bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence of Increased Gc: Actin Complexes in Pregnant Serum: A Possible Result of Trophoblast Embolism
Authors: EMERSON DAVID L. , ARNAUD PHILIPPE , GALBRAITH ROBERT M.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: The molecular configuration of group‐specific component Gc protein in sera from pregnant and nonpregnant individuals was compared by analytical isoelectric focusing and by print immunofixation in conjunction with known standards of Gc:actin and Gc:vitamin D3 complexes. These studies revealed that while complexes of Gc with actin and with vitamin D were detectable in small amounts in nonpregnant sera, much larger quantities of both types of complexes were consistently visualized in pregnancy. In addition, when actin was added to pregnant sera containing Gc:vitamin D3 complexes, a third anodal complex was revealed which presented the molecular configuration of actin: Gc: vitamin D3. These results demonstrate that Gc:actin complexes may be present under physiological circumstances in the circulation. Since large amounts of trophoblast enter the maternal circulation during both normal and abnormal human pregnancy, experiments were undertaken that showed that actin was released from isolated trophoblast membranes and also upon lysis of other viable cells under physiological conditions similar to those obtained in serum, and such actin complexed rapidly with Gc. Although the effects of this phenomenon upon the immunobiology of pregnancy are unknown, these findings are consistent with the concept that Gc protein may exert a “scavenger” function in mopping up actin released from damaged cells.
Systemic Active Suppression Is Not Necessary for Successful Allopregnancy
Authors: CHAOUAT GÉRARD , MONNOT PAULETTE
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: To investigate the role of systemic suppression during allopregnancy, CBA/J female mice were immunised against H‐2d prior to mating. Cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity was tested at days 14–16 of pregnancy. A reduction of CTL activity was observed only in multiparous animals. Although a nonspecific suppression was detected in isopregnancy, suppression was more marked in allopregnancy. Conversely, the CTL activity observed in the spleen during the first pregnancy (iso or allo) was always significant in mice presensitized with 2 or 3 alloimmunizations prior to pregnancy. Such animals have in vivo effector cells, since allografts of Sarcoma Sal were rejected in secondary fashion in alloimmunized mice, while the fetus remained unharmed. These observations demonstrate that allospecific anti‐MHC CTLs are specifically impaired in multiple allopregnancy, but also tend to rule out theories postulating that systemic suppression of CTL generation and function is required for successful allopregnancy.
Cell‐Mediated Immune Response in the Mammary Gland of Guinea Pigs Adoptively Sensitized With Lymphocytes
Authors: NONNECKE BRIAN J. , TARGOWKSI STANISLAW P.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Guinea pigs were vaccinated intramammarly (IMM) with attenuated Mycobacterium bovis (BCG) and challenged intramammarly and intradermally with tuberculin. A significant (p < 0.05) milk leukocytosis, consisting primarily of polymorphonuclear leukocytes, occurred from 6–30 hr after challenge with tuberculin. Intradermal challenge with tuberculin produced typical delayed‐type hypersensitivity cutaneous reaction in these animals. Normal guinea pigs were adoptively sensitized with lymphoid cells from the inguinal lymph nodes or spleen of BCG‐vaccinated animals and subsequently challenged intramammarly and intradermally with tuberculin. The mammary and dermal responses of the lymphoid cell recipients were similar to, but less pronounced, than those in the actively immunized animals. The responses in the recipients of lymphocytes from donors injected with tuberculin 18 hr prior to cell collection were greater than those from injected donors. Guinea pigs that were injected intraperitoneally with serum from BCG‐vaccinated donors did not express significant dermal or mammary responses to subsequent challenge with tuberculin. It was proposed that the milk leukocytosis was mediated by sensitized lymphocytes stimulated by IMM challenge with tuberculin.
Anticomplementary Activity in Human Semen and Its Possible Importance in Reproduction
Authors: Price Rhelma J. , Roberts Timothy K. , Green Dale , Boettcher Barry
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: We demonstrated anticomplementary activity on once‐washed human sperm, and in normal and vasectomized seminal plasmas. It was demonstrated to be a normal component of human semen. The origin of the activity is proposed to be the seminal plasma with sperm adsorption of activity. The properties of the seminal anticomplementary factor were characterized further, and the molecular size was shown to be less than 3500 daltons. Reduced anticomplementary activity was found to be associated significantly with abnormal semen profiles and infertility in males. The activity in seminal plasma was shown to have no effect on complement‐dependent sperm immobilizing antibodies in the serum of an infertile woman, implicating an effect on the post‐C3 components of the complement pathway. The inhibition of complement‐dependent haemolysis and the lack of inhibition of complement‐dependent sperm immobilization by the anticomplementary factor are considered in the implications of the role of seminal anticomplementary activity in reproduction.
Effects of Placental Extracts on the Immune Response to Histocompatibility Antigens: Class Deviation of Alloantibody Response and Allograft Enhancement
Authors: Gupta G.S. , Kinsky R.G. , Duc H.T. , Voisin G.A.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Placental extracts obtained from CBA (H‐2k) mice during syngeneic (CBA 9 × CBA cr) pregnancy were evaluated for their capacity to deviate the immune reaction of CBA mice toward A/J(H‐2a) immunizing spleen cells, as tested by alloantibody subclass formation and Sa 1 allograft accelerated rejection—or enhancement. The immunomodulatory activity appeared to be located in the soluble and in the insoluble extracts of placenta. The sodium deoxycholate (SI)O) solubilized proteinic material, fractionated on Concan‐avalin A [Con A] and injected to CBA mice simultaneously with A/J spleen cells caused a suppression of the hemagglutinating titer and C‐mediated cytotoxicity (IgG2). However, it also favoured antibody‐mediated mast cell degranulation (IgGl) and Sa 1 allograft enhancement. The presence and role of IgGl antibodies in both tumor enhancement and gestation has been described. It is concluded that placenta contains Con A‐binding glycoproteins which are located in the membranes and released in soluble form. They exert their immunomodulatory effect in a way which might help the successful outcome of pregnancy as it helps to enhance the development of allografted sarcoma.
