bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of C1q- and Conglutinin-Binding Immune Complexes with High Consumption of Alpha-2-Macroglobulin in Synovial Fluids of Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Borth Wolfgang , Menzel Johannes E.
Published: August 2009

The consumption of alpha-2-macroglobulin (a2M) by proteinases in synovial fluids (SF) was indirectly measured by determining trypsin binding to solid-phase immunoadsorbed SF-a2M. In addition immune complexes (IC) were assessed by the solid-phase C1q-binding assay as well as the solid-phase conglutinin binding assay in rheumatoid (RA; n = 25) and osteoarthritic (OA; n = 9) SF. Elevated levels were found as follows: a2M · proteinase complexes (a2M P) in 73.5% (RA, n = 20; OA, n = 5), solid-phase C1q-binding IC (C1q-IC) in 52% (13 out of 25 RA-SF) and bovine conglutinin binding IC (KgB-IC) in 54% (13 out of 24 RA-SF). All OA-SF were in either IC assay negative. Consumption of a2M in OA-SF and seronegative RA-SF was not more than 15% of total SF-a2M, showing a mean value of 19.5 and 13.5 μg a2M P/ml SF. Seropositive RA-SF had an a2M P mean value of 96.4 μg/ml SF, which differed significantly (p ≤ 0.05) from the former two groups. Similarly, RA-SF which were negative in either IC assay had a low a2M · P mean value (20.0 μg/ml SF). This contrasted sharply with the a2M P · means obtained in IC-positive RA-SF, which amounted to 131.5 μg a2M P/ml SF in C1q-IC positive RA-SF and to 110.4 μg a2M · P/ml SF in KgB-IC positive RA-SF, respectively. These values differed significantly (p≤0.0005) from the a2M · P mean in IC-negative RA-SF. The presence of IC in the synovial compartment may directly or indirectly enhance liberation of an array of proteinases as reflected by the augmented consumption of the multifunctional proteinase inhibitor a2M.
Relevance of Milk- and Egg-Specific IgG4 in Atopic Eczema
Authors: Shakib F. , Brown H.M. , Stanworth D.R.
Published: August 2009

In a substantial proportion of atopic eczema patients clinical sensitivity to food is not confirmable by either skin prick test or IgE RAST. The diagnosis of provocative food factors in this condition is, therefore, highly dependent on dietary manipulations which are time consuming and sometimes dangerous. In an attempt to find an alternative laboratory procedure we have questioned the clinical relevance of specific IgG4 measurement in the sera of these patients in the light of previous reports demonstrating raised total serum IgG4 in patients with atopic eczema. Thus, a highly reliable ELISA was developed to measure IgG4 specific to 3 cow’s milk proteins and 2 hen’s egg proteins in the sera of milk- and egg-allergic eczema patients and non-eczematous controls. The study provides clear evidence showing that the detection of milk- and egg-specific IgG4 in atopic eczema patients has no clinical value.
Presence of IL 1 Activity in the Supernatant of Human Monocytes Challenged with Purified Allergenic Constituents
Authors: Cavaillon J.-M. , Dandeu J.-P. , Mécheri S. , David B.
Published: August 2009

Purified allergenic constituents from Dermatophagoides farinae mite (Df 11 and Df 6) and from orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata) pollen (F 34) are able to trigger, in the absence of IgE and IgG antibodies, human adherent cells, leading to the secretion of interleukin 1, (IL 1). This secretion was observed with adherent peripheral blood mononuclear cells from normal donors as well as from atopic patients. The IL 1 activity was evaluated by the mice thymocyte mitogenesis in the presence of suboptimal doses of Con A. The secretion of IL 1 by adherent cells was not affected by a cytotoxic treatment with OKT3 monoclonal antibody in the presence of complement, implying a direct action of allergenic fractions, on monocytes, and not through a T-cell pathway. The challenge of human monocytes with allergens in the presence of indomethacin led to culture supernatants for which a higher 3H-thymidine incorporation by mice thymocytes was detected; thus, purified allergens could also trigger the secretion of prostaglandins by human monocytes.
Activation of Distinct T Cell Subsets Involved in IgM Antibody Response of Mice by Pertussis Toxin from Bordetella pertussis Strain Maeno
Authors: Kumazawa Yoshio , Yamada Akira , Ohtani Akio , Fujisawa Haruo , Nishimura Chiaki , Mizunoe Kimifusa
Published: August 2009

T cell activation mechanisms in the spleen induced by pertussis toxin (PT) were investigated. The degree of T cell activation was judged from results of helper activity assessed by measuring the in vitro anti-trinitrophenyl (TNP) IgM antibody response. When mice were injected intraperitoneally with 4 × 105 sheep erythrocytes (SRBC) and concomitantly given an intravenous injection with 10 µg of PT 4 days previously, significant generation of nonspecific helper T cells was observed unless primed T cells were stimulated in vitro with TNP-SRBC. Stimulation with TNP-SRBC resulted in marked suppression of helper activity because it induced generation of suppressor T cells specific for the carrier antigen.
Characterization of the Carbohydrate Moiety in a Partly Purified Allergen Preparation from the Mould Cladosporium herbarum and Its Possible Importance for Allergenic Activity as Tested by RAST-Inhibition
Authors: Swärd-Nordmo Marit , Paulsen Berit Smestad , Wold Jens Kristian , Grimmer Øivind
Published: August 2009

