A matrix approach to human class II histocompatibility antigens: reactions of four monoclonal antibodies with the products of nine haplotypes

Identifying major histocompatibility complex class II-DR molecules in bovine and swine peripheral blood monocyte-derived macrophages using mAb-L243

Major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC-II) molecules are involved in immune responses against pathogens and vaccine candidates' immunogenicity. Immunopeptidomics for identifying cancer and infection-related antigens and epitopes have benefited from advances in immunopurification methods and mass spectrometry analysis. The mouse anti-MHC-II-DR monoclonal antibody L243 (mAb-L243) has been effective in recognising MHC-II-DR in both human and non-human primates. It has also been shown to cross-react with other animal species, although it has not been tested in livestock. This study used mAb-L243 to identify Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium peptides binding to cattle and swine macrophage MHC-II-DR molecules using flow cytometry, mass spectrometry and two immunopurification techniques. Antibody cross-reactivity led to identifying expressed MHC-II-DR molecules, together with 10 Staphylococcus aureus peptides in cattle and 13 S. enterica serovar Typhimurium peptides in swine. Such data demonstrates that MHC-II-DR expression and immunocapture approaches using L243 mAb represents a viable strategy for flow cytometry and immunopeptidomics analysis of bovine and swine antigen-presenting cells.

Membrane Potential Distinctly Modulates Mobility and Signaling of IL-2 and IL-15 Receptors in T Cells

The high electric field across the plasma membrane might influence the conformation and behavior of transmembrane proteins that have uneven charge distributions in or near their transmembrane regions. Membrane depolarization of T cells occurs in the tumor microenvironment and in inflamed tissues because of K+ release from necrotic cells and hypoxia affecting the expression of K+ channels. However, little attention has been given to the effect of membrane potential (MP) changes on membrane receptor function. Therefore, we studied the influence of membrane de- and hyperpolarization on the biophysical properties and signaling of interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interleukin-15 (IL-15) receptors, which play important roles in T cell function. We investigated the mobility, clustering, and signaling of these receptors and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) I/II glycoproteins forming coclusters in lipid rafts of T cells. Depolarization by high K+ buffer or K+ channel blockers resulted in a decrease in the mobility of IL-2Rα and MHC glycoproteins, as shown by fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, whereas hyperpolarization by the K+ ionophore valinomycin increased their mobility. Contrary to this, the mobility of IL-15Rα decreased upon both de- and hyperpolarization. These changes in protein mobility are not due to an alteration of membrane fluidity, as evidenced by fluorescence anisotropy measurements. Förster resonance energy transfer measurements showed that most homo- or heteroassociations of IL-2R, IL-15R, and MHC I did not change considerably, either. MP changes modulated signaling by the two cytokines in distinct ways: depolarization caused a significant increase in the IL-2-induced phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 5, whereas hyperpolarization evoked a decrease only in the IL-15-induced signal. Our data imply that the MP may be an important modulator of interleukin receptor signaling and dynamics. Enhanced IL-2 signaling in depolarized Treg cells highly expressing IL-2R may contribute to suppression of antitumor immune surveillance.

Activation pathways implicate anti-HLA-DP and anti-LFA-1 antibodies as lead candidates for intervention in chronic berylliosis

CD4(+) T cells play a key role in granulomatous inflammation in the lung of patients with chronic beryllium disease. The goal of this study was to characterize activation pathways of beryllium-responsive bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) CD4(+) T cells from chronic beryllium disease patients to identify possible therapeutic interventional strategies. Our results demonstrate that in the presence of APCs, beryllium induced strong proliferation responses of BAL CD4(+) T cells, production of superoptimal concentrations of secreted proinflammatory cytokines, IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha,and IL-2, and up-regulation of numerous T cell surface markers that would promote T-T Ag presentation. Ab blocking experiments revealed that anti-HLA-DP or anti-LFA-1 Ab strongly reduced proliferation responses and cytokine secretion by BAL CD4(+) T cells. In contrast, anti-HLA-DR or anti-OX40 ligand Ab mainly affected beryllium-induced proliferation responses with little impact on cytokines other than IL-2, thus implying that nonproliferating BAL CD4(+) T cells may still contribute to inflammation. Blockade with CTLA4-Ig had a minimal effect on proliferation and cytokine responses, confirming that activation was independent of B7/CD28 costimulation. These results indicate a prominent role for HLA-DP and LFA-1 in BAL CD4(+) T cell activation and further suggest that specific Abs to these molecules could serve as a possible therapy for chronic beryllium disease.

Use of synthetic peptides to identify measles nucleoprotein T-cell epitopes in vaccinated and naturally infected humans

Recombinant measles nucleoprotein (N) and synthetic peptides spanning the length of the N-protein-coding region were used with a proliferation assay to identify human T-cell epitopes in vaccinated and naturally infected adults. A number of epitopes were mapped to specific regions of the measles virus N. The proliferative response of at least two donors was mediated by CD4(+) T cells in association with HLA DR antigens. Over 70% of all donors tested responded to peptides representing amino acids 271-290, 367-386, 400-420, and 483-502, suggesting that these peptides may be broadly recognized within an HLA diverse population. The most frequently recognized T-cell epitopes in both naturally infected and vaccinated donors were located in the genetically heterogeneous carboxy-terminal half of the N. Analysis of patterns of peptide reactivity among vaccinated and naturally infected subjects identified several regions of potential difference between these two groups. Peptides 221-240 and 237-256 were recognized among 100% of naturally infected donors but among only 37.5% of vaccinated donors and therefore may be of further interest in studies to investigate induction of lifelong versus transient immunity to measles. Use of chimeric molecules containing multiple well-characterized T- and B-cell epitopes or genetic alteration of attenuated vaccine virus to enhance critical T-cell responses may eventually lead to the development of a vaccine candidate that can more closely model the patterns of immune response elicited by wild-type virus.

L cells expressing DQ molecules of the DR3 and DR4 haplotypes: reactivity patterns with mAbs

cDNAs coding for the HLA class II DR and DQ alpha and beta chains of the diabetogenic haplotypes DR3 and DR4 were introduced into a mammalian expression vector and transfected into L-cell mouse fibroblasts to produce cells expressing individual human class II molecules. Stable L transfectants were generated expressing each of the DR or DQ isotypes of the cis-encoded alpha and beta chains of the DR3 or DR4 haplotypes, as well as the trans-encoded alpha and beta chains of the DQ molecules of the two haplotypes. However, isotype mismatched combinations (DR alpha/DQ beta or DQ alpha/DR beta) did not result in any stable transfectants. The stable DQ L-cell transfectants obtained, along with homozygous B-cell lines expressing the DQ2 and DQ8 specificities, were tested against a large panel of twentyone anti-HLA class II monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Their unusual reactivity patterns are described including the failure of most "pan-DQ" mAbs to react with all DQ expressing L-cell transfectants. Interestingly, some mAbs react with certain alpha beta heterodimers expressed on B-LCL but fail to recognize the same heterodimers expressed on the transfectants. This is suggestive of minor structural modifications that class II molecules undergo depending on the cells they are expressed on.

