bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Somatic variation precedes extensive diversification of germline sequences and combinatorial joining in the evolution of immunoglobulin heavy chain diversity.
Authors: Hinds-Frey K R , Nishikata H , Litman R T , Litman G W
Published: June 2004

In Heterodontus, a phylogenetically primitive shark species, the variable (VH), diversity (DH), joining (JH) segments, and constant (CH) exons are organized in individual approximately 18-20-kb "clusters." A single large VH family with > 90% nucleic acid homology and a monotypic second gene family are identified by extensive screening of a genomic DNA library. Little variation in the nucleotide sequences of DH segments from different germline gene clusters is evident, suggesting that the early role for DH was in promoting junctional diversity rather than contributing unique coding specificities. A gene-specific oligodeoxynucleotide screening method was used to relate specific transcription products (cDNAs) to individual gene clusters and showed that gene rearrangements are intra- rather than intercluster. This provides further evidence for restricted diversity in the immunoglobulin heavy chain of Heterodontus, from which it is inferred that combinatorial diversity is a more recently acquired means for generating diversity. The observed differences between cDNA sequences selected and the sequences of segmental elements derived from conventional genomic libraries as well as from VH segment-specific libraries generated by direct PCR amplification of genomic DNA indicate that the VH repertoire is diversified by both junctional diversity and somatic mutation. Taken together, these findings suggest a heretofore unrecognized contribution of somatic variation that preceded both extensive diversification of the germline repertoire and the combinatorial joining process in the evolution of humoral immunity.
Diversification, not use, of the immunoglobulin VH gene repertoire is restricted in DiGeorge syndrome.
Authors: Haire R N , Buell R D , Litman R T , Ohta Y , Fu S M , Honjo T , Matsuda F , de la Morena M , Carro J , Good R A
Published: June 2004

Immunoglobulin (Ig) genes were isolated from unamplified conventional as well as polymerase chain reaction-generated cDNA libraries constructed from the peripheral blood cells of a patient with complete DiGeorge syndrome. Comparison of the sequences of 36 heavy chain clones to the recently expanded database of human VH genes permitted identification of the germline VH genes that are expressed in this patient as well as placement of 19 of these genes in a partially resolved 0.8-mb region of the human VH locus. The pattern of VH gene use does not resemble the fetal (early) repertoire. However, as in the fetal repertoire, there are a number of cDNAs derived from germline genes that previously have been identified as autoantibodies. Two D mu sequences also were identified, as was another sequence resulting from a unique recombination event linking JH to an unidentified sequence containing a recombination signal sequence-like heptamer. All of the DiGeorge cDNAs are closely related to germline VH genes, showing little or no evidence of somatic mutation. In contrast, comparably selected IgM VH sequences derived from normal adult and age-matched human libraries, and from a second DiGeorge syndrome patient in whom the degree of thymic dysfunction is much less severe, exhibit considerable evidence of somatic mutation. The absence of somatic mutation is consistent with the atypical development of functional antibody responses associated with complete DiGeorge syndrome and implicates a role for T cells in the generation of diversity within the B cell repertoire.
Bovine gamma/delta T cells bind E-selectin via a novel glycoprotein receptor: first characterization of a lymphocyte/E-selectin interaction in an animal model.
Authors: Walcheck B , Watts G , Jutila M A
Published: June 2004

E-Selectin is an inducible adhesion protein expressed by endothelial cells and recognized by leukocytes during their extravasation from the blood into inflamed tissues. Originally, E-selectin was defined as a myeloid cell-specific adhesion protein, but recent studies have shown it to be recognized by human lymphocytes as well. These lymphocytes represent a memory T cell subset and have been shown to express the HECA-452 carbohydrate epitope (CLA+ lymphocytes). We extend these findings and show that ruminant gamma/delta T cells bind E-selectin as well; and we provide preliminary evidence that this interaction is mediated by a novel glycoprotein receptor on the lymphocyte. Unlike conventional T cells (alpha/beta T cells), gamma/delta T cells from neonatal and mature animals bind E-selectin, suggesting that prior antigen stimulation and differentiation to a memory lymphocyte are not required for this interaction. Neuraminidase treatment of the gamma/delta T cells or addition of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) to the assay abrogates binding, demonstrating the importance of sialic acid and divalent cations, which is consistent with other E-selectin-mediated adhesion events. However, previously defined E-selectin carbohydrate ligands, such as sialyl Lewis x on neutrophils and the HECA-452 epitope on human memory lymphocytes, are antigenically different than the carbohydrates on ruminant gamma/delta T cells since the mAbs CSLEX and HECA-452 do not recognize these cells. Protease treatment of gamma/delta T cells significantly inhibits their binding to E-selectin; however, previously characterized adhesion glycoproteins, such as L-selectin, CD44, and CD18, are not involved in the adhesive event. An E-selectin affinity column purifies a single glycoprotein of 250 kD (280 kD under reducing conditions) from gamma/delta T cell detergent lysates. Neuraminidase digestion of the 250-kD product as well as EDTA abolishes binding to E-selectin. Finally, E-selectin expression in vivo appears to mediate gamma/delta T cell accumulation. Stimulation of bovine skin with tumor necrosis factor alpha induced an increase in E-selectin expression that was associated with an influx of gamma/delta T cells at the same site.
Human keratinocyte growth factor effects in a porcine model of epidermal wound healing.
Authors: Staiano-Coico L , Krueger J G , Rubin J S , D'limi S , Vallat V P , Valentino L , Fahey T , Hawes A , Kingston G , Madden M R
Published: June 2004

Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) is a member of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family (hence the alternative designation FGF-7). It is produced by stromal cells, but acts as a mitogen for epithelial cells. We examined the effects of topically applied KGF on healing of wounds in a porcine model. In partial-thickness wounds, KGF stimulated the rate of reepithelialization (p < 0.0002), associated with a thickening of the epidermis (p < 0.0001). Epidermis from KGF-treated full-thickness wound sites was significantly thicker (0.31 +/- 0.22 mm) compared with mirror image control sites (0.18 +/- 0.12 mm) (p < 0.0001). Moreover, the majority (77%) of KGF-treated wounds exhibited epidermis with a deep rete ridge pattern as compared with control sites. These effects were observed as early as 14 d and persisted for at least 4 wk. KGF treatment also increased the number of serrated basal cells associated with increased deposition of collagen fibers in the superficial dermis adjacent to the acanthotic epidermis. Electron microscopy revealed better developed hemidesmosomes associated with thicker bundles of tonofilaments in the serrated cells. The pattern of epidermal thickening observed in KGF-treated wounds resembled psoriasis. Psoriasis is a disease associated with epidermal thickening, parakeratosis as well as hyperproliferation that extends beyond the basal layer. In striking contrast to psoriasis, KGF-treated wounds exhibited normal orthokeratotic maturation, and proliferation was localized to the basal cells. Our present findings have significant implications concerning the role of KGF as a paracrine modulator of epidermal proliferation and differentiation.
Prokaryotic peptides that block leukocyte adherence to selectins.
Authors: Rozdzinski E , Burnette W N , Jones T , Mar V , Tuomanen E
Published: June 2004

Pertussis toxin binds target cells through the carbohydrate recognition properties of two subunits, S2 and S3, which share amino acid sequence similarity with the lectin domains of the eukaryotic selectin family. Selectins appear on inflamed endothelial cells and promote rolling of leukocytes by reversibly binding carbohydrates. S2, S3, and synthetic peptides representing their carbohydrate recognition domains competitively inhibited adherence of neutrophils to selectin-coated surfaces and to endothelial cells in vitro. These proteins and peptides also rapidly upregulated the function of the leukocyte integrin CD11b/CD18. These findings implicate mimicry of eukaryotic selectins by prokaryotic adhesive ligands and link the mechanisms underlying leukocyte trafficking to microbial pathogenesis.
Transforming growth factor beta: is it a downregulator of stem cell inhibition by macrophage inflammatory protein 1 alpha?
Authors: Maltman J , Pragnell I B , Graham G J
Published: June 2004

Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) and macrophage inflammatory protein 1 alpha (MIP-1 alpha) have recently been identified as potent inhibitors of hemopoietic stem cell proliferation. From previous studies, these molecules appear to have similar functions in the control of stem cell proliferation. This study was designed to investigate the relationship, if any, between these two negative regulators in an attempt to elucidate possible distinctive roles for each within the hemopoietic system. We report here that both MIP-1 alpha and TGF-beta are capable of inhibiting the same stem cell population (colony-forming unit [CFU]-A/CFU-S) with similar potencies. We further show that TGF-beta potently inhibits MIP-1 alpha gene expression in bone marrow-derived macrophages, the presumed source of MIP-1 alpha in the bone marrow. This inhibition is not specific to MIP-1 alpha in that expression of MIP-1 beta, a related molecule that does not exhibit potent stem cell inhibitory properties, is inhibited in a similar manner. The inhibition of MIP-1 alpha gene expression is also seen as a reduction in MIP-1 alpha protein production, which markedly decreases 24 h after treating RAW 264.7 cells, a murine macrophage cell line, with TGF-beta. These in vitro results suggest that in the presence of active TGF-beta in vivo, and in the absence of upregulators of MIP-1 alpha transcription, very little MIP-1 alpha will be produced. To address how MIP-1 alpha's target cells, the stem cells, would respond to TGF-beta, and the consequently low levels of MIP-1 alpha produced, we analyzed the effect of TGF-beta on MIP-1 alpha receptor levels on FDCP-MIX cells, a murine stem cell line. We show that TGF-beta (100 pM) reversibly downregulates MIP-1 alpha receptor levels on these cells to a maximum of 50-70% after 24 h. This level of downregulation does not change upon increasing the concentration of TGF-beta or the length of exposure of the cells to TGF-beta. Scatchard analysis shows that TGF-beta downregulates MIP-1 alpha receptor numbers with no change in affinity of the remaining receptors. These results suggest that TGF-beta may be capable of interfering with MIP-1 alpha's role as a stem cell inhibitor. Indeed, they suggest that in the presence of active TGF-beta in vivo, MIP-1 alpha is at best a weak contributor to the overall physiological inhibition of stem cells.
A tumor escape variant that has lost one major histocompatibility complex class I restriction element induces specific CD8+ T cells to an antigen that no longer serves as a target.
Authors: Seung S , Urban J L , Schreiber H
Published: June 2004

