Human cutaneous dendritic cells express two glycoproteins T6 and M241 which are biochemically identical to those found on cortical thymocytes

Identification of dendritic cells, B cell and T cell subsets in Tasmanian devil lymphoid tissue; evidence for poor immune cell infiltration into devil facial tumors

The Tasmanian devil is under threat of extinction due to the transmissible devil facial tumor disease (DFTD). This fatal tumor is an allograft that does not induce an immune response, raising questions about the activity of Tasmanian devil immune cells. T and B cell analysis has been limited by a lack of antibodies, hence the need to produce such reagents. Amino acid sequence analysis revealed that CD4, CD8, IgM, and IgG were closely related to other marsupials. Monoclonal antibodies were produced against CD4, CD8, IgM, and IgG by generating bacterial fusion proteins. These, and commercial antibodies against CD1a and CD83, identified T cells, B cells and dendritic cells by immunohistochemistry. CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells were identified in pouch young thymus, adult lymph nodes, spleen, bronchus‐ and gut‐associated lymphoid tissue. Their anatomical distribution was characteristic of mammalian lymphoid tissues with more CD4⁺ than CD8⁺ cells in lymph nodes and splenic white pulp. IgM⁺ and IgG⁺ B cells were identified in adult lymph nodes, spleen, bronchus‐associated lymphoid tissue and gut‐associated lymphoid tissue, with more IgM⁺ than IgG⁺ cells. Dendritic cells were identified in lymph node, spleen and skin. This distribution is consistent with eutherian mammals and other marsupials, indicating they have the immune cell subsets for an anti‐tumor immunity. Devil facial tumor disease tumors contained more CD8⁺ than CD4⁺ cells, but in low numbers. There were also low numbers of CD1a⁺ and MHC class II⁺ cells, but no CD83⁺ IgM⁺ or IgG⁺ B cells, consistent with poor immune cell infiltration. Anat Rec, 297:925–938, 2014. © 2014 The Authors. The Anatomical Record: Advances in Integrative Anatomy and Evolutionary Biology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

CD1a-, b-, and c-restricted TCRs recognize both self and foreign antigens

Individual CD1-restricted T cells can recognize either endogenous or foreign lipid Ags, but the extent to which the same CD1-restricted TCR can react to both self and microbial lipids is unknown. In this study, we have identified CD1a-, CD1b-, and CD1c-restricted T cells from normal human donors that induce cytolysis and secrete copious IFN-gamma in response to self-CD1 expressed on monocyte-derived dendritic cells. Remarkably, microbial Ags presented by CD1 are even more potent agonists for these same T cells. The alphabeta T cell receptors from such clones are diverse and confer specificity for both self-CD1 and foreign lipid Ags. The dual reactivity of these CD1-restricted cells suggests that the capacity for rapid responses to inflammatory stimuli without memory coexists with the capacity for strong Ag-specific responses and the generation of memory in vivo.

Distribution of MHC-II and CD1 molecules in the skin of lambs and changes during experimentally-induced contact hypersensitivity

