bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engagement of CD4 Before TCR Triggering Regulates Both Bax- and Fas (CD95)-Mediated Apoptosis
Authors: Somma Francesca , Tuosto Loretta , Montani Maria Saveria Gilardini , Di Somma M. Maddalena , Cundari Enrico , Piccolella Enza
Published: April 2014

In the present study, we have aimed at clarifying the CD4-dependent molecular mechanisms that regulate human memory T cell susceptibility to both Fas (CD95)-dependent and Bcl-2-dependent apoptotic pathways following antigenic challenge. To address this issue, we used an experimental system of viral and alloantigen-specific T cell lines and clones and two ligands of CD4 molecules, Leu-3a mAb and HIV gp120. We demonstrate that CD4 engagement before TCR triggering suppresses the TCR-mediated neosynthesis of the Flice-like inhibitory protein and transforms memory T cells from a CD95-resistant to a CD95-susceptible phenotype. Moreover, evidence that the apoptotic programs were executed while Fas ligand mRNA expression was inhibited led us to analyze Bcl-2-dependent pathways. The data show that the engagement of CD4 separately from TCR influences the expression of the proapoptotic protein Bax independently of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, whereas Ag activation coordinately modulates both Bax and Bcl-2. The increased expression of Bax and the consequent dissipation of the mitochondrial transmembrane potential (ΔΨm) suggest a novel immunoregulatory function of CD4 and demonstrate that both passive cell death and activation-induced cell death are operative in CD4+ memory T cells. Furthermore, analysis of the mechanisms by which IL-2 and IL-4 cytokines exert their protective function on CD4+ T cells in the presence of soluble CD4 ligands shows that they were able to revert susceptibility to Bax-mediated but not to CD95-dependent apoptotic pathways.
κ-Opioid Regulation of Thymocyte IL-7 Receptor and C-C Chemokine Receptor 2 Expression
Authors: Zhang Lily , Rogers Thomas J.
Published: April 2014

Endogenous and exogenous κ-opioid agonists have been widely reported to modulate the immune response. We have published results that show that the superantigen-induced proliferative response of thymocytes is inhibited by the selective κ-opioid agonist trans-3,4-dichloro-N-methyl-N-[2-(1-pyrolidinyl)cyclohexyl]benzeneaceamide methanesulfonate (U50,488H). Previous work has established that the κ-opioid receptor is widely expressed within the thymus; however, little is known about the role of the κ-opioid receptor in the function of thymocytes. In the present report, we have examined the impact of U50,488H administration on the expression of cytokines in superantigen-stimulated thymocytes by RNase protection analysis. We have measured detectable levels of the cytokines IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and IFN-γ, and the chemokines lymphotactin and RANTES, in stimulated thymocyte cultures; however, addition of U50,488H did not alter the expression of these cytokines. Examination of cytokine receptor expression by these thymocytes revealed a significant inhibition in the expression of the transcript for the IL-7 receptor α-chain (IL-7Rα), and these results were confirmed by flow cytometry. Surprisingly, the expression of several other cytokine receptor chains including the common γ-chain, IL-2Rβ, or the IL-2Rα, IL-4Rα, and IL-15Rα chains, was not altered. In contrast to these results, a significant elevation in the expression of the chemokine receptor CCR2 was observed in U50,488H-treated cultures. These results suggest that the κ-opioid receptor may function to promote cellular migration at the expense of the sensitivity to the growth-promoting/maturation activity of IL-7.
Phagosomes Acquire Nascent and Recycling Class II MHC Molecules but Primarily Use Nascent Molecules in Phagocytic Antigen Processing
Authors: Ramachandra Lakshmi , Harding Clifford V.
Published: April 2014

Phagosomes contain class II MHC (MHC-II) and form peptide:MHC-II complexes, but the source of phagosomal MHC-II molecules is uncertain. Phagosomes may acquire nascent MHC-II or preexisting, recycling MHC-II that may be internalized from the plasma membrane. Brefeldin A (BFA) was used to deplete nascent MHC-II in murine macrophages to determine the relative contributions of nascent and recycling MHC-II molecules to phagocytic Ag processing. In addition, biotinylation of cell-surface proteins was used to assess the transport of MHC-II from the cell surface to phagosomes. BFA inhibited macrophage processing of latex bead-conjugated Ag for presentation to T cells, suggesting that nascent MHC-II molecules are important in phagocytic Ag processing. Furthermore, detection of specific peptide:MHC-II complexes in isolated phagosomes confirmed that BFA decreased formation of peptide:MHC-II complexes within phagosomes. Both flow organellometry and Western blot analysis of purified phagosomes showed that about two-thirds of phagosomal MHC-II was nascent (depleted by 3 h prior treatment with BFA) and primarily derived from intracellular sites. About one-third of phagosomal MHC-II was preexisting and primarily derived from the plasma membrane. BFA had little effect on phagosomal H2-DM or the degradation of bead-associated Ag. Thus, inhibition of phagocytic Ag processing by BFA correlated with depletion of nascent MHC-II in phagosomes and occurred despite the persistent delivery of plasma membrane-derived recycling MHC-II molecules and other Ag-processing components to phagosomes. These observations suggest that phagosomal Ag processing depends primarily on nascent MHC-II molecules delivered from intracellular sites, e.g., endocytic compartments.
Granulocyte/Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor Inhibits IL-12 production of Mouse Langerhans Cells
Authors: Tada Yayoi , Asahina Akihiko , Nakamura Koichiro , Tomura Michio , Fujiwara Hiromi , Tamaki Kunihiko
Published: April 2014