After loss of expression of a major histocompatibility complex class I Kk allele, the escape variant of an immunogenic tumor grows progressively in normal mice. This progressor variant is resistant to killing by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) directed against the A and B antigens presented by Kk. Although the variant retains the expression of the Dk allele and is sensitive to CTLs directed against the C antigen presented by Dk, the variant failed to induce CTLs to this antigen in vivo. Instead, the variant induced CD8+ T cells directed to the A antigen. This was shown at the molecular level by T cell receptor beta chain sequence analysis of the responding cells. Further evidence for the presence of A antigen in the variant came from the finding that spleen cells of mice injected intraperitoneally with the variant tumor cells were primed for an anti-A CD8+ CTL response in vivo. Thus, in contrast to other variants that lost a target antigen and induced a CTL response to remaining target antigens, the Kk loss variant continued to induce an immune response to a tumor antigen that is no longer presented on the tumor cell surface. Even though the variant escapes in a single step because an effective CTL response to secondary antigens is prevented, these secondary antigens remain as potential targets of immunotherapy on the variant's cell surface.
Recognition of virus-infected cells by natural killer cell clones is controlled by polymorphic target cell elements.
Authors: Malnati M S , Lusso P , Ciccone E , Moretta A , Moretta L , Long E O
Published: June 2004

Natural killer (NK) cells provide a first line of defense against viral infections. The mechanisms by which NK cells recognize and eliminate infected cells are still largely unknown. To test whether target cell elements contribute to NK cell recognition of virus-infected cells, human NK cells were cloned from two unrelated donors and assayed for their ability to kill normal autologous or allogeneic cells before and after infection by human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), a T-lymphotropic herpesvirus. Of 132 NK clones isolated from donor 1, all displayed strong cytolytic activity against the NK-sensitive cell line K562, none killed uninfected autologous T cells, and 65 (49%) killed autologous T cells infected with HHV-6. A panel of representative NK clones from donors 1 and 2 was tested on targets obtained from four donors. A wide heterogeneity was observed in the specificity of lysis of infected target cells among the NK clones. Some clones killed none, some killed only one, and others killed more than one of the different HHV-6-infected target cells. Killing of infected targets was not due to complete absence of class I molecules because class I surface levels were only partially affected by HHV-6 infection. Thus, target cell recognition is not controlled by the effector NK cell alone, but also by polymorphic elements on the target cell that restrict NK cell recognition. Furthermore, NK clones from different donors display a variable range of specificities in their recognition of infected target cells.
Induction of murine peritoneal gamma/delta T cells and their role in resistance to bacterial infection.
Authors: Skeen M J , Ziegler H K
Published: June 2004

Previous studies have reported an association of gamma/delta T cells with microbial infection in both human lesions and murine infectious disease models. In this study we provide a comprehensive analysis of the conditions under which the induction of gamma/delta T cells occurs at a site of infection. We found a site-specific induction of gamma/delta T cells after the injection of Listeria monocytogenes in the peritoneal cavity of C3H mice. No changes were seen in the splenic or lymph node populations after these injections. Both the proportion and the absolute number of gamma/delta T cells increased in the peritoneal cavity. Additionally, when peritoneal T cells from Listeria-immune mice were restimulated in vitro, the induced gamma/delta T cells exhibited a greater expansion potential than the alpha/beta T cells. Neither the induced gamma/delta T cells nor those from normal mice expressed CD4 or CD8 on the cell surface. Thy-1 was expressed on only 29% of normal peritoneal gamma/delta T cells, but after intraperitoneal Listeria injection 65% of induced gamma/delta T cells expressed. Thy-1, Pgp-1 and CD45R expression on both normal and induced gamma/delta T cells was consistent with an activation phenotype. Significant increases in peritoneal gamma/delta T cells were not seen until 5-7 d after Listeria injection. The proportion of the CD3+ population expressing the gamma/delta T cell receptor remained elevated for 6-7 wk, while the absolute numbers of peritoneal gamma/delta T cells declined gradually over this time period, reflecting a decrease in both the number of lymphocytes and the percentage of these that were CD3+. Peak numbers of gamma/delta T cells were seen at day 10 with live microbes such as Listeria. A variety of microbes, toxins, mitogens, antigens, cytokines, and nonspecific inflammatory agents were evaluated for their ability to induce gamma/delta T cells in the peritoneal cavity. Both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as Mycobacteria were able to induce gamma/delta T cells that showed increased in vitro expansion potential. An exotoxin from a Gram-positive organism, listeriolysin-o, and the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) endotoxin from a Gram-negative organism were also effective. gamma/delta T cell responses to LPS were under lps gene control. Peak numbers of gamma/delta T cells were observed at day 3 after injection with exotoxins and endotoxins. Modifications that abrogated the virulence of a bacterial strain also eliminated the inductive effect for gamma/delta T cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Gene transcription in differentiating immature T cell receptor(neg) thymocytes resembles antigen-activated mature T cells.
Authors: Zúñiga-Pflücker J C , Schwartz H L , Lenardo M J
Published: June 2004