The presentation of antigen to specific T-cell populations is a crucial event during the elicitation phase of contact hypersensitivity (CHS). Significant changes in CD4(+) T-cell and gammadelta T-cell populations occur in the skin of sheep 48h after re-exposure to dinitrochlorobenzene but the expression of antigen presentation molecules such as MHC-II and CD1 at this stage of the hypersensitivity response has not been investigated. In the present study, a panel of monoclonal antibodies recognising CD1 and MHC-II subtypes was used in combination with computer assisted morphometric analysis to estimate the distribution of antigen presentation molecules in the superficial and deep dermis of the ears of lambs during the elicitation phase of CHS. The MHC-II molecules showed predominantly a perivascular and peri-appendageal distribution in the dermis and there were scattered MHC-II(+) cells in the basal and suprabasal layers of the epidermis. The CD1w2(+) (CD1b-like) molecules were present on distinct cells that were scattered evenly through the dermis, whereas CD1w3(+) (CD1c-like) molecules were almost exclusively detected on or in close association with the vascular endothelium. There was a significant increase in the presence of MHC-DQ(+) cells in the superficial dermis of dinitrochlorobenzene-treated animals compared with both an untreated control group and a vehicle-treated control group. However, MHC-DQ/DR(+) and CD1w3(+) cells only showed a significant increase compared with the vehicle-treated control group. The present study shows that the distribution of molecules involved in antigen presentation to CD4(+) T-cells and gammadelta T-cells changes during the elicitation phase of CHS in sheep, and suggests a role for MHC-DQ molecules on antigen presenting cells. However, the changes in distribution and expression of MHC-II and CD1 subtypes argue against a prominent role for a CD1-dependent pathway for T-cell recognition in the clinical cutaneous hypersensitivity response in sheep. Based on the expression of MHC-II molecules and CD1c molecules, we also suggest a potential role for endothelial cells in antigen presentation during the clinical dermatitis reaction.

Increased CD1d expression on small bile duct epithelium and epithelioid granuloma in livers in primary biliary cirrhosis

Cluster of differentiation 1 (CD1) is a family of four distinct nonpolymorphic major histocompatibility complex class I-like molecules that can present microbial nonpeptide lipid antigens to T cells. Among the CD1 gene family, CD1d is found in a wide range of tissues including the intestine and liver, and has been proposed to play an important role in mucosal immunity. Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is an immune-mediated liver disease involving the intrahepatic small bile ducts, which also belong to the mucosal immune system. In this study, we studied the expression of CD1d in patients with PBC and compared the data with those of patients with hepatic sarcoidosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), chronic viral hepatitis (CVH), and normal liver as controls. CD1d was found to be expressed in hepatocytes in all cases examined, and in epithelioid granuloma cells in 19 of 22 PBC livers and in 4 of 4 livers with hepatic sarcoidosis. In addition, CD1d was focally expressed on epithelial cells of the small bile ducts in approximately 50% of the PBC patients but in no controls. Such bile duct epithelial staining of CD1d was seen in early-stage PBC and virtually absent in late-stage PBC. Moreover, there was no evidence of expression of CD1d in large bile duct epithelial cells of PBC. The CD1d on biliary epithelial cells in PBC may be involved in the antigen presentation of microbial lipid antigen(s) to surrounding T cells. Alternatively, modified endogenous lipidic compounds may share analogy with bacterial lipid antigens and explain CD1d expression, a possible epiphenomenon rather than a proof of bacterial involvement.

Pattern of cytokine receptors expressed by human dendritic cells migrated from dermal explants