The Fetus as an Allograft: Evidence for Antiidiotypic Antibodies Induced by Pregnancy
Authors: Singal D.P. , Butler L. , Liao S.‐K. , Joseph S.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: We tested sera from 20 women [9 parous, 8 with no children, and 3 with abortion(s)] for inhibition in mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC). In these experi‐ments, the responder (wife) lymphocytes were treated with autologous serum and rabbit complement and then tested for responses against stimulator cells from the husband and from third‐party allogeneic donors. The results demonstrate that antibodies capable of inhibiting responses of wife's lymphocytes to husband's cells in MLC are present in sera from parous women, but not in women without children and in women with abortion(s). The MLC‐inhibiting activity in parous women sera was in the IgG fraction. The results from immunofluorescence and absorption experiments suggest that the inhibition in MLC was due to antibodies directed against recognition sites on wife's T lymphocytes against husband's alloantigens. These observations suggest that antiidiotypic antibodies against husband‐specific idiotypes on wife's lymphocytes could be induced by pregnancy and that maternal tolerance to fetus may be attributable to a similar mechanism occurring in vivo.
Immunosuppressive Factors in Ascites Fluids From Ovarian Cancer Patients
Authors: Fumita Yuji , Tanaka Fumio , Saji Fumitaka , Nakamuro Karo
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: The nonspecific immunosuppressive effect of ascites fluids from ovarian cancer patients was examined and compared with that of noncancerous abdominal effusion and sera from ovarian cancer patients. The malignant ascites fluids produced a noncytotoxic, dose‐dependent suppression of DNA synthesis of phy‐tohemagglutinin‐stimulated human peripheral blood lymphocytes. The suppression was higher than that observed in sera from cancer patients. No suppressive effect was seen in control abdominal effusion. The factors responsible for inhibition of in vitro lymphocyte function were partially purified from ascites fluid by lentil lectin affinity chromatography and gel filtration. Major active factors had a high molecular weight (440–1500 kilodaltons), an affinity to lentil lectin, and were stable against heat and acid treatment.
Seminal Plasma Abrogates the Postcoital T Cell Response to Spermatozoal Histocompatibility Antigens
Authors: Thomas Imad K. , McLean John M.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: The T‐cell responses to spermatozoal histocompatibility antigens were studied in the uterine regional lymph nodes of female rats by a specific cytoadhesion assay. The antigenic challenge was introduced either by artificial insemination with syngeneic or allogeneic epididymal spermatozoa or coitus. The uterine regional T‐cell response to allogeneic spermatozoa following artificial insemination was measurable after 2 days and continued undiminished until day 5. In contrast, the measurable response to allogeneic coital challenge peaked on day 3 and disappeared by days 4–5. Since the difference between the two stimuli involved the presence of seminal plasma, these results indicate a possible immunoregulatory (suppressive) effect of seminal plasma on the cellular immune reaction of the female to the male alloantigens after mating.
Improvement of the Rosette Inhibition Assay for the Detection of Early Pregnancy Factor in Humans Using the Monoclonal Antibody, Anti‐Human‐Lyt‐3
Authors: TINNEBERG H.R. , STAVES R.P. , SEMM K.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: The detection of early pregnancy factor (EPF) is a controversial subject. The findings of independent groups attempting to confirm the phenomenon of EPF have been quite variable. The present article gives details of an improved rosette inhibition assay using a monoclonal antibody (anti‐human‐Lyt‐3), instead of an anti‐lymphocyte serum (ALS), in order to increase reproducibility. Results are calculated for the first time in terms of absolute monoclonal anti‐Lyt‐3 concentrations. It is suggested that results be expressed as the Rosette Inhibition Antibody Concentration (RIAC) or the more accurate extrapolated 25% Rosette Inhibition Antibody Concentration (25% RIAC), in place of the previously used Rosette Inhibition Titer (RIT), when monoclonal antibodies are used. Following a 1.5 h incubation period the mean 25% RIAC for pregnant serum was 15.9 ± 4.0 ng/ml and for control serum 48.0 ±12.7 ng anti‐Lyt‐3/ml. The improved method described should enable different groups to establish the test and compare results.
Localization of the Antigen and Antibodies in the Placenta of Immunized Sheep
Authors: TREBICHAVSKÝ I. , KOVÁŘŮ F. , STOŽICKÝ V. , ŠIMAN P.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Placentomata of sheep immunized with human serum albumin (HSA) were examined. Both HSA and immunoglobulins were found in the maternal part and maternofetal border of the placenta using FITC labelled antisera on paraffin sections. Radiolabelled HSA was also detected in the fetal blood. The ultrastructure of placentomata revealed immunopathological process.
