bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Class I MHC-Binding Characteristics of the 129/J Ly49 Repertoire
Authors: Makrigiannis Andrew P. , Pau Amanda T. , Saleh Ali , Winkler-Pickett Robin , Ortaldo John R. , Anderson Stephen K.
Published: April 2014

The Ly49 family of NK cell receptors and its MHC-binding characteristics have only been well characterized in C57BL/6 (B6) mice. Previous studies have shown that 129/J mice express unique Ly49 genes that are not found in the B6 strain. Screening of a 129/J cDNA library led to the discovery of 10 distinct full-length Ly49-related coding sequences (Ly49e, g, i, o, p, r, s, t, u, and v). Although 129/J mice share identical class I MHC (Kb and Db) transcripts with B6 mice, only one Ly49 is identical in the two strains (Ly49E). In addition to the previously characterized Ly49P, two new activating Ly49 proteins were discovered, Ly49R and U. The MHC specificity of the total 129/J Ly49 repertoire was evaluated with soluble class I MHC tetramers and found to be distinct compared with the B6 Ly49 repertoire. Ly49V bound to many types of class I MHC, suggesting that Ly49V+ NK cells may monitor host cells for a global down-regulation in MHC levels. An activating receptor, Ly49R, was shown to bind soluble class I molecules to a moderate degree, a result not previously observed for other activating Ly49 proteins. Furthermore, tetramer-binding results were confirmed functionally with cytotoxicity assays using sorted 129/J NK cells. This study shows that the Ly49 repertoire and its MHC-binding characteristics can be very different among inbred mouse strains. Ly49 divergence should be considered when using 129-derived embryonic stem cells for the production of gene-targeted mice, especially when an immune or NK-derived phenotype is under scrutiny.
Opposite Ability of Pre-TCR and αβTCR to Induce Apoptosis
Authors: Steff Ann-Muriel , Trop Sébastien , Maira Mario , Drouin Jacques , Hugo Patrice
Published: April 2014

In early CD4−CD8− pro-thymocytes, signaling through the pre-TCR is crucial for survival and differentiation into CD4+CD8+ cells. At this more mature stage, interactions between αβTCR and self-Ag/MHC complexes in turn lead either to cell survival and differentiation (positive selection) or to cell death (negative selection). Intrinsic differences must therefore exist between pre-TCR signals in CD4−CD8− thymocytes and αβTCR signals in CD4+CD8+ cells, since only the latter can mediate a death signal. In this work, we directly compared the capability of pre-TCR and αβTCR to induce apoptosis in a CD4−CD8− thymoma cell line following receptor cross-linking with mAbs. Cross-linking of αβTCR triggered high levels of programmed cell death, mimicking the negative selection signal usually induced in CD4+CD8+ thymocytes. In contrast, pre-TCR was very inefficient at inducing apoptosis upon cross-linking, despite similar levels of surface receptor expression. Importantly, inefficient apoptosis induction by the pre-TCR did not result from its weak association with TCRζ chain, since TCRs containing α-pTα chimeric chains, binding weakly to TCRζ, were still able to induce apoptosis. Although similar tyrosine phosphorylation and calcium influx were induced after either pre-TCR or αβTCR cross-linking, the two pathways diverged at the level of Fas ligand induction. Among putative transcription factors involved in Fas ligand mRNA induction, Nur77 and NFAT transcriptional activities were readily induced after αβTCR, but not pre-TCR, stimulation. Together, these results support the view that the structure of the pre-TCR and αβTCR directly influences their apoptosis-inducing capabilities by activating distinct signaling pathways.
Relaxed DM Requirements During Class II Peptide Loading and CD4+ T Cell Maturation in BALB/c Mice
Authors: Bikoff Elizabeth K. , Wutz Gordana , Kenty George A. , Koonce Chad H. , Robertson Elizabeth J.
Published: April 2014

Current ideas about DM actions have been strongly influenced by studies of mutant strains expressing the H-2b haplotype. To evaluate DM contributions to class II activities in BALB/c mice, we generated a novel mutation at the DMa locus via embryonic stem cell technology. Unlike long-lived Ab/class II-associated invariant chain-derived peptide (CLIP) complexes, mature Ad and Ed molecules are loosely occupied by class II-associated invariant chain-derived peptide and are SDS unstable. BALB/c DM mutants weakly express BP107 conformational epitopes and toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 superantigen-binding capabilities, consistent with partial occupancy by wild-type ligands. Near normal numbers of mature CD4+ T cells fail to undergo superantigen-mediated negative selection, as judged by TCR Vβ usage. Ag presentation assays reveal consistent differences for Ad- and Ed-restricted T cells. Indeed, the mutation leads to decreased peptide capture by Ad molecules, and in striking contrast causes enhanced peptide loading by Ed molecules. Thus, DM requirements differ for class II structural variants coexpressed under physiological conditions in the intact animal.
LOX-1 Supports Adhesion of Gram-Positive and Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Shimaoka Takeshi , Kume Noriaki , Minami Manabu , Hayashida Kazutaka , Sawamura Tatsuya , Kita Toru , Yonehara Shin
Published: April 2014