We investigated the capacity of mouse Langerhans cells (LC) to produce IL-12, a central cytokine in a Th1 type of immune responses. We prepared purified LC (>95%) from BALB/c mouse skin by the panning method using anti-I-Ad mAb. An ELISA showed that purified LC spontaneously produced IL-12 p40, and that its production was up-regulated following simultaneous stimulation with anti-CD40 mAb and IFN-γ. Surprisingly, GM-CSF strikingly inhibited IL-12 p40 production by anti-CD40/IFN-γ-stimulated LC (% inhibition = 97.0 ± 0.9% at 1 ng/ml GM-CSF). Supernatants of 48-h cultured keratinocytes (KC) also caused the inhibition of LC IL-12 p40 secretion, and this effect was neutralized by anti-GM-CSF mAb. IL-1α (1 ng/ml)-stimulated KC produced much more GM-CSF than unstimulated KC (60.9 ± 0.2 pg/ml vs 20.9 ± 1.7 pg/ml), and IL-1α-stimulated KC supernatants strongly inhibited IL-12 p40 production by anti-CD40/IFN-γ-stimulated LC (% inhibition = 89.4 ± 1.4%). A bioassay using an IL-12-dependent T cell line demonstrated the correlation of the level of IL-12 p40 with the bioactivity of IL-12. These results provide important implications for the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis, which involves the participation of LC and KC with the capacity to produce IL-12 and GM-CSF, respectively.
A New Look at Syk in αβ and γδ T Cell Development Using Chimeric Mice with a Low Competitive Hematopoietic Environment
Authors: Colucci Francesco , Guy-Grand Delphine , Wilson Anne , Turner Martin , Schweighoffer Edina , Tybulewicz Victor L. J. , Di Santo James P.
Published: April 2014

The Syk protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) is essential for B, but not T or NK, cell development, although certain T cell subsets (i.e., γδ T cells of intestine and skin) appear to be dependent on Syk. In this report, we have re-evaluated the role of Syk in T cell development in hematopoietic chimeras generated by using Syk-deficient fetal liver hematopoietic stem cells (FL-HSC). We found that Syk−/− FL-HSC were vastly inferior to wild-type FL-HSC in reconstituting T cell development in recombinant-activating gene 2 (RAG2)-deficient mice, identifying an unexpected and nonredundant role for Syk in this process. This novel function of Syk in T cell development was mapped to the CD44−CD25+ stage. According to previous reports, development of intestinal γδ T cells was arrested in Syk−/− →RAG2−/− chimeras. In striking contrast, when hosts were the newly established alymphoid RAG2 × common cytokine receptor γ-chain (RAG2/γc) mice, Syk−/− chimeras developed intestinal γδ T cells as well as other T cell subsets (including αβ T cells, NK1.1+ αβ T cells, and splenic and thymic γδ T cells). However, all Syk-deficient T cell subsets were reduced in number, reaching about 25–50% of controls. These results attest to the utility of chimeric mice generated in a low competitive hematopoietic environment to evaluate more accurately the impact of lethal mutations on lymphoid development. Furthermore, they suggest that Syk intervenes in early T cell development independently of ZAP-70, and demonstrate that Syk is not essential for the intestinal γδ T cell lineage to develop.
Differential Requirement for p56lck in HIV-tat Versus TNF-Induced Cellular Responses: Effects on NF-κB, Activator Protein-1, c-Jun N-Terminal Kinase, and Apoptosis
Authors: Manna Sunil K. , Aggarwal Bharat B.
Published: April 2014

HIV-tat protein, like TNF, activates a wide variety of cellular responses, including NF-κB, AP-1, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and apoptosis. Whether HIV-tat transduces these signals through the same mechanism as TNF is not known. In the present study we investigated the role of the T cell-specific tyrosine kinase p56lck in HIV-tat and TNF-mediated cellular responses by comparing the responses of Jurkat T cells with JCaM1 cells, an isogeneic lck-deficient T cell line. Treatment with HIV-tat protein activated NF-κB, degraded IκBα, and induced NF-κB-dependent reporter gene expression in a time-dependent manner in Jurkat cells but not in JCaM1 cells, suggesting the critical role of p56lck kinase. These effects were specific to HIV-tat, as activation of NF-κB by PMA, LPS, H2O2, and TNF was minimally affected. p56lck was also found to be required for HIV-tat-induced but not TNF-induced AP-1 activation. Similarly, HIV-tat activated the protein kinases JNK and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase in Jurkat cells but not in JCaM1 cells. HIV-tat also induced cytotoxicity, activated caspases, and reactive oxygen intermediates in Jurkat cells, but not in JCaM1 cells. HIV-tat activated p56lck activity in Jurkat cells. Moreover, the reconstitution of JCaM1 cells with p56lck tyrosine kinase reversed the HIV-tat-induced NF-κB activation and cytotoxicity. Overall, our results demonstrate that p56lck plays a critical role in the activation of NF-κB, AP-1, JNK, and apoptosis by HIV-tat protein but has minimal or no role in activation of these responses by TNF.
Monophosphoryl Lipid A and QS21 Increase CD8 T Lymphocyte Cytotoxicity to Herpes Simplex Virus-2 Infected Cell Proteins 4 and 27 Through IFN-γ and IL-12 Production
Authors: Mikloska Zorka , Rückholdt Monica , Ghadiminejad Iraj , Dunckley Heather , Denis Martine , Cunningham Anthony L.
Published: April 2014

