bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adoptive Immunotherapy of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis Via T Cell Delivery of the IL-12 p40 Subunit
Authors: Costa Gina L. , Sandora Matthew R. , Nakajima Atsuo , Nguyen Eddy V. , Taylor-Edwards Cariel , Slavin Anthony J. , Contag Christopher H. , Fathman C. Garrison , Benson Jacqueline M.
Published: April 2014

CD4+ T cells are believed to play a central role in the initiation and perpetuation of autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis. In the murine model for multiple sclerosis, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, pathogenic T cells exhibit a Th1-like phenotype characterized by heightened expression of proinflammatory cytokines. Systemic administration of “regulatory” cytokines, which serve to counter Th1 effects, has been shown to ameliorate autoimmune responses. However, the inherent problems of nonspecific toxicity limit the usefulness of systemic cytokine delivery as a potential therapy. Therefore, we used the site-specific trafficking properties of autoantigen-reactive CD4+ T cells to develop an adoptive immunotherapy protocol that provided local delivery of a Th1 cytokine antagonist, the p40 subunit of IL-12. In vitro analysis demonstrated that IL-12 p40 suppressed IFN-γ production in developing and effector Th1 populations, indicating its potential to modulate Th1-promoted inflammation. We have previously demonstrated that transduction of myelin basic protein-specific CD4+ T cells with pGC retroviral vectors can result in efficient and stable transgene expression. Therefore, we adoptively transferred myelin basic protein-specific CD4+ T cells transduced to express IL-12 p40 into mice immunized to develop experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and demonstrated a significant reduction in clinical disease. In vivo tracking of bioluminescent lymphocytes, transduced to express luciferase, using low-light imaging cameras demonstrated that transduced CD4+ T cells trafficked to the central nervous system, where histological analysis confirmed long-term transgene expression. These studies have demonstrated that retrovirally transduced autoantigen-specific CD4+ T cells inhibited inflammation and promoted immunotherapy of autoimmune disorders.
Glomerulonephritis Induced by Recombinant Collagen IVα3 Chain Noncollagen Domain 1 Is Not Associated with Glomerular Basement Membrane Antibody: A Potential T Cell-Mediated Mechanism
Authors: Wu Jean , Hicks John , Ou Ching-nan , Singleton David , Borillo Jason , Lou Ya-Huan
Published: April 2014

Glomerulonephritis is believed to result commonly from Ab-mediated glomerular injury. However, Ab-associated mechanisms alone cannot explain many cases of human glomerulonephritis. We developed a rat model of human anti-glomerular basement membrane (GBM) disease to investigate T cell and Ab response, and their associations with the disease. A single immunization of highly denatured recombinant mouse collagen IVα3 chain noncollagen domain 1 (rCol4α3NC1) induced severe glomerulonephritis in 100% of Wistar Kyoto rats, 33% of which died of this disease around day 35 postimmunization. The renal pathology demonstrated widespread glomerular damage and a mononuclear cell infiltration within the interstitial tissue. T cells from immunized rats responded not only to rCol4α3NC1, but also to isolated rat GBM. Sera Abs to rCol4α3NC1 were detectable in 100% of the rats, but only 20% of the rats had low levels of Ab to isolated rat GBM by Western blot, and none by immunofluorescence. Furthermore, IgG/M binding to or C3 deposition on endogenous GBM in immunized rats were not detected in most of the experimental rats, and showed no statistical correlation with disease severity. Additionally, no electronic dense deposition in the glomeruli was detected in all rats. Those data revealed a disassociation between the disease and anti-GBM Ab. T cell-mediated mechanisms, which are currently under our investigation, may be responsible for the glomerular disease.
A Pivotal Role of Rho GTPase in the Regulation of Morphology and Function of Dendritic Cells
Authors: Kobayashi Michihiro , Azuma Eiichi , Ido Masaru , Hirayama Masahiro , Jiang Qi , Iwamoto Shotaro , Kumamoto Tadashi , Yamamoto Hatsumi , Sakurai Minoru , Komada Yoshihiro
Published: April 2014

Dendritic cell (DC) is the most potent activator of CD4+ T cells and has unique dendrites and veils. To explore the function of Rho in DC, exoenzyme C3 from Clostridium botulinum was used as a specific inhibitor of Rho. Treatment of DC with C3 (DC/C3) resulted in profound morphological changes by losing dendrites and emerging of shrunk membrane processes that were in parallel with marked reduction of polymerized actin in the marginal area. Inactivation of Rho-associated coiled coil-containing kinase (p160ROCK) by a specific ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 also led to disappearance of dendrites of DC with retaining large membrane expansions. In scanning electron microscopy, untreated DCs interacted with CD4+ T cells more efficiently than DC/C3. Conjugate formation assay showed that the number of DCs associated with CD4+ T cells was 2-fold higher in untreated DCs than that of DC/C3. Alloantigen-presenting capacity of DC/C3 was significantly suppressed in a dose-dependent manner. Because C3 treatment did not affect the surface expression of HLA, costimulatory, and adhesion molecules of DC, we examined cytokine production of DC and naive CD4+ T cells to further elucidate the inhibitory mechanism of MLR. Unexpectedly, DC/C3 increased IL-12 production after LPS stimulation. Naive CD4+ T cells cocultured with DC/C3 produced the increased percentage of IFN-γ-producing cells, whereas the percentage of IL-2-producing T cells was decreased. These results demonstrate that Rho GTPase in DC controls both characteristic shape and immunogenic capacity.
Cytotoxic Activity of Human Dendritic Cells Is Differentially Regulated by Double-Stranded RNA and CD40 Ligand
Authors: Vidalain Pierre-Olivier , Azocar Olga , Yagita Hideo , Rabourdin-Combe Chantal , Servet-Delprat Christine
Published: April 2014

