharomyces cerevisae, a nonpathogenic yeast that is rapidly killed and degraded by Mφ, also maintained an intraphagosomal pH of ∼6.5 over a period of several hours. Stimulation of human Mφ fungicidal activity by coculture with chloroquine or by adherence to type 1 collagen matrices was not reversed by bafilomycin, an inhibitor of the vacuolar ATPase. Human Mφ cultured in the presence of bafilomycin also completely degraded heat-killed Hc yeasts, whereas mouse peritoneal Mφ digestion of yeasts was completely reversed in the presence of bafilomycin. However, bafilomycin did not inhibit mouse Mφ fungistatic activity induced by IFN-γ. Thus, human Mφ do not require phagosomal acidification to kill and degrade Hc yeasts, whereas mouse Mφ do require acidification for fungicidal but not fungistatic activity.
Costimulation Requirements for Antiviral CD8+ T Cells Differ for Acute and Persistent Phases of Polyoma Virus Infection
Authors: Kemball Christopher C. , Lee Eun D. Han , Szomolanyi-Tsuda Eva , Pearson Thomas C. , Larsen Christian P. , Lukacher Aron E.
Published: April 2014

The requirement for costimulation in antiviral CD8+ T cell responses has been actively investigated for acutely resolved viral infections, but it is less defined for CD8+ T cell responses to persistent virus infection. Using mouse polyoma virus (PyV) as a model of low-level persistent virus infection, we asked whether blockade of the CD40 ligand (CD40L) and CD28 costimulatory pathways impacts the magnitude and function of the PyV-specific CD8+ T response, as well as the humoral response and viral control during acute and persistent phases of infection. Costimulation blockade or gene knockout of either CD28 or CD40L substantially dampened the magnitude of the acute CD8+ T cell response; simultaneous CD28 and CD40L blockade severely depressed the acute T cell response, altered the cell surface phenotype of PyV-specific CD8+ T cells, decreased PyV VP1-specific serum IgG titers, and resulted in an increase in viral DNA levels in multiple organs. CD28 and CD40L costimulation blockade during acute infection also diminished the memory PyV-specific CD8+ T cell response and serum IgG titer, but control of viral persistence varied between mouse strains and among organs. Interestingly, we found that CD28 and CD40L costimulation is dispensable for generating and/or maintaining PyV-specific CD8+ T cells during persistent infection; however, blockade of CD27 and CD28 costimulation in persistently infected mice caused a reduction in PyV-specific CD8+ T cells. Taken together, these data indicate that CD8+ T cells primed within the distinct microenvironments of acute vs persistent virus infection differ in their costimulation requirements.
Inhibition of TCR Signaling by Herpes Simplex Virus
Authors: Sloan Derek D. , Han Jin-Young , Sandifer Tracy K. , Stewart Mary , Hinz Aaron J. , Yoon Miri , Johnson David C. , Spear Patricia G. , Jerome Keith R.
Published: April 2014

T lymphocytes are an essential component of the immune response against HSV infection. We previously reported that T cells became functionally impaired or inactivated after contacting HSV-infected fibroblasts. In our current study, we investigate the mechanisms of inactivation. We report that HSV-infected fibroblasts or HSV alone can inactivate T cells by profoundly inhibiting TCR signal transduction. Inactivation requires HSV penetration into T cells but not de novo transcription or translation. In HSV-inactivated T cells stimulated through the TCR, phosphorylation of Zap70 occurs normally. However, TCR signaling is inhibited at linker for activation of T cells (LAT) and at steps distal to LAT in the TCR signal cascade including inhibition of calcium flux and inhibition of multiple MAPK. Inactivation of T cells by HSV leads to the reduced phosphorylation of LAT at tyrosine residues critical for TCR signal propagation. Treatment of T cells with tyrosine phosphatase inhibitors attenuates inactivation by HSV, and stimulus with a mitogen that bypasses LAT phosphorylation overcomes inactivation. Our findings elucidate a potentially novel method of viral immune evasion that could be exploited to better manage HSV infection, aid in vaccine design, or allow targeted manipulation of T cell function.
Mimicry of Apoptotic Cells by Exposing Phosphatidylserine Participates in the Establishment of Amastigotes ofLeishmania (L) amazonensisin Mammalian Hosts
Authors: Wanderley João L. M. , Moreira Maria E. C. , Benjamin Aline , Bonomo Adriana C. , Barcinski Marcello A.
Published: April 2014