We have shown previously that IFN-γ pretreatment of human epidermal cells (ECs) cultured in vitro partially reverses down-regulation of surface MHC class I by HSV infection, allowing recognition by CD8 CTLs, and that HSV immediate early (IE)/early (E) proteins are the predominant targets for CD8 CTLs. In this study of 25 subjects, CD8 CTLs recognized the HSV-2 IE infected cell protein 27 (ICP27) (expressed in autologous IFN-γ-pretreated, Vaccinia virus recombinant-infected ECs) in all subjects studied, ICP4 in 89%, and ICP0 in 11%. The main hierarchy of recognition was ICP27 > ICP4. ICP27 was the dominant target in 89% of subjects but showed great individual variability in the degree of cytotoxicity. CD8 cytotoxicity specific for HSV-2 IE proteins was enhanced by 48–67% when CD8 CTLs were coincubated with the combination of monophosphoryl lipid A and QS21 adjuvants at the time of Ag presentation. These adjuvants also significantly enhanced IL-12 and IFN-γ production from nonadherent mononuclear cells stimulated by HSV-2-infected ECs. Addition of IL-12 and IFN-γ at the time of initial Ag presentation enhanced CD8 cytotoxicity to levels comparable with those stimulated by the adjuvants. Addition of neutralizing Abs to IL-12 or IFN-γ inhibited CD8 T cell cytotoxicity up to 95% when a combination of the Abs were added at the time of initial Ag presentation. Therefore, the mechanism for the enhancement of CD8 T cell cytotoxicity by adjuvants in this system appears to be via increased levels of IL-12 and IFN-γ.
Superoxide Prevents Nitric Oxide-Mediated Suppression of Helper T Lymphocytes: Decreased Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis in Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate Oxidase Knockout Mice
Authors: van der Veen Roel C. , Dietlin Therese A. , Hofman Florence M. , Pen Ligaya , Segal Brahm H. , Holland Steven M.
Published: April 2014

NO, which suppresses T cell proliferation, may be inactivated by superoxide (O2−) due to their strong mutual affinity. To examine this possibility, preactivated Th clones were cocultured with stimulated macrophages. PMA neutralized the inhibitory activity of NO, which was dependent on extracellular O2− production. In contrast, macrophages from p47phox −/− (pKO) mice, which lack functional NADPH oxidase, retained their NO-dependent inhibition of T cell proliferation upon stimulation with PMA, indicating that NADPH oxidase is the major source of NO-inactivating O2− in this system. To examine the NO-O2− interaction in vivo, the role of NADPH oxidase in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis was studied in pKO mice. No clinical or histological signs were observed in the pKO mice. Neither a bias in Th subsets nor a reduced intensity of T cell responses could account for the disease resistance. Although spleen cells from pKO mice proliferated poorly in response to the immunogen, inhibition of NO synthase uncovered a normal proliferative response. These results indicate that NO activity may play a critical role in T cell responses in pKO mice and that in normal spleens inhibition of T cell proliferation by NO may be prevented by simultaneous NADPH oxidase activity.
Alternate Mucosal Immune System: Organized Peyer’s Patches Are Not Required for IgA Responses in the Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Yamamoto Masafumi , Rennert Paul , McGhee Jerry R. , Kweon Mi-Na , Yamamoto Shingo , Dohi Taeko , Otake Shigeo , Bluethmann Horst , Fujihashi Kohtaro , Kiyono Hiroshi
Published: April 2014

The progeny of mice treated with lymphotoxin (LT)-β receptor (LTβR) and Ig (LTβR-Ig) lack Peyer’s patches but not mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN). In this study, we used this approach to determine the importance of Peyer’s patches for induction of mucosal IgA Ab responses in the murine gastrointestinal tract. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that LTβR-Ig-treated, Peyer’s patch null (PP null) mice possessed significant numbers of IgA-positive (IgA+) plasma cells in the intestinal lamina propria. Further, oral immunization of PP null mice with OVA plus cholera toxin as mucosal adjuvant resulted in Ag-specific mucosal IgA and serum IgG Ab responses. OVA-specific CD4+ T cells of the Th2 type were induced in MLN and spleen of PP null mice. In contrast, when TNF and LT-α double knockout (TNF/LT-α−/−) mice, which lack both Peyer’s patches and MLN, were orally immunized with OVA plus cholera toxin, neither mucosal IgA nor serum IgG anti-OVA Abs were induced. On the other hand, LTβR-Ig- and TNF receptor 55-Ig-treated normal adult mice elicited OVA- and cholera toxin B subunit-specific mucosal IgA responses, indicating that both LT-αβ and TNF/LT-α pathways do not contribute for class switching for IgA Ab responses. These results show that the MLN plays a more important role than had been appreciated until now for the induction of both mucosal and systemic Ab responses after oral immunization. Further, organized Peyer’s patches are not a strict requirement for induction of mucosal IgA Ab responses in the gastrointestinal tract.
Inducible Expression of the gp49B Inhibitory Receptor on NK Cells
Authors: Wang Lawrence L. , Chu Dortha T. , Dokun Ayotunde O. , Yokoyama Wayne M.
Published: April 2014

Murine NK cells express inhibitory receptors belonging to the C-type lectin-like (Ly-49, CD94/NKG2) and Ig superfamily-related (gp49) receptors. The murine gp49B receptor displays structural homology with human killer inhibitory receptors, and was previously identified to be a receptor on mast cells and activated NK cells. The gp49B receptor is highly related to gp49A, a receptor with unknown function. In this study, using a novel mAb produced against soluble gp49B molecules that cross-reacts with gp49A, we examined the cellular distribution and function of these receptors. gp49 is constitutively expressed on cells of the myeloid lineage throughout development, as well as on mature cells. Importantly, gp49 is not expressed on spleen- and liver-derived lymphocytes, including NK cells, but its expression is induced in vitro on NK cells following IL-2 stimulation, or in vivo by infection with murine CMV. Molecular studies revealed that both the immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif-containing gp49B as well as immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif-less gp49A receptors are up-regulated on NK cells following murine CMV infection. When co-cross-linked with NK1.1, gp49B can inhibit NK1.1-mediated cytokine release by NK cells. Taken together, these studies demonstrate that the expression of gp49B on NK cells is regulated, providing the first example of an in vivo activation-induced NK cell inhibitory receptor, in contrast to the constitutively expressed Ly49 family.
B Lymphopoiesis in the Thymus
Authors: Akashi Koichi , Richie Lauren I. , Miyamoto Toshihiro , Carr William H. , Weissman Irving L.
Published: April 2014