Experimental Autoimmune Damage to Rat Male Accessory Glands. II. T Cell Requirement in Adoptive Transfer of Specific Tissue Damage
Authors: PACHECO‐RUPIL B. , DEPIANTE‐DEPAOLI M. , CASADIO B.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Experimental autoimmune vesiculoprostatitis (EAVP) was transferred within inbred Wistar rats by a relatively small number of spleen cells obtained 30 days after immunization of donors with MAG extract in CFA and injected in the internal jugular vein of recipients. Specific tissue alterations identical to those present in the glands of the donors were observed 7 days after the transfer of the cells. The main alteration present was infiltration of mononuclear cells in the interstitium accompanied by fibrosis in more severe cases and flattening of epithelium in the ventral and dorsal prostate, seminal vesicle, and occasionally in coagulating gland. Nine out of ten recipients developed sexual accessory glandular lesions of various degrees. No histological alterations were observed in the absence of cell‐mediated immune response and extensive damage was only observed in rats expressing two or more positive assays. The separation of the transferred cells into enriched population of T and B cells has proved that T lymphocytes are required for the production of the tissue lesions. Depletion of T lymphocytes by nylon wool separation and anti‐rat thymocytes serum and complement completely abrogate their capacity to transfer the glandular alterations. Furthermore, specific antibody precursor cells on their own seem to be incapable to promote the antibody synthesis and to initiate the glandular damage. We conclude that T lymphocytes are required for the adoptive transfer of specific tissue damage observed in autoimmune vesiculo‐prostatitis as well as for the development of a cell‐mediated immune response to MAG antigens. Whether the same or distinct T‐cell subsets are involved in these two effects is discussed.
Suppressor T‐Lymphocytes in Pregnancy
Authors: VANDERBEEKEN Y. , VLIEGHE M.P. , DUCHATEAU J. , DELESPESSE G.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Primiparous and multiparous healthy pregnant women were tested at the end of the gestation period, or immediately after delivery, for their lymphocyte reactivity to paternal or neonatal cells in mixed lymphocyte culture and in cell‐mediate cytotoxicity assays. Freshly isolated maternal lymphocytes had no spontaneous cytotoxic activity against PHA‐activated neonatal or paternal lymphocytes. In conventional 6‐day mixed lymphocyte cultures and in cytotoxicity assays, maternal lymphocytes displayed a response similar to that of paternal or third party lymphocytes when stimulated with neonatal, paternal, or third party lymphocytes. By contrast, in 3‐day mixed lymphocyte cultures maternal cells had a selectively lower response to paternal antigens (expressed either on cord blood cells or on paternal lymphocytes), than to unrelated alloantigens. Removal of T‐lymphocytes with IgG receptors (T), or of T‐lymphocytes reacting with OKT8 monoclonal antibody, corrected the depressed response of maternal cells in these 3‐day cultures. It is suggested that circulating maternal lymphocytes contain antigenspecific suppressor cells characterized by their membrane receptors for IgG and the T8 antigen.
Mechanisms of Fetal Demise in Pregnant Mice Immunized to Murine Alpha‐Fetoprotein
Authors: MIZEJEWSKI GERALD J. , VONNEGUT M.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Nya: NYLAR mice were immunized to murine alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) by active immunization with rat AFP in Freund's adjuvant emulsion before mating or by passive immunization with a high or low dose of whole rabbit antimouse AFP serum or rabbit anti‐AFP IgG at 8–20 days of gestation. In the passively immunized group, anti‐AFP serum or purified anti‐AFP IgG administered at the end of the second week of gestation produced abortion after 24 hours of 41 and 48% of fetuses, respectively. Although abortion did not occur in the low‐dose group, the anti‐AFP serum produced fetal death in 32%, as did the anti‐AFP IgG in 26%, in 72 hours. In the actively immunized group rat AFP produced developmental arrest, but not abortion, in mothers bearing autologous antibodies to mouse AFP. Histopathologic analysis revealed that fetal death resulted from separation of fetal and maternal tissues of the placenta due to subplacental hemorrhages. Immunofluorescent localization of the rabbit IgG implicated both the chorioallontois and yolk sac placenta as target tissues.
Effects of Intraperitoneal 6% Dextran 70 on Serum Immunoglobulin Levels, Peripheral Cell Populations, and Lymphocyte Subpopulations in Women Undergoing Gynecologic Surgery
Authors: NUNLEY WALLACE C. , KITCHIN JAMES D. , NORMANSELL DAVID E.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Twelve women underwent elective major gynecologic surgery for benign, non‐pregnancy‐related conditions. No perioperative or postoperative “anti‐adhesion” adjuvants were used. Serum immunoglobulin levels (IgG, IgM, IgA) and peripheral cell counts, including lymphocyte subpopulations, were measured in each patient during the immediate preoperative and postoperative periods as well as 5 to 8 weeks later. These results were compared to a treatment population of 16 women who underwent similar surgery and received 150 ml 6% dextran 70 intraperitoneally at the conclusion of the procedure. There was a decrease in the level of all serum immunoglobulins measured in the immediate postoperative period in both groups (not statistically different). At 5 to 8 weeks postoperatively there was a greater level of IgM in the control population than in the dextrantreated group (P = 0.03). Alterations in the peripheral cell counts, including lymphocyte subpopulations, were similar in the two groups. The use of intraperitoneal 6% dextran 70 did not result in postoperative alterations in the human immune system different from those induced by the surgical procedure itself.
Are Sperm Immobilizing Antibodies in Cervical Mucus an Explanation for a Poor Postcoital Test?