Most human pulmonary infiltrating lymphocytes display the surface immune phenotype and functional responses of sensitized T cells

Pulmonary infiltrating lymphocytes (PIL) isolated directly from human lung were examined for their surface immune phenotype by monoclonal antibody staining and cytofluorimetry. In order to purify PIL, resected lungs were enzymatically digested with collagenase and DNase and subjected to density centrifugation and nylon-wool column separation. In some cases, CD4+ lymphocytes were further purified with alpha CD8 and complement. The majority of pulmonary lymphocytes were CD2+ (87 +/- 1%) and CD3+ (73 +/- 4%). Virtually all of the CD3+ PIL were Ti alpha beta+. Greater than 90% of both CD4+ or CD8+ PIL were CD45RO+ and CD45RA-, consistent with prior antigen sensitization in vivo. A subset of CD4+ PIL (34 +/- 4%) expressed Leu8, the human congener of the murine MEL-14 lymphocyte homing receptor, whereas most homologous CD4+ peripheral blood lymphocytes were Leu8+ (75 +/- 8; P less than 0.01). HLA-DR surface antigens were expressed by 45 +/- 5% of CD4+ PIL versus 9 +/- 1% of CD4+ peripheral blood lymphocytes (P less than 0.001). There was no significant difference in the percentage of low-affinity interleukin-2 (IL-2) receptor-positive CD4+ lymphocytes in lung and blood (9 +/- 3% versus 13 +/- 2%). Analysis of the DNA synthetic cell cycle showed that approximately 5% of blood CD4+ lymphocytes and approximately 25% of CD4+ PIL were in S/G2/M. Compared to homologous blood T cells, purified PIL displayed enhanced proliferative responses to IL-2 and diminished responses to the lectin phytohemagglutinin. Lectin-stimulated PIL showed greater secretion of interferon-gamma and IL-2 than did blood lymphocytes.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Interleukin-2 receptor in peripheral blood lymphocytes of Alzheimer's disease patients

In this study, we investigated the differences in the incidence rate of human leukocyte antigen-DR (HLA-DR) and interleukin 2 receptor (IL-2R) in the peripheral blood lymphocytes of 13 women who were diagnosed clinically as having Alzheimer's disease (AD group), and 13 healthy women with no mental disorders (control group). As a result, the AD group showed a markedly higher rate of lymphocyte subsets of CD4+HLA-DR+, CD4+IL-2R+, CD8+HLA-DR+, CD8-HLA-DR+ and CD8+IL-2R+. This finding indicates a possible immune reaction occurring in the peripheral blood of AD patients. In addition, these higher rates correlate well with the changes in the immune system reported in the postmortem brains of AD patients. Our findings indicate that immunological interactions exist between the central nervous system and the peripheral blood lymphocytes of AD patients, and AD might be induced by an immune reaction occurring in the brain.

Critical role for the Val/Gly86 HLA-DR beta dimorphism in autoantigen presentation to human T cells

Helper T lymphocytes recognize fragments of foreign (or self) antigens in the peptide-binding clefts of major histocompatibility complex class II molecules; their activation is a crucial step in the induction of many immune and autoimmune responses. While studying the latter, we raised a T-cell line from the thymus of a myasthenia gravis patient against recombinant alpha subunit of the human acetylcholine receptor, the target of this autoimmune disease. The line responds to the 144-156 region of the human sequence and not to the same region of the electric fish homolog, which differs by only three residues. These CD4+ T cells recognize this epitope only in the context of HLA-DR4 class II molecules, of which the variants with Gly86 are absolutely required. Thus the naturally occurring alternatives Dw14.2 (Gly86) and Dw14.1 (Val86)--which differ only at this one position in the entire antigen-binding region--show an all-or-nothing difference in presenting activity. This dimorphism at position 86 is widespread, occurring in subtypes of DR1, DR2, DR3, DR5, and DR6 alleles as well as DR4. Since other DR4 subtypes with substitutions at positions 70-74 also fail to present this peptide, and glycine residues can be uniquely flexible, we suggest that this replacement at position 86 acts locally or at a distance by altering the conformation of the peptide-binding cleft. Such profound functional consequences for T-cell recognition as we report here may explain this example of conserved major histocompatibility complex diversity.

Immune system-associated antigens on the surface of peripheral blood lymphocytes in patients with Alzheimer's disease

We investigated the immune-associated antigens of peripheral lymphocytes from 13 patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and 13 age-matched healthy control subjects using two-color analysis with flow cytometry. Four ratios of immune-related antigens, T/B lymphocytes, CD4/CD8, CD4/CD45R and CD4/HLA-DR, were compared for the AD and control groups. The T/B and CD4/CD8 ratios did not differ between the groups, the ratio of CD4+CD45R+ subset in the AD group was lower than the ratio in the control group, and the ratios of CD4+ CD45R- and CD4+HLA-DR+ subsets in the AD group were significantly higher. Further, in the AD group, the CD4+ CD45R+/CD4+ ratio was lower and the CD4+ CD45R- CD4+ ratio was higher than in the control group.

Drug-mediated increase of susceptibility of human lung cancer to NK or LAK effector cells

Previous studies in murine models have shown that in vivo or in vitro treatment of tumor cells with mutagenic triazene compounds (TZC) lead to the appearance of novel drug-mediated tumor antigens (DMTA) capable of eliciting graft resistance in syngeneic hosts. This phenomenon, defined as 'chemical xenogenization' (CX), could be of potential value for immunochemotherapy of human neoplasias. It was also shown that TZC modulate NK sensitivity of murine tumor cells. Therefore, experiments were conducted to evaluate whether susceptibility of a human lung adenocarcinoma cell line (H125) to natural cytotoxic effectors could be affected by treatment with an in vitro active TZC. The results showed that drug treatment of H125 line leads to heritable increase of susceptibility to NK and LAK cells. Moreover, increased binding between effector and drug-treated target cells was observed. Additional studies on HLA antigens showed that changes in HLA-ABC molecule expression were probably not involved in TZC-induced increase of NK/LAK susceptibility. These results suggest that TZC treatment of a human tumor could result in increased expression of membrane structures recognized by natural cytotoxic effector cells. Further studies are required to explore whether these changes are generated by mutational events correlated with TZC-induced CX of human cancer cells.

Quantitative analysis of surface marker densities after exposure of T-cells to concanavalin A (Con A): a sensitive early index of cellular activation

The kinetics of expression of activation-linked T-cell surface markers were analyzed in T-cells obtained from normal donors. The cells were cocultured in triplicate for 0, 1, 24, 48, and 72 hr in the presence of Con A in RPMI 1640. The density of HLA-DR, interleukin 2, and transferrin receptors (IL-2-R and TR, respectively) on the surface of CD3- and CD8-positive cells was computed by a mathematical model based on fluorescence intensity vector analysis, adjusted for cell size, utilizing two-color flow cytometry. The results were compared with controls obtained at the same time with control cells cultured in RPMI 1640 alone. There was a significant increase in the mean density of HLA-DR on the surface of CD3- and CD8-positive cells as early as 1 hr after exposure to Con A when compared with controls (250 and 300%, respectively; P less than 0.0001). The mean density of IL-2-R and TR on CD3+ cells increased by 265 and 208%, respectively; P less than 0.06 and P = n.s., respectively, when compared with control cells. The mean density of Class II MHC products on CD3+ and CD8+ cells treated with RPMI alone increased by 202 and 468%, 234 and 540%, and 1375 and 2442%, respectively, at 24, 48, and 72 hr of culture. In contrast, the mean cell surface density of these markers in cells treated with Con A increased by 614 and 1962%, 3304 and 7231%, and 8665 and 22,619%, respectively (P less than 0.00001) at the corresponding times following exposure to Con A. The density of IL-2-R and TR on CD3+ cells exposed to Con A also increased significantly at 24, 48, and 72 hr (P less than 0.0001). At the same times, the relative percentage of cell subsets bearing these particular markers increased by 78, 138, and 175% at 24, 48, and 72 hr, respectively. The data suggest that objective quantitative evidence of lymphocyte activation after exposure to Con A may be obtained as early as 1 hr after antigen stimulation, and before significant changes in cell numbers occur. Measurement of cell surface marker densities may provide a useful index for the detection and quantitation of cell activation in the early phase of antigenic stimulation.