Adhesion of bacteria to vascular endothelial cells as well as mucosal cells and epithelial cells appears to be one of the initial steps in the process of bacterial infection, including infective endocarditis. We examined whether lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor 1 (LOX-1), a member of scavenger receptor family molecules with C-type lectin-like structure, can support adhesion of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Chinese hamster ovary-K1 (CHO-K1) cells stably expressing LOX-1 can support binding of FITC-labeled Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, which was suppressed by poly(I) and an anti-LOX-1 mAb. Adhesion of these bacteria to LOX-1 does not require divalent cations or serum factors and can be supported under both static and nonstatic conditions. Cultured bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAEC) can also support adhesion of FITC-labeled S. aureus, which was similarly suppressed by poly(I) and an anti-LOX-1 mAb. In contrast, binding of FITC-labeled E. coli to BAEC was partially inhibited by the anti-LOX-1 mAb, and poly(I) did not block FITC-labeled E. coli adhesion to BAEC, but, rather, enhanced it under a static condition. TNF-α increased LOX-1-dependent adhesion of E. coli, but not that of S. aureus, suggesting that S. aureus adhesion to BAEC may require additional molecules, which cooperate with LOX-1 and suppressed by TNF-α. Taken together, LOX-1 can work as a cell surface receptor for Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, such as S. aureus and E. coli, in a mechanism similar to that of class A scavenger receptors; however, other unknown molecules may also be involved in the adhesion of E. coli to BAEC, which is enhanced by poly(I).
The Potency and Durability of DNA- and Protein-Based Vaccines Against Leishmania major Evaluated Using Low-Dose, Intradermal Challenge
Authors: Méndez Susana , Gurunathan Sanjay , Kamhawi Shaden , Belkaid Yasmine , Moga Michael A. , Skeiky Yasir A. W. , Campos-Neto Antonio , Reed Steven , Seder Robert A. , Sacks David
Published: April 2014

DNA- and protein- based vaccines against cutaneous leishmaniasis due to Leishmania major were evaluated using a challenge model that more closely reproduces the pathology and immunity associated with sand fly-transmitted infection. C57BL/6 mice were vaccinated s.c. with a mixture of plasmid DNAs encoding the Leishmania Ags LACK, LmSTI1, and TSA (AgDNA), or with autoclaved L. major promastigotes (ALM) plus rIL-12, and the mice were challenged by inoculation of 100 metacyclic promastigotes in the ear dermis. When challenged at 2 wk postvaccination, mice receiving AgDNA or ALM/rIL-12 were completely protected against the development of dermal lesions, and both groups had a 100-fold reduction in peak dermal parasite loads compared with controls. When challenged at 12 wk, mice vaccinated with ALM/rIL-12 maintained partial protection against dermal lesions and their parasite loads were no longer significantly reduced, whereas the mice vaccinated with AgDNA remained completely protected and had a 1000-fold reduction in dermal parasite loads. Mice vaccinated with AgDNA also harbored few, if any, parasites in the skin during the chronic phase, and their ability to transmit L. major to vector sand flies was completely abrogated. The durable protection in mice vaccinated with AgDNA was associated with the recruitment of both CD8+ and CD4+ T cells to the site of intradermal challenge and with IFN-γ production by CD8+ T cells in lymph nodes draining the challenge site. These data suggest that under conditions of natural challenge, DNA vaccination has the capacity to confer complete protection against cutaneous leishmaniasis and to prevent the establishment of infection reservoirs.
Fibronectin Binding Protein A of Staphylococcus aureus Can Mediate Human T Lymphocyte Adhesion and Coactivation
Authors: Miyamoto Yuko J. , Wann Elisabeth R. , Fowler Trent , Duffield Eric , Höök Magnus , McIntyre Bradley W.
Published: April 2014

The extracellular matrix protein fibronectin (FN) mediates the adhesion of bacteria as well as T lymphocytes. Mammalian cells express integrins α4β1 and α5β1 as the major FN-binding cell surface receptors. Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, also express FN-binding receptors that are important for adherence to host tissue and initiation of infection. The S. aureus FN-binding protein, FnbpA, has been previously identified, and recombinant proteins that correspond to distinct functional regions of this protein have been made. Three recombinant truncated forms of FnbpA, rFnbpA(37-881), rFnbpA(37-605), and rFnbpA(620-881), were examined for effects on in vitro adhesion and coactivation of human T lymphocytes. These proteins, when coimmobilized with anti-CD3 mAb, activated T lymphocyte proliferation. The coactivation signal generated by the rFnbpA proteins required medium containing serum with FN. Furthermore, the costimulatory signal could be restored in FN-depleted serum when the rFnbpAs were preloaded with soluble FN. Monoclonal Ab blocking studies revealed that integrin α5β1 is the major receptor responsible for the rFnbpA costimulatory signal. Shear flow cell detachment assays confirmed that lymphocytes can bind to FN captured by the rFnbpA proteins. These results suggest that the S. aureus rFnbpA can interact with integrin α5β1 via an FN bridge to mediate adhesion and costimulatory signals to T lymphocytes.
Platelet-Activating Factor-Induced Early Activation of NF-κB Plays a Crucial Role for Organ Clearance of Candida albicans
Authors: Choi Jung Hwa , Ko Hyun Mi , Kim Jung-Woo , Lee Hern-Ku , Han Sang Seop , Chun Soon-Bai , Im Suhn Young
Published: April 2014

In this study, we have investigated the mechanisms underlying organ susceptibility to candida infection. Infection of BALB/c mice with Candida albicans led to both an early (1–8 h) and late (24–48 h) activation of NF-κB in the organs resistant to C. albicans, including the lung and spleen. In susceptible organs such as the kidneys, early activation of NF-κB was not observed. The kinetics of TNF-α mRNA expression paralleled those of NF-κB activation in all organs examined. Blocking the effects of endogenous platelet-activating factor (PAF) by pretreatment with the PAF antagonist BN50739 or antioxidants significantly reduced the early activity of NF-κB and TNF-α mRNA expression, and increased the recovery of C. albicans in the lung and spleen. Importantly, administration of PAF 5 min prior to the infection resulted in the appearance of early activities of NF-κB and TNF-α mRNA expression, followed by a nearly complete clearance of the organisms in the kidneys. Pretreatment with anti-TNF-α Ab resulted in an enhanced susceptibility to C. albicans, and the PAF-mediated resistance was abrogated by anti-TNF-α in all organs examined. These data indicated that endogenously produced PAF in response to C. albicans is a key molecule involved in the early activation of NF-κB, which, in turn, renders the organ resistant to the fungus by promoting the production of anti-candidal proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α. Susceptible organs, including the kidneys, lack the capacity to generate a sufficient PAF-induced early NF-κB response.
Resident and Infiltrating Central Nervous System APCs Regulate the Emergence and Resolution of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Juedes Amy E. , Ruddle Nancy H.
Published: April 2014

During experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), autoreactive Th1 T cells invade the CNS. Before performing their effector functions in the target organ, T cells must recognize Ag presented by CNS APCs. Here, we investigate the nature and activity of the cells that present Ag within the CNS during myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-induced EAE, with the goal of understanding their role in regulating inflammation. Both infiltrating macrophages (Mac-1+CD45high) and resident microglia (Mac-1+CD45int) expressed MHC-II, B7-1, and B7-2. Macrophages and microglia presented exogenous and endogenous CNS Ags to T cell lines and CNS T cells, resulting in IFN-γ production. In contrast, Mac-1− cells were inefficient APCs during EAE. Late in disease, after mice had partially recovered from clinical signs of disease, there was a reduction in Ag-presenting capability that correlated with decreased MHC-II and B7-1 expression. Interestingly, although CNS APCs induced T cell cytokine production, they did not induce proliferation of either T cell lines or CNS T cells. This was attributable to production by CNS cells (mainly by macrophages) of NO. T cell proliferation was restored with an NO inhibitor, or if the APCs were obtained from inducible NO synthase-deficient mice. Thus, CNS APCs, though essential for the initiation of disease, also play a down-regulatory role. The mechanisms by which CNS APCs limit the expansion of autoreactive T cells in the target organ include their production of NO, which inhibits T cell proliferation, and their decline in Ag presentation late in disease.
Production of Chemokines In Vivo in Response to Microbial Stimulation
Authors: Coates Nicholas J. , McColl Shaun R.
Published: April 2014

Members of the chemokine gene superfamily are known to play a central role in leukocyte extravasation; however, their involvement in acute inflammation in response to micro-organisms has not yet been well studied. We have therefore investigated the role of murine macrophage-inflammatory protein (muMIP) 1α and muMIP-2 in the inflammatory response mounted against the bacteria Salmonella enteritidis and the Sacchromyces cerevisiae cell wall component, zymosan. Leukocyte extravasation was monitored in murine s.c. air pouches. Both agonists induced accumulation of leukocytes in a dose- and time-dependent manner, with the response peaking after 4 h and declining thereafter. The inflammatory exudate comprised mainly neutrophils; however, an increase in eosinophil accumulation was also observed in response to zymosan. The production of both muMIP-1α and muMIP-2 increased with time in response to both the agonists, although production was more sustained in response to the bacteria. Prior treatment of mice with neutralizing Abs against muMIP-1α or muMIP-2, either alone or in combination, failed to attenuate the accumulation of leukocytes in response to the agonists. In contrast, the anti-muMIP-2 Abs significantly inhibited leukocyte recruitment in response to S. enteritidis in complement-deficient mice. Taken together, these data show that while muMIP-1α and muMIP-2 are produced in response to phagocytosis of micro-organisms in s.c. tissue, under these circumstances components of the complement pathway appear to play a dominant role in the recruitment of neutrophils.
Intracellular Pool of IL-10 Receptors in Specific Granules of Human Neutrophils: Differential Mobilization by Proinflammatory Mediators
Authors: Elbim Carole , Reglier Hélène , Fay Michèle , Delarche Charlotte , Andrieu Valérie , El Benna Jamel , Gougerot-Pocidalo Marie-Anne
Published: April 2014

IL-10 has a wide range of effects tending to control inflammatory responses. We used flow cytometry to study IL-10 binding at the polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) surface and its modulation by various proinflammatory agents. Little IL-10 bound to the surface of resting PMN. However, binding was strongly increased after stimulation with LPS and proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF and GM-CSF. IL-1 and IL-8 did not significantly modify IL-10 binding. Cycloheximide had no effect on TNF-induced IL-10 binding, strongly suggesting the release of a pre-existing pool of IL-10R rather than de novo receptor synthesis by PMN. This was confirmed by the inhibitory effect of pentoxifylline, an inhibitor of degranulation. The existence of an intracellular pool of IL-10R was shown by flow cytometry, immunocytochemical staining, and Western blotting with several anti-human IL-10R Abs. In subcellular fractions of resting PMN, IL-10R was mainly located in the specific granule fraction, and was absent from azurophil granules and cytosol. We also tested the mobilization of specific granules by measuring the release of lactoferrin, their reference marker. The differential effects of the proinflammatory agents on IL-10 binding matched their effects on lactoferrin release and may therefore be related to differential mobilization of specific granules by these agents. Furthermore, the kinetics of TNF-induced up-regulation of IL-10 binding to PMN ran parallel to the kinetics of the inhibitory effect of IL-10 on the oxidative burst, suggesting a key role of IL-10R mobilization from specific granules to the membranes in optimal regulation of inflammatory responses.
Lethal Hepatitis After Gene Transfer of IL-4 in the Liver Is Independent of Immune Responses and Dependent on Apoptosis of Hepatocytes: A Rodent Model of IL-4-Induced Hepatitis
Authors: Guillot Cécile , Coathalem Hélène , Chetritt Jérôme , David Anne , Lowenstein Pedro , Gilbert Emmanuelle , Tesson Laurent , van Rooijen Nico , Cuturi Maria Cristina , Soulillou Jean-Paul , Anegon Ignacio
Published: April 2014

