Role of cytokines in determining T-lymphocyte function

β2-Microglobulin-Dependent T Cells Are Not Necessary for Alloantigen-Induced Th2 Responses After Neonatal Induction of Lymphoid Chimerism in Mice

We have analyzed the requirement for β2-microglobulin (β2m)-dependent T cells in the generation of allogeneic Th2 responses in vivo. A neonatal injection of semiallogeneic cells in BALB/c mice induces a state of chimerism that promotes the differentiation of donor-specific CD4+ T cells toward the Th2 phenotype. Polyclonal T-B cell interactions occur in this model between host Th2 and donor B cells, resulting in the production of IgE Abs. IgE production and Th2-priming are critically dependent upon the early production of IL-4. Our data in the present paper demonstrate that: 1) IgE synthesis and the up-regulation of MHC class II and CD23 molecules on B cells are independent of β2m expression in the host, 2) no difference in the induction of CD4 alloreactive Th2 cells could be observed between β2m−/− and their wild-type control littermates when Th2-priming was measured in adult mice, and 3) the Th2 response and IgE production is induced in the complete absence of β2m-dependent T cells both in the host and in the inoculum. Therefore, using a variety of assays, we could not demonstrate diminished responses in mice with a disrupted β2m gene in this model of Th2-mediated allogeneic interaction, indicating that β2m-dependent NK1.1+ and CD8+ T cells are not required for the generation of alloreactive Th2 responses in vivo.

Depletion of natural killer cells from the graft reduces interferon-gamma levels and lipopolysaccharide-induced tumor necrosis factor-alpha release in F1 hybrid mice with acute graft-versus-host disease

BACKGROUND

We wished to determine whether removal of NK1.1+ cells from the graft provides protection against acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) by obviating the Th1 immune response that underlies the development of this disease.

METHODS

Graft-versus-host (GVH) reactions were induced in two groups of (C57BL/6 x DBA/2)F1 hybrid mice. The first received grafts harvested from polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid-stimulated, C57BL/6 donors and depleted in vitro of NK1.1+ cells. This treatment provides protection against GVHD-associated mortality and cachexia. The second received unmodified grafts. We compared interferon-gamma and interleukin-10 production as well as the levels of engraftment in these two groups. Lipopolysaccharide-induced tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) release was also compared since TNF-alpha levels in GVH mice following injection of a sublethal dose of endotoxin provide an index of macrophage priming by Th1 cytokines.

RESULTS

Interferon-gamma production was absent in recipients of NK1.1-depleted grafts at the time when high levels were seen in recipients of unmodified grafts. Following lipopolysaccharide injection, high levels of TNF-alpha were observed in recipients of unmodified grafts, whereas negligible amounts were present in recipients of NK1.1-depleted grafts. The use of NK1.1-depleted grafts did not result in a reduced level of engraftment of CD4+ or CD8+ cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that NK1.1 depletion of the graft confers protection against mortality by interfering with an immunoregulatory mechanism that results in the development of a Th1 response in GVH mice, and does not result in abortion of the graft. Because macrophage priming is prevented, recipients are also protected from the exaggerated sensitivity to endotoxin seen in mice with acute GVHD.

CD4 regulatory cells in immune tolerance

We have used the classic model of neonatal tolerance to investigate the hypothesis that acquired tolerance depends on the generation of regulatory CD4 cells. Injection of neonatal BALB/c mice with semi-allogeneic CAF1 (BALB/c X A/J) spleen cells induces antigen-specific tolerance (TOL) in 80% of mice. TOL mice accept fully allogeneic A/J skin grafts for >60 days. TOL mice show diminished Th1 CD4 and CD8 cell immunity against A/J in vitro. In contrast, TOL mice show increased levels of anti-A/J Th2 CD4 responses. Thus tolerance is associated with the inhibition of Th1 CD4 and TC1 CD8 responses and the enhancement of Th2 CD4 responses. Because of this relationship, we hypothesized that regulatory Th2 CD4 cells in TOL mice maintain tolerance by blocking activation of A/J-reactive TC1-CD8 cells. Using in vitro BrdU assays to measure CD8 proliferation within unfractionated cell cultures, we showed that CD8 cells from TOL mice proliferate normally to exogenous interleukin-2 (IL-2) but fail to proliferate in response to A/J cells. The addition of exogenous IL-2 does not restore CD8 proliferation to A/J, ruling out simple CD8 cell anergy. However, when CD4 cells are depleted from the cultures, IL-2 could restore the ability of A/J-reactive CD8 cells to proliferate and to secrete IFN-gamma. Thus CD4 cells from TOL mice inhibit IL-2 rescue of "anergic" A/J-reactive CD8 cells. The results demonstrate a novel link between two major mechanisms of tolerance, immunoredirection and anergy.

Infectious Th1 and Th2 autoimmunity in diabetes-prone mice

In the non-obese diabetic (NOD) mouse, a Th1-biased autoimmune response arises spontaneously against glutamic acid decarboxylase, concurrent with the onset of insulitis. Subsequently, Th1-type autoreactivity spreads intra- and intermolecularly to other beta-cell autoantigens (beta CAAs), suggesting that a spontaneous Th1 cascade underlies disease progression. Induction of Th2 immunity to a single beta CAA results in the spreading of Th2-type T-cell and humoral responses to other beta CAAs in an infectious manner. Thus, both Th1 and Th2 autoimmunity can evolve in amplificatory cascades defined by site-specific, but not antigen-specific, positive feedback circuits. Despite the continued presence of Th1 autoimmunity, the induction of Th2 spreading is associated with active tolerance to beta CAAs and reduced disease incidence. With disease progression there is an attenuation of beta CAA-inducible Th2 spreading, presumably because of a reduced availability of uncommitted beta CAA-reactive precursor T cells. We discuss the implications of these findings for the rational design of antigen-based immunotherapeutics.

Norepinephrine Accelerates HIV Replication Via Protein Kinase A-Dependent Effects on Cytokine Production

To explore the role of sympathetic nervous system activation in HIV pathogenesis, we examined the effect of the neuroeffector molecule norepinephrine (NE) on HIV-1 replication in quiescently infected PBMCs that were subsequently activated with Abs to CD3 and CD28. NE accelerated HIV-1 replication at concentrations ranging from 10−8 to 10−5 M. This effect could be mimicked by protein kinase A (PKA) activators (forskolin or dibutyryl-cAMP) and abrogated by β-adrenoreceptor antagonists or the PKA inhibitor rp-cAMP, indicating transduction via the adrenoreceptor signaling pathway. NE reduced cellular activation and altered the production of several HIV-modulating cytokines: IL-10 and IFN-γ were markedly suppressed; TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, and IL-6 were mildly suppressed; and levels of IL-12 were not significantly altered. The addition of either exogenous IFN-γ or IL-10 abrogated the effect of NE on virus production. Thus PKA-dependent suppression of cytokine production appears to mediate the enhancement of HIV-1 replication by NE.