Luteinization of human granulosa cells in vivo is associated with expression of MHC class II antigens

We previously described the presence of MHC class II (HLA-DR) antigens, structurally similar to those on lymphoid cells and bearing the genetically-appropriate allotypic determinants, on human adrenocortical cells in the zona reticularis of normal glands. We now report a similar expression by granulosa-lutein cells (GLC) in corpora lutea (CL) of normal ovaries, as detected by indirect immunofluorescence techniques with the use of mouse monoclonal antibodies (MAb). In some cases, GLC were also positive for HLA-DQ and -DP antigen expression. Neither granulosa nor theca interna cells in large antral follicles of the same ovaries showed any detectable expression of MHC class II antigens. Moreover, theca-lutein (paralutein) cells, identified by their reactivity with specific human autoantibodies in 5 of the 7 human CL examined, were also negative. Similarly, GLC, but not paralutein cells, in rhesus monkey CL showed significant cross-reactivity with anti-HLA-DR MAb. In contrast, lutein cells in ovaries from either cycling or 7-day-pregnant rats were negative for MHC class II (Ia) antigen expression. Expression of MHC class II antigens by human granulosa cells after their luteal transformation confirms the normal inducibility of certain human steroidogenic cells at the time of their further functional differentiation and enhanced biosynthetic activity, and suggests that these molecules may have additional functions beyond serving as restriction elements in the immune response.

Reduction of major histocompatibility complex class I antigens on invasive and high-grade transitional cell carcinoma

We examined immunohistologically the expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and II antigens, which play important roles in immune reactions, on transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). When stained with monoclonal antibody W6/32 against class I antigens, reduced staining was observed in 34 of 46 TCCs and was virtually absent in 15 of these. The cases showing reduced staining were much more frequent (29 of 34) in high- to moderate-grade than in low-grade TCC. Furthermore, class I antigens were reduced in 18 of 19 invasive TCCs, but in 16 of 27 superficial TCCs. Thus, the reduction of class I antigens was correlated significantly with a decreased degree of tumour cell differentiation and the presence of invasion. Class II antigens on TCC showed variable expression and were not related to tumour grade or stage.

Expression of HLA by the human trabecular meshwork and corneal endothelium

By using immunohistochemical techniques, we demonstrated that HLA class I (A, B and C) and HLA class II (DR), the major histocompatibility antigens in man, are expressed constitutively by cells of the trabecular meshwork/Schlemm's canal system and corneal endothelium, as well as by the conjunctival epithelium, Langerhans cells, vascular endothelium and uvea. Because clinical studies indicate that these antigens are involved in mediating corneal graft rejection and possibly in glaucomatous disease of the eye, the presence of both class I and II HLA in the corneal endothelium and in the trabecular cells has important implications for an understanding of immune disorders in the anterior segment of the eye. The presence of HLA on trabecular cells raises the possibility that these antigens potentiate the recognized role of Langerhans cells at the limbus and that they participate in, and/or regulate, the maintenance and defense of the aqueous outflow pathway. Our findings also open up the possibility of using HLA as a genetic marker in the determination of susceptibility to these disorders in man.

Human gingival Langerhans cells stimulate allogeneic lymphocytes: requirement for MHC class II antigens

Langerhans cells (LC) are antigen-presenting cells which express high levels of Class II MHC antigens on their plasma membranes. While the expression of these antigens on gingival LC has been documented, their functional significance is unclear. In this study, the mixed epithelial cell-lymphocyte culture reaction (MECLR) between stimulator cells (LC) and allogenic lymphocytes was used as an in vitro model for investigating the role of the MHC Class II antigens HLA-DR, -DQ, and -DP in alloantigen presentation by gingival LC. In epithelial cell suspensions prepared from human gingiva, MHC Class II antigen expression (HLA-DR, -DP, -DQ) was confined to CD1a-positive LC. Depletion of Class II antigen-bearing LC from epithelial cells using monoclonal antibodies (L243, B7/21, and SK10) and complement inhibited the ability of epithelial cells to stimulate proliferation in the MECLR. Pre-treatment of epithelial cell suspensions with the same monoclonal antibodies suppressed proliferation in the MECLR, as did direct addition of these antibodies to co-cultures of epithelial cells and lymphocytes. These results indicate that HLA-DQ and -DP, together with DR antigens on gingival LC, are involved in LC-lymphocyte interactions. Since LC are potent antigen presenting cells, alterations in the expression of MHC Class II antigens on the surface of these cells will influence their ability to stimulate lymphocytes during the initiation of the cellular immune response to the accumulation of dental plaque.

Effect of physical exercise on cytokines and lymphocyte subpopulations in human peripheral blood

To examine the effect of intensive physical exercise on interleukin 2 (IL-2), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) and lymphocyte subsets, eleven elite and well-conditioned runners were tested in relation to a five-kilometer race. IL-2 was significantly decreased (p less than 0.01) immediately after the exercise and significantly increased after 24 hours (p less than 0.05), compared to the pre-exercise values taken at steady state. TNF alpha was significantly increased after 2 hours (p less than 0.05), and returned to habitual values after 24 hours. In the steady state at rest, elevation of HLA-DR+ cells was observed in all runners compared with control subjects (p less than 0.05), indicating a persistent activation of lymphoid cells. In connection with exercise a significant increase in NK cells (CD16+) was observed (p less than 0.01). The T-helper/T-suppressor (CD4+/CD8+) ratio was significantly reduced in connection with physical activity (p less than 0.01). In seven runners the ratio was reduced to a value of less than one. This decrease was observed immediately after the exercise, followed by increased ratios 2 hours later (p less than 0.01), due to oppositely directed quantitative changes of the CD4+ and CD8+ cell populations. After 24 hours the ratios returned to habitual levels. Furthermore, we confirmed an increase in the total number of granulocytes in connection with exercise (p less than 0.01), and observed a decrease in absolute numbers of lymphocytes two hours after exercise (p less than 0.01). We emphasize the importance of obtaining information about physical activity within the previous 24 hours before measuring white blood cell parameters.

Presentation of human minor histocompatibility antigens by HLA-B35 and HLA-B38 molecules

Cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) clones specific for human minor histocompatibility antigens (hmHAs) were produced from a patient who had been grafted with the kidneys from his mother and two HLA-identical sisters. Of eight CTL clones generated, four recognized an hmHA (hmHA-1) expressed on cells from the mother and sister 3 (second donor); two recognized another antigen (hmHA-2) on cells from the father, sister 2 (third donor), and sister 3; and the remaining two clones recognized still another antigen (hmHA-3) on cells from the father and sister 3. Panel studies revealed that CTL recognition of hmHA-1 was restricted by HLA-B35 and that of hmHA-2 and hmHA-3 was restricted by HLA-B38. The HLA-B35 restriction of the hmHA-1-specific CTL clones was substantiated by the fact that they killed HLA-A null/HLA-B null Hmy2CIR targets transfected with HLA-B35 but not HLA-B51, -Bw52, or -Bw53 transfected Hmy2CIR targets. These data demonstrated that the five amino acids substitutions on the alpha 1 domain between HLA-B35 and -Bw53, which are associated with Bw4/Bw6 epitopes, play a critical role in the relationship of hmHA-1 to HLA-B35 molecules. The fact that the hmHA-1-specific CTLs failed to kill Hmy2CIR cells expressing HLA-B35/51 chimeric molecules composed of the alpha 1 domain of HLA-B35 and other domains of HLA-B51 indicated that eight residues on the alpha 2 domain also affect the interaction of hmHA-1 and the HLA-B35 molecules.