The main function of dendritic cells (DCs) is to induce adaptive immune response through Ag presentation and specific T lymphocyte activation. However, IFN-α- or IFN-γ-stimulated CD11c+ blood DCs and IFN-β-stimulated monocyte-derived DCs were recently reported to express functional TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), suggesting that DCs may become cytotoxic effector cells of innate immunity upon appropriate stimulation. In this study, we investigate whether dsRNA and CD40 ligand (CD40L), that were characterized as potent inducers of DC maturation, could also stimulate or modulate DC cytotoxicity toward tumoral cells. We observed that dsRNA, but not CD40L, is a potent inducer of TRAIL expression in human monocyte-derived DCs. As revealed by cytotoxicity assays, DCs acquire the ability to kill tumoral cells via the TRAIL pathway when treated with dsRNA. More precisely, dsRNA is shown to induce IFN-β synthesis that consecutively mediates TRAIL expression by the DCs. In contrast, we demonstrate that TRAIL expression in dsRNA- or IFN-α-treated DCs is potently inhibited after CD40L stimulation. Unexpectedly, CD40L-activated DCs still developed cytotoxicity toward tumoral cells. This latter appeared to be partly mediated by TNF-α induction and a yet unidentified pathway. Altogether, these results demonstrate that dsRNA and CD40L, that were originally characterized as maturation signals for DCs, also stimulate their cytotoxicity that is mediated through TRAIL-dependent or -independent mechanisms.
Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Increase of Prostaglandin E2 Is Mediated by Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase Activation of the Constitutive Cyclooxygenase and Induction of Membrane-Associated Prostaglandin E Synthase
Authors: Devaux Yvan , Seguin Carole , Grosjean Sandrine , de Talancé Nicole , Camaeti Viviane , Burlet Arlette , Zannad Faiez , Meistelman Claude , Mertes Paul-Michel , Longrois Dan
Published: April 2014

NO produced by the inducible NO synthase (NOS2) and prostanoids generated by the cyclooxygenase (COX) isoforms and terminal prostanoid synthases are major components of the host innate immune and inflammatory response. Evidence exists that pharmacological manipulation of one pathway could result in cross-modulation of the other, but the sense, amplitude, and relevance of these interactions are controversial, especially in vivo. Administration of 6 mg/kg LPS to rats i.p. resulted 6 h later in induction of NOS2 and the membrane-associated PGE synthase (mPGES) expression, and decreased constitutive COX (COX-1) expression. Low level inducible COX (COX-2) mRNA with absent COX-2 protein expression was observed. The NOS2 inhibitor aminoguanidine (50 and 100 mg/kg i.p.) dose dependently decreased both NO and prostanoid production. The LPS-induced increase in PGE2 concentration was mediated by NOS2-derived NO-dependent activation of COX-1 pathway and by induction of mPGES. Despite absent COX-2 protein, SC-236, a putative COX-2-specific inhibitor, decreased mPGES RNA expression and PGE2 concentration. Ketoprofen, a nonspecific COX inhibitor, and SC-236 had no effect on the NOS2 pathway. Our results suggest that in a model of systemic inflammation characterized by the absence of COX-2 protein expression, NOS2-derived NO activates COX-1 pathway, and inhibitors of COX isoforms have no effect on NOS2 or NOS3 (endothelial NOS) pathways. These results could explain, at least in part, the deleterious effects of NOS2 inhibitors in some experimental and clinical settings, and could imply that there is a major conceptual limitation to the use of NOS2 inhibitors during systemic inflammation.
Loss of IFN-γ Production by Invariant NK T Cells in Advanced Cancer
Authors: Muhammad Ali Tahir Syed , Cheng Olivia , Shaulov Angela , Koezuka Yasuhiko , Bubley Glenn J. , Wilson S. Brian , Balk Steven P. , Exley Mark A.
Published: April 2014

Invariant NK T cells express certain NK cell receptors and an invariant TCRα chain specific for the MHC class I-like CD1d protein. These invariant NK T cells can regulate diverse immune responses in mice, including antitumor responses, through mechanisms including rapid production of IL-4 and IFN-γ, but their physiological functions remain uncertain. Invariant NK T cells were markedly decreased in peripheral blood from advanced prostate cancer patients, and their ex vivo expansion with a CD1d-presented lipid Ag (α-galactosylceramide) was diminished compared with healthy donors. Invariant NK T cells from healthy donors produced high levels of both IFN-γ and IL-4. In contrast, whereas invariant NK T cells from prostate cancer patients also produced IL-4, they had diminished IFN-γ production and a striking decrease in their IFN-γ:IL-4 ratio. The IFN-γ deficit was specific to the invariant NK T cells, as bulk T cells from prostate cancer patients produced normal levels of IFN-γ and IL-4. These findings support an immunoregulatory function for invariant NK T cells in humans mediated by differential production of Th1 vs Th2 cytokines. They further indicate that antitumor responses may be suppressed by the marked Th2 bias of invariant NK T cells in advanced cancer patients.
Peptide Antigen Priming of Naive, But Not Memory, CD8 T Cells Requires a Third Signal That Can Be Provided by IL-12
Authors: Schmidt Clint S. , Mescher Matthew F.
Published: April 2014