Enhanced Th2-like responses in IL-1 type 1 receptor-deficient mice

IL-1 has a number of effects on T cell growth but a specific role for IL-1 in T cell responses in vivo has not been elucidated. In this study the role of IL-1 in Th1/Th2 responses was examined in mice deficient for the IL-1 type 1 receptor (IL-1RI-/-) during cutaneous Leishmania major infection or following immunization with keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH). After inoculation of L. major stationary phase promastigotes into the hind footpad, both IL-1RI-/- and wild-type (WT) mice developed small lesions which resolved spontaneously. Lymph node cells from infected IL-1RI-/- mice produced significantly more IL-4 and IL-10 than those from WT mice following antigenic stimulation in vitro. Splenocytes from IL-1RI-/- and WT mice showed similar levels of antigen-induced proliferation. In contrast, splenocyte cultures from the IL-1RI-/- mice contained significantly more IL-4 than those from WT mice. Similar results were also obtained after immunization with KLH. While lymph node cells from both IL-1RI-/- and WT mice displayed similar levels of KLH-specific proliferation, those from IL-1RI-/- mice produced significantly more IL-4 than those from WT mice. Conversely, antigen-stimulated lymph node cells from WT mice secreted significantly greater amounts of IFN-gamma as compared with those from IL-1RI-/- mice. These data indicate that while IL-1 is not required for mounting an immune response or antigen-dependent proliferation, it appears to be required for normal regulation of Th1/Th2 responses and may function to negatively regulate IL-4 expression.

Heterogeneity in the clonal T cell response. Implications for models of T cell activation and cytokine phenotype development

The T cell can be defined in the context of two properties--the recognition specificity of the T cell receptor (TCR) heterodimer and the functional response of the T cell after TCR stimulation. Once a particular TCR heterodimer is expressed and successfully selected during thymic development, the antigen specificity is fixed for all the clonal progeny of that cell. In contrast, the potential functional responses that may be generated in response to specific antigen in the postthymic environment are quite extensive. These range from programmed cell death to initiation of alternate programs of phenotype development that generate effector populations with distinct cytokine expression patterns and regulatory properties. Recent advances in analytical methods that have permitted multiparametric characterizations of the T cell response at the single cell, rather than population level, have necessitated a modified view of T cell activation and the clonal T cell response, and have generated new insights into the regulation of immunity. In this brief review, we highlight studies that have characterized heterogeneity of the CD4+ T cell clonal response based on single-cell analyses, and discuss implications for models of T cell activation and cytokine phenotype development.

Naturally activated CD4+ T cells are highly enriched for cytokine-producing cells

Most T cells in a normal non-immunized individual are in a resting state. However, a small proportion of splenic T cells are large activated cells both in specific pathogen-free and antigen-free mice. To further elucidate the effector functions associated with these "naturally" activated CD4+ T cells, we have characterized the expression of various membrane markers, cytokine production and T helper activity by these cells. We show that naturally activated CD4+ T cells express activation markers and contain tenfold higher proportions of cells producing IL-4, IL-10 and IFN-gamma as compared to small CD4+ T cells. Despite the high proportion of IFN-gamma producers, naturally activated CD4+ T cells still induce B cell proliferation and differentiation. These results are discussed in the context of normal physiological autoreactivity.

Generation, Persistence, and Modulation of Th0 Effector Cells: Role of Autocrine IL-4 and IFN-γ

Many studies have classified CD4 responses into either Th1-like or Th2-like, based on cytokine secretion profiles, but little significance has been placed on Th0 cells. This has largely resulted from studies that suggested that Th0 populations primarily comprise individual Th1 and Th2 cells. Here, we show that priming of Ag-specific naive CD4 cells with moderate dose IL-4 generates a Th0 population that is evident after 3 days in vitro and becomes prevalent after successive encounters with Ag over a 9-day period. By intracellular cytokine staining, the majority (>60%) of effector cells generated in this way produce either IL-4, IFN-γ and IL-2, or IL-4 and IFN-γ without IL-2. Endogenous IFN-γ secreted over the initial 3 days of culture was critical for generating Th0 cells, since neutralization allowed IL-4 to induce differentiation into Th2-like cells. Successive encounters with Ag were required for generating Th0 cells, and their stability and persistence were governed by the balance of endogenous IL-4 and IFN-γ secreted during the later stages of differentiation. Studies blocking Fas-induced cell death showed that this process played no role in Th0 cell generation, and differential death of committed Th1 or Th2 cells was not required for Th0 persistence. These data suggest that Th0 cells can be as prevalent as Th1- or Th2-like cells after naive CD4 activation, that the relative levels of autocrine IL-4 and IFN-γ are important to the lack of commitment, and that not all cells are predestined to the Th1 or Th2 phenotypes early in the response.

T cell memory

Immunological memory can be defined as the faster and stronger response of an animal that follows reexposure to the same antigen. By this definition, it is an operational property of the whole animal or the immune system. Memory cells express a different pattern of cell surface markers, and they respond in several ways that are functionally different from those of naive cells. Murine memory cells are CD44 high and low in the expression of activation markers such as CD25 (IL-2R), whereas human memory cells are CD45RA-, CD45RO+. In contrast to naive cells, memory cells secrete a full range of T cell cytokines and can be polarized to secrete particular restricted patterns of secretion for both CD4 and CD8 T cells. The requirements for the activation of memory cells for proliferation and cytokine production are not quite as strict as those of naive cells, but costimulation in the broad sense is required for optimum responses and for responses to suboptimum antigen concentrations. It would appear that memory cells can persist in the absence of antigenic stimulation and persist as nondividing cells. Reencounter with the same antigen can expand the population to a new, stable, higher level and generate a separate population of CD44 high effectors that may be required for protection, while competition from other antigens can drive it down to a lower stable level. It is unclear how or where memory cells arise, but once generated they have different pathways of recirculation and homing.

The immunological co-adjuvant action of liposomal interleukin-2: the role of mode of localisation of the cytokine and antigen in the vesicles

In experiments designed to study the co-adjuvant action of interleukin-2, a model antigen (tetanus toxoid) was passively entrapped in, or covalently coupled to multilamellar liposomes in the presence or absence of interleukin-2 (IL-2). When present, IL-2 was either co-entrapped with the toxoid, entrapped alone in liposomes with toxoid coupled to their surface, or coupled to the surface of liposomes with entrapped toxoid. The role of spatial localization of IL-2 within the liposomal structure (vis a vis that of the toxoid) was studied in terms of its immunoadjuvant action in vivo. Male CD-1 mice were injected intramuscularly twice with a variety of toxoid-containing liposomal preparations in the absence or presence of IL-2 incorporated in the same liposomes as above. In some experiments mice were immunized with liposomal toxoid mixed with separately entrapped IL-2. Results show that IL-2 augments significantly secondary immune responses (IgG1, IgGa, IgG2b subclasses) against the liposomal toxoid (up to 15-fold compared with the liposomal toxoid alone), regardless of cytokine and antigen mode of accommodation in the liposomal structure but only when both are present in the same vesicles. It is suggested that liposomal IL-2 may prove useful as a co-adjuvant for vaccines which are weak or ineffective.

Transcriptional Repression of the IL-2 Gene in Th Cells by ZEB

Th1- and Th2-type cells mediate distinct effector functions via cytokine secretion in response to immunologic challenge. Precursor Th cells transcribe IFN-γ, IL-2, and IL-4 upon activation. Repeated stimulation of Th precursor cells in the presence of IL-4 leads to terminally differentiated Th2 cells that have lost the ability to transcribe the IL-2 gene. We provide evidence that repression of IL-2 gene expression in Th2 cells and partial repression in Th1 cells are mediated by ZEB, a zinc finger, E box-binding transcription factor. This factor binds to a negative regulatory element, NRE-A, in the IL-2 promoter, thereby acting as a potent repressor of IL-2 transcription.