Early in ontogeny thymocytes have a surface marker phenotype that resembles activated mature T cells but they lack expression of the T cell receptor (TCR) complex. We have made preparations of day 14/15 triple negative fetal thymocytes that exhibit the activated T lymphocyte markers CD25, intercellular adhesion molecule 1, Ly-6A/E, CD44, and heat stable antigen and are rapidly proliferating as evidenced by flow cytometric examination of BrdU incorporation. We found that binding activities of the gene regulators nuclear factor (NF)-kappa B, the NF-kappa B p50 homodimer complex, nuclear factor of activated T cells (NF-AT), oct-1, oct-2, activator protein 1 (AP-1), and serum response factor (SRF), are all present in these early thymocytes. Whereas the octamer factors and SRF persist during ontogeny, NF-kappa B, NF-AT, and AP-1 decrease and are undetectable in the adult thymus. Transfection of disaggregated thymocytes by electroporation or intact thymic lobes by gold-particle bombardment revealed that reporter constructs for NF-kappa B, NF-AT, AP-1, octamer factors and, to a small extent, the TCR-alpha enhancer were active in early thymocyte development. We rigorously eliminated the possibility that these transcriptional events were due to minor populations of TCR+ cells by showing that these reporter constructs were also active in recombinase activating gene (RAG)-/- thymocytes that are incapable of completing TCR gene rearrangement, and predominantly contain cells that have an activated phenotype. Thus, transcriptional events that are usually triggered by antigen stimulation in mature T cells take place early in thymic ontogeny in the absence of the TCR. Our analysis suggests that there are striking regulatory similarities but also important differences between the activation processes that take place in antigen-stimulated mature T cells and thymic progenitor cells.
Progenitor cell hyperplasia with rare development of myeloid leukemia in interleukin 11 bone marrow chimeras.
Authors: Hawley R G , Fong A Z , Ngan B Y , de Lanux V M , Clark S C , Hawley T S
Published: June 2004

Post 5-fluorouracil-treated murine bone marrow cells infected with a recombinant retrovirus (murine stem cell virus-interleukin 11 [MSCV-IL-11]) bearing a human IL-11 gene were transplanted into lethally irradiated syngeneic mice. Analysis of proviral integration sites in DNA prepared from hematopoietic tissues and purified cell populations of long-term reconstituted primary and secondary recipients demonstrated polyclonal engraftment by multipotential stem cells. High levels (100-1,500 U/ml) of IL-11 were detected in the plasma of the MSCV-IL-11 mice. Systemic effects of chronic IL-11 exposure included loss of body fat, thymus atrophy, some alterations in plasma protein levels, frequent inflammation of the eyelids, and often a hyperactive state. A sustained rise in peripheral platelet levels (approximately 1.5-fold) was seen throughout the observation period (4-17 wk). No changes were observed in the total number of circulating leukocytes in the majority of the transplanted animals (including 10 primary and 18 secondary recipients) despite a > 20-fold elevation in myeloid progenitor cell content in the spleen. The exceptions were members of one transplant pedigree which presented with myeloid leukemia during the secondary transplant phase. A clonal origin of the disease was determined, with significant expansion of the MSCV-IL-11-marked clone having occurred in the spleen of the primary host. Culturing of leukemic spleen cells from a quaternary recipient led to the establishment of a permanent cell line (denoted PGMD1). IL-11-producing PGMD1 myeloid leukemic cells are dependent on IL-3 for continuous growth in vitro and they differentiate into granulocytes and macrophages in response to granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor. The inability of autogenously produced IL-11 to support autonomous growth of PGMD1 cells argues against a mechanism of transformation involving a classical autocrine loop.
p21ras couples the T cell antigen receptor to extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 in T lymphocytes.
Authors: Izquierdo M , Leevers S J , Marshall C J , Cantrell D
Published: June 2004

It has previously been shown in T cells that stimulation of protein kinase C (PKC) or the T cell antigen receptor (TCR) induces the rapid accumulation of the active guanosine triphosphate-bound form of p21ras. These stimuli also induce the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 (ERK2), a serine/threonine kinase that is rapidly activated via a kinase cascade in response to a variety of growth factors in many cell types. In this study, we show that p21ras is a component of the TCR signaling pathway that controls ERK2 activation. In the human Jurkat T cell line, transient expression of constitutively active p21ras induces ERK2 activation, measured as an increase in the ability of an ERK2-tag reporter protein to phosphorylate myelin basic protein. Thus, constitutively active p21ras bypasses the requirement for PKC activation or TCR triggering to induce ERK2 activation. In addition, activation of PKC or the TCR produces signals that cooperate with activated p21ras to stimulate ERK2. Conversely, expression of a dominant negative mutant of ras, Ha-ras N17, blocks ERK2 activation after TCR stimulation, indicating that endogenous p21ras function is necessary for the TCR-stimulated ERK2 activation. Taken together, these results demonstrate that the activation of p21ras is both necessary and sufficient to induce ERK2 activation in T cells.
Phorbol ester-induced downregulation of CD4 is a multistep process involving dissociation from p56lck, increased association with clathrin-coated pits, and altered endosomal sorting.
Authors: Pelchen-Matthews A , Parsons I J , Marsh M
Published: June 2004