The putative role of IL-4 in human and animal models of hepatitis has not yet been directly determined. We now report that direct expression of IL-4 in the liver of rats or mice using recombinant adenoviruses coding for rat or mouse IL-4 (AdrIL-4 and AdmIL-4, respectively) results in a lethal, dose-dependent hepatitis. The hepatitis induced by IL-4 was characterized by hepatocyte apoptosis and a massive monocyte/macrophage infiltrate. IL-4-induced hepatitis was independent of T cell-mediated immune responses. Hepatitis occurred even after gene transfer of IL-4 into nude rats, CD8-depleted rats, cyclosporine A-treated rats, or recombinase-activating gene 2−/− immunodeficient mice. Peripheral depletion of leukocytes using high doses of cyclophosphamide, and/or the specific depletion of liver macrophages with liposome-encapsulated dichloromethylene diphosphonate in rats did not block lethal IL-4-induced hepatitis. Direct transduction of hepatocytes with adenoviruses was not essential, since injection of AdrIL-4 into the hind limb induced an identical hepatitis. Finally, primary rat hepatocytes in culture also showed apoptosis when cultured in the presence of rIL-4. IL-4-dependent hepatitis was associated with increases in the intrahepatic levels of IFN-γ, TNF-α, and Fas ligand. Administration of AdmIL-4 to IFN-γ, TNF-α receptor type I, or TNF-α receptor type II knockout mice also resulted in lethal hepatitis, whereas a moderate protection was observed in Fas-deficient lpr mice. IL-4-dependent hepatocyte apoptosis could be abolished by treatment with caspase inhibitory peptides. Our results thus demonstrate that IL-4 causes hepatocyte apoptosis, which is only partially dependent on the activation of Apo-1-Fas signaling and is largely independent of any immune cells in the liver.
Highly Efficient Transduction of Human Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cells with Subgroup B Fiber-Modified Adenovirus Vectors Enhances Transgene-Encoded Antigen Presentation to Cytotoxic T Cells
Authors: Rea Delphine , Havenga Menzo J. E. , van den Assem Maayke , Sutmuller Roger P. M. , Lemckert Angelique , Hoeben Rob C. , Bout Abraham , Melief Cornelis J. M. , Offringa Rienk
Published: April 2014

The efficiency of dendritic cells (DC) as immunotherapeutic vaccines critically depends on optimal delivery of target Ags. Although DC modified by subgroup C type 5 recombinant adenoviruses (rAd5) provide encouraging results, their clinical application is hampered by the need for high viral titers to achieve sufficient gene transfer, due to the lack of the Ad5 fiber receptor. We now demonstrate that rAd5 carrying subgroup B Ad fibers are up to 100-fold more potent than classical rAd5 for gene transfer and expression in human DC, rAd5 with a type 35 fiber (rAd5F35) being the most efficient vector. This improvement relates to a greater and faster virus entry and to an increased transgene expression especially following DC maturation. Furthermore, these new vectors possess enhanced synergistic effects with other activation signals to trigger DC maturation. Consequently, rAd5F35-infected DC engineered to express the gp100 melanoma-associated Ag largely exceed rAd5-infected DC in activating gp100-specific CTL. Finally, the DC infection pattern of rAd5F35 is fully conserved when DC are in the vicinity of primary skin-derived fibroblasts, suggesting this vector as a candidate for in vivo targeting of DC. Thus, subgroup B fiber-modified rAd5 constitute a major breakthrough in the exploitation of ex vivo rAd-targeted DC as clinically relevant vaccines and may also be suitable for in vivo genetic modification of DC.
Identification of Epitope Regions Recognized by Tumor Inhibitory and Stimulatory Anti-ErbB-2 Monoclonal Antibodies: Implications for Vaccine Design
Authors: Yip Yum L. , Smith Glenn , Koch Joachim , Dübel Stefan , Ward Robyn L.
Published: April 2014

The self-oncoprotein ErbB-2 is overexpressed in a number of malignancies. The presence of endogenous anti-ErbB-2 Ab and T cell immune responses to this protein in cancer patients has made ErbB-2 an attractive target for active immunization. However, the finding that murine anti-ErbB-2 Abs can have stimulatory, inhibitory, or no effects on cancer cell growth suggests that an inappropriately induced immune response may have an adverse effect. To ensure the induction of a beneficial Ab response, it is important to identify the epitopes recognized by these Abs. In this study we have used phage-displayed ErbB-2 gene fragment libraries and synthetic peptides to epitope-map a panel of anti-ErbB-2 mAbs. The epitopes of three mAbs, N12, N28, and L87, were successfully located to C531-A586, T216-C235, and C220-C235 of ErbB-2, respectively. It was found that while N12 inhibited tumor cell proliferation, N28 stimulated the proliferation of a subset of breast cancer cell lines overexpressing ErbB-2. The peptide region recognized by N12, (C531-A586; EP531), was used as an immunogen to selectively induce an inhibitory immune response in mice. Mice immunized with the GST fusion peptide (GST-EP531) recognized the peptide region EP531 as well as native ErbB-2. More importantly, Igs purified from mouse sera were able to inhibit up to 85% of tumor cell proliferation. In conclusion, our study provides direct evidence of the function-epitope relationship of anti-ErbB-2 Abs and also emphasizes the value of inducing a potent tumor inhibitory polyclonal Ab response by rationally selecting regions of ErbB-2 used for immunization.
Molecular Mimicry in Lyme Arthritis Demonstrated at the Single Cell Level: LFA-1αL Is a Partial Agonist for Outer Surface Protein A-Reactive T Cells
Authors: Trollmo Christina , Meyer Abbie L. , Steere Allen C. , Hafler David A. , Huber Brigitte T.
Published: April 2014