The monosaccharide composition of a partly purified Cladosporium herbarum allergen preparation was found to be mannose, galactose and glucose in the ratio 1:1:0.8. The carbohydrate part of the preparation was quantified to 55% of the dry weight material by means of methanolysis and gas liquid chromatography (GLC) of trimethylsilylated methyl glycosides. The protein content was found to be 25 %, determined by the Lowry method. Methylation analysis and periodate oxidation indicated that the main part of the carbohydrate moiety consists of galactomannans and glucans. It is suggested that the galactomannan is a highly branched polymer with mannopyranose units, 1,2- and 1,6-linked in the main chain, having shorter chains of 1,6-linked galactofuranosyl units linked through position 3 of the 1,6-linked mannopyranose units. The glucan part is probably a mixture of several polymers consisting of 1,3-linked and 1,4-linked glucans. The radioallergosorbent test (RAST) inhibition showed a lower IgE binding capacity for periodate-treated mould preparations, in which sugars containing vicinal diols had been oxidized, suggesting that the carbohydrate moiety may be of importance in IgE binding reaction of allergens. Periodate oxidation did not seem to alter the amino acid composition of the protein.
An ImmunochemicaI Method for Assessing the Function of the Alternative Complement Pathway
Authors: Yoshida Kenzo , Yukiyama Yasushi , Hirose Shun-ichi
Published: August 2009

Activation of the alternative pathway of human complement (C) by soluble C activators resulted in a decrease of C9 antigen, measured by single radial immunodiffusion, concomitant with a decrease of C9 hemolytic activity. In the presence of ethylene glycol bis-(β-aminoethylether)-tetraacetic acid (EGTA) and Mg2+, this decrease of C9 antigen in the presence of soluble activators such as dinitrophenylated bovine serum albumin depends mainly on the activation of the alternative C pathway. Therefore, an assay system to express the total activity of the alternative C pathway in human serum – the C9 depletion test (C9DT) – was devised. C9DT showed significantly lower values for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis than for control patients.
Increased Serum Levels of Antibodies to Epstein-Barr Virus in Adults with History of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Rystedt Ingela , Strannegård Inga-Lisa , Strannegård Örjan
Published: August 2009

Serum antibodies to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), varicella-zoster (VZV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV) were determined in 140 patients with active or healed atopic dermatitis (AD) and 48 control individuals. Antibody titers against EBV were significantly higher in AD patients than in the controls irrespective of whether the AD was active or healed at the time of blood sampling. No difference in EBV antibody titers were observed between AD patients with asthma and/or hay fever and those without such additional atopic manifestations. There was no correlation between EBV antibody titers and serum IgE levels. The frequency of seropositivity and the magnitude of antibody titers against VZV and HSV in AD patients were not significantly different from the controls. Increase in EBV antibody titers may reflect basic immunoregulatory disturbances in AD but it is also possible that EBV may play a role in the pathogenesis of atopic disease.
Modulation of Sulfur Dioxide-Induced Airways Hyperresponsiveness in the Conscious Dog
Authors: Lewis Alan J. , Kirchner Thomas
Published: August 2009

Brief exposure of conscious dogs to 30 ppm SO2 directly into the lungs resulted in a transient bronchoconstriction followed by a period of hypersensitivity to aerosolized methacholine and 5-hydroxytryptamine. The hypersensitivity was maximal 4 h after exposure to SO2. Both Wy-41,195 and disodium cromoglycate, two antiallergic drugs, inhibited the hypersensitivity to methacholine when administered just prior to methacholine challenge. Neither drug significantly influenced SO2-induced bronchospasm nor influenced methacholine hypersensitivity when administered just prior to SO2 exposure. Furthermore, Wy-41,195 was ineffective against methacholine hypersensitivity when administered orally for 4 days. SO2-induced airway hypersensitivity in the dog may thus provide a useful model for exploring mechanisms and pharmacologic modulation of bronchial hyperreactivity, a common feature of asthma.
Physiological and Immunological Effects of Chronic Antigen Exposure in Immunized Guinea Pigs
Authors: Andrew Deborah K. , Schellenberg Robert , Hogg James C. , Hanna Christopher J. , Paré Peter D.
Published: August 2009

Antigenic tolerance was induced in previously sensitized guinea pigs by challenging with ovalbumin (OA) aerosol 1 h/day, 5 days/week for 6 weeks. Reactivity was assessed visually and by lung mechanics. Sera from tolerant and sensitized animals showed comparable titers of antigen-specific antibody by passive cutaneous anaphylaxis with 6-hour, 4-day (heated serum) and 7-day sensitizations. In vitro contractile responses of airway smooth muscle revealed comparable histamine responses in sensitized and tolerant guinea pigs but decreased OA sensitivity in smooth muscle from tolerant animals. Although lung histamine content was equivalent in the two groups, antigen-induced histamine release from chopped lung preparations was significantly less in tolerant animals at a low antigen concentration. We conclude that antigen-induced histamine release is impaired in tolerant animals.
In vitro Responses of Human Asthmatic Airway and Pulmonary Vascular Smooth Muscle
Authors: Schellenberg Robert , Foster Aidan
Published: August 2009

Airway and pulmonary vascular smooth muscle was obtained from the surgically resected lobe of a human asthmatic allergic to grass pollen who presented with an endobronchial carcinoid tumor. Grass antigen induced sustained contractions of bronchial and pulmonary vein, but not pulmonary artery tissue. Capsaicin did not alter the bronchial response to grass antigen. Contractions to leukotrienes B4, C4, D4 and E4 and methacholine were equivalent to those seen in nonasthmatic human lung tissue, whereas those to histamine were strikingly greater and disproportionate to methacholine. The C3a octapeptide Ala-Ala-Ala-Leu-Gly-Leu-Ala-Arg produced contractions of pulmonary vein and pulmonary artery. These findings are compared with those obtained using human lung samples from nonasthmatic individuals.
Localization of Covalent Immune Complexes on the Epithelial Side of the Glomerular Basement Membrane in Mice
Authors: Lew Andrew M. , Tovey George , Steward Michael W.
Published: August 2009