Authors: JAGER S. , KREMER J. , DE WILDE‐JANSSEN I. W.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Previous authors reported high incidences of complement dependent sperm immobilizing antibodies in cervical mucus (CM) and found a correlation with poor postcoital tests. In all those investigations the CM samples were tested after dilution with a salt solution. In the present study we investigated 50 CM samples from infertile couples who had during the routine fertility investigation poor postcoital tests. All CM samples were tested after dilution with an equal volume of normal human serum; only one sample was found positive. On the other hand, if the CM samples were diluted with an equal volume of a buffered salt solution, many positive results were obtained. With some guinea pig serum batches, however, all tests with buffer‐diluted CM samples were negative, despite good reaction of the positive control serum. We concluded that the positive results with buffer‐diluted CM samples were due to a factor in the animal serum used as complement preparation and that complement‐dependent sperm immobilizing antibodies in CM are an unlikely cause of a poor postcoital test.
Detection of Antispermatozoal Antibodies of IgA Class in Cervical Mucus
Authors: CLARKE G.N. , STOJANOFF A. , CAUCHI M.N. , McBAIN J.C. , SPEIRS A.L. , JOHNSTON W.I.H.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: A simple procedure for detection of antisperm antibodies of IgA class in human cervical mucus is described and the results of its application to samples from 102 patients are presented. The results suggest that the IgA immunobead test (IgA‐IBT) is a specific and clinically useful test for sperm antibodies. There was a strong correlation between the IgA‐IBT and the presence of complement‐dependent sperm immobilization in serum (Spearman's, r = 0.92, p < 0.001). Positive IgA‐IBT results occurred only in mucus samples that showed poor penetration by normal sperm. An added advantage of the IgA‐IBT is that both the immunoglobulin class and the site of binding to the sperm surface can be determined simultaneously.
The Role of Acrosomal Enzymes in Lymphocytes Stimulation by Spermatozoa
Authors: KURPISZ MACIEJ , WITT MICHAL
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: We studied the proliferation of human peripheral blood lymphocytes from 20 donors stimulated by acrosomal enzymes from ejaculated spermatozoa from healthy individuals. We extracted the acrosomal enzymes without detergent. The amount of proteins in the acrosomal preparation and its proteolytic activity was estimated. The acrosomal preparation was added to auto‐ and allogeneic lymphocytes in microculture system. Stimulation of lymphocytes was measured by incorporation of 3H‐methyl‐thymidine after 3 and 6 days of culture. Auto‐ and allogeneic lymphocytes that were subjected to the action of an acrosomal preparation in in vitro cultures showed stimulation in a 3‐day culture at a final concentration of acrosomal proteins of 3.75‐7.5 μg per culture. This observation suggests that the mitogenic properties of enzymatic factors are present in acrosomes of spermatozoa.
Effects of Antibodies Against Chicken Riboflavin Carrier Protein on Fetal Hepatic Cell Ultrastructure
Authors: NATRAJ USHA , KUMAR R. ASOK
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Day 12 pregnant mice administered antibodies to cRCP exhibited riboflavin deprival, which resulted in progressive alteration in the fetal hepatic cell structure, which eventually led to fetal wastage and termination of pregnancy. These changes were evident as early as 1 h following antiserum treatment. Three hours following treatment, other degenerative changes such as disorganization of glycogen particles and endoplasmic reticulum and degranulation of mitochondria were observed. Nuclear pycnosis, and increased myelin figures, accumulation of lysosomes, all indicative of autolytic changes, occurred 6 h following treatment.
Is Immunotherapy for Habitual Aborters an Immunologically Hazardous Procedure for Infants?
Authors: TAKAKUWA KOICHI , GOTO SHIGENORI , HASEGAWA ISAO , UEDA HIROYUKI , MARUHASHI TOSHIHIRO , KAJINO TORU , YOSHIZAWA HIROSHI , KANAZAWA KOJI , TAKEUCHI SHOSHICHI
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Physical development and tests of immunologic function are reported from the first year of life for 13 infants born to mothers who were habitual aborters and who had undergone subcutaneous vaccination with their husband's lymphocytes. The mean weight of the infants at birth was 2,975 ± 540 g, including one infant who was small for dates. Physical development parameters for the first year were all within normal range.

Immunologic studies were performed at ages 0, 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. The studies included the following: (1) serum levels of immunoglobulins and complement components; (2) the number of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) and their subpopulations; and (3) proliferative responses by PBL against unrelated lymphocytes and some mitogens (pokeweed, phytohemagglutinin, and concanavalin A). All were normal when compared with studies of infants of nonimmunized mothers.

These observations suggested that subcutaneous vaccination of women with their husband's lymphocytes did not result in any adverse effects on their infants' physical or immunologic development.
Trophoblast Induction of Suppressor‐Type Cell Activity in Human Endometrial Tissue
Authors: DAYA SALIM , JOHNSON PETER M. , CLARK DAVID A.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: First trimester (10–12 weeks gestation) human decidua contains small lymphocytic suppressor cells that release 22 and 43 kd soluble suppressor factors blocking the action of interleukin 2. Luteal phase endometrium, in contrast, contains large suppressor cells that do not release soluble immunosuppressive factors. However, if luteal phase endometrium from days 24 to 25 of the menstrual cycle is incubated with placental syncytiotrophoblast membrane vesicles, suppressor factors having the same molecular weight as those found in end of first‐trimester pregnancy decidua are released into the supernatant. This generation of soluble suppressor activity is dependent on cells similar in size to the small lymphocytic suppressor cell population. When uterine decidua is obtained from women with tubal ectopic pregnancy (early in the first trimester), the decidual tissue releases soluble immunosuppressive factors with a 100–135 kd molecular mass and the suppressor cells are large rather than small in size. Supernatant conditioned by trophoblast dissected from ectopic implants was able to interact with large cells in luteal phase endometrium to generate additional soluble suppressor activity. A model is proposed wherein fetal trophoblast activates two suppressor cell populations (large and small) in endometrium via soluble long‐range inducer and by direct contact with trophoblast membrane. The potential role of trophoblast‐dependent suppressor cells in preventing rejection of the conceptus leading to occult or clinical abortion is discussed.