Antibiotic treatment-resistant Lyme arthritis is a chronic inflammatory joint disease that follows infection with Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb). A marked Ab and T cell response to Bb outer surface protein A (OspA) often develops during prolonged episodes of arthritis. Furthermore, cross-reaction between the bacterial OspA and human LFA-1αL at the T cell level and the inability to detect Bb in the joint implicate an autoimmune mechanism. To analyze the nature of response to OspA and LFA-1αL, we used OspA-specific T cell hybrids from DR4 transgenic mice, as well as cloned human cells specific for OspA165–184, the immunodominant epitope, from five DRB1*0401+ patients, using OspA-MHC class II tetramers. Although OspA165–184 stimulated nearly all OspA-specific human T cell clones tested to proliferate and secrete IFN-γ and IL-13, LFA-1αL326–345 stimulated ∼10% of these clones to proliferate and a greater percentage to secrete IL-13. Assays with LFA- or OspA-DR4 monomers revealed that higher concentrations of LFA-DR4 were needed to stimulate dual-reactive T cell hybrids. Our analysis at the clonal level demonstrates that human LFA-1αL326–345 behaves as a partial agonist, perhaps playing a role in perpetuating symptoms of arthritis.
Oral Exposure to Alloantigen Generates Intragraft CD8+ Regulatory Cells
Authors: Zhou Juan , Carr Ronald I. , Liwski Robert S. , Stadnyk Andrew W. , G. Lee Timothy D.
Published: April 2014

We have previously reported that oral administration of allogeneic rat spleen cells before kidney allotransplantation significantly prolongs graft survival. This prolongation was alloantigen specific and was associated with a decrease in graft-infiltrating cells (GIC) and an increase in transcription of IL-4 mRNA in the GIC. In this study increased splenic mixed lymphocyte responses from animals orally exposed to alloantigen before kidney transplantation suggested that the kidney allograft prolongation was not due to a masking of allorecognition, but to an immunomodulation of the immune response. We have assessed GIC T cell subsets on day 5 post-transplant and found decreased numbers of CD4+ T cells in fed animals compared with controls, but there was no change in CD8+ T cell numbers. The CD8+ GIC from fed animals transcribed substantial levels of perforin, granzyme, and Fas ligand mRNA, indicating the presence of active CTL. Direct CTL assays showed that the GIC from fed recipients exhibited higher allo-CTL activity than GIC from control unfed recipients. In addition, the CD8+ GIC exhibited high levels of IL-4 mRNA, suggesting Tc2-type regulatory cells. Prolonged graft survival in the face of active CTL and Tc2 cells suggests the presence of a CD8+ regulatory cell population in the allograft. To confirm this, cell transfer experiments were performed. Prolongation of graft survival was transferred from rats orally exposed to alloantigen to naive animals by transfer of CD8+ GIC. This is the first report that oral exposure to alloantigen prolongs kidney allograft survival by the generation of intragraft CD8+ regulatory cells.
Antibody-Induced Shedding of CD44 from Adherent Cells Is Linked to the Assembly of the Cytoskeleton
Authors: Shi Mei , Dennis Kathryn , Peschon Jacques J. , Chandrasekaran Raman , Mikecz Katalin
Published: April 2014

CD44 is a widely expressed integral membrane glycoprotein that serves as a specific adhesion receptor for the extracellular matrix glycosaminoglycan hyaluronan. CD44 participates in a variety of physiological and pathological processes through its role in cell adhesion. Under appropriate conditions, the ectodomain of CD44 is proteolytically removed from the cell surface. In this study we show that excessive CD44 shedding can be induced in mouse fibroblasts and monocytes upon exposure of these cells to a CD44-specific Ab immobilized on plastic, whereas treatment with phorbol ester induces significantly enhanced CD44 release from the monocytes only. CD44 shedding proceeds normally in fibroblasts and monocytes deficient in TNF-α converting enzyme (TACE), a sheddase involved in the processing of several substrates. Conversely, activation of the CD44 protease has no effect on the release of TNF-α from TACE-expressing cells, although the same metalloprotease inhibitor effectively blocks both TACE and the CD44 sheddase. Concomitant with anti-CD44 Ab- or phorbol ester-induced CD44 shedding, dramatic changes are observed in cell morphology and the structure of the actin cytoskeleton. Disruption of actin assembly with cytochalasin reduces CD44 shedding, but not the release of TNF-α. Moreover, pharmacological activation of Rho family GTPases Rac1 and Cdc42, which regulate actin filament assembly into distinct cytoskeletal structures, has a profound effect on CD44 release. We conclude that the CD44 sheddase and TACE are distinct enzymes, and that Ab- and phorbol ester-enhanced cleavage of CD44 is controlled in a cell type-dependent fashion by Rho GTPases through the cytoskeleton.
An Immunodominant MHC Class II-Restricted Tumor Antigen Is Conformation Dependent and Binds to the Endoplasmic Reticulum Chaperone, Calreticulin
Authors: Golgher Denise , Korangy Firouzeh , Gao Bin , Gorski Kevin , Jaffee Elizabeth , Edidin Michael , Pardoll Drew M. , Elliott Tim
Published: April 2014

There is accumulating evidence that CD4+ T cell responses are important in antitumor immunity. Accordingly, we generated CD4+ T cells against the murine CT26 colon cancer. Three of three independent CT26-specific CD4+ hybridomas were found to recognize the high m.w. precursor of the env gene product gp90. The CD4+ response was completely tumor specific in that the same glycoprotein expressed by other tumors was not recognized by the CT26-specific hybridomas. The recognition of gp90 by the hybridomas was strictly dependent on the conformation of gp90. Different procedures that disrupted the conformation of the glycoprotein, such as disulfide bond reduction and thermal denaturation, completely abrogated recognition of gp90 by all three hybridomas. In CT26 cells, but not in other tumor cells tested, a large proportion of gp90 was retained in the endoplasmic reticulum, mostly bound to the endoplasmic reticulum chaperone, calreticulin. Although calreticulin was not essential for the stimulation of the gp90-specific hybridomas, most of the antigenic form of gp90 was bound to it. The antigenicity of gp90 correlated well with calreticulin binding, reflecting the fact that specificity of binding of calreticulin to its substrate required posttranslational modifications that were also necessary for the generation of this tumor-specific CD4+ epitope.
Pertussis Toxin Inhibits Induction of Tissue-Specific Autoimmune Disease by Disrupting G Protein-Coupled Signals
Authors: Su Shao Bo , Silver Phyllis B. , Zhang Meifen , Chan Chi-Chao , Caspi Rachel R.
Published: April 2014