Haloperidol-induced increase in striatal concentration of the tripeptide, Tyr-Gly-Gly, provides an index of increased enkephalin release in vivo

A sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay has been developed for the tripeptide, Tyr-Gly-Gly, which has been shown previously to be an extraneuronal metabolite of opioid peptides derived from proenkephalin A. Using this assay, we found a regional variation in Tyr-Gly-Gly immunoreactivity in rat brain, with highest levels in striatum and lowest in cerebral cortex. Intracerebroventricular administration of the aminopeptidase inhibitor, bestatin; produced a threefold increase in Tyr-Gly-Gly immunoreactivity in rat striatum, whereas thiorphan, an enkephalinase inhibitor, produced a 45% reduction in striatal Tyr-Gly-Gly immunoreactivity. These data suggest that the tripeptide, Tyr-Gly-Gly, is in a dynamic state in the brain, and provide further support for the hypothesis that its concentration in specific brain areas may reflect the release of endogenous enkephalins in these brain areas. Further confirmation of the validity of measurements of brain Tyr-Gly-Gly as indices of enkephalin release under conditions of altered neuronal activity was provided by our demonstration that chronic dopamine receptor blockade with haloperidol increased striatal concentrations of both Met-enkephalin and Tyr-Gly-Gly.

Involvement of class II beta-chain amino acid residues 85 and 86 in T-cell allorecognition

Alloreactive T-cell clones were derived by limiting dilution following priming to allogeneic cells bearing HLA-DR1 alloantigens. Clonal specificities were determined by extensive testing on a panel of allogeneic lymphoblastoid cell lines and by blocking studies with monoclonal antibodies specific for HLA-DR, -DQ, and -DP class II molecules. Out of nine DR1-positive cell lines, three failed to stimulate a subset of the T-cell clones in conventional proliferation assays. Proliferation by all of the clones was blocked by anti-DR antibodies, not by anti-DQ or anti-DP, which was consistent with the conclusion that the HLA-DR molecule was recognized. This DR1-associated polymorphism has been identified as Dw20 by the Tenth International Histocompatibility Workshop. The molecular basis for this altered recognition of the DR1 molecule was determined by allele-specific oligonucleotide hybridization and by DNA sequencing studies. The first, second, and third hypervariable regions of all nine DR1-positive cell lines were identical. Valine and glycine were found at positions 85 and 86 of the DR1 beta 1 chain in DR1 molecules from six of the nine lymphoblastoid cell lines, whereas alanine and valine were found in the three variant (Dw20) DR1-positive cells. By analogy with class I structure, residues 85 and 86 would be located at the extreme C-terminal end of the beta-chain alpha helix. Together or separately, these amino acid differences may define a T-cell recognition element on the DR1 molecule serving to contact allospecific T-cell receptors. Alternatively, if allorecognition involves recognition of a self peptide complexed with an allogeneic MHC molecule, then it is possible that the differences T cells recognize on DR1 class II proteins arise from peptide-specific interactions with residues 85 and 86.

Selective expression of class II MHC isotypes by MLC-activated human T lymphocytes

Although activated human T cells express class II MHC molecules, the biologic significance of this event is not understood. Using two-color flow cytometry, we have analyzed the expression of HLA-DR, -DQ, and -DP isotypes by T cells following activation by allogeneic lymphoblastoid B-cell lines. Within the CD3+ population, transient expression was observed at 1 day following initiation of culture, which preceded a dramatic and sustained increase around 6-7 days. DR expression was always highest, followed by DP and DQ with DP expression usually somewhat higher than DQ. At day 8, three populations were observed consisting of DR+DP+DQ+ (60%), DR+DP+ (69%), and DR+ (75%) T cells. Interestingly, DQ+ or DP+ but DR- T cells were not observed. These patterns of class II isotype expression were similar in CD2+, CD4+, and CD8+ subgroups and suggest that class II molecules are selectively expressed on T cells and may play a role in the regulation of T-cell responses to alloantigens.

Cellular and immunologic features of carotid artery disease in man and experimental animal models

A better understanding of the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and of post surgical intimal hyperplasia can be obtained by analysis of the cellular composition of the lesions using immunohistochemical techniques. In the present study, we have compared human atherosclerotic plaques obtained as endarterectomy specimens from the carotid artery, with lesions induced by mechanical injury and cholesterol feeding in rats and rabbits. Antibodies to cell type-specific antigens were used to identify cells, and visualisation was with enzyme-conjugated second antibodies. Our data show that the lipid core region of the human plaque is dominated by macrophages. Such cells also dominate the lesions of cholesterol-fed rabbits. In contrast, intimal lesions induced by balloon catheters in rats consist almost entirely of vascular smooth muscle cells, with a small inflammatory infiltrate of monocytes and T lymphocytes. This situation resembles that in the fibrous cap region of the human plaque. However, the human lesion contains a much higher proportion of T lymphocytes and macrophages than the experimental one. In all types of lesions, class II major histocompatibility antigens were induced on the cells, suggesting that an immune reaction with activation of T lymphocytes may be taking place. Finally, different subpopulations of smooth muscle cells were observed, possibly representing different degrees of differentiation or a response to immune mediators. In conclusion, our studies demonstrate that different experimental models resemble the human disease in various aspects. The choice of experimental model will therefore depend on the problem to be studied. The balloon catheter model should be ideally suited for studies of intimal hyperplasia after surgery and also for studies of fibrous cap formation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

HLA-DP-positive T cells in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

HLA-DP+ T cells in peripheral blood from 23 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) were examined using two-colour flow cytometry analysis. A marked increase of HLA-DP+ T cells was observed in patients with SLE (20.5-98.7%; 59.8 +/- 20.8%) in comparison to normal subjects (1.3-20.6%; 11.1 +/- 7.2%), and the ratio of these cells greatly exceeded that of the HLA-DR+ T cells (6.5-49.1%; 21.5 +/- 12.7%). This high frequency of HLA-DP+ T cells in patients with active SLE decreased with prednisolone therapy. When the lymphocytes from normal subjects were stimulated with PHA in vitro, HLA-DP+ T cells increased from 1.8 to 59.2%. Therefore, it appears that the HLA-DP antigen expression on T cells is a practical marker for monitoring changes in the proportion of activated T cells in patients with SLE during the course of therapy.

Levels of soluble CD8 antigen and circulating immune complexes in intravenous drug abusers: relationships to HIV antibody serology

A total of 36 intravenous drug abusers (IVDA) were studied for circulating immune complexes (CIC) and serum soluble CD8 antigen (sCD8). None had symptoms or signs of AIDS-related complex or AIDS. sCD8 levels were significantly higher in 18 patients who had HIV antibody (Ab) compared with 18 patients who were HIV Ab negative (1640 +/- 578 virus 804 +/- 264 U/ml, p less than 0.0001). In HIV Ab+ patients but not in HIV Ab- patients, sCD8 levels significantly correlated with percentages and absolute numbers of activated CD3+DR+ peripheral blood mononuclear cells (p = 0.0024 and 0.0183, respectively). Also in HIV Ab+ patients, CIC levels were significantly greater for both anti-C3 binding (13.1 +/- 11.1 versus 2.9 +/- 3.4 micrograms/ml, p = 0.002) and C1q binding (23.5 +/- 20.2 versus 6.3 +/- 4.3 micrograms/ml, p = 0.001) CIC. Serum C4 concentrations were lower in the HIV Ab+ patient group (33.9 +/- 10.1 versus 41.6 +/- 12.4 mg/dL, p = 0.043). In the seropositive group, IgG levels were higher (2206 +/- 859 versus 1615 +/- 645 mg/dl) and total CD4 cell counts were lower (757 +/- 344 versus 1172 +/- 402 cells per mm3), but at a less significant level (p = 0.024 and 0.005, respectively), than that seen for sCD8 and C1q CIC differences. These results suggest that elevations of both the lymphocyte activation marker sCD8 and antigen nonspecific CIC characterize earlier stages of HIV infection in IVDA.