Impaired Susceptibility of Human Trophoblast to MHC Nonrestricted Killer Cells: Implication in the Maternal‐Fetal Relationship
Authors: SAJI FUMITAKA , KAMEDA TAKASHI , KOYAMA MASAYASU , MATSUZAKI NOBORU , NEGORO TAKAO , TANIZAWA OSAMU
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Mammalian pregnancy has frequently been termed “Nature's allograft,” and there is developing evidence that the placental trophoblast cells in their key position at the maternal fetal interface are responsible for escape mechanisms to the maternal immune system. In this paper, we show impaired susceptibility of human trophoblastic tumor cells to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) nonrestricted cytotoxicity systems such as natural killer (NK) cells and lymphokine‐activated killer (LAK) cells. LAK cells were induced by the culture of peripheral blood mononuclear lymphocytes (PBL) in recombinant interleukin‐2 (rIL‐2). Among 21 cultured cell lines derived from various tissues and organs tested, five choriocarcinoma‐derived cell lines gave decreased levels of LAK lysis. Cold‐target inhibition study and trinitrophenyl (TNP) modification experiment clearly indicated that the impaired sensitivity of trophoblast cells to LAK lysis is due to the decrease of a common target molecule recognized by LAK effector cells. It is suggested that the impaired susceptibility of trophoblast to MHC nonrestricted killer cells should be functional for the survival of the semiallogeneic fetus.
Serological Analysis of Cell Surface Antigens in Choriocarcinoma Cell Lines
Authors: SAITO MITSURU , GOTO SETSUKO , KATO SENTOYO , OKAMOTO TOMOMITSU , TOMODA YUTAKA
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens as well as blood group related antigens were investigated in four newly established gestational choriocarcinoma cell lines (NaUCC‐1, −2, −3, and −4) using protein A and immune adherence assays. Antibodies to both monomorphic determinants of HLA class I antigens and β2 microglobulin reacted with all of the choriocarcinoma cell lines at levels equal to or much greater than SCH, which was teratoid choriocarcinoma cell line. Antibodies to polymorphic determinants not only of the patient's HLA type, but also of the husband's type, reacted to NaUCC‐1 and −2. These results indicated that all four newly established choriocarcinoma cell lines express class I HLA antigens. However, we could not demonstrate expression of class II antigens. No expression of blood group A and B antigens could be established, and binding of antibody to Rho(D) antigens was only positive in the NaUCC‐1 cell line. These results suggest that some choriocarcinoma cell lines actually express alloantigens and that choriocarcinomas have the character of transplanted tumors that have activities to induce transplantation immunity of the patients.
Trophoblast‐Derived Immunoregulatory Factor: Demonstration of the Biological Function and the Physicochemical Characteristics of the Factor Derived From Choriocarcinoma Cell Lines
Authors: MATSUZAKI NOBORU , OKADA TAKAYOSHI , KAMEDA TAKASHI , NEGORO TAKAO , SAJI FUMITAKA , TANIZAWA OSAMU
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: An immunosuppressive factor released by choriocarcinoma cell lines was analyzed in the present study. It inhibited the proliferative responses of human T cells stimulated by lectins or alloantigens. It also blocked the generation of alloreactive cytotoxic T cells. The suppressive activity of the factor was detected in the responses of the T cells costimulated with 1 nM 12‐0‐tetradecanoyl phorbol 13‐acetate and 1 μM A23187, suggesting the possibility that the factor acted on the intracellular signal transduction in T cells rather than interfering with early events such as T cell receptor signal transduction through cell membranes. Moreover, the factor acted directly on T cell proliferation pathways without activation of suppressor cells but did not act on T cell activation pathways. Taken together, all these findings expanded our previous reports on a factor released by normal trophoblasts, indicating the possible identity of the two factors. The physico‐chemical properties of the choriocarcinoma‐derived factor were examined, and the biological significance of the factor during pregnancy was discussed in this paper.
Early Pregnancy Loss, Premature and Low Birth Weight Delivery, and Increased Maternal Lymphocyte Cytotoxicity
Authors: VARGA PETER J. , SZEREDAY ZOLTAN , ARTNER ATTILA , SZEKERES‐BARTHO JULIA
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Lymphocytes of 628 pregnant women were tested for natural cytotoxic activity to human embryonic fibroblast cells. The data were analyzed with regard to previous obstetric history, symptoms occurring during the present gestation, and the outcome of pregnancy. The normal rate of cytotoxicity during pregnancy was established by determining cytotoxic activity of the lymphocytes from 56 healthy pregnant women. The values higher than the mean + 2 SD of the “normal” (≥ 40%) were considered as high. Increased cytotoxicity was associated with the occurrence of previous spontaneous and missed abortions, as well as with bleeding and uterine contractions during the present pregnancy observed at the time of the test. In 15 out of 35 cases resulting in spontaneous abortion and 15 out of the 34 pregnancies resulting in missed abortion, cytotoxic activity of the lymphocytes during pregnancy was higher than normal. Similarly, in 38 and 32.7% of the pregnancies resulting in preterm (n = 121) or low birth‐weight deliveries (n = 101) respectively, we found increased lymphocyte cytotoxicity, in contrast to that being found in 5.4% of uncomplicated normal pregnancies. These data suggest that at least some pregnancy failures might be immunologically mediated.