Challenge with peptide Ag in the absence of adjuvant results in tolerance of CD8 T cells specific for the Ag. In contrast, administration of IL-12 along with peptide results in massive clonal expansion, development of effector function, and establishment of a long-lived memory population. Using adoptive transfer of TCR-transgenic CD8 T cells, this effect of IL-12 is shown to be independent of CD4 T cells and to require costimulation provided by CD28 and possibly LFA-1. IL-12 supports responses when IL-12Rβ1-deficient mice are used as recipients for the adoptively transferred CD8 T cells, demonstrating that the IL-12 is acting directly on the T cells rather than on host APC. These results provide strong support for a three-signal model for in vivo activation of naive CD8 T cells by peptide Ag, in which the presence or absence of the third signal determines whether tolerance or activation occurs. In contrast, memory CD8 T cells are effectively activated by peptide Ag in the absence of IL-12 or adjuvant.
Regulatory Effects of Novel Neurotrophin-1/B Cell-Stimulating Factor-3 (Cardiotrophin-Like Cytokine) on B Cell Function
Authors: Senaldi Giorgio , Stolina Marina , Guo Jane , Faggioni Raffaella , McCabe Susan , Kaufman Stephen A. , Van Gwyneth , Xu Weilong , Fletcher Frederick A. , Boone Thomas , Chang Ming-Shi , Sarmiento Ulla , Cattley Russell C.
Published: April 2014

We describe regulatory effects that a novel neurotrophin-1/B cell-stimulating factor-3 (NNT-1/BSF-3; also reported as cardiotrophin-like cytokine) has on B cell function. NNT-1/BSF-3 stimulates B cell proliferation and Ig production in vitro. NNT-1/BSF-3-transgenic mice, engineered to express NNT-1/BSF-3 in the liver under control of the apolipoprotein E promoter, show B cell hyperplasia with particular expansion of the mature follicular B cell subset in the spleen and the prominent presence of plasma cells. NNT-1/BSF-3-transgenic mice show high serum levels of IgM, IgE, IgG2b, IgG3, anti-dsDNA Abs, and serum amyloid A. NNT-1/BSF-3-transgenic mice also show non-amyloid mesangial deposits that contain IgM, IgG, and C3 and are characterized by a distinctive ultrastructure similar to that of immunotactoid glomerulopathy. NNT-1/BSF-3-transgenic mice produce high amounts of Ag-specific IgM, IgA, and IgE and low amounts of IgG2a and IgG3. Normal mice treated with NNT-1/BSF-3 also produce high amounts of Ag-specific IgE. NNT-1/BSF-3 regulates immunity by stimulating B cell function and Ab production, with preference for Th2 over Th1 Ig types.
IL-18 Contributes to Host Resistance Against Infection withPseudomonas aeruginosaThrough Induction of IFN-γ Production
Authors: Huang Xi , McClellan Sharon A. , Barrett Ronald P. , Hazlett Linda D.
Published: April 2014

Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis destroys the cornea in susceptible (B6), but not resistant (BALB/c) mice. To determine mechanisms mediating resistance, the role of IFN-γ, IL-12, and IL-18 was tested in BALB/c mice. RT-PCR analysis detected IFN-γ mRNA expression levels in cornea that were significantly increased at 1–7 days postinfection. IL-18 mRNA was detected constitutively in cornea and, at 1–7 days postinfection, levels were elevated significantly, while no IL-12 mRNA was similarly detected. To test whether IL-18 contributed to IFN-γ production, mice were treated with anti-IL-18 mAb. Treatment decreased corneal IFN-γ mRNA levels, and bacterial load and disease increased/worsened, compared with IgG-treated mice. To stringently examine the role of IFN-γ in bacterial killing, knockout (−/−) vs wild-type (wt) mice also were tested. All corneas perforated, and bacterial load was increased significantly in −/− vs wt mice. Because disease severity was increased in IFN-γ−/− vs IL-18-neutralized mice, and since IL-18 also induces production of TNF, we tested for TNF-α in both groups. ELISA analysis demonstrated significantly elevated corneal TNF-α protein levels in IFN-γ−/− vs wt mice after infection. In contrast, RT-PCR analysis of IL-18-neutralized vs IgG-treated infected mice revealed decreased corneal TNF-α mRNA expression. Next, to resolve whether TNF was required for bacterial killing, TNF-α was neutralized in BALB/c mice. No difference in corneal bacterial load was detected in neutralized vs IgG-treated mice. These data provide evidence that IL-18 contributes to the resistance response by induction of IFN-γ and that IFN-γ is required for bacterial killing.
Cutting Edge: Transmembrane Phosphoprotein Csk-Binding Protein/Phosphoprotein Associated With Glycosphingolipid-Enriched Microdomains as a Negative Feedback Regulator of Mast Cell Signaling Through the FcεRI
Authors: Ohtake Hidenori , Ichikawa Naoki , Okada Masato , Yamashita Toshiyuki
Published: April 2014

Tyrosine phosphorylation in the cytoplasmic domains of FcεRI by the Src family kinase Lyn initiates a signaling cascade leading to mast cell activation. In this study, we show that a recently identified transmembrane protein, Csk-binding protein (Cbp), also known as phospoprotein associated with glycosphingolipid-enriched microdomains (PAG), negatively regulates FcεRI signaling. In rat basophilic leukemia (RBL)-2H3 cells, the levels of tyrosine phosphorylation of Cbp/PAG and its association with Csk, a negative regulator for Lyn, significantly elevate immediately after aggregation of FcεRI. An overexpression of Cbp/PAG in RBL-2H3 cells inhibits FcεRI-mediated cell activation. This is accompanied with decreased levels of tyrosine phosphorylation of FcεRI, association of FcεRI with Lyn, and FcεRI-associated tyrosine kinase activity. These findings combined with the fact that Cbp/PAG, Lyn, and aggregated FcεRI are localized to lipid rafts, suggest that upon FcεRI aggregation Cbp/PAG down-regulates the receptor-associated Lyn activity through relocating Csk to rafts, thereby efficiently mediating feedback inhibition of FcεRI signaling.
Lipid Raft Heterogeneity in Human Peripheral Blood T Lymphoblasts: A Mechanism for Regulating the Initiation of TCR Signal Transduction
Authors: Schade Andrew E. , Levine Alan D.
Published: April 2014