Different reasons account for the lack of information about the expression of cytokine receptors on human dendritic cells (DC): (a) DC are a trace population; (b) the proteolytic treatment used to isolate DC may alter enzyme-sensitive epitopes; and (c) low numbers of receptors per cell. In the present work the expression of cytokine receptors was analysed by flow cytometry on the population of dermal DC (DDC) that spontaneously migrate from short-term culture dermal explants. DDC obtained after dermal culture were CD1alow, CD1b+, CD1c+, human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-DR+, CD11chigh, CD11b+ and CD32+. The DC lineage was confirmed by ultrastructural analysis. DDC expressed interleukin (IL)-1R type 1 (monoclonal antibody (mAb) hIL-1R1-M1; and 6B5); IL-1R type 2 (mAb hIL-1R2-M22); IL-2R alpha chain (mAb anti-Tac; and hIL-2R-M1) and IL-2R gamma chain (mAb 3B5; and AG14C). DDC did not stain for IL-2R beta chain using four mAbs recognizing two different epitopes of IL-2R beta (mAb 2R-B; Mik-beta 1; and CF1; Mik-beta 3, respectively). DDC were also positive for the cytokine binding chains (alpha chains) of IL-3R (mAb 9F5); IL-4R (mAb hIL-4R-M57; and S456C9); and IL-7R (mAb hIL-7R-M20; and R3434). DDC showed low levels of IL-6R alpha chain (mAb B-F19; B-R6; and B-E23) and its signal transducer gp130 (mAb A2; and B1). DDC strongly expressed interferon-gamma receptor (IFN-gamma R) (mAb GIR-208) and were negative for IL-8R (mAb B-G20; and B-F25). All DDC were highly positive for granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor receptor (GM-CSFR) alpha chain (mAb hGM-CSFR-M1; SC06; SC04, and 8G6) and to a lesser extent for the common beta chain of GM-CSFR, IL-3R and IL-5R (mAb 3D7). On the other hand, reactivity was not found for granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor (G-CSFR) (mAb hGCSFR-M1) nor macrophage colony-stimulating factor receptor (M-CSFR) (mAb 7-7A3-17) confirming the DC lineage of DDC. As previously reported for lymphoid DC, DDC expressed tumour necrosis factor receptort (TNFR) 75000 MW (mAb utr-1; hTNFR-M1; and MR2-1) but lacked TNFR 55000 MW (mAb htr-9; MR1-1; and MR1-2). In summary, DDC express receptors for a broad panel of cytokines, even receptors for cytokines whose effects on DC are still unknown (i.e. IL-2R alpha gamma; IL-6R alpha/gp 130; IL-7R alpha gamma).

Langerhans' cells are depleted in chronic graft versus host disease

AIMS

To measure Langerhans' cells in skin of patients treated by bone marrow transplantation who developed chronic graft versus host disease (GvHD); to determine whether the reduction in Langerhans' cells resulted directly from the GvHD or from other factors, such as the immunosuppressive regimens used in bone marrow transplant patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Lesional and nonlesional skin specimens from nine patients with lichen planus-like lesions and three patients with sclerodermoid lesions were studied. Control skin specimens were taken from three patients undergoing breast reduction surgery. The number of Langerhans' cells/mm2 and the area of Langerhans' cells as a percentage of total epidermis were measured by counting cells labelled with antihuman CD1a.

RESULTS

A significant reduction in Langerhans' cell area and number were found in specimens with lesions (area 3.5%; number 507/mm2) compared with specimens without lesions (8.42%; 2375/mm2). In contrast, Langerhans' cell area and number in skin without lesions were similar to controls (10.26%; 2968/mm2).

CONCLUSIONS

Langerhans' cells were significantly reduced in skin with lesions of chronic GvHD but not in skin without lesions from the same patient, suggesting that the reduction is a direct consequence of GvHD and not linked to immunosuppressive drugs or late effects of conditioning regimens. In long term bone marrow transplant recipients, Langerhans' cells are derived mainly from the donor cells; therefore, this result suggests the occurrence of autoreactive phenomenon in chronic GvHD.

Oral mucosal Langerhans' cells

Langerhans' cells (LC) are dendritic, antigen-presenting cells present within the epithelium of skin and mucosa, including that of the oral cavity. This article reviews the literature on the phenotypic and functional features of oral mucosal Langerhans' cells, and speculates on other aspects by extrapolating from data on their epidermal counterparts.

A pathway of costimulation that prevents anergy in CD28- T cells: B7-independent costimulation of CD1-restricted T cells