Chemokines produced by mesothelial cells: huGRO-alpha, IP-10, MCP-1 and RANTES

Recently we showed the in vivo relevance of chemokines in cases of bacterial peritonitis in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients. Mesothelial cells, the most numerous cells in the peritoneal cavity, are hypothesized to function as a main source of chemokine production. We investigated the time- and dose-dependent expression patterns of four chemokines by mesothelial cells at the mRNA and protein level in response to stimulation with physiological doses of proinflammatory mediators that are present at the site of bacterial inflammation. Besides the chemokines huGRO-alpha (attractant for neutrophils), MCP-1 and RANTES (monocyte attractants), the expression and production of IP-10 was analysed. Mesothelial cells were cultured and stimulated with either IL-1beta, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) or IFN-gamma or combinations of these. The time- and dose-dependent mRNA expression of the chemokines was determined by Northern blot analysis and the protein production by ELISA. It was concluded that mesothelial cells could indeed be triggered by the mentioned stimuli to induce mRNA and protein production (huGRO-alpha and IP-10) or to augment constitutive protein production (MCP-1). However, RANTES mRNA and protein production could only be induced in some cases and only in small amounts. The chemokine response of mesothelial cells was regulated differentially, depending on the stimulus and the chemokine measured. In distinct cases, combination of the stimuli led to synergy in mRNA expression and protein production. The presented in vitro data support our hypothesis that mesothelial cells in vivo are the main source of relevant chemokines in response to proinflammatory mediators, suggesting an important role for mesothelial cells in host defence.

The Leishmania promastigote surface antigen-2 (PSA-2) is specifically recognised by Th1 cells in humans with naturally acquired immunity to L. major

The promastigote surface antigen-2 (PSA-2) is a Leishmania parasite antigen, which can induce Th1-mediated protection against murine leishmaniasis when used as a vaccine. To evaluate PSA-2 as a human vaccine candidate the specific T-cell response to PSA-2 was characterised in individuals immune to cutaneous leishmaniasis. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from Sudanese individuals with a past history of self-healing cutaneous leishmaniasis proliferated vigorously in response to PSA-2 isolated from Leishmania major, whereas the antigen did not activate cells from presumably unexposed Danes. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from individuals with previous L. major infection had varying proliferative responses to PSA-2 derived from L. donovani promastigotes. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells activated by PSA-2 from L. major produced high amounts of interferon-gamma and tumour necrosis factor-beta, and little interleukin-4, thereby showing a Th1 cytokine pattern. Parallel cultures showed clear Th1 and Th2 response patterns to purified protein derivative of tuberculin or tetanus toxoid, respectively. Flow cytometric analysis revealed that PSA-2 induced blastogenesis in the CD3 positive population and that these cells were the major source of interferon-gamma. The results show that Th1-like cells recognising PSA-2 are expanded during infection by L. major and that they maintain their Th1-like cytokine profile upon reactivation in vitro. Since immunity to cutaneous leishmaniasis is mediated by antigen-specific Th1-like cells, PSA-2 might be considered a vaccine candidate for human leishmaniasis.

Characterization of cis-Regulatory Elements and Nuclear Factors Conferring Th2-Specific Expression of the IL-5 Gene: A Role for a GATA-Binding Protein

Expression of the IL-5 gene is restricted to the Th2 subset of helper T cells. We have previously defined four cis-regulatory elements of the IL-5 promoter responding to PMA and cAMP in EL-4 cells. We now report that the 1.2-kb region of the IL-5 promoter directs expression of the IL-5 gene in a Th2 clone but not a Th1 clone, indicating that transcription from the IL-5 promoter is Th2 specific. For the functioning of the IL-5 promoter in a Th2 clone, IL-5C and IL-5CLE0 were critical. IL-5CLE0 interacted with both constitutive and inducible nuclear factors (designated NFIL-5CLE0), which existed in both Th1 and Th2 clones, whereas IL-5C interacted with a constitutive nuclear factor (designated NFIL-5C), which was found only in Th2 but not in Th1 clones. Th2 specificity of NFIL-5C was also confirmed using in vitro-differentiated Th1 and Th2 cells derived from TCR-transgenic mice. The sequence for NFIL-5C binding bears homology with GATA-binding sites. The NFIL-5C complex was supershifted by an anti-GATA-3 Ab and inhibited by an oligonucleotide containing GATA-binding sites. We showed preferential expression of GATA-3 in Th2 cells. Finally, we demonstrated that in vitro-translated GATA-3 bound to IL-5C and overexpression of GATA-3 augmented stimulation-dependent IL-5 promoter activity in EL-4 cells. Taken together, our results provide evidence that GATA-related factors may be involved in Th2-specific expression of the IL-5 gene.

Adhesion and cytosolic dye transfer between macrophages and intestinal epithelial cells

Activated macrophages (M phi) found in the intestinal lesions of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) secrete many inflammatory mediators which can regulate intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) function. However, little is known about direct M phi-IEC interactions. Two potential mechanisms by which cells may interact are through specific receptor-ligand binding of adhesion molecules, such as integrins or cadherins, and by exchange of cytoplasmic substances through transmembraneous channels called gap junctions. We investigated whether M phi could adhere to epithelial cells in culture and form transmembrane communication channels as defined by dye transfer. Primary cultures of murine M phi and a M phi cell line, P388D1, adhered to Mode-K and IEC6, but not CMT-93 IEC. Antibody blocking studies determined that P388D1-Mode-K binding was partially dependent on beta 2 integrin (CD18) function, Mode-K constitutively expressed CD106 (VCAM-1) and cell associated fibronectin, while P388D1 expressed low levels of CD49d/CD29 (VLA4) but blocking antibodies to these surface molecules did not inhibit P388D1-Mode-K adherence. Transfer of calcein dye from M phi to IEC was quantitated by flow cytometry and was dependent on M phi-IEC adhesion. Dye transfer was concentration dependent in that the fluorescence intensity of Mode-K was proportional to the number of adherent P388D1 cells as well as the dye load of the M phi. These results indicate that M phi interact with IEC by adhesion and possibly through gap junctions and may thus regulate IEC function by direct cell-cell communication.

Differentiation, regulation, and death of T helper cell subsets during infection with Leishmania major

The development and regulation of specific types of immune responses are dependent on understanding the biology of T helper cell (Th cells) subsets. We primarily use murine infections with the intracellular protozoan parasite, Leishmania major, as our model to investigate Th1/2 cell biology, where following infection, some inbred strains of mice develop a Th1 response and heal, but others develop a Th2 response and fail to control parasite replication. We focus on three major questions: 1. What factors are involved in Th cell development? 2. How can we switch an established immune response from one type to another? 3. How are immune responses downregulated once the parasites are eliminated? We demonstrated that interleukin (IL)12 promotes Th1 cell development and that IL12 is an effective adjuvant for cell-mediated immunity. We are now defining factors regulating the expression of the IL12 receptor and the importance of CD28-B7 interactions for the development of vaccine-induced immunity. We also found that IL12, in combination with chemotherapy, abrogates a Th2 response. These results have implications for treatment of infectious diseases, autoimmunity, and allergy. Currently, we are studying how such switching occurs. Finally, we found that TNFRp55-/- mice are unable to heal leishmanial lesions in spite of eliminating the parasites. This result suggests that the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) p55 plays a critical, and previously unrecognized, role in downregulating pathogen-induced inflammatory responses. Our current hypothesis is that the TNFRp55 is required for induction of cell death in these lesions, and that in its absence, lymphocytes accumulate at the site of inflammation.