The phorbol ester phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) induces a rapid downregulation of CD4 from the surface of T cells and lymphocytic cell lines, as well as from CD4-transfected nonlymphoid cells. Here we have studied the mechanisms of this phorbol ester-induced CD4 modulation. Using HeLa-CD4 or NIH-3T3-CD4 cells, in which the endocytosis of CD4 is not influenced by the protein tyrosine kinase p56lck, we show that PMA enhanced the uptake of CD4, increasing the rate of CD4 endocytosis three to five-fold, and doubling the proportion of CD4 found inside the cells. Trafficking of a CD4 mutant lacking the major portion of the cytoplasmic domain, as well as fluid phase endocytosis were not affected by PMA treatment. Studies in which clathrin-coated pits were disrupted through the use of hypertonic media indicated that both the constitutive and PMA-induced CD4 uptake occurred through coated vesicles. Electron microscopy demonstrated directly that PMA increases the association of CD4 with coated pits. Immunofluorescent staining of internalized CD4 showed that PMA also diverted CD4 from the early endosome-plasma membrane recycling pathway to a mannose 6-phosphate receptor-containing late endosomal compartment. In lymphoid or p56lck-expressing transfected cells, these effects were preceded by the PMA-induced dissociation of CD4 and p56lck, which released CD4 and made possible increased endocytosis and altered intracellular trafficking. Together these results indicate that phorbol esters have multiple effects on the normal endocytosis and trafficking of CD4, and suggest that phosphorylation may influence the interaction of CD4 with coated pits.
Listeria meningitis: identification of a cerebrospinal fluid inhibitor of macrophage listericidal function as interleukin 10.
Authors: Frei K , Nadal D , Pfister H W , Fontana A
Published: June 2004

The killing of bacteria gaining access to the central nervous system is insufficient and requires bactericidal antibiotics for treatment. The inefficient host response in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is thought to be due to impaired phagocytosis in CSF, and low local concentration of antibody and complement. In addition, the CSF may contain inhibitors, disabling phagocytes to eliminate bacteria. We have assessed the bactericidal activity of macrophages in the presence of CSF from mice infected intracerebrally with Listeria monocytogenes (LM). Pretreatment of J774A.1 macrophages with interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) resulted in high levels of nitric oxide-dependent intracellular killing of LM. CSF taken from mice 24 h after infection (CSF-LM 24) contained IFN-gamma and induced killing of LM by macrophages. However, pulsing J774A.1 cells with IFN-gamma in the presence of CSF obtained from mice at later time points (48 h) rendered macrophages partly permissive for intracellular Listeria growth. The inhibitor detected in CSF-LM 48 was identified as IL-10 since: (a) IL-10 dose dependently impaired the listericidal activity of IFN-gamma-activated macrophages; (b) anti-IL-10 antibodies abrogated the bacterial growth permissive effect of CSF-LM 48; and (c) IL-10 was detected in CSF-LM 48 but not in CSF-LM 24 or CSF of mock-injected animals (CSF-Co). Likewise, IL-10 was found in the CSF of 95% of patients with bacterial meningitis.
Specificity of HLA class I antigen recognition by human NK clones: evidence for clonal heterogeneity, protection by self and non-self alleles, and influence of the target cell type.
Authors: Litwin V , Gumperz J , Parham P , Phillips J H , Lanier L L
Published: June 2004

Prior studies using polyclonal populations of natural killer (NK) cells have revealed that expression of certain major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules on the membrane of normal and transformed hematopoietic target cells can prevent NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity. However, the extent of clonal heterogeneity within the NK cell population and the effect of self versus non-self MHC alleles has not been clearly established. In the present study, we have generated more than 200 independently derived human NK cell clones from four individuals of known human histocompatibility leukocyte antigens (HLA) type. NK clones were analyzed for cytolytic activity against MHC class I-deficient Epstein Barr virus (EBV) transformed B lymphoblastoid cell lines (B-LCL) stably transfected with several HLA-A, -B, or -C genes representing either self or non-self alleles. All NK clones killed the prototypic HLA-negative erythroleukemia K562 and most lysed the MHC class I-deficient C1R and 721.221 B-LCL. Analysis of the panel of HLA-A, -B, and -C transfectants supported the following general conclusions. (a) Whereas recent studies have suggested that HLA-C antigens may be preferentially recognized by NK cells, our findings indicate that 70% or more of all NK clones are able to recognize certain HLA-B alleles and many also recognize HLA-A alleles. Moreover, a single NK clone has the potential to recognize multiple alleles of HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C antigens. Thus, HLA-C is not unique in conferring protection against NK lysis. (b) No simple patterns of HLA specificity emerged. Examination of a large number of NK clones from a single donor revealed overlapping, yet distinct, patterns of reactivity when a sufficiently broad panel of HLA transfectants was examined. (c) Both autologous and allogeneic HLA antigens were recognized by NK clones. There was neither evidence for deletion of NK clones reactive with self alleles nor any indication for an increased frequency of NK clones recognizing self alleles. (d) With only a few exceptions, protection conferred by transfection of HLA alleles into B-LCL was usually not absolute. Rather a continuum from essentially no protection for certain alleles (HLA-A*0201) to very striking protection for other alleles (HLA-B*5801), with a wide range of intermediate effects, was observed. (e) Whereas most NK clones retained a relatively stable HLA specificity, some NK clones demonstrated variable and heterogeneous activity over time. (f) NK cell recognition and specificity cannot be explained entirely by the presence or absence of HLA class I antigens on the target cell.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Selection of rabbit CD4- CD8- T cell receptor-gamma/delta cells by in vitro transformation with human T lymphotropic virus-I.
Authors: Sawasdikosol S , Hague B F , Zhao T M , Bowers F S , Simpson R M , Robinson M , Kindt T J
Published: June 2004