A class of molecules that is expressed on antigen presenting cells, exemplified by CD80 (B7), has been found to provide a necessary costimulatory signal for T cell activation and proliferation. CD28 and CTLA4 are the B7 counterreceptors and are expressed on the majority of human CD4+ T cells and many CD8+ T cells. The signal these molecules mediate is distinguished from other costimulatory signals by the finding that T cell recognition of antigen results in a prolonged state of T cell unresponsiveness or anergy, unless these costimulatory molecules are engaged. However, nearly half of the CD8+ and CD4-CD8- T cells lack CD28, and the costimulatory signals required for the activation of such cells are unknown. To understand the pathways of activation used by CD28- T cells, we have examined the costimulatory requirements of antigen-specific CD4-CD8- TCR(+)-alpha/beta circulating T cells that lack the expression of CD28. We have characterized two T cell lines, DN1 and DN6, that recognize a mycobacterial antigen, and are restricted not by major histocompatibility complex class I or II, but by CD1b or CD1c, two members of a family of major histocompatibility complex-related molecules that have been recently implicated in a distinct pathway for antigen presentation. Comparison of antigen-specific cytolytic responses of the DN1 and DN6 T cell lines against antigen-pulsed CD1+ monocytes or CD1+ B lymphoblastoid cell lines (B-LCL) demonstrated that these T cells recognized antigen presented by both types of cells. However, T cell proliferation occurred only when antigen was presented by CD1+ monocytes, indicating that the CD1+ monocytes expressed a costimulatory molecule that the B-LCL transfectants lacked. This hypothesis was confirmed by demonstrating that the T cells became anergic when incubated with the CD1(+)-transfected B-LCL in the presence of antigen, but not in the absence of antigen. The required costimulatory signal occurred by a CD28-independent mechanism since both the CD1+ monocytes and CD1+ B-LCL transfectants expressed B7-1 and B7-2, and DN1 and DN6 lacked surface expression of CD28. We propose that these data define a previously unrecognized pathway of costimulation for T cells distinct from that involving CD28 and its counterreceptors. We suggest that this B7-independent pathway plays a crucial role in the activation and maintenance of tolerance of at least a subset of CD28- T cells.

Migratory properties and functional capacities of human skin dendritic cells

The different cell types which migrated 'spontaneously' out of human skin explants during different periods of culture were characterized. Before culture, CD1a+ dendritic cells were observed not only in the epidermis but also in the dermis, whereas CD1b+ dendritic cells were present exclusively in the dermis. The populations of migrating cells were harvested and phenotyped on 3 successive days of culture. They always contained high percentages of CD1a+ cells. The other cells that migrated were T cells and macrophages. A relatively high proportion of the CD1a+ cells that migrated during the first 24 h culture period was also CD1b+. The number of cells which were positive for both CD1a and CD1b decreased in the following 2 days of culture. However, the purified CD1a+ cell populations isolated on the 3 consecutive days did not show any difference in their capacity to stimulate allogeneic T cells. The CD1a+ cells possess potent allo-activating capacities that are independent of whether or not they are positive for CD1b+. Three days after culture about half of the CD1a+ cells were still present in the epidermis and dermis, but no CD1b+ cells could be detected in the dermis. This suggests that the CD1b+ cells represent a population of active migrating cells.

Structure and function of the CD1 family of MHC-like cell surface proteins

The CD1 family of proteins are structurally related to MHC class I proteins, but are only distantly related to the class I proteins or other MHC-linked class I-like proteins. Sequence comparisons indicate that the CD1 proteins have evolved into two subfamilies, those which are similar to human CD1a, b, and c and those which are similar to human CD1d. The CD1A-, B-, and C-like genes were deleted from rodents and the CD1D gene was duplicated. CD1a, b, and c are expressed by thymocytes, dendritic cells, activated monocytes, and B cells (CD1c), a tissue distribution which strongly suggests a role in antigen presentation. In contrast, CD1d and its murine homologues are expressed by many cells outside of the lymphoid and myeloid lineages. The CD1 proteins are in most cases expressed as beta 2mg-associated membrane glycoproteins, but may associate with additional proteins. CD1d is expressed on the surface of intestinal epithelial cells in a nonglycosylvated form without beta 2mg. Whether the CD1 proteins function as antigen-presenting molecules is unresolved, but it is unlikely that they present conventional peptide antigens. Strong evidence indicates that murine CD1 proteins are recognized by a population of NK1.1+, CD4+ or CD4-CD8- (double negative, DN) T cells which express an invariant TCR alpha chain. CD1d is most likely recognized by the homologous T cell population in humans. DN alpha beta T cells which recognize CD1a, b, or c have been isolated, including clones which recognize a lipid antigen from mycobacteria presented by CD1b. A third potential population of CD1 reactive cells are CD8+ T cells in the intestinal epithelium. Taken together, these observations indicate that CD1 proteins interact with several specialized populations of T cells. The precise biological functions mediated through these interactions remain to be determined.