Lateral mobility and spatial organization of proteins within the plasma membrane are likely to mediate the initial events coordinating T cell activation. Lipid rafts, distinct cholesterol/sphingolipid-rich membrane microdomains, provide a mechanism for this regulation by concentrating or excluding signaling proteins. We demonstrate in peripheral blood T cell lymphoblasts that immediate early phosphotyrosine signal transduction through the TCR complex is functionally dependent on a distinct population of lipid rafts. Specifically, cholesterol extraction destabilizes the membrane microdomains containing Lck, while the rafts containing the adapter protein linker for activation of T cells remain intact. Heterogeneity in the partitioning of these proteins in resting cells was confirmed by immunoelectron microscopy. After T cell activation, both Lck and the linker for activation of T cells colocalize to 50–100 nm microdomains in the plasma membrane, indicating that sequestration of these proteins into distinct lipid rafts may function to regulate the initiation of T cell signal transduction.
The Role of the CPNKEKEC Sequence in the β2 Subunit I Domain in Regulation of Integrin αLβ2 (LFA-1)
Authors: Kamata Tetsuji , Tieu Kenneth Khiem , Tarui Takehiko , Puzon-McLaughlin Wilma , Hogg Nancy , Takada Yoshikazu
Published: April 2014

The αL I (inserted or interactive) domain of integrin αLβ2 undergoes conformational changes upon activation. Recent studies show that the isolated, activated αL I domain is sufficient for strong ligand binding, suggesting the β2 subunit to be only indirectly involved. It has been unclear whether the activity of the αL I domain is regulated by the β2 subunit. In this study, we demonstrate that swapping the disulfide-linked CPNKEKEC sequence (residues 169–176) in the β2 I domain with a corresponding β3 sequence, or mutating Lys174 to Thr, constitutively activates αLβ2 binding to ICAM-1. These mutants do not require Mn2+ for ICAM-1 binding and are insensitive to the inhibitory effect of Ca2+. We have also localized a component of the mAb 24 epitope (a reporter of β2 integrin activation) in the CPNKEKEC sequence. Glu173 and Glu175 of the β2 I domain are identified as critical for mAb 24 binding. Because the epitope is highly expressed upon β2 integrin activation, it is likely that the CPNKEKEC sequence is exposed or undergoes conformational changes upon activation. Deletion of the αL I domain did not eliminate the mAb 24 epitope. This confirms that the αL I domain is not critical for mAb 24 binding, and indicates that mAb 24 detects a change expressed in part in the β2 subunit I domain. These results suggest that the CPNKEKEC sequence of the β2 I domain is involved in regulating the αL I domain.
Endotoxin-Neutralizing Antimicrobial Proteins of the Human Placenta
Authors: Kim Hun Sik , Cho Ju Hyun , Park Hyoung Woo , Yoon Ho , Kim Mi Sun , Kim Sun Chang
Published: April 2014

Microbial colonization and infection of placental tissues often lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth, a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. The fetal membranes of the placenta, a physical and active barrier to microbial invasion, encapsulate the fetus and secure its intrauterine environment. To examine the innate defense system of the human placenta, antimicrobial peptides were isolated from the fetal membranes of human placenta and characterized biochemically. Two salt-resistant antimicrobial host proteins were purified to homogeneity using heparin-affinity and reversed-phase HPLC. Characterization of these proteins revealed that they are identical to histones H2A and H2B. Histones H2A and H2B showed dose-dependent inhibition of the endotoxin activity of LPS and inhibited this activity by binding to and therefore blocking both the core and lipid A moieties of LPS. Consistent with a role for histones in the establishment of placental innate defense, histones H2A and H2B were highly expressed in the cytoplasm of syncytiotrophoblasts and amnion cells, where the histone proteins were localized mainly to the epithelial surface. Furthermore, culturing of amnion-derived WISH cells led to the constitutive release of histone H2B, and histones H2A and H2B contribute to bactericidal activity of amniotic fluid. Our studies suggest that histones H2A and H2B may endow the epithelium of the placenta with an antimicrobial and endotoxin-neutralizing barrier against microorganisms that invade this immune-privileged site.
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-γ Agonist 15-Deoxy-Δ12,1412,14-Prostaglandin J2 Ameliorates Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Diab Asim , Deng Caishu , Smith Jeff D. , Hussain Rehana Z. , Phanavanh Bounleut , Lovett-Racke Amy E. , Drew Paul D. , Racke Michael K.
Published: April 2014

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) are members of a nuclear hormone receptor superfamily that includes receptors for steroids, retinoids, and thyroid hormone, all of which are known to affect the immune response. Previous studies dealing with PPAR-γ expression in the immune system have been limited. Recently, PPAR-γ was identified in monocyte/macrophage cells. In this study we examined the role of PPAR-γ in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model for the human disease multiple sclerosis. The hypothesis we are testing is whether PPAR-γ plays an important role in EAE pathogenesis and whether PPAR-γ ligands can inhibit the clinical expression of EAE. Initial studies have shown that the presence of the PPAR-γ ligand 15-deoxy-Δ12,14-PGJ2 (15d-PGJ2) inhibits the proliferation of Ag-specific T cells from the spleen of myelin basic protein Ac1–11 TCR-transgenic mice. 15d-PGJ2 suppressed IFN-γ, ΙL-10, and IL-4 production by both Con A- and myelin basic protein Ac1–11 peptide-stimulated lymphocytes as determined by ELISA and ELISPOT assay. Culture of encephalitogenic T cells with 15d-PGJ2 in the presence of Ag reduced the ability of these cells to adoptively transfer EAE. Examination of the target organ, the CNS, during the course of EAE revealed expression of PPAR-γ in the spinal cord inflammatory infiltrate. Administration of 15d-PGJ2 before and at the onset of clinical signs of EAE significantly reduced the severity of disease. These results suggest that PPAR-γ ligands may be a novel therapeutic agent for diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
Ultraviolet B Radiation Induces a Transient Appearance of IL-4+ Neutrophils, Which Support the Development of Th2 Responses
Authors: Teunissen Marcel B. M. , Piskin Gamze , Nuzzo Sergio di , Sylva-Steenland Regien M. R. , de Rie Menno A. , Bos Jan D.
Published: April 2014