Detection of Immunoregulatory Factors in Retroplacental Serum in Human Pregnancy
Authors: YOSHIDA MASUMI , KANZAKI HIDEHARU , TOKUSHIGE MAKOTO , SATO SHIGEYASU , KARIYA MASATOSHI , UCHIDA ATSUSHI , KASAKURA SHINPEI , MORI TAKAHIDE
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Retroplacental serum (RPS) obtained from pregnant women at term deliveries was studied for regulatory effects on T‐lymphocyte proliferation and for pregnancy‐associated substances and compared with peripheral serum (PS) of the same donor. Proliferative response to phytohemagglutinin and alloantigens in RPS was lower than that in PS. RPS contained higher levels of human placental lactogen, progesterone, estradiol, and prostaglandin E2 than of PS. However, there were no differences in concentrations of pregnancy‐associated α2‐glycoprotein, pregnancy‐specific β1‐glycoprotein, prostaglandin F2α, alpha‐fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin, Cortisol, carcinoembryonic antigen, and immunoglobulins between RPS and PS. The amounts of human placental lactogen, progesterone, or prostaglandin E2 seen in RPS did not inhibit T‐cell proliferation. Mixtures of various doses of these three substances were still not inhibitory. Thus, the suppressive activity of RPS could not be explained by these pregnancy‐associated substances, but a possible involvement of unknown immunoregulatory factors at fetomaternal interface might be suggested.
New Antibody in Severe Rhesus Incompatible Pregnancies: IgG‐Kappa Antiplacental Alkaline Phosphatase
Authors: BRISSON‐LOUGARRE A , VERGNES H. , GROZDEA J. , ALIE‐DARAM S. , FONTANILLES A.M. , BIERME R.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: As already found in other various diseases, a macromolecular alkaline phosphatase complex (HMW‐AP) was also found in sera of two severe Rhesus‐incompatible pregnancies complicated by ascitis and fetal hydrops at delivery.

This atypical complex was detected and isolated by agarose gel electrophoresis. Immunoelectrophoresis and heat inactivation of this HMW‐AP complex revealed that it consisted of IgG of the kappa type and placental AP isoenzyme. The transitory presence of this immuncomplex is discussed. However, in all women with Rhimmunized complicated pregnancies, significant variations of neutrophil and serum AP activities were observed.

A fall in AP activity and the presence of an antiplacental AP antibody in serum of women with complicated Rh immunization should be of value in assessing the prognosis of the disease.
Use of Specific Monoclonal Antibodies to Secretory IgA for the Detection of Spermatozoal Antibodies in Serum and Seminal Plasma by Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Authors: WINDT M.‐L. , BOUIC P.J.D. , MENKVELD R. , KRUGER T.F.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: The role of anti‐sperm secretory IgA has recently received attention since some workers feel it plays an important role in the prognosis of the immunologically infertile couple. Current methods used in our laboratory cannot separately detect anti‐sperm secretory IgA. An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) utilizing specific monoclonal antibodies to secretory IgA was used to detect anti‐sperm secretory IgA as well as anti‐sperm monomeric IgA and IgG in serum and seminal plasma of a sperm‐antibody‐positive (ASA+) and sperm‐antibody‐negative (ASA‐) group of men. Results showed significantly raised serum levels in the ASA+ group when compared to the ASA‐group for anti‐sperm secretory IgA (P < .001), anti‐sperm monomeric IgA (P < .001), and anti‐sperm IgG (P < .01). Seminal plasma levels were also raised in the ASA + group, but only significantly so for monomeric IgA (P < .02). The performed ELISA has definite potential in research, especially with the use of monoclonal antibodies for the detection of anti‐sperm secretory IgA, but cannot as yet be used as a prognostic predictor of fertility in the individual antibody‐positive patient. Infertility specific antigens will have to be identified and isolated and subsequently used in the ELISA.
Sperm Peroxidases and Their Possible Role as Glycoprotein‐Containing Con A and Wheat Germ Lectin Receptors
Authors: CEREZO J.M.S. , LEVIT L. , NARDONE P. , CEREZO A.S.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Peroxidases have been detected in the membrane of the ejaculated normal spermatozoon; their distribution on the different zones of the gamete has been determined. This distribution is similar to that of the N‐linked glycoprotein‐containing oligosaccharides. Their resemblance and similarity to the plant peroxidases, which are glycoproteins with N‐type oligosaccharides, suggest that the sperm peroxidases might be, at least partially, identical to concanavalin A (Con A) and wheat germ lectin glycoprotein‐containing receptors.
Antibodies to Sperm Basic Nuclear Proteins Detected in Infertile Patients by Dot‐Immunobinding Assay and by Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Authors: ROUSSEAUX‐PREVOST R. , DE ALMEIDA M. , ARRAR L. , HUBLAU P. , ROUSSEAUX J.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: The auto‐antibody response in infertile men was investigated by means of immunoenzymatic methods, dot‐immunobinding assay (DIBA), and ELISA, using, as antigens, human sperm basic nuclear proteins. Comparison was made, for the same patients, with antibody response to membrane antigens, detected by tray agglutination test (TAT), spermotoxic test (STT), and immunobead binding test (IBT). A very good agreement was observed between the two kinds of antibody responses. Thus, an ELISA or a dot‐immunobinding test with sperm nuclear proteins may be considered as a simple and sensitive method for detection of auto‐antibodies in infertile men. The reactivity in ELISA of various synthetic peptides corresponding to sequences of human protamines HP1 and HP2 was also studied: all the sera containing anti‐nuclear antibodies do not react with synthetic peptides. This observation suggests that antibodies to sperm nuclear proteins recognize conformational epitopes that are not present on small synthetic peptides.