Peptide binding and presentation by mouse CD1

CD1 molecules are distantly related to the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I proteins. They are of unknown function. Screening random peptide phage display libraries with soluble empty mouse CD1 (mCD1) identified a peptide binding motif. It consists of three anchor positions occupied by aromatic or bulky hydrophobic amino acids. Equilibrium binding studies demonstrated that mCD1 binds peptides containing the appropriate motif with relatively high affinity. However, in contrast to classical MHC class I molecules, strong binding to mCD1 required relatively long peptides. Peptide-specific, mCD1-restricted T cell responses can be raised, which suggests that the findings are of immunological significance.

Retinoic acid upregulates human Langerhans cell antigen presentation and surface expression of HLA-DR and CD11c, a beta 2 integrin critically involved in T-cell activation

Immunomodulatory effects of retinoids may be part of their anti-carcinogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. We studied the in vivo effects of retinoic acid (RA) on antigen-presenting activity of human epidermal Langerhans cells and on accessory cell activity of keratinocytes. Two skin sites from each volunteer were treated in vivo with 0.1% RA or vehicle, respectively, once a day for 4 d. RA-treated epidermal cell (RA-EC) alloantigen presentation to CD4+ T cells in each volunteer tested was consistently greater than that induced by vehicle EC. However, this increased antigen-presenting activity did not lead to autoreactive CD4+ T-lymphocyte proliferation. Elevated unfractionated epidermal antigen-presenting activity of RA-EC was not due to increased keratinocyte major histocompatibility complex (MHC) or intercellular adhesion molecule expression or to other keratinocyte accessory signaling, because incubation of CD1a-fluoroscence-activated cell sorter (FACS)-purified RA-EC inhibited alloantigen presentation, presumably through increased keratinocyte transforming growth factor-beta. By contrast, Langerhans cell function was upregulated; FACS-purified CD1a+ Langerhans cells derived from RA-EC displayed a markedly increased ability, relative to Langerhans cells from vehicle EC, to present alloantigen to T cells. Triple color flow-cytometric analysis of RA-EC and vehicle EC suspensions revealed that RA treatment did not modify the number of DR+ and CD1a+DR+EC, but did result in statistically significant increases in Langerhans cells expression of HLA-DR, CD11c, and CD1c. Another novel finding was that HLA-DR-dependent Langerhans cells antigen-presenting activity in both normal and RA-treated skin was completely blocked by anti-CD11c antibody. Thus, retinoid upregulation of antigen-presenting activity may be due to upregulation of Langerhans cell CD11c, as well as class II MHC. Upregulation of cutaneous immune responsiveness in human skin without autoreactivity has not (to our knowledge) been reported previously, and the Langerhans cell phenotypic and functional state achieved is distinct from previously reported states of Langerhans cell activation.