In vitro transformation of rabbit peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) with human T lymphotropic virus-I (HTLV)-infected human or rabbit cells resulted in CD4- CD8- cell lines, some of which caused acute leukemia when injected into rabbits. Structural analyses of the proviruses from cell lines with diverse pathogenic effects provided no clear correlation with lethality. The rabbit lines were provisionally designated T cells because they express interleukin 2R (IL-2R) and CD5 and lack surface immunoglobulin, but none express functional T cell receptor (TCR) alpha or beta transcripts. A more detailed characterization of the HTLV-I-infected cells was required to determine cell lineage and its potential influence on pathogenic consequences. Probes for rabbit TCR gamma and delta genes were derived and used to detect gamma and delta TCR RNA transcripts, identifying the in vitro transformed lines as gamma/delta T cells. CD4+ and CD8+ lines were derived from PBMC of HTLV-I-infected rabbits and CD4+ TCR-alpha/beta HTLV-I lines were derived from rabbit thymus, eliminating the possibility that the HTLV-I isolates used here transform only CD4- CD8- TCR-gamma/delta cells. The percentage of gamma/delta cells in rabbit PBMC is relatively high (23% in adult rabbits); this with diminution of CD4+ and CD8+ cells in IL-2-supplemented PBMC or thymocyte cultures may account for selection of rabbit HTLV-I-infected gamma/delta T cell lines in vitro. The availability of well-characterized T cell lines with diverse in vivo effects in the rabbit HTLV-I disease model allows evaluation of roles played by cell type in HTLV-I-mediated disease.
Lipopolysaccharides prime whole human blood and isolated neutrophils for the increased synthesis of 5-lipoxygenase products by enhancing arachidonic acid availability: involvement of the CD14 antigen.
Authors: Surette M E , Palmantier R , Gosselin J , Borgeat P
Published: June 2004

Stimulation of heparinized blood with 1 microM formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (FMLP) resulted in the formation of < 30 pmol/ml plasma of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) products. The preincubation of blood with 1 microgram/ml of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (Escherichia coli 0111-B4) for 30 min before stimulation with FMLP resulted in the accumulation of 250-300 pmol of 5-LO products per ml plasma. The major products detected were leukotriene B4 and (5S)-hydroxy-6,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid which were produced in equivalent amounts. The priming activity was detectable with as little as 1-10 ng LPS per ml blood and was optimal using 1-10 micrograms LPS/ml blood. The priming for 5-LO product synthesis was optimal after 20-30 min of preincubation with LPS and declined at preincubation times > 30 min. The priming effect of LPS was also observed using the complement fragment C5a or interleukin 8 as agonists. Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells accounted for 80 and 20% of the synthesis of 5-LO products, respectively. The ability of LPS to prime isolated PMN was dependent on the presence of plasma and was inhibited by the anti-CD14 antibody IOM2, indicating a CD14-dependent priming mechanism. The priming of whole blood with tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and LPS was additive and the presence of mononuclear cells did not enhance the ability of LPS to prime PMN, indicating that the priming activity of LPS is independent of LPS-induced TNF-alpha synthesis. The mechanism by which LPS enhance 5-LO product synthesis in PMN was investigated. Treatment of PMN with LPS strongly enhanced the release of arachidonic acid after stimulation with FMLP. The release of arachidonic acid was optimal 2-3 min after stimulation with FMLP, attaining levels 5-15-fold greater than those observed in unprimed cells stimulated with FMLP. These results demonstrate that LPS dramatically increases the ability of blood to generate 5-LO products, and support the putative role of leukotrienes in pathological states involving LPS.
Specific suppression of major histocompatibility complex class I and class II genes in astrocytes by brain-enriched gangliosides.
Authors: Massa P T
Published: June 2004

The effect of brain-enriched gangliosides on constitutive and cytokine-inducible expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and II genes in cultured astrocytes was studied. Before treatment with gangliosides, astrocytes expressed constitutive MHC class I but not class II molecules, however, the expression of both MHC class I and II cell surface molecules on astrocytes was induced to high levels by interferon gamma (IFN-gamma). Constitutive and IFN-gamma-inducible expression of MHC class I and II molecules was suppressed by treatment of astrocytes with exogenous bovine brain gangliosides in a dose-dependent manner. Constitutive and induced MHC class I and II mRNA levels were also suppressed by gangliosides, indicating control through transcriptional mechanisms. This was consistent with the ability of gangliosides to suppress the binding activity of transcription factors, especially NF-kappa B-like binding activity, important for the expression of both MHC class I and II genes. These studies may be important for understanding mechanisms of central nervous system (CNS)-specific regulation of major histocompatibility molecules in neuroectodermal cells and the role of gangliosides in regulating MHC-restricted antiviral and autoimmune responses within the CNS.
Identification of a novel cyclosporin-sensitive element in the human tumor necrosis factor alpha gene promoter.
Authors: Goldfeld A E , McCaffrey P G , Strominger J L , Rao A
Published: June 2004