The thymus has been regarded as the major site of T cell differentiation. We find that in addition to αβ and γδ T cells, a significant number (∼3 × 104 per day) of B220+IgM+ mature B cells are exported from the thymus of C57BL/6 mice. Of these emigrating B cells, we estimate that at least ∼2 × 104 per day are cells which developed intrathymically, whereas a maximum of ∼0.8 × 104 per day are cells which circulated through the thymus from the periphery. The thymus possesses a significant number of pro-B and pre-B cells that express CD19, VpreB, λ5, and pax-5. These B cell progenitors were found in the thymic cortex, whereas increasingly mature B cells were found in the corticomedullar and medullary regions. Other lymphoid cells, including NK cells and lymphoid dendritic cells, are not exported from the thymus at detectable levels. Thus, the thymus contributes to the formation of peripheral pools of B cells as well as of αβ and γδ T cells.
Nitric Oxide Synthase-2 and Expression of Perforin in Uterine NK Cells
Authors: Burnett Tim G. , Hunt Joan S.
Published: April 2014

In human, mouse, and rat pregnancy, maternal NK cells accumulate and differentiate at implantation sites. These cells, termed uterine NK (uNK) cells, express NO synthase (NOS)-2 and develop cytolytic molecules such as perforin and granzymes during differentiation in situ. In this study, relationships between expression of the NOS-2 gene, uNK cell population density and tissue distribution, and synthesis of perforin were investigated. Uteri from wild-type (WT) and NOS-2−/− mice were collected at gestation days (g.d.) 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16 (n, >2/g.d.). Histochemical staining failed to reveal any differences between the population densities or tissue distributions of uNK cells in WT and NOS-2−/− uteri at any stage of gestation. By contrast, immunohistochemical staining with anti-perforin Abs demonstrated significantly fewer perforin-positive uNK cells in two uterine compartments of NOS-2−/− mice in comparison to the same compartments in WT mouse uteri. Perforin-positive uNK cells were reduced in NOS-2−/− metrial glands at g.d. 8, 10, and 12 and in decidua basalis at g.d. 12 (p < 0.05). Analysis of perforin protein by immunoblotting confirmed this observation. Northern blot hybridization studies showed that loss of perforin protein in NOS-2−/− mice was accompanied by decreased steady-state levels of perforin mRNA. These results demonstrate that migration of uNK cells into the uterus, selection of residency sites, and proliferation in situ are independent of NOS-2. By contrast, their differentiation, including transcription and translation of the cytotoxic molecule perforin, was shown to rely on normal expression of the NOS-2 gene.
Transgenic Human λ5 Rescues the Murine λ5 Nullizygous Phenotype
Authors: Donohoe Mary E. , Beck-Engeser Gabriele B. , Lonberg Nils , Karasuyama Hajime , Riley Richard L. , Jäck Hans-Martin , Blomberg Bonnie B.
Published: April 2014

The human λ5 (huλ5) gene is the structural homologue of the murine λ5 (mλ5) gene and is transcriptionally active in pro-B and pre-B lymphocytes. The λ5 and VpreB polypeptides together with the Ig μ H chain and the signal-transducing subunits, Igα and Igβ, comprise the pre-B cell receptor. To further investigate the pro-B/pre-B-specific transcription regulation of huλ5 in an in vivo model, we generated mouse lines that contain a 28-kb genomic fragment encompassing the entire huλ5 gene. High levels of expression of the transgenic huλ5 gene were detected in bone marrow pro-B and pre-B cells at the mRNA and protein levels, suggesting that the 28-kb transgene fragment contains all the transcriptional elements necessary for the stage-specific B progenitor expression of huλ5. Flow cytometric and immunoprecipitation analyses of bone marrow cells and Abelson murine leukemia virus-transformed pre-B cell lines revealed the huλ5 polypeptide on the cell surface and in association with mouse Ig μ and mouse VpreB. Finally, we found that the huλ5 transgene is able to rescue the pre-B lymphocyte block when bred onto the mλ5−/− background. Therefore, we conclude that the huλ5 polypeptide can biochemically and functionally substitute for mλ5 in vivo in pre-B lymphocyte differentiation and proliferation. These studies on the mouse and human pre-B cell receptor provide a model system to investigate some of the molecular requirements necessary for B cell development.
Regulation of Alternative Splicing of CD45 by Antagonistic Effects of SR Protein Splicing Factors
Authors: ten Dam Gerdy B. , Zilch Christian F. , Wallace Diana , Wieringa Bé , Beverley Peter C. L. , Poels Lambert G. , Screaton Gavin R.
Published: April 2014

CD45 is a transmembrane glycoprotein possessing tyrosine phosphatase activity, which is involved in cell signaling. CD45 is expressed on the surface of most leukocytes and can be alternatively spliced by the inclusion or skipping of three variable exons (4, 5, and 6 or A, B, and C) to produce up to eight isoforms. In T cells, the splicing pattern of CD45 isoforms changes after activation; naive cells express high m.w. isoforms of CD45 which predominantly express exon A (CD45RA), whereas activated cells lose expression of exon A to form low m.w. isoforms of CD45 including CD45RO. Little is known about the specific factors controlling the switch in CD45 splicing which occurs on activation. In this study, we examined the influence of the SR family of splicing factors, which, like CD45, are expressed in tissue-specific patterns and have been shown to modulate the alternative splicing of a variety of transcripts. We show that specific SR proteins have antagonistic effects on CD45 splicing, leading either to exon inclusion or skipping. Furthermore, we were able to demonstrate specific changes in the SR protein expression pattern during T cell activation.
A Contig Map of theMhcClass I Genomic Region in the Zebrafish Reveals Ancient Synteny
Authors: Michalová Věra , Murray Brent W. , Sültmann Holger , Klein Jan
Published: April 2014