Pertussis toxin (PTX) has been used for many years as an adjuvant that promotes development of tissue-specific experimental autoimmune diseases such as experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU), and others. Enhancement of vascular permeability and of Th1 responses have been implicated in this effect. Here we report a surprising observation that, in a primed system, PTX can completely block the development of EAU. Disease was induced in B10.RIII mice by adoptive transfer of uveitogenic T cells, or by immunization with a uveitogenic peptide. A single injection of PTX concurrently with infusion of the uveitogenic T cells, or two injections 7 and 10 days after active immunization, completely blocked development of EAU. EAU also was prevented by a 1-h incubation in vitro of the uveitogenic T cells with PTX before infusing them into recipients. Uveitogenic T cells treated with PTX in vitro and lymphoid cells from mice treated with PTX in vivo failed to migrate to chemokines in a standard chemotaxis assay. Neither the isolated B-oligomer subunit of PTX that lacks ADP ribosyltransferase activity nor the related cholera toxin that ADP-ribosylates Gs (but not Gi) proteins blocked EAU induction or migration to chemokines. We conclude that PTX present at the time of cell migration to the target organ prevents EAU, and propose that it does so at least in part by disrupting signaling through Gi protein-coupled receptors. Thus, the net effect of PTX on autoimmune disease would represent an integration of enhancing and inhibitory effects.
Human Notch-1 Inhibits NF-κB Activity in the Nucleus Through a Direct Interaction Involving a Novel Domain
Authors: Wang Jinhai , Shelly Lesile , Miele Lucio , Boykins Robert , Norcross Michael A. , Guan Ennan
Published: April 2014

Notch participates in diverse cell fate decisions throughout embryonic development and postnatal life. Members of the NF-κB/Rel family of transcription factors are involved in the regulation of a variety of genes important for immune function. The biological activity of the NF-κB transcription factors is controlled by IκB proteins. Our previous work demonstrated that an intracellular, constitutively active form of human Notch-1/translocation-associated Notch homologue-1 (NotchIC) functions as an IκB molecule with specificity for the NF-κB p50 subunit and physically interacts with NF-κB in T cells. In the current study, we investigated the roles of different domains of NotchIC in the regulation of NF-κB-directed gene expression and NF-κB DNA binding activity. We found that NotchIC localizes to the nucleus and that a region in the N-terminal portion of NotchIC, not the six ankyrin repeats, is responsible for the inhibitory effects of Notch on NF-κB-directed gene expression and NF-κB DNA binding activity. The N-terminal portion of NotchIC inhibited p50 DNA binding and interacted specifically with p50 subunit, not p65 of NF-κB. The interaction between Notch and NF-κB indicates that in addition to its role in the development of the immune system, Notch-1 may also have critical functions in the immune response, inflammation, viral infection, and apoptosis through control of NF-κB-mediated gene expression.
Human Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin Preferentially Stimulates Myeloid Cells
Authors: Reche Pedro A. , Soumelis Vassili , Gorman Daniel M. , Clifford Teresa , Liu Man-ru , Travis Marilyn , Zurawski Sandra M. , Johnston Jim , Liu Yong-Jun , Spits Hergen , de Waal Malefyt Rene , Kastelein Robert A. , Bazan J. Fernando
Published: April 2014

The sequence of a novel hemopoietic cytokine was discovered in a computational screen of genomic databases, and its homology to mouse thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) suggests that it is the human orthologue. Human TSLP is proposed to signal through a heterodimeric receptor complex that consists of a new member of the hemopoietin family termed human TSLP receptor and the IL-7R α-chain. Cells transfected with both receptor subunits proliferated in response to purified, recombinant human TSLP, with induced phosphorylation of Stat3 and Stat5. Human TSLPR and IL-7Rα are principally coexpressed on monocytes and dendritic cell populations and to a much lesser extent on various lymphoid cells. In accord, we find that human TSLP functions mainly on myeloid cells; it induces the release of T cell-attracting chemokines from monocytes and, in particular, enhances the maturation of CD11c+ dendritic cells, as evidenced by the strong induction of the costimulatory molecules CD40 and CD80 and the enhanced capacity to elicit proliferation of naive T cells.
Enhanced Protection Against Fatal Mycobacterial Infection in SCID Beige Mice by Reshaping Innate Immunity with IFN-γ Transgene
Authors: Xing Zhou , Zganiacz Anna , Wang Jun , Sharma Sudhir K.
Published: April 2014

Humans with immune-compromised conditions such as SCID are unable to control infection caused by normally nonpathogenic intracellular pathogens such as Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette-Guérin. We found that SCID beige mice lacking both lymphocytes and NK cells had functionally normal lung macrophages and yet a selectively impaired response of type 1 cytokines IFN-γ and IL-12, but not TNF-α, during M. bovis bacillus Calmette-Guérin infection. These mice succumbed to such infection. A repeated lung gene transfer strategy was designed to reconstitute IFN-γ in the lung, which allowed investigation of whether adequate activation of innate macrophages could enhance host defense in the complete absence of lymphocytes. IFN-γ transgene-based treatment was initiated 10 days after the establishment of mycobacterial infection and led to increased levels of both IFN-γ and IL-12, but not TNF-α, in the lung. Lung macrophages were activated to express increased MHC molecules, type 1 cytokines and NO, and increased phagocytic and mycobactericidal activities. Activation of innate immunity markedly inhibited otherwise uncontrollable growth of mycobacteria and prolonged the survival of infected SCID hosts. Thus, our study proposes a cytokine transgene-based therapeutic modality to enhance host defense in immune-compromised hosts against intracellular bacterial infection, and suggests a central effector activity played by IFN-γ-activated macrophages in antimycobacterial cell-mediated immunity.
Serum Proteins Modified by Neutrophil-Derived Oxidants as Mediators of Neutrophil Stimulation
Authors: Körmöczi Günther F. , Wölfel Ulrike M. , Rosenkranz Alexander R. , Hörl Walter H. , Oberbauer Rainer , Zlabinger Gerhard J.
Published: April 2014