The site of immune complex localization in human glomerulonephritis is important in determining the kind of disease that may develop. Immune complex deposits found on the subepithelial side of the glomerular basement membrane are characteristic of membranous nephropathy, a common and often severe form of human renal disease. The pathogenesis of this disease remains controversial and arguments have recently been put forward that the subepithelial deposits arise from an in situ mechanism. This mechanism involves the initial localization of antigen allowing the antibody to subsequently combine, i.e. the immune complex is formed locally. This mechanism is thus in contrast to that in which immune complexes formed in the circualtion are localized in the glomeruli. Covalent immune complexes do not dissociate and hence are ideal tools for studies to investigate whether complexes are able to cross the glomerular basement membrane. Covalent immune complexes of defined size and antigen-antibody ratio were prepared with a monoclonal antibody and photoaffinity labelling antigen, 4-azido-2-nitro-phenylated bovine serum albumin. When these complexes were injected into mice, complexes of 550,000 MW molecular weight (but not those of 800,000 MW) were shown by electron microscopic autoradiography to localize on the subepithelial side of the glomerular basement membrane. It is thus proposed that small circulating immune complexes may be important in the pathogenesis of subepithelial deposits and there is a need for devising reliable tests for measuring small immune complexes.
Investigation of Ability of the Metal Allergens Cobalt Chloride, Nickel Sulfate and Potassium Dichromate to Give a Mitogenic Response in Human Thymocytes
Authors: Nordlind K. , Henze A.
Published: August 2009

The metal allergens cobalt chloride, nickel sulfate and potassium dichromate were tested for the ability to give a mitogenic response in human thymocytes, both unseparated and Percoll-separated, including a fraction of low density, which has been shown to have characteristics of medullary cells (unsensitized, virgin T cells). With cobalt chloride and potassium dichromate, no stimulation occurred; instead, cobalt chloride at a concentration of 3.5 × 10––5M and potassium dichromate at 5.7 × 10––7M were inhibiting. After nickel sulfate addition, a small DNA synthesis stimulation was obtained in both unseparated cells and in fractionated cells of different densities. The results thus speak against that cobalt chloride and potassium dichromate are unspecific mitogens for human lymphoid cells, while an unspecific mitogenic effect is indicated for nickel sulfate.
Further Studies on the Lymphocyte Transformation Test in Diagnosis of Nickel Allergy
Authors: Nordlind K.
Published: August 2009

Peripheral blood lymphocytes from nickel-allergic and control subjects were fractionated into different subpopulations on the basis of density on Percoll, in an attempt to improve the lymphocyte transformation test in diagnosis of nickel allergy. Significant differences were obtained between the subject groups with cells recovered at densities of 1.046 and 1.058 g/ml, however, a higher significant difference was found in unseparated cells. The results still support the relative value of the transformation test as a diagnostic tool in nickel allergy. In addition, an unspecific mitogenic effect of nickel on lymphocytes is emphasized.
Isolation and Characteristics of Small Intestinal Lamina Propria Cells from Normal and Nematode (Nippostrongylus brasiliensis)-Infected Rats
Authors: Befus Dean , Spencer John A. , McDermott Mark R. , McLaughlin Barney , Bienenstock John
Published: August 2009

Intestinal lamina propria (LP) cells were isolated from normal or nematode (Nippostrongylus brasiliensis-infected rats. At certain times after infection (days 11–17), viable cell recoveries from infected rats were lower, whereas at other times (days 20–50), they were significantly greater than those from normal rats. The frequencies of lymphocytes, plasma cells, eosinophils, mast cells and macrophages from LP differed between normal and infected rats, and the histamine content did also. However, spontaneous 3H-uridine and 3H-thymidine incorporation and the number of cells with cytoplasmic immunoglobulin were similar. LP cells from normal rats were unresponsive to the mitogens phytohemagglutinin, concanavalin A and pokeweed. 125I-deoxyuridine-radiolabeled LP lymphoblasts from normal rats were widely distributed in recipients 22–24 h after transfer and showed no selective predilection to return to the intestine. The isolation procedure can be used to study intestinal LP cells from normal or diseased animals.
Chemotaxis in Experimental Syphilis
Authors: Wicher Konrad , Kalinka Carolyn , Belani Rita , Wicher Victoria
Published: August 2009

Peritoneal exudate leukocytes from normal and Treponema pallidum-infected rabbits were examined for their chemotactic response to various chemoattractants and treponemal preparations. Leukocytes from normal and infected animals responded well to bacterial and serum-derived chemoattractants. Suspensions of washed Treponema phagedenis biotype Reiter but not T. pallidum exerted significant chemotactic activity. Cells from rabbits infected for ≧7 days demonstrated increased locomotion, suggesting the possibility of increased random motility.
Intestinal Absorption of Bacterial Antigens in Normal Adult Mice
Authors: Lim P.L. , Rowley D.
Published: August 2009