In contrast to the human and mouse Mhc, in which the clusters of class I and class II loci reside in close vicinity to one another, in the zebrafish, Danio rerio, they are found in different linkage groups. Chromosome walking using BAC (bacterial artificial chromosome) and PAC (P1 artificial chromosome) clones reveals the zebrafish class I region to occupy a segment of ∼450 kb and to encompass at least 19 loci. These include three class I (Dare-UDA, -UEA, -UFA), five proteasome subunit β (PSMB8, -9A, -9C, -11, -12), two TAPs (TAP2A, TAP2B), and one TAP binding protein (TAPBP). This arrangement contrasts with the arrangements found in human and mouse Mhc, in which the orthologues of the PSMB, TAP, and TAPBP loci reside within the class II region. In addition to this main zebrafish class I contig, a shorter contig of about 150 kb contains two additional class I (UBA, UCA) and at least five other loci. It probably represents a different haplotype of part of the class I region. The previously identified UAA gene shares an identical 5′ part with UEA, but the two genes differ in their 3′ parts. One of them is probably the result of an unequal crossing over. The described organization has implications for the persistence of syntenic relationships, coevolution of loci, and interpretation of the origin of the human/mouse Mhc organization.
The IgG Fc Contains Distinct Fc Receptor (FcR) Binding Sites: The Leukocyte Receptors FcγRI and FcγRIIa Bind to a Region in the Fc Distinct from That Recognized by Neonatal FcR and Protein A
Authors: Wines Bruce D. , Powell Maree S. , Parren Paul W. H. I. , Barnes Nadine , Hogarth P. Mark
Published: April 2014

The CH2-CH3 interface of the IgG Fc domain contains the binding sites for a number of Fc receptors including Staphylococcal protein A and the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn). It has recently been proposed that the CH2-CH3 interface also contains the principal binding site for an isoform of the low affinity IgG Fc receptor II (FcγRIIb). The FcγRI and FcγRII binding sites have previously been mapped to the lower hinge and the adjacent surface of the CH2 domain although contributions of the CH2-CH3 interface to binding have been suggested. This study addresses the question whether the CH2-CH3 interface plays a role in the interaction of IgG with FcγRI and FcγRIIa. We demonstrate that recombinant soluble murine FcγRI and human FcγRIIa did not compete with protein A and FcRn for binding to IgG, and that the CH2-CH3 interface therefore appears not to be involved in FcγRI and FcγRIIa binding. The importance of the lower hinge was confirmed by introducing mutations in the proposed binding site (LL234,235AA) which abrogated binding of recombinant soluble FcγRIIa to human IgG1. We conclude that the lower hinge and the adjacent region of the CH2 domain of IgG Fc is critical for the interaction between FcγRIIa and human IgG, whereas contributions of the CH2-CH3 interface appear to be insignificant.
Structural Analysis of CTLA-4 Function In Vivo
Authors: Masteller Emma L. , Chuang Ellen , Mullen Alan C. , Reiner Steve L. , Thompson Craig B.
Published: April 2014

CTLA-4-mediated inhibition of T cell activation may be accomplished by competition for ligands and/or by signals mediated through the intracellular domain. Studies have implicated Tyr201 in the cytoplasmic domain of CTLA-4 in regulating CTLA-4 signal transduction and intracellular trafficking. To investigate the mechanism of CTLA-4 function in vivo, transgenes encoding wild-type CTLA-4 (FL), a mutant lacking the cytoplasmic domain of CTLA-4 (ΔCTLA-4 tail), or a CTLA-4 Tyr201 mutant (Y201V) were introduced into CTLA-4-deficient mice. CTLA-4−/− mice display an autoimmune lymphoproliferative disorder resulting in tissue destruction and early death. When either the FL or the Y201V transgene was bred into CTLA-4−/− animals, a complete rescue from lymphoproliferation and autoimmunity was observed. In contrast, CTLA-4−/− mice expressing the ΔCTLA-4 tail transgene were long lived with no evidence of multiorgan lymphocytic infiltration, but exhibited lymphadenopathy and accumulated large numbers of activated T cells. Furthermore, these animals displayed a Th2-biased phenotype which conferred susceptibility to Leishmania infection. These results indicate that the inhibitory effect of CTLA-4 is mediated in part through the ability of the extracellular domain to compete for ligands. The cytoplasmic domain of CTLA-4, however, is required for complete inhibitory function of the receptor and for regulation of Th cell differentiation in vivo.
Arthropod- and Host-Specific Borrelia burgdorferi bbk32 Expression and the Inhibition of Spirochete Transmission
Authors: Fikrig Erol , Feng Wen , Barthold Stephen W. , Telford Sam R. , Flavell Richard A.
Published: April 2014