Signaling through exposed phosphatidylserine (PS) is fundamental for the TGFβ1-dependent, noninflammatory phagocytosis of apoptotic cells. This same mechanism operates in the internalization of amastigotes of Leishmania (L) amazonensis (L(L)a) in a process quoted as apoptotic mimicry. Now we show that the host modulates PS exposure by the amastigotes and, as a consequence, BALB/c mice-derived amastigotes expose significantly more PS than those derived from C57BL/6 mice. Due to this difference in the density of surface PS molecules, the former are significantly more infective than the latter, both in vivo, in F1 (BALB/c × C57BL/6) mice, and in vitro, in thioglycollate-derived macrophages from this same mouse strain. PS exposure increases with progression of the lesion and reaches its maximum value in amastigotes obtained at the time point when the lesion in C57BL/6 mice begins to decrease in size and the lesions in BALB/c mice are still growing in size. Synthesis of active TGFβ1, induction of IL-10 message, and inhibition of NO synthesis correlate with the amount of surface PS displayed by viable (propidium iodide-negative) infective amastigote. Furthermore, we also show that, similar to what happens with apoptotic cells, amastigotes of L(L)a are internalized by macropinocytosis. This mechanism of internalization is consistent with the large phagolysosomes characteristic of L(L)a infection. The intensity of macrophage macropinocytic activity is dependent on the amount of surface PS displayed by the infecting amastigote.
Induction of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling-1 byToxoplasma gondiiContributes to Immune Evasion in Macrophages by Blocking IFN-γ Signaling
Authors: Zimmermann Stefan , Murray Peter J. , Heeg Klaus , Dalpke Alexander H.
Published: April 2014

Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular parasite that survives and multiplies in professional phagocytes such as macrophages. Therefore, T. gondii has to cope with the panel of antimicrobial host immune mechanisms, among which IFN-γ plays a crucial role. We report in this study that in vitro infection of murine macrophages with viable, but not with inactivated, parasites results in inhibition of IFN-γ signaling within the infected cells. Thus, infection of RAW264.7 macrophages with tachyzoites inhibited IFN-γ-induced STAT-1 tyrosine phosphorylation, mRNA expression of target genes, and secretion of NO. These effects were dependent on direct contact of the host cells with living parasites and were not due to secreted intermediates. In parallel, we report the induction of suppressor of cytokine signaling-1 (SOCS-1), which is a known feedback inhibitor of IFN-γ receptor signaling. SOCS-1 was induced directly by viable parasites. SOCS overexpression in macrophages did not affect tachyzoite proliferation per se, yet abolished the inhibitory effects of IFN-γ on parasite replication. The inhibitory effects of T. gondii on IFN-γ were diminished in macrophages from SOCS-1−/− mice. The results suggest that induction of SOCS proteins within phagocytes due to infection with T. gondii contributes to the parasite’s immune evasion strategies.
Anti-Inflammatory Actions of Neuroprotectin D1/Protectin D1 and Its Natural Stereoisomers: Assignments of Dihydroxy-Containing Docosatrienes
Authors: Serhan Charles N. , Gotlinger Katherine , Hong Song , Lu Yan , Siegelman Jeffrey , Baer Tamara , Yang Rong , Colgan Sean P. , Petasis Nicos A.
Published: April 2014

Protectin D1, neuroprotectin D1 when generated by neural cells, is a member of a new family of bioactive products generated from docosahexaenoic acid. The complete stereochemistry of protectin D1 (10,17S-docosatriene), namely, chirality of the carbon-10 alcohol and geometry of the conjugated triene, required for bioactivity remained to be assigned. To this end, protectin D1/neuroprotectin D1 (PD1) generated by human neutrophils during murine peritonitis and by neural tissues was separated from natural isomers and subjected to liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Comparisons with six 10,17-dihydroxydocosatrienes prepared by total organic and biogenic synthesis showed that PD1 from human cells carrying potent bioactivity is 10R,17S-dihydroxy-docosa-4Z,7Z,11E,13E,15Z,19Z-hexaenoic acid. Additional isomers identified included trace amounts of Δ15-trans-PD1 (isomer III), 10S,17S-dihydroxy-docosa-4Z,7Z,11E,13Z,15E,19Z-hexaenoic acid (isomer IV), and a double dioxygenation product 10S,17S-dihydroxy-docosa-4Z,7Z,11E,13Z,15E,19Z-hexaenoic acid (isomer I), present in exudates. 18O2 labeling showed that 10S,17S-diHDHA (isomer I) carried 18O in the carbon-10 position alcohol, indicating sequential lipoxygenation, whereas PD1 formation proceeded via an epoxide. PD1 at 10 nM attenuated (∼50%) human neutrophil transmigration, whereas Δ15-trans-PD1 was essentially inactive. PD1 was a potent regulator of polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) infiltration (∼40% at 1 ng/mouse) in peritonitis. The rank order at 1- to 10-ng dose was PD1 ≈ PD1 methyl ester ≫ Δ15-trans-PD1 > 10S,17S-diHDHA (isomer I). 10S,17S-dihydroxy-docosa-4Z,7Z,11E,13E,15Z,19Z-hexaenoic acid (isomer VI) proved ≥ PD1 in blocking PMN infiltration, but was not a major product of leukocytes. PD1 also reduced PMN infiltration after initiation (2 h) of inflammation and was additive with resolvin E1. These results indicate that PD1 is a potent stereoselective anti-inflammatory molecule.