Prognostic significance of activation and differentiation antigen expression in B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Immunophenotyping shows heterogeneity of expression of activation and differentiation antigens in B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). To investigate whether antigen expression correlates with clinical behaviour we have studied the clinical presentation and follow-up of a series of 111 B-cell lymphomas previously phenotyped for a panel of antigens including CD groups 5, 9, 10, 21, 23, 25, 30, 38, 4F2 antigen, and transferrin receptor. CD antigens 5, 10, and 23 were expressed significantly more often by low grade lymphomas whereas CD38, 4F2 antigen, and transferrin receptor were more often expressed by high grade lymphomas. There was a significant correlation with survival and age, stage at presentation, histological grade, and expression of 4F2 antigen and transferrin receptor but not with the other antigens studied. 4F2 antigen and transferrin receptor may identify a poor prognostic group of cases in low grade lymphoma but we conclude that phenotyping B-cell NHL for many of the antigens expressed at various stages of B-cell differentiation and activation does not provide clinically useful information in addition to that obtained from standard histological classifications.

Villitis in normal term human placentae: frequency of the lesion determined by monoclonal antibody to HLA-DR antigen

Chronic villitis is a placental lesion of unestablished etiology. It is characterized by destruction of chorionic villi with a mononuclear infiltrate and focal areas of fibrinoid necrosis. The lesion frequently is seen in normal placentae, yet more lesions have been reported in placentae from abnormal pregnancies. We measured the extent of villitis in 25 normal term placentae by using both light microscopy and immunocytology for class II (HLA-DR) antigens of the major histocompatibility complex. HLA-DR antigens were found to be characteristic of villitis areas. Normal placentae showed striking variations in the incidence of villitis, but these variations did not correlate with clinical outcome.

Immunopathology of the placenta in pemphigoid gestationis and linear IgA disease

We have investigated the immunopathology of the placenta in bullous diseases by studying the deposition of immune complexes and expression of MHC class II subregion products by immunohistological methods. Placentae from seven patients with pemphigoid gestationis (PG) and two patients with linear IgA disease were studied. In PG immune complexes containing IgGI and C3 were identified in six cases. In linear IgA disease IgAI containing immune complexes were found in both cases. Placentae from patients with PG showed aberrant expression of MHC Class II products. This was not seen in the placentae from patients with linear IgA disease. In PG there was incoordinate expression of the subregion products, DP and DR being more extensively and consistently expressed than DQ. These results and previous immunogenetic studies suggest that PG may be unique among organ specific autoimmune disease, the autoantibodies forming during an allogenic response rather than target cells behaving as antigen presenting cells.

T-cell identification of a private DQw5 subtype associated with DR1: contribution of endogenous peptide?

Human allospecific T-cell clones were generated against DR1 and DQw1 by limiting dilution. In proliferation experiments using a large panel of Epstein-Barr virus-transformed B-cell lines (LCL), eight T-cell clones (TLC) were found that responded only to the DR1+ LCLs* (9 of 9) and not the 94 other LCLs expressing DR specificities 2 through w9. TLCs* were analyzed further using monoclonal antibodies in blocking studies. As expected, most TLCs were blocked by anti-DR monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs)* and not by anti-DQ MoAbs. However, one clone, TLC 63.138, was not blocked by anti-DR MoAbs but was completely inhibited by anti-DQ MoAbs. This suggests that TLC 63.138 recognizes a private determinant on DQ molecules uniquely associated with DR1.

Use of anti-HLA antibodies to mask major histocompatibility complex gene products on tumor cells can enhance susceptibility of these cells to lysis by natural killer cells

The role of major histocompatibility gene products (i.e., HLA molecules) in rendering tumor cells resistant to natural killer (NK) cell-mediated lysis was investigated by using mouse monoclonal antibodies to bind and mask HLA or non-HLA gene products on the cell membrane of human allogeneic tumor targets. Enhanced lysis of resistant lymphoid and certain other solid tumor cell lines was observed only when monoclonals used reacted to class I and II HLA molecules but not non-HLA molecules on tumor targets. Enhanced lysis was not due to antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity or due to an effect of antibody on NK effectors. Of importance, normal autologous and allogeneic human lymphocytes could not be lysed by NK cells despite blast transformation with mitogens or masking of HLA membrane determinants on blasts with monoclonal antibodies. Enhanced lysis, in the presence of antibody to HLA antigens, was not due to increased NK cell binding to tumor targets, but a consequence of enhanced postbinding lysis. Studies using granules obtained from NK cells indicated that masking of HLA antigens did not enhance the susceptibility of tumor targets to cytolysins. Such observations would suggest that HLA antigens on tumor targets inhibit the triggering of effector cells (and release of cytolysins) after recognition and binding of NK cells to target cells.

Differential expression of HLA-DR, HLA-DP, and HLA-DQ antigenic determinants of the major histocompatibility complex in human endometrium

We reported on the expression of HLA-DR molecules of the major histocompatibility complex in human endometrium. We now report on the expression of two other class II molecules, the HLA-DP and HLA-DQ determinants. These molecules were localized by monoclonal antibodies in 11 proliferative and 12 secretory endometria by avidin-biotin-complex (ABC) procedure. The expression of all three molecules was invariable and consistent throughout the entire menstrual cycle in endothelial and lymphoid cells. HLA-DR molecules were expressed in endometrial epithelium, particularly in the basalis in the mid to late proliferative phases of the cycle. In contrast, through the entire menstrual cycle, the expression of HLA-DP and HLA-DQ antigenic determinants was absent, and only occasionally a focal expression of these molecules was seen in endometrial epithelium. The in vitro induction of expression of the class II molecules in human endometrial epithelial cell cultures (HEE) by IFN-gamma was dose-dependent. After treatment with low doses of IFN-gamma, these cells primarily expressed HLA-DR molecules in vitro. The differential expression of the molecules of the major histocompatibility complex in human endometrial epithelium in vivo may be due to the differential sensitivity of th epithelium in response to cytokine(s).

On the biophysics of transmembrane signalling

Transmembrane signalling involves a number of physical translocations, changes in proximity of membrane elements like receptor subunits, or sequestration of proteins from the membrane. The monitoring of such changes with flow cytometric energy transfer revealed a new putative subunit of the IL-2 receptor and a possible intermolecular interaction between HLA class I and class II antigens. Lateral diffusion of the components of the multi-subunit IL-2 receptor was also followed. Changes in the intracellular pH were considered as a measure of efficient signal transfer in a number of cases. An overview and critical comparison of data is presented in the paper.

Peptide-mediated modulation of T-cell allorecognition

Antigen-specific helper T cells recognize a complex of peptide antigen and class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC) gene products. Whether T cells recognize MHC class II alloantigen by a similar mechanism or the native conformation of MHC molecules themselves has yet to be determined. The demonstration that peptide antigens bind directly and specifically to class II molecules has allowed us to examine the influence of foreign peptide binding on T-cell recognition of allogeneic MHC molecules. We report here that an immunodominant, HLA-DR1-restricted peptide of influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA residues 306-320) is able to modulate the recognition of alloantigen by human DR1-specific T-cell clones. For some T-cell clones, but not all, the HA peptide inhibited allorecognition in a dose-dependent manner. However, in one instance, the proliferative response to alloantigen was enhanced in the presence of HA peptide. These results suggest that the specificities of T-cell responses to allogeneic MHC molecules are heterogeneous, which may be influenced by different peptides occupying the class II MHC combining site and by the diversity of antigen-specific receptors of T lymphocytes recognizing the same MHC/peptide complex.