UVB irradiation can cause considerable changes in the composition of cells in the skin and in cutaneous cytokine levels. We found that a single exposure of normal human skin to UVB induced an infiltration of numerous IL-4+ cells. This recruitment was detectable in the papillary dermis already 5 h after irradiation, reaching a peak at 24 h and declining gradually thereafter. The IL-4+ cells appeared in the epidermis at 24 h postradiation and reached a plateau at days 2 and 3. The number of IL-4+ cells was markedly decreased in both dermis and epidermis at day 4, and at later time points, the IL-4 expression was absent. The IL-4+ cells did not coexpress CD3 (T cells), tryptase (mast cells), CD56 (NK cells), and CD36 (macrophages). They did coexpress CD15 and CD11b, showed a clear association with elastase, and had a multilobed nucleus, indicating that UVB-induced infiltrating IL-4+ cells are neutrophils. Blister fluid from irradiated skin, but not from control skin, contained IL-4 protein as well as increased levels of IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α. In contrast to control cultures derived from nonirradiated skin, a predominant type 2 T cell response was detected in T cells present in primary dermal cell cultures derived from UVB-exposed skin. This type 2 shift was abolished when CD15+ cells (i.e., neutrophils) were depleted from the dermal cell suspension before culturing, suggesting that neutrophils favor type 2 T cell responses in UVB-exposed skin.
Maturation and Activation of Dendritic Cells Induced by Lymphocyte Activation Gene-3 (CD223)
Authors: Andreae Susanne , Piras Fabienne , Burdin Nicolas , Triebel Frédéric
Published: April 2014

Lymphocyte activation gene-3 (LAG-3) is an MHC class II ligand expressed on activated T and NK cells. A LAG-3Ig fusion protein has been used in mice as an adjuvant protein to induce antitumor responses and specific CD8 and CD4 Th1 responses to nominal Ags. In this work we report on the effect of LAG-3Ig on the maturation and activation of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DC). LAG-3Ig binds MHC class II molecules expressed in plasma membrane lipid rafts on immature human DC and induces rapid morphological changes, including the formation of dendritic projections. LAG-3Ig markedly up-regulates the expression of costimulatory molecules and the production of IL-12 and TNF-α. Consistent with this effect on DC maturation, LAG-3Ig disables DC in their capacity to capture soluble Ags. These events are associated with the acquisition of professional APC function, because LAG-3Ig increases the capacity of DC to stimulate the proliferation and IFN-γ response by allogeneic T cells. These effects were not observed when using ligation of MHC class II by specific mAb. Class II-mediated signals induced by a natural ligand, LAG-3, lead to complete maturation of DC, which acquire the capacity to trigger naive T cells and drive polarized Th1 responses.
Phenotypic and Functional Heterogeneity of EBV Epitope-Specific CD8+ T Cells
Authors: Catalina Michelle D. , Sullivan John L. , Brody Robin M. , Luzuriaga Katherine
Published: April 2014

High frequencies of EBV-specific CD8+ T cells have been detected during acute EBV infection, yet persistent infection inevitably results. To address this issue, we characterized the phenotype and function of epitope-specific CD8+ T cell populations from presentation with acute through latent infection. Considerable phenotypic and functional heterogeneity within, as well as between, two different epitope-specific populations was observed over time following acute infection. B7 EBV-encoded nuclear Ag (EBNA)-3A-specific CD8+ T cells expressed only CD45RO from acute through latent EBV infection. A2 BMLF-1-specific CD8+ T cells expressed CD45RO during acute infection and either CD45RA or CD45RO during latent EBV infection. This difference in CD45 isoform expression between the two epitope-specific populations did not translate into differences in perforin content, the ability to produce IFN-γ, or the ability to proliferate in response to Ag in vitro. In individuals with latent EBV infection, the frequencies of A2 BMLF-1- or B7 EBNA-3A-specific CD8+ T cells that expressed CD45RA, CD45RO, CD62 ligand, CCR7, and perforin were stable over time. However, the expression of CD62 ligand and CCR7 was significantly higher among EBNA-3A-specific CD8+ T cells than among BMLF-1-specific CD8+ T cells. Further work is necessary to understand how phenotypic and functional differences between EBV epitope-specific CD8+ T cells are related to the biology of the virus and to the equilibrium between the virus and the host during persistent infection.
Requirement for the Lymphocyte Semaphorin, CD100, in the Induction of Antigen-Specific T Cells and the Maturation of Dendritic Cells
Authors: Kumanogoh Atsushi , Suzuki Kazuhiro , Ch’ng EweSeng , Watanabe Chie , Marukawa Satoko , Takegahara Noriko , Ishida Isao , Sato Takehito , Habu Sonoko , Yoshida Kanji , Shi Wei , Kikutani Hitoshi
Published: April 2014