IL-1α and TNF-α Are Required for IL-12-Induced Development of Th1 Cells Producing High Levels of IFN-γ in BALB/c But Not C57BL/6 Mice

The development of Th1- or Th2-type responses determines the type of immune response that is elicited in response to Ag. Responsiveness to IL-12 is critical for the development of Th1-type CD4+ T cells required for cell-mediated immune responses. Addition of IL-12 to primary cultures of CD4+ T cells stimulated with OVA and splenocytes or dendritic cells resulted in the development of a Th1 phenotype with the capacity to secrete high levels of IFN-γ upon restimulation with splenic APC. The present study shows that using dendritic cells to present Ag upon restimulation reveals a requirement for additional cofactors, including IL-1α and TNF-α, which were provided by spleen cells but not dendritic cells. Furthermore, these cofactors are required for optimal IL-12-induced Th1 development in BALB/c but not C57BL/6 mice. This differential requirement for such cofactors in IL-12-driven Th1 development may play a role in genetic predisposition to Th1 or Th2 responses to infectious agents.

In vivo treatment with recombinant IL-12 protects C57BL/6J mice against secondary alveolar echinococcosis

Using an experimental model of hepatic Echinococcus multilocularis infection in C57BL/6J mice, intraperitoneal administration of 0.8 microgram of recombinant IL-12 to mice with an established infection was shown to reduce the parasite burden as soon as two weeks after the end of treatment. At that time, in vitro Echinococcus multilocularis-induced spleen T cell proliferative responses as well as IFN-gamma and IL-5 production were higher in IL-12 treated mice than in untreated mice. Administration of 0.8 microgram of IL-12 at the time of infection was shown to be without effect on the parasite establishment. However, this treatment greatly inhibited the subsequent metacestode development. Indeed, ten weeks after infection, it induced a complete healing in 37.5% of mice. At that time, the development of metastases was inhibited in 68.75% of IL-12-treated mice. This reduction of parasite burden was mainly associated with a strong proliferation of spleen cells to E. multilocularis antigen and with a high IFN-gamma production. Altogether, our results show that IL-12 is of crucial importance in inhibiting the larval growth after the metacestode establishment in the liver and suggest that this cytokine could be of potential value in the treatment of human alveolar echinococcosis.

High levels of plasma IL-10 and expression of IL-10 by keratinocytes during visceral leishmaniasis predict subsequent development of post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis

Some patients develop post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) after they have been treated for the systemic infection kala-azar (visceral leishmaniasis). It has been an enigma why the parasites cause skin symptoms after the patients have been successfully treated for the systemic disease. We report here that PKDL development can be predicted before treatment of visceral leishmaniasis, and that IL-10 is involved in the pathogenesis. Before treatment of visceral leishmaniasis, Leishmania parasites were present in skin which appeared normal on all patients. However, IL-10 was detected in the keratinocytes and/or sweat glands of all patients who later developed PKDL (group 1) and not in any of the patients who did not develop PKDL (group 2). Furthermore, the levels of IL-10 in plasma as well as in peripheral blood mononuclear cell culture supernatants were higher in group 1 than in group 2.

Induction of Granulomatous Experimental Autoimmune Thyroiditis in IL-4 Gene-Disrupted Mice

To study the role of IL-4 in development of granulomatous experimental autoimmune thyroiditis (EAT), IL-4 gene-disrupted mice expressing the EAT-susceptible H-2k haplotype were generated and used for EAT induction. Spleen cells from mouse thyroglobulin (MTg) and LPS-primed IL-4+/+ and IL-4−/− donors could induce severe granulomatous EAT when spleen cells were activated with MTg and anti-IL-2R mAb in the presence of IL-12. Thyroid lesions had extensive follicular cell proliferation, large numbers of histiocytes, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, and multinucleated giant cells, in addition to lymphocytes and other mononuclear cells. Expression of IFN-γ gene mRNA and production of IFN-γ by effector spleen cells stimulated with MTg and IL-12 were similar for both IL-4+/+ and IL-4−/− mice. Although IL-4 was undetectable in IL-4−/− mice, expression of mRNA for IL-5, IL-10, and IL-13 and production of IL-5 by both MTg-activated spleen cells and anti-CD3-activated CD4+ T cells were comparable for cells from IL-4+/+ and IL-4−/− mice, indicating that the absence of IL-4 did not prevent production of other Th2 cytokines. Production of MTg-specific IgG1 was very low or undetectable in IL-4−/− mice. IL-4 gene mRNA and MTg-specific IgG1 could be detected in IL-4+/+ or IL-4−/− recipients only when they received effector cells from IL-4+/+ donor mice, indicating that IL-4- and IgG1-secreting cells are of donor origin. These results demonstrate that IL-4 is not essential for development of granulomatous EAT.

Determinant spreading of T helper cell 2 (Th2) responses to pancreatic islet autoantigens

The nature (Th1 versus Th2) and dynamics of the autoimmune response during the development of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) and after immunotherapy are unclear. Here, we show in nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice that the autoreactive T cell response starts and spreads as a pure Th1 type autoimmunity, suggesting that a spontaneous Th1 cascade underlies disease progression. Surprisingly, induction of antiinflammatory Th2 responses to a single beta cell antigen (betaCA) resulted in the spreading of Th2 cellular and humoral immunity to unrelated betaCAs in an infectious manner and protection from IDDM. The data suggest that both Th1 and Th2 autoimmunity evolve in amplificatory cascades by generating site-specific, but not antigen-specific, positive feedback circuits. Determinant spreading of Th2 responses may be a fundamental mechanism underlying antigen-based immunotherapeutics, explaining observations of infectious tolerance and providing a new theoretical framework for therapeutic intervention.

CD8+ T cells control Th2-driven pathology during pulmonary respiratory syncytial virus infection

BALB/c mice vaccinated with vaccinia virus expressing the major surface glycoprotein G of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) develop lung eosinophilia during RSV challenge. The G protein is remarkable in that it induces CD4+, but no CD8+ T cells in this mouse strain. Studies using passive T cell transfers show that co-injection of CD8+ T cells greatly reduces the Th2-driven lung eosinophilia caused by G-specific CD4+ T cells. By contrast, vaccination with the fusion protein (F) induces both CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, but not lung eosinophilia during RSV infection. These observations suggest that CD8+ T cells play a crucial role in preventing Th2-driven pathology. We therefore depleted mice with anti-CD8 antibodies in vivo. This treatment allowed lung eosinophilia to develop in F-primed mice. Depletion of interferon (IFN)-gamma had a similar effect, suggesting that secretion of this cytokine is the mechanism by which CD8+ T cells exert their effect. To test whether similar effects occurred in other strains of mice, RSV-infected C57BL/6 mice (which do not develop eosinophilia after sensitization to G) were treated with anti-IFN-gamma. Again, these mice developed eosinophilia. In this strain, genetic deletion of CD8-alpha, beta2-microglobulin or genes coding for the transporter associated with antigen presentation (which in each case eliminates CD8+ T cells) caused lung eosinophilia during RSV infection. These studies show the critical roles that CD8+ T cells and IFN-gamma production play in regulating Th2-driven eosinophilia and provide a unifying explanation for previous studies of lung eosinophilia. We propose that vaccines designed to enhance CD8+ T cell recognition might avoid disease caused by CD4+ Th2 cells.