The preparation of flagellin (FLA) from Salmonella adelaide and Boivin antigen (BA) from Vibrio cholerae is described. These two antigens differed chemically from each other and showed marked differences in their degradability by mouse intestinal juice in vitro and in their fate in the intact mouse when given intravenously. Unlike BA, FLA was rapidly degraded in intestinal juice and readily sequestered and degraded by the liver. The suitability of these antigens in oral absorption studies is discussed.
Three Epitope-Specific Monoclonal Antibodies against the Hapten Penicillin
Authors: de Haan P. , de Jonge A.J.R. , Verbrugge T. , Boorsma D.M.
Published: August 2009

Three monoclonal antibodies (Pen 4, Pen 7 and Pen 9) were raised against the benzylpenicilloyl group and used to investigate the antigenicity of this group. The binding of Pen 4 to carrier-bound penicillin derivatives was shown in an ELISA to be dependent on the structure of the side chain in the derivative. Hence Pen 4 recognizes this side chain. From the difference in binding to carrier-bound penicillin derivatives in a competitive enzyme immunoassay it was concluded that Pen 7 mainly recognizes the new antigenic determinant which emerges from the binding of the penicillin derivative to a carrier. The binding of Pen 9 to carrier-bound penicillin derivatives was not influenced by the nature of the side chain. Neither was the bound or free nature of the derivative of influence on the binding. Therefore it is concluded that Pen 9 mainly recognizes the thiazolidin ring of penicillin. This study thus shows that in the benzylpenicilloyl group at least three epitopes can be recognized.
Studies on the Significance of the R1 Anti-Reticulin Antibody Associated with Gluten Sensitivity
Authors: Unsworth D.J. , Walker-Smith J.A. , McCarthy D. , Holborow E.J.
Published: August 2009

The R1 type anti-reticulin antibody (ARA) is closely associated with gluten-sensitive enteropathy. It disappears from the circulation within a few weeks of starting on a gluten-free diet and often reappears following gluten challenge. It is not clear how gluten ingestion leads to the production of the ARA. We have investigated four possibilities. (1) The ARA is simply a food antibody generated against meats in the diet. (2) The ARA is an anti-gluten antibody which cross-reacts with reticulin. (3) Gluten binds to gut reticulin in vivo rendering reticulin autoimmunogenic. (4) Immune complexes of gluten and anti-gluten antibody bind to reticulin (by virtue of the affinity that gluten has for reticulin) to give the appearance of an ARA in immunofluorescence tests. Our results do not support any of these possible explanations, and the significance of the ARA remains obscure.
Suppression of IgE Antibody Response against Ovalbumin by the Chemical Conjugate of Ovalbumin with a Polyaspartic Acid Derivative
Authors: Okada M. , Matsushima A. , Katsuhata A. , Aoyama T. , Ando T. , Inada Y.
Published: August 2009

Ovalbumin was modified with α,β-poly[(2-hydroxyethyl)-DL-aspartamide] which had been developed as a nontoxic plasma expander. Preadministration of the modified ovalbumin suppressed both primary and secondary antiovalbumin IgE responses.
Studies on ß-Lactoglobulin as an Experimental Allergen in Rats
Authors: Huang Quingtran , Stanworth Denis R.
Published: August 2009

The allergenicity of bovine Β-Mactoglobulin (Β-LG) in rats was investigated by measurement of both mast cell-bound and circulating IgE antibody produced in response to immunisation with this cow’s milk constituent. The responsiveness of the animals’ peritoneal mast cells to in vitro challenge with Β-LG was determined by measurement of release of radiolabelled 5-hydroxytryptamine. Using aluminium hydroxide gel as adjuvant, the responsiveness of mast cells to Β-LG was transient, peaking at 21 days after immunisation. The optimal dose of injected Β-L·G was 100 µg. Circulating IgE antibody to Β-LG, measured by ELISA, was also detected transiently during the 3rd week post-immunisation.
Enhancement of IgE-Dependent Eosinophil Cytotoxicity to Dinitrophenylated Schistosomula by a Nematode Infection
Authors: Kojima S. , Yamamoto N. , Kanazawa T. , Shigematsu H. , Ovary Z.
Published: August 2009

In order to obtain direct evidence for the involvement of IgE in the eosinophil-mediated cytotoxicity, dinitrophenylated (DNP) schistosomula of Schistosoma japonicum coated with monoclonal IgE antibodies were examined as to whether they were killed by rat peritoneal eosinophils. The results indicated that the cytotoxicity of the eosinophils was dependent on a mouse monoclonal anti-DNP IgE antibody, but not on another monoclonal antibody specific to ovalbumin. Moreover, an enhanced cytotoxicity was observed when eosinophils were obtained from rats 4 weeks after infection with Nippostrongylus brasiliensis.
Hapten-Specific Prophylaxis of Murine Contact Sensitivity by DNP-Amino Acid Derivatives
Authors: Katayama Ichiro , Nishioka Kiyoshi
Published: August 2009

In mice, the elicitation of DNFB contact skin reaction was suppressed by the intravenous injection of relatively small amounts of DNP-amino acid conjugates when given at the same time of challenge test. Maximal suppression achieved was around 70% when optimal doses of DNP-amino acid were administered. The suppressive activity of 4 different amino acids, i.e., DNP-L-lysine, DNP-S-cysteine, DNP-alanine, and DNP-glycine, was nearly the same, respectively. This inhibitory effect was hapten-specific, and it failed to suppress the strong skin reaction elicited in cyclophosphamide-pretreated mice. Using the lymphocyte culture system, low doses of DNP-amino acid also suppressed the antigen-specific proliferation of sensitized lymph node cells (T prlf). Preincubation of sensitized cells with DNP-amino acid eliminated the transfer activity of T-DH cells as demonstrated previously. The mixture of lymph node cells and spleen cells from DNP-L-lysine-treated mice in vivo also suppressed the elicitation of skin reaction when transferred to recipient mice sensitized 5 days previously. Transfer studies demonstrated that this suppression was mediated by Lyt 1.2 (+), Thy 1.2 positive cells in vivo.
Complement Anaphylatoxins in Idiopathic Mixed Cryoglobulinemia
Authors: Miadonna Antonio , Leggieri Ennio , Tedeschi Alberto , Cottini Marcello , Invernizzi Fulvio , Froldi Marco , Zanussi Carlo
Published: August 2009