CD100 belongs to the semaphorin family, several members of which are known to act as repulsive axonal guidance factors during neuronal development. We have previously demonstrated that CD100 plays a crucial role in humoral immunity. In this study, we show that CD100 is also important for cellular immunity through the maturation of dendritic cells (DCs). CD100−/− mice fail to develop experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis induced by myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein peptide, because myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-specific T cells are not generated in the absence of CD100. In vitro studies with T cells from OVA-specific TCR-transgenic mice demonstrate that Ag-specific T cells lacking CD100 fail to differentiate into cells producing either IL-4 or IFN-γ in the presence of APCs and OVA peptide. In addition, DCs from CD100−/− mice display poor allostimulatory capabilities and defects in costimulatory molecule expression and IL-12 production. The addition of exogenous soluble rCD100 restores normal functions in CD100−/− DCs and further enhances functions of normal DCs. Furthermore, treatment of Ag-pulsed DCs with both soluble CD100 and anti-CD40 before immunization significantly enhances their immunogenicity. This treatment elicits improved T cell priming in vivo, enhancing both primary and memory T cell responses. Collectively, these results demonstrate that CD100, which enhances the maturation of DCs, is essential in the activation and differentiation of Ag-specific T cells.
A Role for theCr2Gene in Modifying Autoantibody Production in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Wu Xiaobo , Jiang Ning , Deppong Christine , Singh Jasvinder , Dolecki Gregory , Mao Dailing , Morel Laurence , Molina Hector D.
Published: April 2014

Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease characterized by autoantibody production against nuclear Ags. Recent studies suggest that the Cr2 gene, which encodes for complement receptor (CR)1 and CR2, is important in disease susceptibility. Because the precise disease phenotype related to this gene, in isolation or in relation to other genetic loci, is not known, we analyzed C57BL/6 mice with a targeted mutation in Cr2 (C57BL/6.Cr2−/−) with or without a concomitant mutation in Fas (C57BL/6.lpr Cr2−/−). The Cr2null mutation in a C57BL/6.lpr background markedly increases the serum concentrations of IgG1 and IgG2b and the levels of antinuclear and anti-dsDNA Abs as compared with C57BL/6.lpr controls. There is also a trend for higher concentrations of IgG2a and IgG3. In contrast, isolated deficiencies in either these CRs or Fas have a limited effect in the production of anti-dsDNA Abs. Moreover, the Cr2null mutation does not affect other disease manifestations. These findings demonstrate that abnormalities in CR1 and CR2 may be linked to the production of autoantibodies by modifying the effect of other systemic lupus erythematosus susceptibility genes. Phenotypic expression of other disease manifestations need additional Cr2-independent genetic factors.
Two Phenotypically Distinct Subsets of Spleen Dendritic Cells in Rats Exhibit Different Cytokine Production and T Cell Stimulatory Activity
Authors: Voisine Cécile , Hubert Francois-Xavier , Trinité Benjamin , Heslan Michèle , Josien Régis
Published: April 2014

We recently reported that splenic dendritic cells (DC) in rats can be separated into CD4+ and CD4− subsets and that the CD4− subset exhibited a natural cytotoxic activity in vitro against tumor cells. Moreover, a recent report suggests that CD4− DC could have tolerogenic properties in vivo. In this study, we have analyzed the phenotype and in vitro T cell stimulatory activity of freshly isolated splenic DC subsets. Unlike the CD4− subset, CD4+ splenic DC expressed CD5, CD90, and signal regulatory protein α molecules. Both fresh CD4− and CD4+ DC displayed an immature phenotype, although CD4+ cells constitutively expressed moderate levels of CD80. The half-life of the CD4−, but not CD4+ DC in vitro was extremely short but cells could be rescued from death by CD40 ligand, IL-3, or GM-CSF. The CD4− DC produced large amounts of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-12 and TNF-α and induced Th1 responses in allogeneic CD4+ T cells, whereas the CD4+ DC produced low amounts of IL-12 and no TNF-α, but induced Th1 and Th2 responses. As compared with the CD4+ DC that strongly stimulated the proliferation of purified CD8+ T cells, the CD4− DC exhibited a poor CD8+ T cell stimulatory capacity that was substantially increased by CD40 stimulation. Therefore, as previously shown in mice and humans, we have identified the existence of a high IL-12-producing DC subset in the rat that induces Th1 responses. The fact that both the CD4+ and CD4− DC subsets produced low amounts of IFN-α upon viral infection suggests that they are not related to plasmacytoid DC.
Prostaglandins Inhibit 5-Lipoxygenase-Activating Protein Expression and Leukotriene B4 Production from Dendritic Cells Via an IL-10-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Harizi Hedi , Juzan Monique , Moreau Jean-François , Gualde Norbert
Published: April 2014

PGs produced from arachidonic acid by the action of cyclooxygenase enzymes play a pivotal role in the regulation of both inflammatory and immune responses. Because leukotriene B4 (LTB4), a product of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) pathway, can exert numerous immunoregulatory and proinflammatory activities, we examined the effects of PGs on LTB4 release from dendritic cells (DC) and from peritoneal macrophages. In concentration-dependent manner, PGE1 and PGE2 inhibited the production of LTB4 from DC, but not from peritoneal macrophage, with an IC50 of 0.04 μM. The same effect was observed with MK-886, a 5-LO-activating protein (FLAP)-specific inhibitor. The decreased release of LTB4 was associated with an enhanced level of IL-10. Furthermore, the inhibition of LTB4 synthesis by PGs was significantly reversed by anti-IL-10, suggesting the involvement of an IL-10-dependent mechanism. Hence, we examined the effects of exogenous IL-10 on the 5-LO pathway. We demonstrate that IL-10 suppresses the production of LTB4 from DC by inhibiting FLAP protein expression without any effect on 5-LO and cytosolic phospholipase A2. Taken together, our results suggest links between DC cyclooxygenase and 5-LO pathways during the inflammatory response, and FLAP is a key target for the PG-induced IL-10-suppressive effects.
A Role for Stat5 in CD8+ T Cell Homeostasis
Authors: Kelly John , Spolski Rosanne , Imada Kazunori , Bollenbacher Julie , Lee Stephen , Leonard Warren J.
Published: April 2014