Reactive oxygen intermediates (ROI) released during inflammation may act as important mediators of neutrophil effector functions. The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the influence of ROI generation on neutrophil adhesion molecule regulation and degranulation. Induction of the neutrophil oxidative burst via Fcγ receptor cross-linking was accompanied by up-regulation of neutrophil surface CD11b, CD35, and CD66b only in the presence of selected serum proteins, such as purified human C4, C5, or human serum albumin (HSA). Scavenging of ROI attenuated protein-dependent receptor regulations. Moreover, exogenous hydrogen peroxide was effective to increase neutrophil CD11b expression in a protein-dependent way. HSA exposed to neutrophil-derived ROI displayed signs of oxidative modification in terms of carbonyl formation. Such modified HSA transferred to resting neutrophils bound readily to the cell surface and effected receptor modulation as well as cellular spreading. In contrast, neither native HSA nor HSA protected against oxidation by the tocopherol analog Trolox exhibited agonistic properties. In conclusion, we demonstrate that neutrophil-derived ROI modify selected serum proteins, which, in turn, act as proinflammatory mediators of neutrophil stimulation.
Microsomal Prostaglandin E Synthase Is Regulated by Proinflammatory Cytokines and Glucocorticoids in Primary Rheumatoid Synovial Cells
Authors: Stichtenoth Dirk O. , Thorén Staffan , Bian Huimin , Peters-Golden Marc , Jakobsson Per-Johan , Crofford Leslie J.
Published: April 2014

The selective induction of PGE2 synthesis in inflammation suggests that a PGE synthase may be linked to an inducible pathway for PG synthesis. We examined the expression of the recently cloned inducible microsomal PGE synthase (mPGES) in synoviocytes from patients with rheumatoid arthritis, its modulation by cytokines and dexamethasone, and its linkage to the inducible cyclooxygenase-2. Northern blot analysis showed that IL-1β or TNF-α treatment induces mPGES mRNA from very low levels at baseline to maximum levels at 24 h. IL-1β-induced mPGES mRNA was inhibited by dexamethasone in a dose-dependent fashion. Western blot analysis demonstrated that mPGES protein was induced by IL-1β, and maximum expression was sustained for up to 72 h. There was a coordinated up-regulation of cyclooxygenase-2 protein, although peak expression was earlier. Differential Western blot analysis of the microsomal and the cytosolic fractions revealed that the induced expression of mPGES protein was limited to the microsomal fraction. The detected mPGES protein was catalytically functional as indicated by a 3-fold increase of PGES activity in synoviocytes following treatment with IL-1β; this increased synthase activity was limited to the microsomal fraction. In summary, these data demonstrate an induction of mPGES in rheumatoid synoviocytes by proinflammatory cytokines. This novel pathway may be a target for therapeutic intervention for patients with arthritis.
Gi-Mediated Activation of the Syk Kinase by the Receptor Mimetic Basic Secretagogues of Mast Cells: Role in Mediating Arachidonic Acid/Metabolites Release
Authors: Shefler Irit , Sagi-Eisenberg Ronit
Published: April 2014

Syk kinase is essential for FcεRI-mediated signaling and release of inflammatory mediators from mast cells. We now show that activation of rat peritoneal mast cells by the nonimmunological, Gi-mediated pathway also results in the activation of Syk. We show that compound 48/80 (c48/80), a receptor analogue that activates directly G proteins, activates Syk in a pertussis toxin-sensitive fashion. We further show that Syk activation by c48/80 is blocked by the protein kinase C inhibitor GF109203X, by the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitors, wortmannin and LY294002, by EGTA, and by the selective src-like kinase inhibitor PP1. These results suggest that in the nonimmunological, Gi-mediated pathway, Syk is located downstream from phospholipase C and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. However, in common with the FcεRI-mediated pathway, activation of Syk by c48/80 is dependent on a src-like protein tyrosine kinase. Finally, we show that in the nonimmunological pathway, Syk plays a central role in the release of arachidonic acid/eicosanoid metabolites, but not in the release of prestored mediators such as histamine.
Dissection of the Intracellular Pathways in Hepatocytes Suggests a Role for Jun Kinase and IFN Regulatory Factor-1 in Con A-Induced Liver Failure
Authors: Streetz Konrad , Fregien Bastian , Plümpe Jörg , Körber Kerstin , Kubicka Stefan , Sass G. , Bischoff Stephan C. , Manns Michael P. , Tiegs Gisa , Trautwein Christian
Published: April 2014