Basophil activation, observed in patients with idiopathic mixed cryoglobulinemia, has been related to the complement anaphylatoxins C4a, C3a and C5a. In the present study the plasma levels of the complement anaphylatoxins have been evaluated in 21 patients affected with idiopathic mixed cryoglobulinemia. The plasma concentration of C3a desArg was significantly higher in the patients than in the healthy controls; conversely the plasma values of C4a desArg were significantly lower. C5a desArg was not detectable in plasma from any subject. The high plasma level of C3a desArg in our patients may suggest a role for C3a anaphylatoxin in ‘in vivo’ basophil activation. No correlation was found between the plasma concentrations of C3a desArg or C4a desArg, the amount of cryoprecipitate and the clinical activity of the disease.
Inhibition of Rat Peritoneal Mast Cell Histamine Secretion by Protoporphyrin and Incandescent Light
Authors: Abhold Raymond H. , Leid Wesley , Magnuson James A. , Hegreberg Gerald A.
Published: August 2009

Rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) exposed to protoporphyrin (PP) and incandescent light (IL) become refractory to the stimulatory effects of compound 48/80. Once initiated, this refractory state continues to develop even after removal of the light source and is essentially complete within 30 min. While this state of unresponsiveness appears to be relatively permanent in the dark, prolonged incubation in the light (> 80 min) induces cell lysis. We have shown that the resistant state is not specific for the mast cell stimulator compound 48/ 80. Mast cells passively sensitized with IgE and illuminated for 30 min in the presence of 100 ng/ml PP also fail to release histamine upon stimulation by anti-rat IgE, anti-rat F(ab′)2, concanavalin-A (Con-A), and the calcium ionophore A23187. The inability to respond to immunological stimuli could not be ascribed to the reversible loss of membrane-bound IgE from its receptor. While the binding of either the inducer to IgE or IgE to its receptor may actually be impaired in refractory cells, the significance of such impairments on the development of the resistant state in these cells is precluded by the inability of A23187 to either increase intracellular 45Ca2+ levels or induce histamine release. The data suggest that the RPMC refractory state develops as a result of covalent inter- and/or intramolecular cross-linking of membrane proteins. Furthermore, this cross-linking may involve sulfhydryl or amino groups essential to either stimulus transduction, or the histamine secretory process itself.
Studies on Allergen and Allergoid Preparations from Purified Timothy (Phleum pratense) Pollen Extracts
Authors: Wihl J.Å. , Pilström L. , Maasch H.J.
Published: August 2009

The allergenic activities of allergen (GEN) and allergoid (GOID) preparations from partially purified timothy pollen extract were investigated in quantitative skin prick tests and nasal provocation tests. In skin prick test GOID yielded significantly less activity than GEN. Approximately 90 times more protein of GOID than of GEN was necessary to elicit wheals of the same mean size as 1 mg/ml histamine control solution (1 HEP). In nasal provocation the patients seemed to react differently with respect to their nasal sensitivity to GOID. One group of patients showed equal sensitivity to GOID and GEN, whereas the second group showed higher thresholds to GOID. These differences in nasal sensitivity to GOID could be of practical value to predict the optimal dosage schedule for the treatment of patients with GOID.
Induction of a Transient Reaginic Antibody to Tartrazine in an Animal Model
Authors: Nicklin S. , Miller Klara
Published: August 2009

The capacity of tartrazine to initiate reaginic antibody production was investigated in inbred rats. Parenteral administration of tartrazine, when covalently linked to a protein carrier and presented in association with carrageenan, resulted in the production of a transient tartrazine-specific reaginic antibody. This response could be enhanced by a secondary challenge, but declined rapidly and thereafter could not be reelicited.
Unresponsiveness to Experimental Allergic Encephalomyelitis in Lewis Rats Pretreated with Complete Freund’s Adjuvant
Authors: Hempel Klaus , Freitag Anneli , Freitag Barbara , Endres Brigitte , Mai Barbara , Liebaldt Gerhard
Published: August 2009

A single injection of complete Freund’s adjuvant blended with aluminum hydroxide gel (ALU-CFA) was successfully used to prevent clinical as well as histologic experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) in Lewis rats for more than 330 days. Adjuvant preparations with Mycobacterium tuberculosis were more potent than those with Mycobacterium butyricum. Neither the removal of the ALU-CFA inoculum nor a splenectomy 1 month after immunization arrested the adjuvant induced unresponsiveness. However cyclophosphamide restored responsiveness in more than half of the treated animals when applied 2 days before the encephalitogenic challenge at a dose of 20 mg/kg. Passive EAE was not prevented by the ALU-CFA pretreatment. The disease was induced by the transfer of 4 × 106 T lymphocytes of a cell line reactive against myelin basic protein. This indicates that the adjuvant prevents EAE at the inductive rather than at the effector phase of the autoimmune response.
Effect of Different Sulfonamides on the Human Serum Complement System
Authors: von Zabern I. , Nolte R. , Przyklenk H. , Vogt W.
Published: August 2009