Antisera to BBK32 (a Borrelia burgdorferi fibronectin-binding protein) and BBK50, two Ags synthesized during infection, protect mice from experimental syringe-borne Lyme borreliosis. Therefore, B. burgdorferi bbk32 and bbk50 expression within Ixodes scapularis ticks and the murine host, and the effect of BBK32 and BBK50 antisera on spirochetes throughout the vector-host life cycle were investigated. bbk32 and bbk50 mRNA and protein were first detected within engorged ticks, demonstrating regulated expression within the vector. Then bbk32 expression increased in mice at the cutaneous site of inoculation. During disseminated murine infection, bbk32 and bbk50 were expressed in several murine tissues, and mRNA levels were greatest in the heart and spleen at 30 days. BBK32 antisera protected mice from tick-borne B. burgdorferi infection and spirochete numbers were reduced by 90% within nymphs that engorged on immunized mice. Moreover, 75% of these ticks did not retain spirochetes upon molting, and subsequent B. burgdorferi transmission by adult ticks was impaired. Larval acquisition of B. burgdorferi by I. scapularis was also inhibited by BBK32 antisera. These data demonstrate that bbk32 and bbk50 are expressed during tick engorgement and that BBK32 antisera can interfere with spirochete transmission at various stages of the vector-host life cycle. These studies provide insight into mechanisms of immunity to Lyme borreliosis and other vector-borne diseases.
Regulation of RANTES Chemokine Gene Expression Requires Cooperativity Between NF-κB and IFN-Regulatory Factor Transcription Factors
Authors: Génin Pierre , Algarté Michèle , Roof Philippe , Lin Rongtuan , Hiscott John
Published: April 2014

Virus infection of host cells activates a set of cellular genes, including cytokines, IFNs, and chemokines, involved in antiviral defense and immune activation. Previous studies demonstrated that virus-induced transcriptional activation of a member of the human CC-chemokine RANTES required activation of the latent transcription factors IFN-regulatory factor (IRF)-3 and NF-κB via posttranslational phosphorylation. In the present study, we further characterized the regulatory control of RANTES transcription during virus infection using in vivo genomic footprinting analyses. IRF-3, the related IRF-7, and NF-κB are identified as important in vivo binding factors required for the cooperative induction of RANTES transcription after virus infection. Using fibroblastic or myeloid cells, we demonstrate that the kinetics and strength of RANTES virus-induced transcription are highly dependent on the preexistence of IRFs and NF-κB. Use of dominant negative mutants of either IκB-α or IRF-3 demonstrate that disruption of either pathway dramatically abolishes the ability of the other to bind and activate RANTES expression. Furthermore, coexpression of IRF-3, IRF-7, and p65/p50 leads to synergistic activation of RANTES promoter transcription. These studies reveal a model of virus-mediated RANTES promoter activation that involves cooperative synergism between IRF-3/IRF-7 and NF-κB factors.
Pivotal Role of the CC Chemokine, Macrophage-Derived Chemokine, in the Innate Immune Response
Authors: Matsukawa Akihiro , Hogaboam Cory M. , Lukacs Nickolas W. , Lincoln Pamela M. , Evanoff Holly L. , Kunkel Steven L.
Published: April 2014

Macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC), a recently identified CC chemokine, has been regarded to be involved in chronic inflammation and dendritic cell and lymphocyte homing. In this study, we demonstrate a pivotal role for MDC during experimental sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Intraperitoneal administration of MDC (1 μg/mouse) protected mice from CLP-induced lethality. The survival was accompanied by increased number of peritoneal macrophages and decreased recovery of viable bacteria from the peritoneum and peripheral blood. In addition, mice treated with an i.p. injection of MDC cleared bacteria more effectively than those in the control when 3 × 108 CFU live Escherichia coli was i.p. inoculated. Endogenous MDC was detected in the peritoneum after CLP, and neutralization of the MDC with anti-MDC Abs decreased CLP-induced recruitment of peritoneal macrophages and increased the recovery of viable bacteria from the peritoneum and peripheral blood. MDC blockade was deleterious in the survival of mice after CLP. In vitro, MDC enhanced the phagocytic and killing activities of peritoneal macrophages to E. coli and induced both a respiratory burst and the release of lysozomal enzyme from macrophages. Furthermore, MDC dramatically ameliorated CLP-induced systemic tissue inflammation as well as tissue dysfunction, which were associated in part with decreased levels of TNF-α, macrophage inflammatory proteins-1α and -2, and KC in specific tissues. Collectively, these results indicate novel regulatory activities of MDC in innate immunity during sepsis and suggest that MDC may aid in an adjunct therapy in sepsis.
Modulation of HIV-1 Replication by a Novel RhoA Effector Activity
Authors: Wang Liping , Zhang Hangchun , Solski Patricia A. , Hart Matthew J. , Der Channing J. , Su Lishan
Published: April 2014

The RhoA GTPase is involved in regulating actin cytoskeletal organization, gene expression, cell proliferation, and survival. We report here that p115-RhoGEF, a specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) and activator of RhoA, modulates HIV-1 replication. Ectopic expression of p115-RhoGEF or Gα13, which activates p115-RhoGEF activity, leads to inhibition of HIV-1 replication. RhoA activation is required and the inhibition affects HIV-1 gene expression. The RhoA effector activity in inhibiting HIV-1 replication is genetically separable from its activities in transformation of NIH3T3 cells, activation of serum response factor, and actin stress fiber formation. These findings reveal that the RhoA signal transduction pathway regulates HIV-1 replication and suggest that RhoA inhibits HIV-1 replication via a novel effector activity.
Glycosphingolipid-Induced Relocation of Lyn and Syk into Detergent-Resistant Membranes Results in Mast Cell Activation
Authors: Prieschl Eva E. , Csonga Robert , Novotny Veronica , Kikuchi Gary E. , Baumruker Thomas
Published: April 2014