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), a cytokine with pleiotropic biological effects, is produced by a variety of cell types in response to induction by diverse stimuli. In this paper, TNF-alpha mRNA is shown to be highly induced in a murine T cell clone by stimulation with T cell receptor (TCR) ligands or by calcium ionophores alone. Induction is rapid, does not require de novo protein synthesis, and is completely blocked by the immunosuppressant cyclosporin A (CsA). We have identified a human TNF-alpha promoter element, kappa 3, which plays a key role in the calcium-mediated inducibility and CsA sensitivity of the gene. In electrophoretic mobility shift assays, an oligonucleotide containing kappa 3 forms two DNA protein complexes with proteins that are present in extracts from unstimulated T cells. These complexes appear in nuclear extracts only after T cell stimulation. Induction of the inducible nuclear complexes is rapid, independent of protein synthesis, and blocked by CsA, and thus, exactly parallels the induction of TNF-alpha mRNA by TCR ligands or by calcium ionophore. Our studies indicate that the kappa 3 binding factor resembles the preexisting component of nuclear factor of activated T cells. Thus, the TNF-alpha gene is an immediate early gene in activated T cells and provides a new model system in which to study CsA-sensitive gene induction in activated T cells.
Functional dissection of the CD21/CD19/TAPA-1/Leu-13 complex of B lymphocytes.
Authors: Matsumoto A K , Martin D R , Carter R H , Klickstein L B , Ahearn J M , Fearon D T
Published: June 2004

The CD21/CD19/TAPA-1 complex of B lymphocytes amplifies signal transduction through membrane immunoglobulin (mIg), recruits phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-kinase), and induces homotypic cellular aggregation. The complex is unique among known membrane protein complexes of the immune system because its components represent different protein families, and can be expressed individually. By constructing chimeric molecules replacing the extracellular, transmembrane, and cytoplasmic regions of CD19 and CD21 with those of HLA-A2 and CD4, we have determined that CD19 and TAPA-1 interact through their extracellular domains, CD19 and CD21 through their extracellular and transmembrane domains, and, in a separate complex, CD21 and CD35 through their extracellular domains. A chimeric form of CD19 that does not interact with CD21 or TAPA-1 was expressed in Daudi B lymphoblastoid cells and was shown to replicate two functions of wild-type CD19 contained within the complex: synergistic interaction with mIgM to increase intracellular free calcium and tyrosine phosphorylation and association with the p85 subunit of PI3-kinase after ligation of mIgM. The chimeric CD19 lacked the capacity of the wild-type CD19 to induce homotypic cellular aggregation, a function of the complex that can be ascribed to the TAPA-1 component. The CD21/CD19/TAPA-1 complex brings together independently functioning subunits to enable the B cell to respond to low concentrations of antigen.
Interleukin 2 activates extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 2.
Authors: Perkins G R , Marvel J , Collins M K
Published: June 2004

Interleukin 2 (IL-2) stimulated activation of the 42-kD extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 (Erk2) in murine IL-3-dependent cells, expressing either high or intermediate affinity IL-2 receptors. Activation was both rapid, occurring within 5 min of IL-2 addition, and prolonged, remaining elevated for 30 min. Activation of Erk2 appeared to be necessary for IL-2 stimulation of proliferation, as deletion of a region of the cytoplasmic domain of the IL-2 receptor beta chain, essential for IL-2 stimulation of proliferation, abolished Erk2 activation by IL-2. Furthermore, cells that had been deprived of cytokine for 24 h were then refractory to IL-2 stimulation of both Erk2 activity and proliferation. However, elevation of Erk2 activity was not sufficient to stimulate proliferation, as protein kinase C activation stimulated Erk2 activity but not DNA synthesis. Also, cells exposed to IL-2 in the presence of rapamycin showed full Erk2 activation but not DNA synthesis. These data suggest that IL-2 must stimulate both Erk2 activity and a further pathway(s) to trigger cell proliferation.
Epitope-specific enhancement of antigen presentation by invariant chain.
Authors: Momburg F , Fuchs S , Drexler J , Busch R , Post M , Hämmerling G J , Adorini L
Published: June 2004

The MHC class II-associated invariant chain (Ii) is involved in the intracellular sorting of class II molecules to the endocytic pathway where peptides from processed exogenous antigens are bound, and thereby Ii is thought to enhance antigen presentation. Here we demonstrate that presentation of only one out of five epitopes of a given antigen is augmented by Ii. We have compared the presentation of five different epitopes derived from hen egg white lysozyme (HEL) to Ak-restricted T hybridomas by rat-2 fibroblasts transfected with A alpha k and A beta k (RKK) and RKK cells supertransfected with the mouse invariant chain (RKKI). Only the presentation of the HEL epitope 46-61 was enhanced whereas the presentation of the HEL epitopes 25-43, 34-45, 112-124, and 116-129 was unchanged or even slightly diminished in RKKI cells. The presentation of the epitopes 25-43 and 34-45 was virtually insensitive to the lysosomotropic reagent chloroquine. Brefeldin A (BFA), which inhibits protein egress from the endoplasmic reticulum, blocked the presentation of all epitopes tested in RKKI cells. In contrast, in Ii-negative RKK cells only the presentation of the epitope HEL(46-61) was inhibited by BFA and the presentation of the epitopes 25-43 and 34-45 was only slightly impaired. These findings suggest that Ii may target class II molecules to selected endosomal subcompartments involved in the processing of different peptides derived from an endocytosed antigen. As a result, the enhancement of the class II-restricted presentation in Ii expressing cells appears to be epitope specific rather than antigen specific.
Suppression of B lymphopoiesis during normal pregnancy.
Authors: Medina K L , Smithson G , Kincade P W
Published: June 2004