Sequential Study of the Histopathology and Cellular and Humoral Immune Response During the Development of an Autoimmune Orchitis in Wistar Rats
Authors: DONCEL GUSTAVO F. , DI PAOLA JORGE A. , LUSTIG LIVIA
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Wistar rats immunized with an homologous testicular homogenate (TH) and complete Freund's adjuvant, followed by i.v. injection of Bordetella pertussis, developed an autoimmune orchitis (EAO). Animals were studied at 7, 16, 30, 50, and 80 days (d) after the first immunization. An important lesion of the testis only appeared at 50 d, increasing in severity and incidence (77%) at 80 d. Lesions were characterized by a prevalent aspermatogenesis with tubular atrophy and mild interstitial mononuclear infiltrates. Delayed‐type hypersensitivity response (DTH) against TH was detected early at 7 d and, except for 16 d, it increased with time, reaching a maximum at 80 d. A good temporal relationship between DTH and histopathology was found. Circulating antibodies to TH, detected by ELISA, were only present in 64% of the animals with testis lesion, while no deposits of IgG or C3 in the seminiferous tubules were seen. We describe a sequence of immunological events, concomitant with pathological changes of the testis, during the development of a severe EAO in Wistar rats.
Levels of lnterleukin‐2 Receptor in Serum of Patients During the Menstrual Cycle and Following Embryo/Gamete Transfer
Authors: WOLF DON P. , STONE BRONTE A. , KOOPERSMITH TINA B. , QUINN KAY , QUINN PATRICK , MARRS RICHARD P.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: In an attempt to establish whether nidation elicits a measureable systemic immunologic response in vivo, levels of interleukin‐2 receptor (IL‐2R) have been determined in serum drawn from 34 pregnant patients (IUP) immediately before embryo/ gamete transfer, and 7 and 14 days later. For comparison, these same values were determined for 41 subjects who did not conceive, and for 18 who spontaneously aborted (SAB) during the first trimester of gestation. Serum IL‐2R values were near 320 U/ml and did not differ between days within outcomes, or within days between outcomes. Furthermore, levels of IL‐2R and β‐hCG in serum were not interrelated on days 7 or 14 of pregnancy (SAB or IUP). Serum IL‐2R levels did not change during the menstrual cycle. The present results appear to traverse presumptive elements of existing hypotheses of “placental immunotropism.”
Specific Inhibitory Substance to the Husband's HLA Allotype in Sera From Patients With Gestational Trophoblastic Disease Detected by Lymphocytotoxicity Testing
Authors: KATO SENTOYO , TSUJI KIMIYOSHI , FURUHASHI YOSHIHITO , GOTO SETSUKO , SAITO MITSURU , TOMODA YUTAKA
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT:The sera of nine patients with gestational trophoblastic disease were investigated for the inhibitory substance specific to the HLA allotypes of the patients' husbands by microcytoxicity inhibition testing using monoclonal antibodies (anti‐A2, A9, A10) and HLA‐typing serum to Bw52. The specific inhibitory substance was present in three of three choriocarcinoma patients, in three of four invasive mole patients, and in one of two hydatidiform mole patients and seemed to change in titer parallel with tumor growth. These facts suggest that the inhibitory substance could have some relation to the patient's immunological response against the tumor; that is, this inhibitory substance could be the reason why patients could not induce graft rejection response to trophoblastic tumor cells.
Changes in Maternal and Newborn Lymphocyte Reactivity in Reciprocal Mixed Lymphocyte Cultures During the Postpartum Period
Authors: KOMLOS L. , LANDMANN J. , NOTMANN J. , DULITZKY F. , HART J. , GOLDMAN J. , HALBRECHT I.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Reciprocal one‐way mixed mother‐newborn lymphocyte cultures (MMNLC) containing alternatively maternal or newborn responding (R) or stimulating (S) cells were investigated in both directions in primiparae at three different times: a few hours after delivery, and at 4 and at 16 weeks. Cultures were grown in the presence of maternal and pooled control serum prepared from the blood of five to eight unrelated healthy donors. Four weeks after delivery in maternal and in control serum a significant increase in MMNLC reactivity could be observed, which disappeared at 16 weeks when a pronounced decline in MMNLC values in both directions was found. The suppressive effect of maternal serum was more pronounced at delivery, still evident 4 weeks later, and insignificant after 16 weeks. The results of this study suggest that 4 weeks after delivery, maternal sensitization to fetal histocompatibility antigens can be detected in primiparae with MMNLC; and that 16 weeks later, this was no longer detectable with the same test.
Alteration of Lymphocyte Reactivity in Pregnant Women Treated With the Progesterone Receptor Inhibitor ZK 98734
Authors: SZEKERES‐BARTHO JULIA , SZABO J. , KOVACS L.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Thirteen women during the 5th and 6th weeks of gestation were treated with a progesterone receptor blocker (ZK 98734) for pregnancy termination. Five patients received 100 mg/day of the compound, and eight patients received 50 mg/ day for 4 days. Daily blood samples were obtained during the treatment period as well as on days 8 and 15 after the beginning of drug administration, and cytotoxic activity, progesterone sensitivity, and progesterone binding capacity of the lymphocytes were determined. Determination of SP‐1 concentrations monitored the saturation state of trophoblastic progesterone receptors.

High and low responders to the progesterone antagonist were identified. Lymphocytes of high responders treated with the 100 mg/day dose demonstrated a rapid increase of cytotoxicity, with a concomitant fall in progesterone sensitivity and progesterone binding capacity. Vaginal bleeding began as early as the 2nd day of treatment, and pregnancy was terminated by the 8th day of the treatment.