Incubation of normal human serum with different sulfonamides led to a dose-dependent inactivation of total hemolytic complement activity. A decrease of the activities of C1, C2, C3, C5 and one or several of the components C6–9 was observed after treatment of normal human serum with the sulfonamide sulfisomidine. Inactivation of complement components by sulfonamides seems to result from direct interaction with the drug as well as, to a minor extent, from activation of the alternative pathway. At relatively high concentrations, sulfonamides caused a conformational change in C3 and C4. The observed structural change is equivalent to that induced by cleavage of the internal thiolester bond in these molecules. The generation of such structurally altered C3 (C3b-like C3) as well as an antagonizing effect of sulfonamides towards the action of the regulatory protein factor I might be responsible for alternative pathway activation. The physiological relevance in vivo of the observed effects of sulfonamides remains to be assessed.
Selective Antilymphocyte Sera (SAL) in Bone Marrow Transplantation
Authors: Anderson M.J.D. , Schmitz N. , Müller-Hermelink H.K. , Müller-Ruchholtz W.
Published: August 2009

In experimental animals, graft-versus-host reactions can be prevented, even in fully MHC-allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) by in vitro elimination of mature T cells and their committed precursors from donor bone marrow with a selectively lymphocytotoxic heterologous antiserum. Application of this concept to clinical BMT has previously been hampered by the lack of antibodies of appropriately selective specificity. We describe here the production and characterization of highly selective lymphocytotoxic antisera against mature human T cells and lymphoid precursors using cultured cell lines.
Antigenic Competition in the Induction of Contact Sensitivity in the Guinea Pig
Authors: Polak L.
Published: August 2009

The antigen-presenting capability of macrophage modified with a single hapten (dinitrofluorobenzene) is partially or totally abolished by an additional haptenation with a second related (picrylchloride) or unrelated (oxazolone) hapten. This effect, ‘antigenic competition’, is only partially mediated by suppressor cells. There also seems to be an inhibition of the association of the hapten with particular la antigens. The prerequisite for antigenic competition is that both hapten responses are controlled by the same immune response gene. Hapten responses which are controlled by different genes, e.g., dinitronuorobenzene, picrylchloride, and oxazolone on the one hand and benzilidene acetone on the other, do not compete. The pattern of competition thus varies with the strain of guinea pig.
Different Mechanisms of Macrophage Activation with Guinea Pig Macrophage Activation Factor, Lipopolysaccharide and Muramyl Dipeptide
Authors: Onozaki Kikuo , Hashimoto Tatsuichiro
Published: August 2009

The mechanism of macrophage activation was studied using three activating substances, guinea pig macrophage activation factor (MAF), lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and muramyl dipeptide (MDP). Guinea pig peritoneal exudate macrophages were activated to exhibit the accelerated glucose consumption in response to these activating substances. Calmodulin-specifïc inhibitors, trifluoperazine and No. 233, inhibited macrophage activation with MAF and LPS, while these inhibitors did not affect the activation with MDP. Ca2+ uptake into macrophages was enhanced in MAF-treated macrophages, but LPS and MDP did not affect the Ca2+ uptake. Methylamine and ethylamine, inhibitors of transglutaminase-dependent protein internalization into cells and/or of lysosomal enzymes, effectively inhibited the activating effect of LPS, but not those of MAF and MDP. These results suggest that Ca2+ and calmodulin play a role in macrophage activation with MAF, and neither transglutaminase-dependent internalization nor lysosomal enzymes participate in the activation process. In case of LPS, internalization into cells would be necessary for its activating effect. The processing of LPS by lysosomal enzymes may also be required. Calmodulin may be responsible for LPS internalization. On the contrary, since the activating effect of MDP was not affected by any of these inhibitors, the mechanism of activation with MDP remains obscure. Thus, the mechanisms of macrophage activation with MAF, LPS and MDP appear to be different from each other.
Interferon in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis (EAE): Effects of Exogeneous Interferon on the Antigen-Enhanced Adoptive Transfer of EAE
Authors: Abreu Sergio L.
Published: August 2009

The transfer of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) can be enhanced by incubating lymph node cells (LNC) from EAE rats with myelin basic protein (MBP). Addition of rat fibroblast interferon (RflFN) to cultures of EAE-LNC just before the addition of MBP, resulted in the inhibition of the adoptive transfer of EAE. Both development of clinical signs, such as weight loss and hind limb paralysis, and histopathological lesions, lymphocytic perivascular infiltrates of the central nervous system, were inhibited by the addition of RflFN to a final concentration of 300 U/ml or higher. This inhibition was dose dependent and appeared to be mediated primarily by the antiproliferative action of RfIFN.
In vitro Synthesis of IgE by Human Peripheral Blood Leucocytes
Authors: Turner K.J. , Holt P.G. , Hobday J.D. , Cameron K.J. , Holt B.J.
Published: August 2009

The assessment of IgE production in cultures of T- and B-cells from peripheral blood is proving a useful tool to probe IgE immunoregulation in human atopies. The present study contrasts secretion and synthesis as indices of IgE production, and demonstrates that these measures yield comparable data upon the magnitude and direction of regulatory T-cell effects (help vs. suppression) in severe atopies. The majority of peripheral blood B-cell samples from the atopies in this study exhibited spontaneous IgE synthesis and secretion, and in vitro T-cell help and suppression were observed with equal frequency within the sample population. Repeated testing of individual atopies indicated that the direction of T-cell effects remained stable in some (but not all) atopies over periods as long as 3 years.
Chronic Cutaneous Granulomatous Dermopathy: Morphologic and Serologic Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis and Pharmacologic Control
Authors: McGrath Kris G. , Roenigk Henry H. , Phair John J. , Patterson Roy
Published: August 2009