Con A administration results in dose-dependent immune-mediated liver injury. Cytokines are important to determine the outcome of liver failure in this model, and especially TNF-α and IFN-γ directly contribute to hepatocyte damage. The intracellular pathways of these two cytokines, which eventually result in tissue destruction, are not well defined. Here we used anti-IFN-γ Abs and adenoviral vectors that express molecules inhibiting distinct TNF-α-dependent pathways in hepatocytes to better understand the relevance of specific intracellular signaling cascades for Con A-induced liver failure. We show that activation of TNF-α- and IFN-γ-dependent intracellular pathways occurs prior to the influx of immune-activated cells into the liver and that anti-TNF-α and anti-IFN-γ neutralizing Abs cannot block infiltration of these cells. Blocking experiments with Abs and adenoviral vectors showed that NF-κB activation and the Fas-associated death domain protein/caspase 8 cascade in hepatocytes during Con A-induced liver failure have no impact on tissue injury. Additionally, STAT1 activation alone after Con A injection in liver cells does not result in liver damage. In contrast, IFN-γ-dependent expression of IFN regulatory factor-1 and TNF-α-dependent activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase in liver cells correlates with liver cell damage after Con A injection. Therefore, our experiments indicate that IFN regulatory factor-1 and the c-Jun N-terminal kinase pathway are involved in determining hepatocyte damage during Con A-induced liver failure and thus may provide new targets for therapeutic intervention.
Stem Cell Factor-Induced Leukotriene B4 Production Cooperates with Eotaxin to Mediate the Recruitment of Eosinophils During Allergic Pleurisy in Mice
Authors: Klein André , Talvani André , Silva Patrícia M. R. , Martins Marco A. , Wells Tim N. C. , Proudfoot Amanda , Luckacs Nick W. , Teixeira Mauro M.
Published: April 2014

The understanding of the mechanisms underlying eosinophil recruitment in vivo may aid in the development of novel strategies for the treatment of allergic disorders. In this study, we investigated the role of chemokines in the cascade of events leading to eosinophil recruitment in a stem cell factor (SCF)- and leukotriene B4 (LTB4)-dependent allergic pleurisy model in mice. The intrapleural administration of the eosinophil-active chemokines eotaxin, RANTES, and macrophage-inflammatory protein 1α (MIP-1α) induced a time- and dose-dependent eosinophil recruitment. Pretreatment with anti-eotaxin, but not anti-RANTES or anti-MIP-1α, blocked the recruitment of eosinophils following Ag challenge of sensitized animals, and significant eotaxin immunoreactivity was detected in the pleural cavity of these animals. Similarly, only the anti-eotaxin inhibited the eosinophil recruitment induced by injection of SCF in naive animals. However, blockade of SCF did not inhibit the release of eotaxin after Ag challenge of sensitized mice. Akin to its effects on SCF and in the allergic reaction, eotaxin-induced eosinophil recruitment was blocked by the LTB4 receptor antagonist CP105696. Nevertheless, SCF, but not eotaxin, appeared to regulate the endogenous release of LTB4 after Ag challenge. Finally, we show that low doses of eotaxin synergized with LTB4 to induce eosinophil recruitment in the pleural cavity. Overall, the present results show that eotaxin and SCF-induced LTB4 cooperate to induce eosinophil recruitment into sites of allergic inflammation. Cooperation between inflammatory mediators must be an important phenomenon in vivo, explaining both the ability of lower concentrations of mediators to induce a full-blown functional response and the effectiveness of different strategies at inhibiting these responses.
Cutting Edge: Ly49A Inhibits TCR/CD3-Induced Apoptosis and IL-2 Secretion
Authors: Roger Joanne , Chalifour Anick , Lemieux Suzanne , Duplay Pascale
Published: April 2014

To evaluate the importance of Ly49A on TCR-induced cellular events, we established clones of the 1F2 T cell hybridoma expressing either Ly49A or a chimeric version, Ly49A/H, where the Ly49A cytoplasmic domain has been replaced by the Ly49H cytoplasmic domain. Ligation of Ly49A, but not Ly49A/H, with its ligand H-2Dd or anti-Ly49A mAbs caused a specific inhibition of TCR/CD3-induced IL-2 secretion. Moreover, flow cytometry analysis of hypodiploid DNA and annexin V binding revealed that ligation of Ly49A protected cells from apoptosis induced by anti-CD3 mAbs or Ag. In contrast, ligation of the Ly49A/H chimeric receptor had no antiapoptotic effect. In addition, engagement of Ly49A selectively inhibited TCR-induced Fas ligand expression whereas TCR-induced Fas expression was not significantly affected. Expression of Ly49 inhibitory receptors on T cells may represent an important mechanism for the regulation of T cell survival in vivo by inhibiting TCR-induced apoptosis and IL-2 secretion.
Novel Roles of CpG Oligodeoxynucleotides as a Leader for the Sampling and Presentation of CpG-Tagged Antigen by Dendritic Cells
Authors: Shirota Hidekazu , Sano Kunio , Hirasawa Noriyasu , Terui Tadashi , Ohuchi Kazuo , Hattori Toshio , Shirato Kunio , Tamura Gen
Published: April 2014

Oligodeoxynucleotides containing CpG motifs have been highlighted as potent Th1 activators. We previously reported that Ag and CpG, when conjugated together, synergistically promoted the Ag-specific Th1 development and inhibited the Th2-mediated airway eosinophilia. In this study, we examined the mechanisms underlying the synergism of the covalent conjugation. The CpG-OVA conjugate enhanced the Th1 activation and development. These characteristic features of the conjugate could not be ascribed to the polymerization of OVA, but mirrored the augmented binding of the CpG-tagged Ag to dendritic cells (DCs) in a CpG-guided manner, because phycobiliprotein, R-PE, conjugated to CpG stained a higher proportion of DCs with higher intensity than the mixture. R-PE fluorescence was emitted from cytoplasmic portions of the DCs, which simultaneously expressed costimulatory molecules and IL-12. The CpG-conjugated R-PE trafficking described above actually served as a potent Ag. These results indicate that CpG conjugated to Ag exhibit novel joint properties as promoters of Ag uptake and DC activators, thereby potentiating the ability of DCs to generate Th1 cells. The DNA-mediated promotion of Ag uptake would be advantageous for evoking host immune responses against invading microorganisms.