Low responders receiving 100 mg/day demonstrated similar but attenuated changes. Low responders did not bleed during the first 4 days of treatment, and termination of pregnancy occurred later compared to high responders. Lymphocytes of high responders treated with 50 mg/ day behaved similarly to those obtained from the low responders treated with 100 mg/day, and abortion was not completed before the 25th day after the beginning of the treatment. Lymphocytes function of low responders treated with 50 mg/day did not change significantly, the SP‐1 concentration did not decline, and pregnancies continued. We conclude that a difference in sensitivity to the progesterone receptor blocker explains the selective block at trophoblastic binding sites only and the inability to block those in the lymphocytes. Progesterone receptor blocker apparently discriminates between lymphocytic and trophoblastic binding sites. Lymphocytes progesterone binding sites block correlates better than does trophoblastic receptors block in the prediction of successful interruption of early pregnancies with ZK 98734.
Expression of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor and Transferrin Receptor by Human Trophoblast Populations
Authors: BULMER JUDITH N. , THROWER STEPHANIE , WELLS MICHAEL
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Epidermal growth factor (EGF) has several roles, including stimulation of cell division and differentiation. EGF receptor (EGFR) has been localized to villous syncytiotrophoblast, but expression by other human trophoblast populations has not been reported. EGFR expression was examined in normal and pathological placental tissues using a streptavidin‐biotin‐peroxidase technique; results were compared with expression of transferrin receptor (Tf‐R) in similar tissues. EGFR was detected on villous syncytiotrophoblast in early and term pregnancy with labelling of the apical membrane, focal cytoplasmic reactivity, and patchy labelling of the trophoblast basement membrane. In contrast with other reports, EGFR was also consistently localized to villous cytotrophoblast, chorion laeve, and extravillous trophoblast populations in maternal uterine tissues. Maternal decidua showed diffuse labelling of stromal cells, particularly in the superficial zones. The reaction pattern in ectopic tubal pregnancy was similar to that in early intrauterine pregnancy. In molar pregnancy, EGFR was detected on villous syncytiotrophoblast and cytotrophoblast. In contrast, in normal, ectopic, and molar pregnancies labelling for Tf‐R was confined to syncytiotrophoblast and to the proximal portions of the cytotrophoblast columns. Expression of EGFR by all trophoblast cells may represent a mechanism of placental growth and proliferation control. EGFR may also be involved with establishment of differentiated trophoblast functions including hormone secretion.
Allogeneic Recognition and Rejection Reactions in the Placenta
Authors: LABARRERE CARLOS A.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: One of the major questions in medicine is how human extraembryonic tissues escape rejection by maternal immune responses, because these tissues are allogeneic and should stimulate allogeneic recognition and rejection reactions. Evidence for maternal allogeneic recognition of extraembryonic tissues in chorionic villi, basal plate, and spiral arteries is presented. Extraembryonic membranes seem always to stimulate maternal allogeneic recognition and rejection reactions, and abnormal pregnancies appear to be associated with a simple quantitative increase of the same placental immunopathological lesions found in normal pregnancies.
Occurrence of Ectopic Pregnancy Among Women With Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion
Authors: COULAM CAROLYN B. , JOHNSON PETER M. , RAMSDEN GORDON H. , WAGENKNECHT DAWN R. , FAULK W. PAGE , McINTYRE JOHN A. , ANNEGERS JOHN F.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Ectopic pregnancy is a major health problem accounting for about 10% of all maternal mortality. To determine whether patients with a history of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) have a higher frequency of ectopic pregnancy than the general population, the obstetrical histories of 630 patients with a diagnosis of RSA from two centers were studied. Thirty‐eight of 376 USA women, (10%) and 10 of 193 British women (5%) previously had suffered an ectopic pregnancy. These data provide an overall prevalence of 9% for ectopic pregnancy among patients who recurrently abort. The total number of pregnancies was 1,716 in the USA group and in the British group was 1,270, for a total of 2,986 including live births, stillbirths, abortions, hydatidiform moles, and ectopic pregnancies. In the US series, 45 of the 1,716 pregnancies were ectopic. If these women had the same relative proportion of ectopic pregnancies as the general population, there should have been 20.6 ectopic pregnancies. This represents a 2.2‐fold increase in patients with a history of RSA. There was no association between pregnancy order and occurrence of ectopic pregnancy. The prevalence of known risk factors for ectopic pregnancy in patients with a history of ectopic pregnancy was PID, 3%; tubal surgery, 20%; and used IUD, 3%. Seventy‐four percent of the women had no identifiable risk factor. These results suggest a comorbidity for ectopic pregnancy and RSA which may indicate shared etiologies.
Human Placentae: View From an Immunological Bias
Authors: FAULK W. PAGE , HUNT JOAN S.
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT: Human placentae form a major part of the interface between maternal and embryonic tissues. Placentae are morphologically complex organs that are lined with a trophoblastic tissue that provides anatomical constraints over which flows maternal blood. Maternal antibodies and immune cells thus contact the lining syncytiotrophoblast, and this paper considers some of the antigens that maternal immune components might encounter. The antigens have been grouped into those of unknown function, major histocompatibility antigens, and antigens of suspected function. The paper also details certain antigens of cytotrophoblasts. We discuss consequences of maternal immune responses to extraembryonic antigens and present evidence for amplification of these responses through the activation of hemostasis and fibrinolysis within the placenta and placental bed.