Luminescence spectroscopic approaches in studying cell surface dynamics

The major elements of membranes, such as proteins, lipids and polysaccharides, are in dynamic interaction with each other (Albertset al.1983). Protein diffusion in the lipid matrix of the membrane, the lipid diffusion and dynamic domain formation below and above their transition temperature from gel to fluid state, have many functional implications. This type of behaviour of membranes is often summarized in one frequently used word membrane fluidity (coined by Shinitzky & Henkart, 1979). The dynamic behaviour of the cell membrane includes rotational, translational and segmental movements of membrane elements (or their domain-like associations) in the plane of, and perpendicular to the membrane. The ever changing proximity relationships form a dynamic pattern of lipids, proteins and saccharide moieties and are usually described as ‘cell-surface dynamics’ (Damjanovichet al.1981). The knowledge about the above defined behaviour originates from experiments performed mostly on cytoplasmic membranes of eukaryotic cells. Nevertheless numerous data are available also on the mitochondrial and nuclear membranes, as well as endo (sarco-)plasmic reticulum (Martonosi, 1982; Slater, 1981; Siekevitz, 1981).

HLA class II antigen expression and the autoimmune thyroid response in patients with benign and malignant thyroid tumors

To further understand the relationship between the immune system and the neoplastic human thyroid cell we investigated the degree of intrathyroidal lymphocytic infiltration and thyroid HLA class II expression in 17 patients with thyroid tumors. In another 60 thyroid tumor patients the association of thyroidal lymphocytic infiltration with thyroid autoantibody production was analyzed. In total 117 thyroid tissues were examined including tissue obtained at autopsy (n = 28), fetal thyroid tissue (n = 4), thyroid samples obtained from areas distant from benign follicular adenomas (n = 5), and 80 abnormal thyroids including patients with benign (n = 53) or malignant (n = 24) thyroid tumors and Hashimoto's thyroiditis (n = 3). Normal adult and fetal thyroid tissue had no significant lymphocytic infiltration and no detectable HLA-DR, -DP, or -DQ antigens on their thyroid follicular epithelial cells. The degree of lymphocytic infiltration in the nonneoplastic thyroid tissue of thyroid glands with benign and malignant thyroid tumors varied considerably and correlated with the presence and titer of serum thyroid autoantibodies measured by sensitive ELISA techniques. However, all but one of the benign follicular adenomas had thyroid cells negative for HLA class II determinants despite the presence of infiltrating lymphocytes, while 7 of 10 thyroid carcinomas expressed class II antigen (principally HLA-DR) even when only minor degrees of lymphocytic infiltration were present. These data indicate a correlation between lymphocytic infiltrates and serum thyroid autoantibody titers but the relationship with HLA class II expression is more complex. Since we have previously shown that HLA class II antigen expression can be induced by local interferon-gamma secretion, presumably from activated T cells, we conclude that estimates of simple thyroid lymphocytic infiltration and serum autoantibody secretion do not correlate with the degree of intrathyroidal T-cell activation. Furthermore, our observation of increased expression of HLA class II antigens in thyroid cancer suggests considerable cellular heterogeneity in susceptibility to HLA class II antigen induction in human thyroid disease.

Sequential immunohistologic analysis of the skin following allogeneic bone marrow transplantation

Graft-vs-host disease is generally viewed as an immunologically mediated disease. In search of additional tools for early diagnosis and an elucidation of the pathogenic mechanisms we investigated the expression kinetics of hemopoietic differentiation and class II alloantigens on both resident and passenger skin cells after bone marrow transplantation. HLA-DR antigens, which are found normally on the dendritic epidermal Langerhans cells only, are synthesized and expressed by keratinocytes within lesions of acute and chronic cutaneous graft-vs-host disease. Within non-lesional skin, however, during the course of cutaneous graft-vs-host eruptions, no clear cut expression of keratinocyte-bound HLA-DR antigens can be identified, suggesting that this phenomenon is locally restricted rather than generalized. Furthermore, our data indicate that within lesions clinically suggestive of cutaneous graft-vs-host disease but lacking diagnostic histopathologic criteria, KC-bound HLA-DR antigens can be readily identified. The second class II alloantigens investigated within the epidermis, the HLA-DQ antigens, were seen on Langerhans cells only and were not or only rarely detectable on keratinocytes. Several subtypes of CD3+ T lymphocytes were present in the epidermis of acute graft-versus-host lesions: one portion of CD3+ T lymphocytes also displayed the CD8 antigen; one portion, mainly localized within the basal layer, displayed the CD8 and/or the CD4 antigen; and one portion did not allow identification of CD8, CD4, or Leu7 antigens. In chronic cutaneous graft-versus-host lesions CD3+/CD8+ T lymphocytes predominated. CD1+ epidermal Langerhans cells were reduced in number and appeared rounded with blunt dendrites both in acute and chronic cutaneous graft-vs-host disease, but also, though to a lesser extent, within normal appearing skin from bone marrow transplanted patients without cutaneous graft-vs-host disease.

Expression of immune system-associated antigens by cells of the human central nervous system: relationship to the pathology of Alzheimer's disease

HLA-DR is a class II major histocompatibility complex antigen which in the periphery confers antigen presenting capability. We have previously shown that this marker is profusely expressed in cortex of elderly and Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients, as is the receptor for the lymphokine interleukin-2. We now report presence of additional immune-related antigens in AD, and distributional differences from normal elderly controls. In gray matter, HLA-DR immunoreactivity is normally sparse, except in AD where it co-localizes with virtually all neuritic plaques. HLA-DR positive T cells can be demonstrated in Alzheimer's disease brain tissue, as can instances of apposition between putative brain microglia and T cells. In addition, cells with the morphologic characteristics of astrocytes label for natural killer cell antigen (Leu-11), and apparent lymphocytes bearing T helper and T cytotoxic/suppressor cell antigens are observed. These and other data suggest that the glial proliferation and scavenger activity characteristic of Alzheimer's disease may occur in an immune context and may play an important role in the pathogenesis of the disorder.

Calcium influx and the Ca2+-calmodulin complex are involved in interferon-gamma-induced expression of HLA class II molecules on HL-60 cells

Background

Gene silencing due to aberrant DNA methylation is a frequent event in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and also in hepatocellular adenoma (HCA). However, very little is known about epigenetic defects in fibrolamellar carcinoma (FLC), a rare variant of hepatocellular carcinoma that displays distinct clinical and morphological features.

Methodology/Principal Findings

We analyzed the methylation status of the APC, CDH1, cyclinD2, GSTπ1, hsa-mir-9-1, hsa-mir-9-2, and RASSF1A gene in a series of 15 FLC and paired normal liver tissue specimens by quantitative high-resolution pyrosequencing. Results were compared with common HCC arising in non-cirrhotic liver (n = 10). Frequent aberrant hypermethylation was found for the cyclinD2 (19%) and the RASSF1A (38%) gene as well as for the microRNA genes mir-9-1 (13%) and mir-9-2 (33%). In contrast to common HCC the APC and CDH1 (E-cadherin) genes were found devoid of any DNA methylation in FLC, whereas the GSTπ1 gene showed comparable DNA methylation in tumor and surrounding tissue at a moderate level. Changes in global DNA methylation level were measured by analyzing methylation status of the highly repetitive LINE-1 sequences. No evidence of global hypomethylation could be found in FLCs, whereas HCCs without cirrhosis showed a significant reduction in global methylation level as described previously.

Conclusions

FLCs display frequent and distinct gene-specific hypermethylation in the absence of significant global hypomethylation indicating that these two epigenetic aberrations are induced by different pathways and that full-blown malignancy can develop in the absence of global loss of DNA methylation. Only quantitative DNA methylation detection methodology was able to identify these differences.