We report on a syndrome of disfiguring lower extremity cutaneous lesions of 6 years duration. Previous medical evaluations included 5 skin biopsies and several therapeutic regimens which did not alter the course of illness. The histologic interpretations of skin biopsies included panniculitis, papulonecrosis, and granuloma. One biopsy was interpreted as a localized cutaneous vasculitis with a wedge-shaped infarct. Infectious, collagen vascular, and factitious etiologies could not be demonstrated to explain the patient’s lesions. The Chicago Dermatological Society included in their differential diagnosis bacterial allergy, including the tuberculoid reaction. Mycobacterium tuberculosis as the etiology was dismissed by negative cultures, histologic staining and failure of response to antituberculous therapy. Our report includes a series of immunologic tests that might be consistent with but do not definitively establish a bacterial hypersensitivity reaction to explain this patient’s skin lesions. Despite a lack of proven etiology dramatic improvement occurred with corticosteroid therapy.
Specificity of Antibodies to Newcastle Disease Virus
Authors: Powell John A. , Kano Kyoichi , Milgrom Felix
Published: August 2009

Specificity of antibodies to Victoria strain of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) found in infectious mononucleosis (IM) and other pathologic sera was investigated by agglutination of NDV-modified human·red blood cells, as well as by immunodiffusion and enzyme immunoassay with various preparations of the virus. These studies clearly demonstrated that the NDV antibodies are distinct from P-B or H-D antibodies. The unexpected observation that guinea pig kidney (GPK) tissues absorbed NDV antibodies allowed their classification into a group of ‘GPK-positive’ heterophile antibodies. The simultaneous occurrence of the NDV antibodies and H-D antibodies in IM and other diseases suggests the possibility that multiple new antigenic determinants, especially those of carbohydrate nature, may appear due to the alteration of self-antigens as a result of various pathologic processes.
Enhancement of Immune Responses in Tumor-Bearing Mice after Administration of cis-Diamino-dichloro-platinum (II)
Authors: Mena Andrade , Orbach-Arbouys S. , Mathé G.
Published: August 2009

Following the intraperitoneal injection of cis-diamino-dichloro-platinum (II) (CDDP) into tumor-bearing mice, two immune responses were augmented. The total splenic plaque-forming cells response to sheep red blood cells and the delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to oxazolone were higher in treated animals than in the control groups. This observation may be relevant in the establishment of clinical protocols associating CDDP and other cytotoxic drugs.
Leukocyte Procoagulant Activity as an in vitro Index of Nickel Contact Hypersensitivity
Authors: Aldridge R.D. , Milton J.I. , Thomson A.W.
Published: August 2009

Following 20-hour incubation with nickel sulphate, peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with nickel contact dermatitis showed increased procoagulant activity compared with healthy controls. The Ni-induced response was dose-related and specific as judged by the use of cobalt as a control. This convenient new assay may prove valuable not only in contact dermatitis, but also in other types of skin disorder where at present there are no satisfactory in vivo or in vitro methods of assessment.
Suppression of Murine IgE Responses with Amino Acid Polymer/Allergen Conjugates
Authors: Wheeler A.W. , Henderson D.C. , Garman A.J. , Moran D.M.
Published: August 2009

Treatment with conjugates of polysarcosine and grass pollen allergen extracts efficiently suppressed the induction of IgE responses in mice. The suppressive activity was shown to be allergen-specific and required covalent linking of the polysarcosine. Inhibitory effects could be overcome by booster injections of native allergen when these were given 3–4 weeks after treatment with conjugates. Administration of conjugates had only marginal effects on established IgE responses. The variance of these results with those of other studies on IgE suppression and the suitability of murine models for investigating reaginic antibody suppression are discussed.
Suppressive Effect of Iron on in vitro Lymphocyte Function: Formation of Iron Polymers as a Possible Explanation
Authors: Soyano A. , Fernández E. , Romano E.
Published: August 2009

The evidence presented here indicates that ferric citrate inhibits both the phytohemagglutinin-induced lymphocyte proliferation and the formation of E rosettes by T lymphocytes. These inhibitory effects are only observed in the presence of ferric citrate with a metal to ligand molar ratio of (1:1) but not with ferric citrate (1:20) or sodium citrate. Since ferric citrate (1:1) at a physiological pH tends to hydrolyze and polymerize, we suggest that the inhibitory effect is mediated by the formation of iron polymers.
In vitro Synthesis of Human IgE: Reappraisal of a 5-Year Study
Authors: Ricci M. , Del Prete G.F. , Maggi E. , Lanzavecchia A. , Sala P.G. , Romagnani S.
Published: August 2009

In the last 5 years some models of human IgE production in vitro have been investigated in our laboratory. Spontaneous IgE synthesis was found in cultures of B cells from most patients with atopic dermatitis or atopic patients with multiple sensitivities and from some patients with pollenosis, but only during the pollination period. A small and variable increase of the spontaneous IgE synthesis was induced by soluble factor(s) produced by T cells from patients with severe atopy. Selected helper T cell clones were also able to induce IgE synthesis in vitro by both atopic and normal B cells.
Assessment of Histamine Release and Kinin Formation in Man: Identification of Kinin Degradation Products and Characterization of a Lymphocyte-Dependent Histamine Releasing Factor
Authors: Kaplan Allen P. , Sheikh Iftikhar , Frendscho Mary Haak
Published: August 2009