Cytokine signals are known to contribute to CD8+ memory T cell homeostasis, but an exact understanding of the mechanism(s) has remained elusive. We have now investigated the role of Stat5 proteins in this process. Whereas Stat5a and Stat5b KO mice have decreased numbers of CD8+ T cells, Stat5-transgenic mice have an increased number of these cells. Stat5b-transgenic mice exhibit increased Ag-induced cell death of CD4+ T cells and augmented proliferation and Bcl-2 expression in CD8+ T cells, providing a basis for this finding. Moreover, CD8+ memory T cells are substantially affected by Stat5 levels. These findings identify Stat5 proteins as critical signaling mediators used by cytokines to regulate CD8+ T cell homeostasis.
Efficient Induction of Primary and Secondary T Cell-Dependent Immune Responses In Vivo in the Absence of Functional IL-2 and IL-15 Receptors
Authors: Yu Aixin , Zhou Jiehao , Marten Norman , Bergmann Cornelia C. , Mammolenti Michele , Levy Robert B. , Malek Thomas R.
Published: April 2014

IL-2 and IL-15 are thought to be important cytokines for T cell-dependent immune responses. Mice deficient in IL-2, IL-2Rα, and IL-2Rβ are each characterized by a rapid lethal autoimmune lymphoproliferative disorder that complicates their use in studies aimed at investigating the role of these cytokines and receptors for immune responses in vivo. We have previously characterized a novel transgenic (Tg) mouse on the IL-2Rβ−/− genetic background (Tg−/− mice) that lacks autoimmune disease but still contains peripheral T cells that are nonresponsive to IL-2 and IL-15. In the present study, these mice were used to investigate the extent by which IL-2 and IL-15 are essential for T cell immunity in vivo. Tg−/− mice generated near normal primary and secondary Ab responses to OVA, readily mounted first and second set allogeneic skin graft rejection responses, and developed primary and recall CD8 T cell responses to vaccinia virus. However, Tg−/− mice generated a slightly lower level of IgG2a Abs to OVA, exhibited a somewhat delayed first set skin graft rejection response with lower allo-specific CTL, and developed a significantly lower number of IFN-γ-producing vaccinia-specific CD8+ T cells. Thus, although T effector function is somewhat impaired, T cell immunity is largely functional in the absence of IL-2- and IL-15-induced signaling through IL-2Rβ.
CD25+ Immunoregulatory CD4 T Cells Mediate Acquired Central Transplantation Tolerance
Authors: Trani Jose , Moore Daniel J. , Jarrett Beth P. , Markmann Joseph W. , Lee Major K. , Singer Andrew , Lian Moh-Moh , Tran Brian , Caton Andrew J. , Markmann James F.
Published: April 2014

Transplantation tolerance is induced reliably in experimental animals following intrathymic inoculation with the relevant donor strain Ags; however, the immunological mechanisms responsible for the induction and maintenance of the tolerant state remain unknown. We investigated these mechanisms using TCR transgenic mice (TS1) that carry T cells specific for an immunodominant, MHC class II-restricted peptide (S1) of the influenza PR8 hemagglutinin (HA) molecule. We demonstrated that TS1 mice reject skin grafts that have transgene-encoded HA molecules (HA104) as their sole antigenic disparity and that intrathymic but not i.v. inoculation of TS1 mice with S1 peptide induces tolerance to HA-expressing skin grafts. Intrathymic peptide inoculation was associated with a dose-dependent reduction in T cells bearing high levels of TCR specific for HA. However, this reduction was both incomplete and transient, with a full recovery of S1-specific thymocytes by 4 wk. Peptide inoculation into the thymus also resulted in the generation of immunoregulatory T cells (CD4+CD25+) that migrated to the peripheral lymphoid organs. Adoptive transfer experiments using FACS sorted CD4+CD25− and CD4+CD25+ T cells from tolerant mice revealed that the former but not the latter maintain the capacity to induce rejection of HA bearing skin allografts in syngeneic hosts. Our results suggest that both clonal frequency reduction in the thymus and immunoregulatory T cells exported from the thymus are critical to transplantation tolerance induced by intrathymic Ag inoculation.
Coexpression of CD58 or CD48 with Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1 on Target Cells Enhances Adhesion of Resting NK Cells
Authors: Barber Domingo F. , Long Eric O.
Published: April 2014

The β2 integrin LFA-1 (CD11a/CD18) mediates adhesion of lymphocytes to cells expressing ICAM. The strength of this adhesion is regulated by different signals delivered by cytokines and chemokines, and by the TCR in the case of T cells. To determine the receptor-ligand interactions required for adhesion of resting NK cells, Drosophila cells expressing different combinations of ligands of human NK cell receptors were generated. Expression of ICAM-1 alone was sufficient for an adhesion of resting NK cells that was sensitive to inhibitors of src family kinase and of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. Binding of resting NK cells to solid-phase ICAM-1 showed similar signaling requirements. A pulse of either IL-2 or IL-15 to resting NK cells resulted in strongly enhanced, actin-dependent adhesion to insect cells expressing ICAM-1 alone. Coexpression of either LFA-3 (CD58) or CD48 with ICAM-1 resulted in strong adhesion by resting NK cells, even in the absence of cytokines. Therefore, receptors for LFA-3 and CD48 on resting NK cells strengthen the adhesion mediated by LFA-1.
High Affinity Xenoreactive TCR:MHC Interaction Recruits CD8 in Absence of Binding to MHC
Authors: Buslepp Jennifer , Kerry Samantha E. , Loftus Doug , Frelinger Jeffrey A. , Appella Ettore , Collins Edward J.
Published: April 2014