Distinction of class II MHC+ Langerhans cell-like interstitial dendritic antigen-presenting cells in murine dermis from dermal macrophages

Dermal cells are capable of initiating contact-hypersensitivity responses but the precise identification of the antigen-presenting cell within murine dermis is lacking. Class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC)+ cells with dendritic shape and lacking endothelial factor VIII but expressing the dendritic antigen-presenting cell marker NLDC-145 were observed in the perivascular and interstitial dermis of BALB/c and C3H/HeN skin. The heterogeneous class II MHC+ cells could be divided into two subsets: each was class II MHC+ CD45+ (bone marrow derived) GR-1- (non-neutrophil/macrophage) CD3- (non T), but one subset was CD11b+ (beta 2 integrin) and the other was CD11b-. Ultrastructural examination of class II MHC+ cells revealed the presence of a Langerhans cell-like/indeterminant cell subset with indented nuclei, dendritic morphology, active cytoplasm, and dense intermediate filaments. Phagolysomes and Birbeck granules were not observed in such cells, indicating these were distinct from dermal macrophages and from classical epidermal Langerhans cells, respectively. Cells with a monocyte/macrophage ultrastructural appearance were also noted, likely representing the class II MHC subset expressing CD11b and Ly6c (monocyte/endothelial antigen). Dermal cells in suspension were capable of processing and presenting large protein antigens to antigen-specific T-cell hybridomas; dermal cells also induced the syngeneic mixed lymphocyte reaction. The dermal antigen-presentation activities were totally abrogated by removal of class II MHC+ cells, but not by removal of CD11b+ cells or Ly6c+ cells, indicating that potent antigen-presenting cell activity was restricted to the class II MHC+ CD11b- Ly6c- subset (Langerhans cell-like/indeterminant cells). In conclusion, within a complex array of dermal leukocytes a murine dermal class II MHC+ cell population expressing a Langerhans cell-like/dendritic antigen-presenting cell phenotype and exhibiting potent antigen processing and presenting activity can be identified. The positioning of potent interstitial dendritic antigen-presenting cells at the interface of the vasculature with the dermal interstitium provides rapid access to an antigen-presenting cell as T cells first egress into the skin.

Rat cluster of differentiation 1 molecule: expression on the surface of intestinal epithelial cells and hepatocytes

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Cluster of differentiation 1 (CD1) is a family of nonpolymorphic, major histocompatibility complex class I-like molecules with prominent expression in the liver and intestinal epithelium of humans and mice. Models of intestinal and hepatobiliary inflammation and experimental liver transplantation are conducted in the rat, yet nothing is known of CD1 expression in this species.

METHODS

Monoclonal antibodies against murine CD1 were used to identify a rat CD1 homologue. Tissue messenger RNA expression was confirmed by Northern blot analysis with a murine CD1 complementary DNA probe.

RESULTS

Immunoperoxidase staining detected CD1 in intestinal epithelial and liver cells but not in the thymus. Immunofluorescence of isolated hepatocytes and a rat fetal intestinal cell line, SLC-44, showed cell surface expression of CD1. Metabolic labeling and immunoprecipitation of the SLC-44 cell line and a mouse intestinal epithelial cell line, MODE-K, showed a protein of 55 kilodaltons. Immunoblotting of CD1 in isolated intestinal epithelial cells and hepatocytes showed a molecule of 55 kilodaltons. Northern blot analysis showed a single message of approximately 2.2 kilobases in hepatocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

A CD1 homologue exists in the rat. Expression in the rat intestine and liver are similar to those in the human and mouse. The rat may be useful as a model for the study of CD1 function.

Immunomorphologic characterization of Fc epsilon RI-bearing cells within the human dermis