We describe a dramatic reduction in numbers and activity of committed B lymphocyte precursors in the bone marrow of normal pregnant mice. Changes in cells responsive to IL-7 were evident as early as 6.5 d of pregnancy and values were < 10% of normal at parturition. B lineage precursors, identified by display of CD45R and absence of surface IgM, were also substantially depressed, and subpopulations representing different stages in the B lineage were assessed by three-color flow cytometry. Early pro-B cells are medium to large in size and have been previously characterized by low expression of the heat-stable antigen (HSA). This category of cells was not reduced, and in fact may have been slightly elevated, during pregnancy. In contrast, all subsequent populations of B lineage precursors, defined by patterns of expression of heat-stable and CD43 antigens, were substantially depressed. The immediate precursors of B cells (small pre-B cells) were identified by small size, expression of CD45R, absence of CD43, and lack of surface IgM. These were the most reduced of any phenotypically defined population in bone marrow. Numbers of newly formed B cells, characterized by the presence of sIgM, but not sIgD, were also diminished. However, B cells with a mature phenotype (sIgM+, sIgD+) were present in normal to somewhat elevated numbers. Mitogen-responsive B cells clonable in a semisolid agar assay were not significantly affected. A bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling technique was used to evaluate mitotic activity, which revealed an increased proportion of long-lived lymphocytes in the bone marrow of pregnant mice. These observations indicate that B lymphopoiesis is markedly downregulated during pregnancy and that all precursor populations beyond the early pro-B cell stage are affected. The pregnancy-related changes in bone marrow were selective for B lineage precursors, as cells expressing myeloid and erythroid markers were not reduced. In spleen, evidence was obtained for partial depletion of one subset of B cells. These cells, which have been reported to be recent immigrants from marrow, are characterized as having high levels of sIgM and HSA. Changes in other major B lymphocyte subsets in the spleen were less remarkable. When considered with results from the BrdU labeling procedure, the findings indicate that both production and export of lymphocytes from marrow may be substantially decreased. Numbers of B cell precursors were higher in postpartum animals whose litters were removed at birth, suggesting that lactation may prolong regeneration of lymphocyte production.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Mechanisms of class I restricted immunopathology. A transgenic mouse model of fulminant hepatitis.
Authors: Ando K , Moriyama T , Guidotti L G , Wirth S , Schreiber R D , Schlicht H J , Huang S N , Chisari F V
Published: June 2004

The molecular and cellular mechanisms responsible for cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL)-induced immunopathology are not well defined. Using a model in which hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-specific CTL cause an acute necroinflammatory liver disease in HBsAg transgenic mice, we demonstrate that class I-restricted disease pathogenesis is an orderly, multistep process that involves direct as well as indirect consequences of CTL activation. It begins (step 1) almost immediately as a direct antigen-specific CTL-target cell interaction that triggers the HBsAg-positive hepatocyte to undergo programmed cell death (apoptosis). It progresses (step 2) within hours to a focal inflammatory response in which antigen-nonspecific lymphocytes and neutrophils amplify the local cytopathic effect of the CTL. The most destructive pathogenetic function of the CTL, however, is to secrete interferon gamma when they encounter antigen in vivo, thereby activating the intrahepatic macrophage and inducing a delayed-type hypersensitivity response (step 3) that destroys the liver and kills the mouse. We propose that the principles illustrated in this study are generally applicable to other models of class I-restricted, CTL-induced immunopathology, and we suggest that they contribute to the immunopathogenesis of viral hepatitis during hepatitis B virus infection in humans.
Interleukin 5 induces S mu-S gamma 1 DNA rearrangement in B cells activated with dextran-anti-IgD antibodies and interleukin 4: a three component model for Ig class switching.
Authors: Mandler R , Chu C C , Paul W E , Max E E , Snapper C M
Published: June 2004

The cellular signals required for induction of immunoglobulin (Ig) class switching are only partially understood. Two processes that are considered to be necessary for such induction are DNA synthesis and germline constant heavy (CH) gene transcription. We now show that an additional signal, as mediated by interleukin 5 (IL-5), is also required. To induce proliferation of resting B cells, but not Ig secretion, we utilized anti-IgD antibodies conjugated to dextran (alpha delta-dex). The addition of IL-4, a well-established switch factor for the IgG1 subclass, to alpha delta-dex-activated cell cultures failed to induce IgG1 secretion or mIgG1+ cells unless IL-5 was also present. While IL-4 stimulated an increase in germline gamma 1 RNA in alpha delta-dex-activated cells, this effect could neither be induced nor enhanced by IL-5. By contrast, IL-5 strongly enhanced steady-state levels of productive gamma 1 RNA induced by alpha delta-dex and IL-4, suggesting that IL-5 stimulated IgG1 switch rearrangement. To test this possibility we measured switch (S) mu-S gamma 1 DNA recombination events using a newly developed assay, digestion circularization polymerase chain reaction (DC-PCR). We demonstrated that IL-5 was necessary for induction of S mu-S gamma 1 DNA rearrangement in alpha delta-dex plus IL-4-activated cells but that it had little effect on rearrangement in the absence of IL-4. Our data strongly suggest, therefore, a three-component model for induction of Ig class switching. This model includes germline CH gene transcription, DNA synthesis, and a third component that is necessary for recombination.