Factors traditionally associated with histamine release include IgE antibody plus antigen and the anaphylatoxins C3a, C4a, and C5a. Yet histamine release is thought to occur in disorders such as chronic urticaria, atopic dermatitis, and contact dermatitis in which the above mechanisms do not appear operative. We have partially purified a factor from stimulated human mononuclear cells which causes basophil histamine release. It is homogeneous by gel filtration with a molecular weight of about 35,000 daltons and has two molecular forms when assessed by ion exchange chromatography, isoelectrofocusing in gels and chromatofocusing. The purified material, when radiolabeled, gives a single band upon two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and radioautography. This factor may therefore represent one mechanism in which delayed hypersensitivity and histamine release are linked. We are also developing methods to better assess the kinin-forming system in allergic diseases. Assays for enzyme inhibitor complexes are the most sensitive and specific methods for inferring activation in plasma. These include quantitation of activated Hageman factor-CĪ INH complexes and kalli-krein-CĪ INH complexes each of which appears elevated in cutaneous late-phase reactions. However, bradykinin assessment is fraught with difficulties including spurious generation and rapid inactivation. Using high performance liquid chromatography we have separated bradykinin from kallidin, des-Arg9-bradykinin (the degradation product of carboxypeptidase N) as well as the fragments Arg-Pro-Pro-Gly-Phe, Ser-Pro, and Phe-Arg, the degradation products formed by angiotensin-converting enzyme. These can be assayed in purified mixtures, can be detected upon addition of bradykinin to human plasma and are formed by kaolin treatment of plasma.
New Developments in Immunopathology with Special Reference to Complement and Immune Complexes
Authors: Frank Michael M.
Published: August 2009

The last few years have seen rapid advances in our understanding of immune phenomena, and these are now being translated into a new understanding of immunopathology. This paper reviews a number of areas where important new knowledge has been gained in the area of complement and immune complexes as a cause of disease. An understanding of the role of the metabolism of complement proteins has led to an understanding of how these proteins interact with receptors to cause phagocytosis. New understanding of the lysis-producing steps has led to new diagnostic tests for complement-induced damage as well as new knowledge of how complement functions to kill microorganisms. New methods for purifying anaphylatoxins have made these proteins available for study in man. A model of serum sickness in man has allowed for the more detailed understanding of how immune complexes cause disease and has led to the appreciation of new clinical signs of immune-complex-mediated disease in man.
Interactions between Mast Cells, Fibroblasts and Connective Tissue Components
Authors: Atkins Fred M. , Friedman Marc M. , Subba Rao Pillarisetti V. , Metcalfe Dean D.
Published: August 2009

It has long been recognized that mast cells occur throughout connective tissues. Histologic studies have revealed that such cells release their granules into the surrounding environment upon exposure to both immunologic and nonimmunologic stimuli. By microscopy these extracellular granules appeared to be phagocytosed by fibroblasts and by blood-borne phagocytic cells as they entered the site of mast cell degranulation. Such in vivo observations led to the suggestion that mast cells both altered connective tissue components and influenced fibroblast function through these discharged granules. Recent in vitro studies using cultured fibroblasts and isolated mast cells and mast cell granules have confirmed both these hypotheses. In addition, such studies have also documented that fibroblasts degrade ingested mast cell granules. Such studies document that a number of critical interactions may occur between mast cells and connective tissue components.
Studies on Human Basophil Releasability
Authors: Marone G. , Poto S. , Giugliano R. , Bonini S.
Published: August 2009

Basophil releasability is an important parameter in several pathophysiological conditions. In normal donors, the maximum percent histamine release and cell sensitivity to rabbit anti-Fcε (anti-IgE) is correlated with the age of cell donors. A positive correlation between serum IgE level and anti-IgE-induced histamine release was found in subjects below 20 years old. The response to formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (f-met peptide) was significantly reduced in subjects above 60 years old. In twins, IgE-mediated releasability and serum IgE levels appear to be controlled by two different genetic mechanisms. Basophils of patients with atopic dermatitis were more responsive than those of control subjects of matched ages to anti-IgE.
Naturally Occurring Flavonoids and Human Basophil Histamine Release
Authors: Middleton, Jr. Elliott , Drzewiecki Gary
Published: August 2009

Naturally occurring plant flavonoids, normal dietary constituents, affect a variety of cell activation phenomena including the secretion of histamine from human basophils stimulated by a variety of agents (antigen, anti-IgE, concanavalin A, ionophore A23187, formyl-Met-Leu-Phe and tetradecanoyl phorbol acetate). Variable profiles of inhibition are seen depending on the nature of the stimulus and the chemical structure of flavonoids.
Prevalence of Asthma in the South Fore People of the Okapa District of Papua New Guinea
Authors: Turner Keven J. , Dowse Gary K. , Stewart Geoffrey A. , Alpers Michael P. , Woolcock Ann J.
Published: August 2009

The prevalence of asthma in a population of the South Fore linguistic group of the Eastern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea has shown a remarkable increase in the last decade and is now 7.3% in adults and 0.6% in children. Allergy to house dust mite appears to play a major role in the disease pathogenesis. The low childhood prevalence may be associated with endemic parasitism which operates by suppressing production of IgE antibodies to ubiquitous allergens. This suppression is significantly correlated with age in boys of 6–20 years, but not for girls who retain low serum titres throughout the entire age range. Bronchial reactivity, assessed by histamine inhalation test, does not identify asymptomatic children who may be potential asthmatic subjects suggesting that, in this population, bronchial hyperreactivity follows the development of immunological hypersensitivity.