Prostaglandin E2 primes naive T cells for the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines

In addition to their capacity to induce pain, vasodilatation and fever, prostaglandins E (PGE) exert anti-inflammatory activities by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines by macrophages and T cells, and by increasing interleukin (IL)-10 production by macrophages. We here report that PGE2, the major arachidonic acid metabolite released by antigen-presenting cells (APC), primes naive human T cells for enhanced production of anti-inflammatory cytokines and inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Unfractionated as well as CD45RO- CD31+ sort-purified neonatal CD4 T cells acquire the capacity to produce a large spectrum of cytokines after priming with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 monoclonal antibodies (mAb), in the absence of both APC and exogenous cytokines. PGE2 primes naive T cells in a dose-dependent fashion for production of high levels of IL-4, IL-10 and IL-13, and very low levels of IL-2, interferon (IFN)-gamma, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and TNF-beta. PGE2 does not significantly increase IL-4 production in priming cultures, whereas it suppresses IL-2 and IFN-gamma. Addition of a neutralizing mAb to IL-4 receptor in primary cultures, supplemented or not with PGE2, prevents the development of IL-4-producing cells but does not abolish the effects of PGE2 on IL-10 and IL-13 as well as T helper (Th)1-associated cytokines. Addition of exogenous IL-2 in primary cultures does not alter the effects of PGE2 on naive T cell maturation. Thus PGE2 does not act by increasing IL-4 production in priming cultures, and its effects are partly IL-4 independent and largely IL-2 independent. Together with the recent demonstration that PGE2 suppresses IL-12 production, our results strongly suggest that this endogenously produced molecule may play a significant role in Th subset development and that its stable analogs may be considered for the treatment of Th1-mediated inflammatory diseases.

Cloning and characterization of the murine homologue of the rat/human MRC OX-2 gene

A 350 bp amplicon, obtained by PCR-select subtractive hybridization from RNA derived from mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) cells from mice pre-immunized with allogeneic lymphocytes 36hrs prior to receiving donor-specific skin grafts, and showing > 98% homology with a published sequence for the rat MRC OX-2 gene, was used as a hybridization probe to screen a cDNA library constructed from adult mouse MLN treated in the same fashion. Several clones were identified which, on DNA sequence analysis, predicted a 218 amino acid protein showing significant homology with the rat and human MRC OX-2 gene product.

Comparison of the effects of interleukin-1 alpha, interleukin-1 beta and interferon-gamma-inducing factor on the production of interferon-gamma by natural killer

Interferon-gamma inducing factor (IGIF) is a recently identified cytokine which stimulates the production of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) by T cells and enhances natural killer (NK) cell cytolytic activity. Protein fold recognition, structure prediction and comparative modeling have revealed that IGIF is a member of the interleukin (IL)-1 cytokine family and has prompted the designation IL-1 gamma. Here we report functional similarities between members of the IL-1 family by comparing the effects of IL-1 alpha, IL-1 beta and IGIF on NK cell production of IFN-gamma. All three IL-1 types enhanced NK cell production of IFN-gamma when induced by IL-2 or IL-12, although at high concentrations (> 10 ng/ml), IGIF was five- to tenfold more potent than IL-1 alpha or IL-1 beta. This effect correlated with enhanced levels of mRNA for IFN-gamma when NK cells were stimulated with IGIF plus IL-12. In contrast to IL-12 and IL-2, the ability of IGIF to stimulate NK cell production of IFN-gamma was not increased by IL-1 alpha or IL-1 beta. The ability of IGIF to enhance IFN-gamma production was independent of the type I and type II IL-1 receptors or the IL-1R accessory protein. Together, these results identify IGIF as a potent stimulator of NK cell production of IFN-gamma and demonstrate that the effect of IGIF on NK cell production of IFN-gamma is similar to that of IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta but distinct from that of IL-12.

Identification and functional characterization of a second chain of the interleukin-10 receptor complex

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is a pleiotropic cytokine which signals through a specific cell surface receptor complex. Only one chain, that for ligand binding (IL-10Ralpha or IL-10R1), was identified previously. We report here that, although human IL-10 binds to the human IL-10R1 chain expressed in hamster cells, it does not induce signal transduction. However, the co-expression of CRFB4, a transmembrane protein of previously unknown function belonging to the class II cytokine receptor family, together with the IL-10R1 chain renders hamster cells sensitive to IL-10. The IL-10:CRFB4 complex was detected by cross-linking to labeled IL-10. In addition, the IL-10R1 chain was able to be co-immunoprecipitated with anti-CRF antibody when peripheral blood mononuclear cells were treated with IL-10. These results demonstrate that the CRFB4 chain is part of the IL-10 receptor signaling complex. Thus, the CRFB4 chain, which we designate as the IL-10R2 or IL-10Rbeta chain, serves as an accessory chain essential for the active IL-10 receptor complex and to initiate IL-10-induced signal transduction events.

Interleukin-12 in infectious diseases

Interleukin-12 (IL-12) is a potent immunoregulatory cytokine that is crucially involved in a wide range of infectious diseases. In several experimental models of bacterial, parasitic, viral, and fungal infection, endogenous IL-12 is required for early control of infection and for generation and perhaps maintenance of acquired protective immunity, directed by T helper type 1 (Th1) cells and mediated by phagocytes. Although the relative roles of IL-12 and gamma interferon in Th1-cell priming may be to a significant extent pathogen dependent, common to most infections is that IL-12 regulates the magnitude of the gamma interferon response at the initiation of infection, thus potentiating natural resistance, favoring Th1-cell development; and inhibiting Th2 responses. Treatment of animals with IL-12, either alone or as a vaccine adjuvant, has been shown to prevent disease by many of the same infectious agents, by stimulating innate resistance or promoting specific reactivity. Although IL-12 may enhance protective memory responses in vaccination or in combination with antimicrobial chemotherapy, it is yet unclear whether exogenous IL-12 can alter established responses in humans. Continued investigation into the possible application of IL-12 therapy to human infections is warranted by the role of the cytokine in inflammation, immunopathology, and autoimmunity.

IGIF does not drive Th1 development but synergizes with IL-12 for interferon-gamma production and activates IRAK and NFkappaB

In these studies, IFN gamma-inducing factor (IGIF), unlike IL-12, did not drive Th1 development in BALB/c or C57BL/6 mice, but like IL-1alpha, potentiated IL-12-driven Th1 development in BALB/c mice. IGIF and IL-12 synergized for IFN gamma production from Th1 cells. Unlike IL-1alpha, IGIF had no effect on Th2 cells. IGIF signaled through IRAK, IL-1 receptor-associated kinase, to induce nuclear translocation of p65/p50 NFkappaB in Th1 cells. IL-1alpha had no effect on proliferation, cytokine production, or NFkappaB activation in Th1 cells but activated NFkappaB and proliferation in Th2 cells. Thus, Th1 and Th2 cells may differ in responsiveness and receptor expression for IL-1 family molecules. IGIF and IL-1alpha may differentially amplify Th1 and Th2 effector responses, respectively.