Sphingosine, sphingosine-1-phosphate, and the more complex sphingolipid ceramide exert strong immunomodulatory effects on a variety of leukocytes. However, little is known regarding such a potential of glycosphingolipids, a class of sugar derivatives of sphingosine. Here we demonstrate that galactosylsphingosine, one of the smallest representatives of this group, accumulates in the detergent-resistant membranes resulting in the relocation of the tyrosine kinases Lyn and Syk into this compartment. The result of this is an enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation and kinase activity leading to priming and activation of mast cells by conveying a weak yet significant activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway(s). In comparison to IgE/Ag triggering, galactosylsphingosine stimulates the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway more rapidly and favors c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase 1 activation over extracellular signal-regulatory kinase 1 and 2. At the transcription factor level, this “ultratransient signaling event” results in an activation of JunD as the predominant AP-1 component. In this respect, the effects of galactosylsphingosine are clearly distinct from the signaling elicited by other sphingolipids without the sugar moiety, such as sphingosine-1-phosphate.
Prostaglandin E2 Stimulates AP-1-Mediated CD14 Expression in Mouse Macrophages Via Cyclic AMP-Dependent Protein Kinase A
Authors: Iwahashi Hiroyoshi , Takeshita Akira , Hanazawa Shigemasa
Published: April 2014

PGs play a functional role in the early stage of Gram-negative bacterial infections, because this prostanoid is produced rapidly by epithelial cells after a bacterial infection. CD14, one of the LPS receptors, is a key molecule in triggering the response to bacterial LPS in association with a Toll-like molecule. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effect of PG on CD14 expression in mouse macrophages. PGE1, PGE2, and PGA1 among the PGs tested strongly stimulated the expression of the CD14 gene in the cells. The stimulatory action also was observed by Western blot analysis. cAMP-elevating agents stimulated expression of CD14 gene as well. Protein kinase A inhibitor, N-[2-(p-bromocinnamylamino)ethyl]-5-isoquinolinesulfonamide (H-89), but not protein kinase C inhibitor 3-{1-[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]-1H-indol-3-yl}-4-(1H-indol-3-yl)-1H-pyrrole-2,5-dione (GF109203X), abolished the stimulated expression of CD14. A run-on assay showed that PGE2 stimulated the CD14 gene expression at the transcriptional level via protein kinase A. PGE2 also stimulated activation of AP-1, a heterodimer of c-Jun and c-Fos, because the prostanoid increased specific binding of nuclear proteins to the AP-1 consensus sequence and stimulated AP-1-promoted luciferase activity. PGE2-stimulated expression of CD14 was inhibited by antisense c-fos and c-jun oligonucleotides, but not by their sense oligonucleotides. Finally, PGE2 pretreatment synergistically stimulated LPS-induced expression of IL-1β and IL-6 genes in mouse macrophages. Therefore, the present study demonstrates that PGE2 has the ability to stimulate AP-1-mediated expression of CD14 in mouse macrophages via cAMP-dependent protein kinase A.
Inhibition of Antigen-Induced Eosinophilia and Late Phase Airway Hyperresponsiveness by an IL-5 Antisense Oligonucleotide in Mouse Models of Asthma
Authors: Karras James G. , McGraw Kathy , McKay Robert A. , Cooper Scott R. , Lerner Dmitri , Lu Tao , Walker Christoph , Dean Nicholas M. , Monia Brett P.
Published: April 2014

Chronic airway eosinophilia is associated with allergic asthma and is mediated in part by secretion of IL-5 from allergen-specific Th2 lymphocytes. IL-5 is a known maturation and antiapoptotic factor for eosinophils and stimulates release of nascent eosinophils from bone marrow into the peripheral circulation. An antisense oligonucleotide found to specifically inhibit IL-5 expression in vitro was observed to significantly reduce experimentally induced eosinophilia in vivo, in both the murine OVA lung challenge and allergic peritonitis models. Intravenous administration resulted in sequence-dependent inhibition of eosinophilia coincident with reduction of IL-5 protein levels, supporting an antisense mechanism of action. Potent suppression of lung eosinophilia was observed up to 17 days after cessation of oligonucleotide dosing, indicating achievement of prolonged protection with this strategy. Furthermore, sequence-specific, antisense oligonucleotide-mediated inhibition of Ag-mediated late phase airway hyperresponsiveness was also observed. These data underscore the potential utility of an antisense approach targeting IL-5 for the treatment of asthma and eosinophilic diseases.
Neurokinin-1 Receptor Agonists Are Involved in Mediating Neutrophil Accumulation in the Inflamed, But Not Normal, Cutaneous Microvasculature: An In Vivo Study Using Neurokinin-1 Receptor Knockout Mice
Authors: Cao Thong , Pintér Erika , Al-Rashed Sabah , Gerard Norma , Hoult J. Robin , Brain Susan D.
Published: April 2014

We have used tachykinin neurokinin-1 receptor (NK1 receptor) knockout mice to learn of the link between NK1 receptors and neutrophil accumulation in normal naive skin, as compared with inflamed skin. Intradermal substance P (300 pmol) induced edema formation in wild-type mice, but not in NK1 knockout mice, as expected. However, in contrast to IL-1β (0.3 pmol), substance P did not induce neutrophil accumulation in wild-type mice. IL-1β-induced neutrophil accumulation was similar in wild-type and knockout mice, but a significant (p < 0.05) contributory effect of added NK1 agonists, which by themselves have no effect on neutrophil accumulation in normal skin, was observed. The results support the concept that NK1 agonists such as substance P cannot act on their own to mediate neutrophil accumulation in naive skin and provide direct evidence that in inflamed skin, under certain circumstances, the NK1 receptor can play a pivotal role in modulating neutrophil accumulation during the ongoing inflammatory process. We investigated responses to two inflammatory stimuli (carrageenin and zymosan). Neutrophil accumulation was significantly attenuated (p < 0.001) in carrageenin- but not zymosan-induced inflammation in NK1 knockout mice. The carrageenin (500 μg)-induced response was inhibited (p < 0.05) by a NK1 receptor antagonist, SR140333 (480 nmol/kg i.v. at −5 min), in the wild-type group. The bradykinin B1 and B2 receptor antagonists (desArg9[Leu8]bradykinin and HOE 140) each reduced neutrophil accumulation to carrageenin in wild-type animals (p < 0.05), but did not cause further reduction of the suppressed response of knockout mice. The results provide evidence that kinin receptors participate in NK1 receptor-dependent neutrophil accumulation in inflamed mouse skin.
Complement C1q Is Dramatically Up-Regulated in Brain Microglia in Response to Transient Global Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Schäfer Martin K.-H. , Schwaeble Wilhelm J. , Post Claes , Salvati Patricia , Calabresi Marcello , Sim Robert B. , Petry Franz , Loos Michael , Weihe Eberhard
Published: April 2014