Differential expression of MHC class II subregion products on bile duct epithelial cells and hepatocytes in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis

To study the expression of MHC Class II subregion gene products on biliary epithelial cells in primary biliary cirrhosis, frozen sections from liver biopsies of 15 patients with primary biliary cirrhosis were studied immunohistochemically using HLA-D subregion specific monoclonal antibodies L243 (HLA-DR), Leu10 (HLA-DQ) and B7/21 (HLA-DP). Patients with early stages of primary biliary cirrhosis showed expression of HLA-DP, HLA-DR and HLA-DQ subregion gene products on bile duct epithelial cells. In advanced stages of disease, no MHC Class II antigens or only HLA-DR and HLA-DP were expressed on bile duct cells. While normal hepatocytes did not express detectable amounts of MHC Class II antigens, hepatocytes from liver biopsies of four patients with primary biliary cirrhosis showed a distinct staining exclusively with monoclonal antibodies specific for HLA-DR. The expression of MHC Class II antigens on parenchymal cells was independent of a lymphocytic infiltration into the tissue. This study demonstrates that bile ductular cells, but not hepatocytes, express a full set of MHC Class II molecules at least during the early stages of primary biliary cirrhosis. We propose, therefore, that the expression of both HLA-DR and HLA-DQ subregion products on bile duct epithelial cells may be a necessary, although not sufficient, condition for the initiation of an autoimmune process leading to the destruction of intrahepatic bile ducts in primary biliary cirrhosis.

Calcium influx and the Ca2+-calmodulin complex are involved in interferon-gamma-induced expression of HLA class II molecules on HL-60 cells

Interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) induces HLA-DR and -DQ molecules and causes an accumulation of transcripts in HL-60 cells. Experiments were, therefore, designed to investigate the intracellular signaling molecules regulating the appearance of HLA class II molecules. The expression of HLA class II (DR and DQ) molecules induced by IFN-gamma was blocked by a calmodulin antagonist, W7, but not by a protein kinase C inhibitor, H7. Furthermore, a direct activator of protein kinase C, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, was unable to induce HLA class II (DR) molecule expression. These results suggest that IFN-gamma induces HLA class II molecules on HL-60 cells by way of a calcium-calmodulin pathway and not by way of a protein kinase C pathway. Calmodulin is activated by a transient rise in the cytosolic free calcium. In fact, IFN-gamma evoked a calcium influx into HL-60 cells, whereas depletion of Ca2+ from culture medium resulted in a failure of IFN-gamma to induce DR expression. Furthermore, the calcium ionophore A23187 by itself induced DR molecule expression. These results suggest that IFN-gamma stimulates calcium influx by a so-called receptor-mediated calcium channel and activates the calmodulin branch of the calcium messenger system, resulting in the induction of DR molecules on the surface of HL-60 cells.

A specific nucleotide sequence defines a functional T-cell recognition epitope shared by diverse HLA-DR specificities

An oligonucleotide probe that distinguishes the HLA-DR4, Dw14 allele from other HLA-DR4-associated class II genes was used to identify a common nucleotide sequence shared between the DR beta 1 locus encoding HLA-DR1 (Dw1), Dw16, and DRw10 haplotypes. The presence of this nucleotide sequence correlated with the ability of these haplotypes to stimulate an alloreactive proliferative T-cell clone (clone 14B) raised against a Dw14+ stimulator cell. Alleles of DR beta 1 that differ by one specific nucleotide variation at codon 71 neither hybridize to the Dw14-specific oligonucleotide nor stimulate clone 14B. These data demonstrate the presence of a shared epitope present on serologically distinct DR alleles that is recognized as a specific allodeterminant by a single T-cell clone.

Activation and differentiation antigen expression in B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

In an attempt to establish whether extended immuno-phenotyping allows more accurate definition of subgroups of B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) we have stained a series of 145 cases with a large panel of monoclonal antibodies that recognize B-cell differentiation and activation antigens. No antigen was expressed by all cases. The B-cell histogenesis in many cases could be confirmed only by using a panel of immunoglobulin and pan B-cell markers. There was marked phenotypic heterogeneity within and between major groups of B-cell NHL as delineated by the Kiel classification although the differentiation antigens CD5 (lymphocytic and centrocytic NHL) and OKT10 (plasma cell tumours) were more often expressed by certain morphological groups. The activation antigens 4F2 and transferrin receptor were expressed more strongly and more often by high grade NHL but other activation antigens (CD23 and CD25) were not more frequently associated with these tumours. Extended phenotyping may be of value in improving the understanding of biological abnormalities and processes involved in B-cell NHL, but we conclude that a limited panel of markers (CD3, CD5, CD22, CD45, IgM, kappa, and lambda) should be sufficient for routine diagnosis and classification of most cases.

HLA-DR expression by hair follicle keratinocytes in alopecia areata: evidence that it is secondary to the lymphoid infiltration

There is evidence suggesting that alopecia areata (AA) may have an autoimmune pathogenesis, and it was recently reported that keratinocytes in the bulb of some hair follicles affected by this condition express class II HLA (HLA-DR) antigens, which are not present on the same cells in normal tissue. Since it has been proposed that an analogous ectopic HLA-DR expression by epithelial cells in other organs might be an early event leading to organ-specific autoimmunity, we have investigated the sequence in which perifollicular mononuclear cell (MNC) infiltration and ectopic HLA-DR expression on keratinocytes appear in recent-onset and long-standing cases of AA by immunostainings of affected and unaffected areas with monoclonal antibodies against leukocyte and HLA-DR antigens. In recent-onset AA lesions, ectopic HLA-DR expression on hair follicle keratinocytes was found only occasionally (in 3 out of 247 follicles examined) and was restricted to biopsies from the affected areas. This prevalence was significantly lower than the prevalence of hair follicles showing perifollicular MNC infiltrates in the same biopsies, and was also significantly lower than the prevalence of hair follicles showing ectopic HLA-DR expression on keratinocytes in the affected areas of longstanding cases. These findings suggest that in AA lesions the perifollicular MNC infiltration precedes the ectopic HLA-DR expression on hair follicle keratinocytes, and therefore argue against the notion of a primary role for that ectopic HLA-DR expression on epithelial cells in triggering the putative autoimmune response in AA.

DQw3 variants defined by cloned alloreactive T cells

The polymorphism of HLA class II molecules expressing the serologically defined alloantigen DQw3 was studied using cloned proliferative T lymphocytes. Two clones, IG9 and IC3, were selectively primed against DQw3-associated determinants and tested against a panel of 92 HLA-D homozygous cells. Both clones were specific for DQw3, but each showed a distinct response pattern. Clone IG9 recognized a DQw3-associated determinant expressed on a subset of DR4 and DR5 haplotypes and on all DRw6, 7, w8, and w9 haplotypes tested. In contrast, clone IC3 recognized a distinct DQw3-associated determinant expressed only on a subset of DR4 haplotypes. In monoclonal antibody inhibition experiments, anti-DQ, but not anti-DR or anti-DP antibodies, blocked reactivity of both clones IG9 and IC3, further demonstrating that the determinants defined by these clones are associated with DQ molecules. In DNA hybridization studies using a DQ beta probe, a correlation was observed between restriction site polymorphisms in the DQ beta gene, designated DQw"3.1" and "3.2," and the expression of the T-cell-defined IG9 and IC3 determinants. It is, thus, possible to demonstrate by cloned T-cell reactivity functionally relevant recognition sites on DQw3+ molecules that are associated with structural polymorphisms defined by molecular and genomic analysis.