In vitro T-lymphocyte function in head and neck cancer patients

T-lymphocyte cell function was studied in vitro in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from 61 male patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas compared to 46 control patients. Patients older than 80 years or with reduced tumor-related performance status as measured by Karnofsky score less than 75 were excluded. In contrast to previous similar studies, control subjects ensured a minimum stress load by sampling all patients on the day of either diagnostic or therapeutic surgery. PBMC were separated by density-gradient centrifugation and subsequently cultured with autologous sera in vitro. The mitogen concanavalin A (Con A), which stimulates all T-cell clones, was employed. Findings showed that increased Con A stimulation and PBMC proliferation occurred with PBMC from cancer patients compared to that from control patients. In contrast, no differences could be detected with respect to the stimulated supernatant level of interleukin-2, interleukin-4 or interferon-gamma between the groups. These results suggest that T-lymphocytes from PBMC are generally affected by neoplastic disease through either a supporting cell or serum factor.

Autopathogenic T helper cell type 1 (Th1) and protective Th2 clones differ in their recognition of the autoantigenic peptide of myelin proteolipid protein

We previously generated a panel of T helper cell 1 (Th1) clones specific for an encephalitogenic peptide of myelin proteolipid protein (PLP) peptide 139-151 (HSLGKWLGHPDKF) that induces experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) upon adoptive transfer. In spite of the differences in their T cell receptor (TCR) gene usage, all these Th1 clones required W144 as the primary and most critical TCR contact residue for the activation. In this study, we determined the TCR contact residues of a panel of Th2/Th0 clones specific for the PLP peptide 139-151 generated either by immunization with the PLP 139-151 peptide with anti- B7-1 antibody or by immunization with an altered peptide Q144. Using alanine-substituted peptide analogues of the native PLP peptide, we show that the Th2 clones have shifted their primary contact residue to the NH2-terminal end of the peptide. These Th2 cells do not show any dependence on the W144, but show a critical requirement for L141/G142 as their major TCR contact residue. Thus, in contrast with the Th1 clones that did not proliferate to A144-substituted peptide, the Th2 clones tolerated a substitution at position 144 and proliferated to A144 peptide. This alternative A144 reactive repertoire appears to have a critical role in the regulation of autoimmune response to PLP 139-151 because preimmunization with A144 to expand the L141/G142-reactive repertoire protects mice from developing EAE induced with the native PLP 139-151 peptide. These data suggest that a balance between two different T cell repertoires specific for same autoantigenic epitope can determine disease phenotype, i.e., resistance or susceptibility to an autoimmune disease.

Cell surface characterization of T lymphocytes and allergen-specific T cell clones: correlation of CD26 expression with T(H1) subsets

To evaluate the possibility of using surface molecules as markers for human T helper cell subsets, we studied the expression of surface molecules on T cell clones (TCCs) specific for the major birch pollen allergen, Bet v 1. No difference in the expression of the respective receptors for interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), IL-4, IL-6, or IL-10 could be detected on T(H) subsets, nor did CD25 expression (IL-2R alpha-chain) differ significantly. However, high expression of CD26 antigen (dipeptidyl peptidase IV) correlated with a T(H1)/T(H0)-like phenotype, whereas T(H2)-like clones displayed a lower expression of CD26 antigen. Comparing cytokine production and CD26 expression simultaneously, we found a correlation between the IL-4/IFN-gamma ratio and the density of CD26 per cell. We could show that the amount of IL-4 secretion, and not of IFN-gamma secretion, was responsible for this correlation. To evaluate whether CD26 antigen expression is regulated by stimuli inducing a T(H1)- or T(H2)-like phenotype, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were cultured in the presence of IL-4, IFN-gamma, and IL-12, respectively. Incubation with IL-4 led to T cells with a T(H2)-like cytokine pattern and a significantly lower expression of CD26; IFN-gamma and IL-12 led to a T(H1) shift associated with an increased expression of CD26 on CD4+ T cells. By means of intracellular cytokine detection we analyzed expression of CD26 on CD4+ PBMC stimulated to produce IFN-gamma or IL-4 on a single cell level. All activated, cytokine-producing CD4+ T cells expressed CD26, but the increase in CD26 expression was higher in cells producing IFN-gamma. These data suggest that regulation of CD26 cell surface expression correlates with the production of T(H1)-like cytokines.

An antibody specific for interleukin-6 reverses age-associated changes in spontaneous and induced cytokine production in mice

A number of quantitative and qualitative changes in the pattern of cytokine production have been reported to accompany the process of ageing in laboratory animals and in human populations, including an increase in serum levels of interleukin-1 (IL-1) and IL-6, as well as increased concanavalin A (ConA)-stimulated production of IL-4, IL-10 and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), and decreased production of IL-2 from cultured spleen cells. Increased IL-1 and IL-6 production is a feature of splenic adherent cells and peritoneal exudate cells taken from aged mice and stimulated with lipopolysaccharide in vitro. We have asked whether the altered production of lymphocyte-derived cytokines (IL-4, IL-2, TGF-beta) is itself a function of a primary alteration in IL-1/IL-6 production (from macrophage/monocytes) by infusing monoclonal antibodies to these cytokines prior to harvesting cells from aged mice and stimulating the cells in vitro. Anti-IL-6, but not anti-IL-1, reversed the age-associated alteration in lymphocyte cytokine production. The general pattern of cytokine production in aged mice is of a type-2 cytokine type, and thus these data are consistent with the idea that increased production of IL-6 in aged animals is causally implicated in this age-associated polarization to type-2 cytokine production.

Balancing the immune system for tolerance: a case for regulatory CD4 cells

In the past, tolerance mechanisms have focused on processes that involve elimination (deletion) or paralysis (anergy) of immune responses. It is now becoming clearer that peripheral tolerance to antigen depends on the generation of regulatory cells that function to maintain the tolerant state. The development of peripheral tolerance may require that the immune system utilize several strategies, including deletion, anergy, and immunoregulatory pathways, and these strategies may overlap. Recent investigations using animal models of transplantation tolerance have demonstrated that immunoregulatory CD4 mechanisms may play a central role in limiting organ-destructive immune responses. In this Overview, we discuss the rationale behind the need for invoking active regulatory mechanisms in peripheral immunologic tolerance and summarize the data that support or refute a CD4 regulatory mechanism.

Single-cell analyses of CD4+ T cells from alpha beta T cell receptor-transgenic mice: a distinct mucosal cytokine phenotype in the absence of transgene-specific antigen

Development of distinct CD4+ T cell cytokine phenotypes may be conditioned by the anatomic site in which activation occurs. A double-label in situ hybridization technique was used to characterize co-expression of cytokine mRNA in antigen-specific responses of Peyer's patch (PP), lamina propria (LP), and splenic (SP) CD4+ T cells isolated from alpha beta T cell receptor-transgenic mice. Interleukin (IL)-2 was the dominant cytokine expressed by antigen-stimulated PP and SP populations, though it was expressed by a minority of the activated T cells. Cells that expressed interferon (IFN)-gamma were less frequent, and IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10 were infrequent. In contrast, cells that expressed IFN-gamma or IL-10 were most frequent in the LP population, with lower frequencies of IL-2, and few IL-4- and IL-5-positive cells. Co-expression of two cytokines by the same cell was the exception, regardless of the anatomic site from which the T cells were isolated. The surface phenotype of transgene-positive T cells isolated from each anatomic site was distinct, despite the absence of in vivo exposure to antigen for which the transgenic T cell receptor is specific. These data suggest that the cytokine responses of CD4+ T cells may be conditioned by the microenvironment, independently of specific antigen, and that the LP CD4+ T population has a distinct cytokine expression pattern with counter-regulatory properties that may be important for homeostasis in mucosal immune tissues.