Recent evidence suggests that the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative and inflammatory neurological diseases has a neuroimmunological component involving complement, an innate humoral immune defense system. The present study demonstrates the effects of experimentally induced global ischemia on the biosynthesis of C1q, the recognition subcomponent of the classical complement activation pathway, in the CNS. Using semiquantitative in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, and confocal laser scanning microscopy, a dramatic and widespread increase of C1q biosynthesis in rat brain microglia (but not in astrocytes or neurons) within 24 h after the ischemic insult was observed. A marked increase of C1q functional activity in cerebrospinal fluid taken 1, 24, and 72 h after the ischemic insult was determined by C1q-dependent hemolytic assay. In the light of the well-established role of complement and complement activation products in the initiation and maintenance of inflammation, the ischemia-induced increase of cerebral C1q biosynthesis and of C1q functional activity in the cerebrospinal fluid implies that the proinflammatory activities of locally produced complement are likely to contribute to the pathophysiology of cerebral ischemia. Pharmacological modulation of complement activation in the brain may be a therapeutic target in the treatment of stroke.
Repertoire Requirements of CD4+ T Cells That Prevent Spontaneous Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Olivares-Villagómez Danyvid , Wensky Allen K. , Wang Yijie , Lafaille Juan J.
Published: April 2014

Spontaneous experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis arises in 100% of mice exclusively harboring myelin basic protein-specific T cells, and can be prevented by a single injection of CD4+ T cells obtained from normal donors. Given the powerful regulatory effect of the transferred T cells, we further investigated their properties, and, in particular, their repertoire requirements. Transfer of monoclonal OVA-specific CD4+ T cells did not confer protection from disease even when present at very high proportions (about 80% of total lymphocytes). Lack of protection was also evident after immunization of these animals with OVA, indicating that not just any postthymic CD4+ T cells has the potential to become regulatory. However, protection was conferred by cells bearing limited TCR diversity, including cells expressing a single Vα4 TCR chain or cells lacking N nucleotides. We also investigated whether coexpression of the myelin basic protein-specific TCR with another TCR in a single cell would alter either pathogenesis or regulation. This was not the case, as myelin basic protein-specific/OVA-specific recombinase activating gene-1−/− double TCR transgenic mice still developed experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis spontaneously even after immunization with OVA. Based on this evidence, we conclude that CD4+ T regulatory cells do not express canonical TCRs and that the altered signaling properties brought about by coexpression of two TCRs are not sufficient for the generation of regulatory T cells. Instead, our results indicate that regulatory T cells belong to a population displaying wide TCR diversity, but in which TCR specificity is central to their protective function.
Enhanced Susceptibility to Lupus Contributed from the Nonautoimmune C57BL/10, But Not C57BL/6, Genome
Authors: Rozzo Stephen J. , Vyse Timothy J. , Menze Katherine , Izui Shozo , Kotzin Brian L.
Published: April 2014

Genes from New Zealand Black and New Zealand White mice have been implicated in the development of a disease similar to human systemic lupus erythematosus. In an attempt to define the MHC class II genes involved in disease, we previously studied similarly designed backcrosses of New Zealand Black mice with C57BL/6 (B6) mice transgenic for Ezgenes or with C57BL/10 (B10) mice transgenic for Az genes. Although the transgenes showed no effect on the development of autoantibody production or lupus nephritis in either backcross, surprisingly, there was greatly increased expression of these disease traits in the backcrosses involving B10 compared with B6 mice. These studies therefore implicated genetic contributions in B10 vs B6 backgrounds, despite their 98% identity. A genome-wide linkage analysis uncovered a B10 locus on mid-chromosome 13, which enhanced nephritis and was strongly linked with the production of pathogenic retroviral gp70-anti-gp70 immune complexes when contributed by B10, but not B6, mice. The subsequent identification of a single marker polymorphic between B10 and B6, along with the extreme genetic similarity between the two strains in this region, is likely to permit expedited identification of the lupus-susceptibility gene from this nonautoimmune strain.
Cutting Edge: Role of B Lymphocytes in Protective Immunity AgainstSalmonella typhimuriumInfection
Authors: Mittrücker Hans-Willi , Raupach Bärbel , Köhler Anne , Kaufmann Stefan H. E.
Published: April 2014

Infection of mice with Salmonella typhimurium gives rise to a disease similar to human typhoid fever caused by S. typhi. Since S. typhimurium is a facultative intracellular bacterium, the requirement of B cells in the immune response against S. typhimurium is a longstanding matter of debate. By infecting mice on a susceptible background and deficient in B cells (Igμ−/− mice) with different strains of S. typhimurium, we could for the first time formally clarify the role of B cells in the response against S. typhimurium. Compared with Igμ+/+ mice, LD50 values in Igμ−/− mice were reduced during primary, and particularly secondary, oral infection with virulent S. typhimurium. After systemic infection, Igμ−/− mice cleared attenuated aroA− S. typhimurium, but vaccine-induced protection against systemic infection with virulent S. typhimurium involved both B cell-dependent and -independent effector mechanisms. Thus, B cell-mediated immunity plays a distinct role in control of S. typhimurium in susceptible mice.