The TCR from a xenoreactive murine cytotoxic T lymphocyte clone, AHIII 12.2, recognizes murine H-2Db complexed with peptide p1058 (FAPGFFPYL) as well as human HLA-A2.1 complexed with human self-peptide p1049 (ALWGFFPVL). To understand more about T cell biology and cross-reactivity, the ectodomains of the AHIII 12.2 TCR have been produced in E. coli as inclusion bodies and the protein folded to its native conformation. Flow cytometric and surface plasmon resonance analyses indicate that human p1049/A2 has a significantly greater affinity for the murine AHIII 12.2 TCR than does murine p1058/Db. Yet, T cell binding and cytolytic activity are independent of CD8 when stimulated with human p1049/A2 as demonstrated with anti-CD8 Abs that block CD8 association with MHC. Even in the absence of direct CD8 binding, stimulation of AHIII 12.2 T cells with “CD8-independent” p1049/A2 produces p56lck activation and calcium flux. Confocal fluorescence microscopy and fluorescence resonance energy transfer flow cytometry demonstrate CD8 is recruited to the site of TCR:peptide MHC binding. Taken together, these results indicate that there exists another mechanism for recruitment of CD8 during high affinity TCR:peptide MHC engagement.
CD28/B7 Regulation of Anti-CD3-Mediated Immunosuppression In Vivo
Authors: Tang Qizhi , Smith Judy A. , Szot Greg L. , Zhou Ping , Alegre Maria-Luisa , Henriksen Kammi J. , Thompson Craig B. , Bluestone Jeffrey A.
Published: April 2014

FcR-binding “classical” anti-CD3 mAb is a potent immunosuppressive drug that alters CD4+ and CD8+ T cell function in vivo via anergy induction and programmed cell death (PCD). Anti-CD3-mediated PCD was Fas independent but was mediated by the mitochondria-initiated apoptosis that was abrogated in Bcl-xL-transgenic T cells. The PCD was more pronounced in CD28-deficient mice consistent with defective Bcl-xL up-regulation. Residual T cells isolated from anti-CD3-treated wild-type, CD28−/−, and Bcl-xL-transgenic mice were hyporesponsive. The hyporesponsiveness was more pronounced in CD28−/− and wild-type mice treated with anti-B7-2, suggesting that CD28 interaction with B7-2 regulates T cell responsiveness in anti-CD3-treated animals. Finally, anti-CD3 treatment led to indefinite cardiac allograft survival in wild-type but not Bcl-xL animals. Together these results implicate CD28/B7 signaling in the regulation of both anti-CD3-induced T cell depletion and hyporesponsiveness in vivo, but T cell depletion, not hyporesponsiveness, appears to be critical for anti-CD3 mAb-mediated long-term immune regulation.
Induction of Apoptosis by HIV-1-Infected Monocytic Cells
Authors: Sperber Kirk , Beuria Prarthana , Singha Netai , Gelman Irwin , Cortes Patricia , Chen Houchu , Kraus Thomas
Published: April 2014

We have previously described a soluble 6000-Da peptide produced by an HIV-1-infected human macrophage cell line, clone 43HIV, which induces apoptosis in T and B cells. We have identified this factor as the novel cDNA clone FL14676485 that encodes for the human hypothetical protein, FLJ21908. The FL14676485 cDNA clone was isolated from a 43HIV λ ZAP Escherichia coli expression library and screened with a panel of rabbit and mouse anti-apoptotic Abs. We transfected the FL14676485 clone into Bosc cells and non-HIV-1-infected 43 cells. Western blot analysis of lysates from the FL14676485-transfected 43 cells and Bosc cells using anti-proapoptotic factor Abs revealed a protein with a molecular mass of 66 kDa corresponding to the size of the full-length gene product of the FL14676485 clone, while Western blot of the supernatant demonstrated a doublet of 46-kDa and 6000-Da peptide that corresponds to our previously described proapoptotic factor. Primary HIV-1BaL-infected monocytes also produce the FLJ21908 protein. Supernatants from these transfected cells induced apoptosis in PBMC, CD4+, and CD8+ T and B cells similar to the activity of our previously described proapoptotic factor. PCR analysis of 43 cells and 43HIV cells revealed a base pair fragment of 420 bp corresponding to the FL14676485 gene product in 43HIV cells, but not in 43 cells. The FLJ21908 protein induces apoptosis through activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3. We have further demonstrated that the FLJ21908 protein has apoptotic activity in the SH-SY5Y neuronal cell line and can be detected in brain and lymph tissue from HIV-1-infected patients who have AIDS dementia. The FLJ21908 protein may contribute to the apoptosis and dementia observed in AIDS patients.
Transcutaneous Immunization with Cholera Toxin B Subunit Adjuvant Suppresses IgE Antibody Responses Via Selective Induction of Th1 Immune Responses
Authors: Anjuère Fabienne , George-Chandy Annie , Audant Florence , Rousseau Déborah , Holmgren Jan , Czerkinsky Cecil
Published: April 2014

Topical application of cholera toxin (CT) onto mouse skin can induce a humoral immune response to CT as well as to coadministered Ags. In this study, we examined the nontoxic cell-binding B subunit of CT (CTB) as a potential adjuvant for cutaneous immune responses when coadministered with the prototype protein Ag, OVA. CTB applied onto skin induced serum Ab responses to itself with magnitudes comparable to those evoked by CT but was poorly efficient at promoting systemic Ab responses to coadministered OVA. However, transcutaneous immunization (TCI) with either CT or CTB and OVA led to vigorous OVA-specific T cell proliferative responses. Furthermore, CTB potentiated Th1-driven responses (IFN-γ production) whereas CT induced both Th1 and Th2 cytokine production. Coadministration of the toxic subunit CTA, together with CTB and OVA Ag, led to enhanced Th1 and Th2 responses. Moreover, whereas TCI with CT enhanced serum IgE responses to coadministered OVA, CTB suppressed these responses. TCI with either CT or CTB led to an increased accumulation of dendritic cells in the exposed epidermis and the underlying dermis. Thus, in contrast to CT, CTB appears to behave very differently when given by the transcutaneous as opposed to a mucosal route and the results suggest that the adjuvanticity of CT on Th1- and Th2-dependent responses induced by TCI involves two distinct moieties, the B and the A subunits, respectively.