Kinetics of IL-2 and IL-4 mRNA and protein production by graft-infiltrating lymphocytes responsible for rejection after clinical heart transplantation

During cardiac rejection we studied the kinetics of IL-2 and IL-4 mRNA and subsequent protein production by in vivo primed graft-infiltrating lymphocytes (GIL), using semiquantitative RT-PCR and ELISA. Following in vitro stimulation with either donor or third-party antigens, mRNA expression of IL-2 and IL-4 were already detectable 1-2 h after stimulation, while their protein production could be measured from 4 h onwards at least until 48 h. At both the mRNA and protein level, we measured a donor-specific signal for IL-2 and for IL-4 production (p = 0.02), while the relative donor-specific IL-2 mRNA level was significantly higher than the relative IL-4 mRNA level (p = 0.002). These observations suggest that after in vitro challenge with donor antigens, GIL obtained from rejecting cardiac allografts predominantly produce IL-2 mRNA and protein.

Vaccine- and antigen-dependent type 1 and type 2 cytokine induction after primary vaccination of infants with whole-cell or acellular pertussis vaccines

Cytokine profiles were examined 1 month after primary vaccination of infants with a whole-cell pertussis vaccine (wP) (Connaught) or either of two acellular pertussis vaccines, aP-Chiron Biocine (aP-CB) or aP-SmithKline Beecham (aP-SB), each combined with diphtheria-tetanus toxoids (DT), in Bordetella pertussis antigen-stimulated or unstimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Pertussis toxin (PT), filamentous hemagglutinin (FHA), and pertactin (PRN) were used as antigens, and the children were defined as responsive when their PBMC proliferated in response to these antigens. The controls were either children who received only DT or children who received pertussis vaccine but whose PBMC did not proliferate upon stimulation with B. pertussis antigens (unresponsive children). Antigen-stimulated PBMC of responsive wP recipients were characterized by an elevated production of T-helper-cell type 1 cytokines gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) and interleukin 2 (IL-2), low to minimal production of IL-5, and no production of IL-4. The PBMC of aP vaccine-responsive recipients showed, in addition to the elevated IFN-gamma production, a consistent, antigen-dependent production of type 2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-5), with PRN being the most and PT being the least effective antigen. Type 2 cytokine induction was more pronounced in aP-SB than in aP-CB recipients, as shown by the presence of IL-4 mRNA transcripts and higher IL-5 production in the former (161.6 +/- 36 and 47.9 +/- 44 pg/ml [mean +/- standard error for five subjects each], respectively, after PRN stimulation). Appreciable, antigen-unstimulated (constitutive) IFN-gamma production was also detected in PBMC cultures of all vaccinees. However, this spontaneous IFN-gamma production was, in most vaccinees, significantly lower than the antigen-driven cytokine production. In contrast, no constitutive type 2 cytokine production was ever observed in any vaccine group. PBMC from the two control groups (either DT or pertussis vaccine recipients) did not show any type 2 cytokine production, while IFN-gamma production was comparable in both antigen-stimulated and unstimulated conditions. Absence of type 2 cytokines and low levels of constitutive IFN-gamma production were also seen in prevaccination children. Thus, pertussis vaccines induce in infants a basically type 1 cytokine profile, which is, however, accompanied by some production of type 2 cytokines. The latter are more expressed by aP-SB than by aP-CB recipients, and with PRN than with other antigens, and they are minimally expressed in wP recipients and with PT as antigen. Our data also highlight a constitutive IFN-gamma production in infancy, which might reflect natural immunization and/or the burden of concomitant vaccinations and which may have an impact on T-helper-cell cytokine pattern polarization consequent to pertussis vaccination.

Unequal death in T helper cell (Th)1 and Th2 effectors: Th1, but not Th2, effectors undergo rapid Fas/FasL-mediated apoptosis

T helper cell (Th) 1, but not Th2, effectors undergo rapid Fas/Fas ligand (FasL)-mediated, activation-induced cell death upon restimulation with antigen. Unequal apoptosis is also observed without restimulation, after a longer lag period. Both effectors undergo delayed apoptosis induced by a non-Fas-mediated pathway. When Th1 and Th2 effectors are co-cultured, Th2 effectors survive preferentially, suggesting the responsible factor(s) is intrinsic to each population. Both Th1 and Th2 effectors express Fas and FasL, but only Th2 effectors express high levels of FAP-1, a Fas-associated phosphatase that may act to inhibit Fas signaling. The rapid death of Th1 effectors leading to selective Th2 survival provides a novel mechanism for differential regulation of the two subsets.

Low-affinity cytotoxic T-lymphocytes require IFN-gamma to clear an acute viral infection

The majority of the response of cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTL) to lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) in H-2d mice is directed toward one epitope located on the nucleoprotein (NP, aa 118-126), and usually no primary responses to other epitopes are detectable. Previous studies have shown that thymic expression of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus-nucleoprotein (LCMV-NP) in H-2d transgenic mice (Thy-NP mice) leads to deletion of high-affinity anti-LCMV-NP CTL by negative selection. Selection is incomplete, so that low-affinity NP-specific CTL pass through the thymus and are detectable in the periphery. To analyze the importance of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) in the ability of low-affinity antiviral CTL to clear an acute viral infection, double transgenic mice were generated that are IFN-gamma deficient and express the NP of LCMV in the thymus (Thy-NP x IFN-gamma -/- mice). When infected with LCMV, these bigenic mice were unable to clear the infection despite generating low-affinity primary antiviral CTL, and they became persistently infected. In contrast, IFN-gamma competent Thy-NP mice cleared LCMV within 7-8 days and IFN-gamma deficient mice that did not express NP in their thymus generated high-affinity CTL that terminated an acute LCMV infection within 10-12 days post-viral challenge. Persistently infected IFN-gamma deficient mice selectively depleted LCMV-specific CTL and displayed reduced levels of antigen-presenting cells in the spleen, and 60% of these mice died at 2-3 months postinfection. Thus, IFN-gamma is required for clearing an acute viral infection in the absence of a high-affinity CTL response. In the absence of IFN-gamma persistent viral infection results despite the presence of low-affinity CTL.

Nitric oxide increased interleukin-4 expression in T lymphocytes

Nitric oxide (NO) is a regulator of many biological functions including T helper 1 (Th1)/T helper 2 cells balance. It has been demonstrated that NO inhibits the secretion of interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interferon-gamma on Th1 cells. Here we showed that, in addition to the suppression of IL-2 production, NO-generating agents sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) increased the secretion of IL-4 both in Th2 clones and EL4 T cells. The additive effect was dependent on the dose of SNP and SNAP. Augmentation of IL-4 production was detected with 1 microM SNP, and up to threefold increase in IL-4 secretion could be observed with higher concentrations of SNP/SNAP. NO also weakly increased the activation of IL-4 promoter. In contrast, NO markedly inhibited the induction of IL-2 promoter, which could account for most of the reduction in IL-2 production. Analysis of the transcriptional elements on IL-2 and IL-4 promoters revealed a selective inactivation of NF-kappa B and NF-AT. It is suggested that despite the complex feedback network regulating NO production, the enhanced IL-4 expression would lead to the expansion of Th2 cells once NO is generated.