Significance of lymphocytes and blood vessel changes for edema formation in polyradiculoneuritis

Human sural nerve biopsies of eight cases with acute, subacute and chronic polyradiculoneuritis were studied by means of immunohistochemistry to characterize the inflammatory infiltrates. In addition, the structural changes of the endoneurial blood vessels were examined by electron microscopy, since both factors are likely to contribute to disturbances of the blood-nerve barrier. By use of six monoclonal antibodies, it was shown that the inflammatory infiltrates in cases with more acute polyradiculoneuritis are predominantly recruited by Leu 3a- and Leu 4-positive T lymphocytes. In more chronic polyradiculoneuritis beside of few Leu 3a-positive and Leu 4-positive T lymphocytes also B cells occurred. Leu M3-positive macrophages were detected in all cases with fluoride myelin degeneration. Since immunoreactivity for antigens of the HLA-D-locus (Leu-HLA-DR and Leu 10) were present on the infiltrating mononuclear cells, it can be postulated that they represent active and immunocompetent cells. Ultrastructurally, the amount of pinocytotic vesicles in the endothelial cells of the endoneurial blood vessels was increased. Moreover, a prominent folding of the luminal and abluminal surface of vascular endothelial cells and diminution of the intercellular tight junctions were observed. These findings appear suitable to explain the increased leakage of serum proteins across the blood-nerve barrier in polyradiculoneuritis sharing general features of cell-mediated immunity.

Transferrin receptor expression in the leukaemias and lymphoproliferative disorders

The expression of the transferrin receptor (TfR) was studied in the acute leukaemias and lymphoproliferative disorders by means of indirect immunofluorescence and/or the enhanced alkaline phosphatase anti-alkaline phosphatase (APAAP) techniques using monoclonal antibodies to the receptor. A total of 174 cases of acute leukaemia and lymphoproliferative disorder were studied. The results indicate that the receptor is expressed with increased density in the majority of positive cases of acute leukaemia. The lymphoproliferative disorders, however, only expressed the receptor in a minority of cases and did so with weak density. It is proposed that this weak expression in the lymphoproliferative disorders may be of use as an indicator of an increase in cell activity.

Defective HLA class II expression in a regulatory mutant is partially complemented by activated ras oncogenes

The human B-cell line RJ2.2.5, derived by mutagenesis from a Burkitt lymphoma cell line and selected for loss of HLA class II antigen expression, was infected with recombinant retroviruses containing either the Harvey murine sarcoma virus oncogene v-Ha-ras or the human neuroblastoma homolog NRAS. Both activated ras genes partially complemented the regulatory defect in RJ2.2.5 and specifically increased the expression of the DR and DQ subsets of HLA class II genes. Blot-hybridization analysis and RNase mapping indicated that HLA-DQ alpha-chain mRNA in the infected cell lines was increased to a level at least 50% that of the parent B-cell line, Raji. The levels of HLA-DR and -DQ beta-chain RNA also were increased but to a lesser extent. In contrast, we detected no effect of ras on the quantities of other class II, class I, or invariant-chain mRNAs. Fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis with antibodies recognizing HLA-DR, -DQ, and class I antigens supported these observations. Enhancement of HLA class II gene expression by ras genes may have important implications for regulation of the immune system in response to transformation.

Monoclonal antibodies to sheep MHC class II molecules recognize all HLA-D or subsets of HLA-D region products

Six murine monoclonal antibodies raised against sheep MHC class II molecules were analyzed for reactivity with HLA-D subregion products. All the antibodies reacted with human peripheral blood lymphocytes, monocytes, and B-lymphoblastoid cell lines homozygous for various HLA-DR specificities, suggesting that the antibodies recognized nonpolymorphic determinants on HLA class II molecules. SDS-PAGE and two-dimensional NEPHGE/SDS-PAGE analyses of molecules immunoprecipitated from 35S-methionine-labeled, DR-homozygous B-lymphoblastoid cell lines showed that the monoclonal antibodies precipitated typical class II molecules (Mr 32-34K and 25-29K). From comparison with antibodies of known HLA-D subregion specificity, two of the sheep antibodies appeared to react with the products of single HLA-D subregions, while another showed balanced reactivity with all HLA-D molecules. Antibody SBU.II 38-27 reacted exclusively with HLA-DQ molecules, antibody SBU.II 28-1 with HLA-DP molecules, and antibody SBU.II 49-1 with HLA-DR, -DQ, and -DP molecules. However, analysis of immunoprecipitates from surface-iodinated WT-49 cells (DR3 homozygous) using SBU.II 28-1 and the DP-specific monoclonal antibody B7/21, suggested that the two antibodies immunoprecipitated different alpha polypeptides. The two antibodies SBU.II 38-27 and 28-1 appear to be at least as specific as existing reagents, if not more so. As such, they are of value in their potential contribution to our understanding of the molecular characteristics and ultimately the functions of the HLA-DQ and -DP subregion products, as well as the identification/characterization of HLA-D equivalents in other species.

Immunohistological evaluation of MHC class I and II antigen expression on nevi and melanoma: relation to biology of melanoma

MHC antigen expression on 20 nevi, and 35 primary and 95 metastatic melanomas was studied by immunoperoxidase techniques using monoclonal antibodies to identify the antigens on frozen tissue sections. DR antigens were not detected on nevi but were detected on 71% of primary melanomas and 56% of metastases, suggesting that this antigen may be a useful marker of malignant transformation of nevi. Expression of class II antigen could not be related to other prognostic histological features of primary melanoma such as tumour thickness, but comparison of the common phenotypes of primary and metastatic melanoma suggested that expression of DR antigens alone in the absence of DP, DQ and ABC antigens may be an indicator of metastatic potential. Class I (HLA-A,B,C) antigens were also expressed infrequently on nevi but were detected on 43% of primary melanomas and 34% of metastases. HLA-A,B,C expression was inversely related to thickness of the primary melanoma. This as well as the lower expression of class I antigens on metastases, may indicate that growth and spread of melanoma may be inhibited by MHC (class I) dependent cytotoxic T cell responses. Expression of class I MHC antigens was unrelated to class II antigens. Expression of DR was more common than DP or DQ, but the latter with one exception, were not expressed in the absence of DR antigens. Significant differences were not found in MHC antigen expression on metastases in lymph nodes compared to those in subcutaneous sites, but further studies are needed to determine whether such differences may exist between metastases in other visceral sites.

1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 and phorbol esters (TPA) may induce select in vitro differentiation pathways in the HL60 promyelocytic cell line

Monocytic features can be induced in the myeloid cell line HL60 in order to provide a suitable in vitro model for the investigation of in vitro activity in mononuclear phagocytes. 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol) induced the HL60 cell line to express the monocytic differentiation antigen Leu M3 in about 30-50% of the cells along with an increase (up to 20%) in the expression of HLA-DR but not HLA-DQ class II antigen. Functional investigation showed that calcitriol-treated cells formed rosettes with sheep erythrocytes coated with an anti-sheep erythrocyte-specific IgG2a mouse MoAb and readily ingested them. In addition, these same sensitized erythrocytes were lysed in an 18-hr antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) assay. All together these data indicate the presence of functionally active Fc-IgG receptors (FcR). Sorting experiments demonstrated that only Leu M3+ HLA-DR+ cells contained the effector cell population; such was also the case for blood monocytes. This phenotypic profile was, however, not predictive per se of FcR presence and function, as 12,O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced HL60 cells neither formed rosettes nor phagocytosed nor exhibited ADCC activity, although they express Leu M3 and HLA-DR (as well as HLA-DQ) antigens. These results suggest that calcitriol and TPA cause the differentiation of HL60 cells along distinct pathways. On the other hand, different subpopulations with given predetermined differentiation capabilities may coexist in HL60 cell line. This hypothesis gains support by the observation that when TPA and calcitriol were added together to the undifferentiated cells, the resulting phenotypic pattern was representative of the different activities of both of the inducers as they were used separately.