Interleukin-12 modulates the protective immune response in SCID mice infected with Histoplasma capsulatum

Infection with Histoplasma capsulatum results in a subclinical infection in immunocompetent hosts due to an effective cellular immune response. By contrast, immunodeficient individuals can have a severe disseminated and potentially fatal disease. In a previous study, it was demonstrated that normal mice infected intravenously with H. capsulatum and treated with interleukin-12 (IL-12) at the time of infection were protected from a fatal outcome. In this study, we examined the immunomodulatory effects of IL-12 on disseminated histoplasmosis in immunodeficient SCID mice. SCID mice infected with H. capsulatum and treated with IL-12 showed an increase in survival and a reduction in the colony counts of H. capsulatum in internal organs at 14 days after infection. The protective effect of IL-12 was abrogated if animals were also treated with a neutralizing antibody to gamma interferon (IFN-gamma). IL-12 treatment also resulted in an increase in mRNA expression and protein production for IFN-gamma, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), and nitric oxide from spleen cells. When IL-12 was combined with amphotericin B (AmB) treatment, there was a significant increase in survival compared with either modality alone. Moreover, combined treatment resulted in an increase in both IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha production, as well as in a substantial reduction in H. capsulatum burden at 35 and 90 days postinfection. This study demonstrates that IL-12 modulates the protective immune response to histoplasmosis in SCID mice and also suggests that IL-12 in combination with AmB may be useful as a treatment for H. capsulatum in immunodeficient hosts.

Induction of apoptosis and T helper 2 (Th2) responses correlates with peptide affinity for the major histocompatibility complex in self-reactive T cell receptor transgenic mice

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease thought to be mediated by CD4+ T helper cells (Th). Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis is a rodent model of multiple sclerosis and has been used extensively to explore a variety of immunotherapies using soluble protein or peptide antigens. The underlying mechanisms of such therapy have been attributed to induction of T cell anergy, a switch in Th1 to Th2 responses, or peripheral deletion of autoreactive T cells. In this study, we have developed transgenic mice expressing a T cell receptor (TCR) specific for the NH2-terminal peptide Ac1-11 of the autoantigen myelin basic protein to explore the mechanism of soluble peptide therapy. T cells from these mice are highly skewed toward the CD4 population and have an abnormal thymic architecture, a phenomenon found in other TCR transgenic mice that exhibit a highly skewed CD4/CD8 ratio. Soluble Ac1-11 or the analogues Ac 1-11 [4A] or Ac1-11[4Y] (which bind to the major histocompatibility complex [MHC] class II molecule I-Au with increasing affinities) given intravenously activates T cells, rendering cells hyperresponsive in vitro for at least two days after injection. Concomitantly, T cells apoptose in the periphery, the degree of which correlates with the affinity of the peptide for the MHC. In addition, a shift in the T helper phenotype of the surviving T cells occurs such that the low affinity peptide, Ac1-11, induces primarily a Th1 response, whereas the highest affinity peptide, Ac1-11[4Y], induces primarily a Th2 type response. These data show that both the nature and the presumed number of the peptide-MHC complexes formed during specific peptide therapy affect both the degree of peripheral programmed cell death as well as the outcome of the T helper subset response in vivo, leading to amelioration of disease.

Interferon-gamma is essential for destruction of beta cells and development of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus

Autoimmune mediated destruction of beta cells of the islets of Langerhans leads to insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). Rat insulin promoter (RIP) lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) transgenic mice that express the nucleoprotein (NP) or glycoprotein (GP) of LCMV under control of the RIP in their beta cells develop IDDM after infection with LCMV and serve as a model for virus-induced IDDM. Recently, Kagi et al. (Kagi, D., B. Odermatt, P. Ohashi, R.M. Zinkernagel, and H. Hengartner, 1996, J. Exp. Med. 183:2143-2149) showed, using RIP LCMV perforin-deficient mice, that IDDM does not occur in the absence of perforin. They concluded that perforin-mediated killing by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) is the main factor needed for beta cell injury and destruction. Here we provide evidence that killing of beta cells is more complex and multifactorial. By the use of our RIP LCMV model, we show that in perforin competent but interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma)-deficient mice, beta cell injury is limited and IDDM does not occur. For these studies, double transgenic mice were generated that were genetically deficient in the production of IFN-gamma and express LCMV NP or GP in their beta cells. In such mice, IDDM was aborted despite the generation of LCMV-specific antiself CTLs that displayed normal cytolytic activity in vitro and in vivo and entered the pancreas. However, mononuclear infiltration into the islets did not occur, and upregulation of class I and II molecules usually found in islets of RIP LCMV single transgenic mice after LCMV infection preceding the onset of clinical IDDM was not present in these bigenic mice. Our findings indicate that in addition to perforin, beta cell destruction, development of insulitis, and IDDM also depend on the cytokine INF-gamma, presumably through enhancement of major histocompatibility complex expression and antigen presentation.

Advances in the therapy for sepsis in children

Sepsis remains a major clinical problem in children, with a high mortality rate. Recent discoveries have identified the major cytokines involved in sepsis and several anticytokine strategies have been used in clinical trials. Antiendotoxin, anticytokine, and even steroid therapy have been studied in humans, with limited success. Several of the clinical trials of immunotherapy in sepsis are reviewed, and the inherent pitfalls in the varied clinical approaches investigated are analyzed.

Modulating ongoing Th2-cell responses in experimental leishmaniasis

Dramatically polarized T helper (Th)-cell responses are seen in experimental murine infections with Leishmania major. Resistant mice develop a Th1-cell type response and heal the primary lesion, while susceptible mice develop non-protective Th2-cell responses, and the disease eventually proves fatal. Deservedly, much effort has gone into determining factors that influence the development of these T-cell subsets early in infection; however, little is known about how the polarity of established responses can be permanently modified. In this article, Gary Nabors reviews his findings on modifying ongoing Th2-cell responses in susceptible mice, and discusses therapies that have proven effective involving reducing the level of infection using a conventional antileishmanial drug, combined with agents that push the response towards the Th1 pole.

Association between enhanced Th2/Th1 cytokine profile and donor T-cell chimerism following total lymphoid irradiation

Total lymphoid irradiated (TLI) mice develop antigen specific tolerance if the initial antigen exposure occurs shortly after the completion of TLI. We injected TLI-treated mice with semiallogeneic donor cells at 2, 7, or 28 days after completing TLI and determined the levels of donor CD4 and CD8 cells 5 to 7 weeks after TLI treatment. The level of chimerism correlated with the timing of the initial alloantigen exposure. Donor CD4 and CD8 cells were noted only in day 2 or 7 injected mice. Because donor cell chimerism suggested increased in vivo survival of donor cells, we used the level of donor cell chimerism as a surrogate marker for tolerance to examine the relationship between the development of tolerance and enhanced Th2/Th1 cytokine responses to donor antigen. Increased levels of donor CD4 and CD8 cells in the TLI-treated mice was associated with increased Th2/Th1 cytokine production and decreased CTL activity to donor antigen in vitro. Higher Th2/Th1 cytokine levels also correlated with lower CTL activity. The results indicate that the increased production of Th2/Th1 may function to enhance survival of donor cells in TLI-treated mice and suggest that tolerance induction after TLI treatment involves immunoredirection.