Recently we reported that the high-affinity receptor for IgE, Fc epsilon RI, is constitutively expressed on normal epidermal Langerhans cells (LC) and on certain cells within the dermis. To study the nature of these cells we performed immunofluorescence double-labeling experiments using an anti-Fc epsilon RI reagent (MoAb 15-1) as well as monoclonal antibodies (MoAb) against leukocyte differentiation antigens expressed on LC, interdigitating cells and macrophages. Avidin-fluorescein isothiocyanate was used to distinguish mast cells. We found that dermal Fc epsilon RI+ cells are bone marrow derived (CD45+). Further, we found that a subset of 15-1+ dermal cells coexpresses antigens present on certain members of the LC/DC family: the majority of Fc epsilon RI+ cells reacted with MoAb anti-HLA-DR and RFD1, the latter recognizes an antigenic moiety on interdigitating cells, and a small subpopulation coexpressed CD1a. In reverse fashion, virtually all CD1a+ cells and most RFD1+ cells reacted with the anti-Fc epsilon RI reagent. Approximately one third of 15-1+ cells represented avidin-FITC+ mast cells whereas Fc epsilon RI expression was not detected on FXIIIa+ dermal dendrocytes or CD3+ lymphocytes. By immunoelectronmicroscopy, we found that perivascularly located 15-1-reactive cells exhibited pronounced dendrites, an indented nucleus, numerous mitochondria, and abundant endo-/lysosomal structures. However, Birbeck granules or granules specific for basophils or eosinophils were never detected in these cells. Collectively, our data suggest that the pool of dermal Fc epsilon RI+ cells consists mainly of cells of the LC (CD1a+)/DC(RFD1+) lineage and mast cells but does not include FXIIIa+ dermal macrophages.

Intraepithelial lymphocytes and their recognition of non-classical MHC molecules

Recent studies of the TCR alpha and beta chains expressed by normal human IELs suggest that these intestinal lymphocytes are directed at a limited set of antigens, presumably on intestinal epithelial cells in view of their anatomic location. The direct sequence analysis of these cells has indicated that they are oligoclonal and cannot, therefore, be responding to the complex mixture of antigens which are present in the lumen. The abundant expression of the CD8 accessory molecule by the IELs, in addition, indicates that these putative intestinal epithelial cell antigens are presented by MHC class I or I-like molecules. The expression of CD8 also suggests that these cells function biologically in part as cytolytic T lymphocytes which is consistent with a variety of functional studies. Taken together with their expression of the CD45RO isoform, these phenotypic and functional observations suggest that iIELs are cytolytic, memory cells which are responsive to an extremely limited number of antigens bound to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I or class I-like molecules. Several non-polymorphic MHC class I-like molecules such as Qa, the thymus leukemia antigen (TL) and CD1 in the mouse and CD1 in human represent important candidate ligands for these oligoclonal iIELs. TL and CD1 are expressed specifically by murine intestinal epithelial cells. In humans, CD1d is constitutively expressed by intestinal epithelial cells. In addition, we have isolated iIEL T cell clones which specifically recognize members of the CD1 gene family when expressed on a transfected B cell line that lacks HLA-A and B and have shown that the proliferation of peripheral blood T cells to intestinal epithelial cells is CD1d dependent. Thus, the evidence to date strongly implicate the nonpolymorphic, class Ib molecules as novel restriction elements for unique populations of lymphocytes within the intestinal epithelium.

CD1 gene expression in human skin

In human epidermis, expression of CD1a is confined to Langerhans cells (LC), whereas CD1c expression has been observed in dendritic cells of the dermis, as well as the epidermis. In transfected fibroblasts, expression of CD1c at the cell surface appears to exclude expression of either CD1b or CD1a, despite continued transcription of the latter genes. In order to determine whether this mechanism might be operative in human skin, we have compared the expression of CD1a and CD1c on the surface of dermal and epidermal dendritic cells to their expression at the level of mRNA using a combination of dual-label immunofluorescence microscopy, northern blot hybridization, and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). By both immunofluorescence and Northern blotting, CD1c expression was observed in both dermal and epidermal cells, whereas expression of CD1a was confined largely to the epidermis. Moreover, as shown by immunomagnetic bead selection and RT-PCR, CD1a and CD1c were both expressed on epidermal LC, but were absent from other epidermal cell types. These results argue against cell surface exclusion as a mechanism for selective expression of CD1c in human dermis.

Antigen-presenting cell types

Different antigen-presenting cells elicit responses in different T-cell populations for primary activation, secondary stimulation and cytotoxic effector functions. Maturing bone marrow derived dendritic cells may acquire and process antigens, transport them to lymph nodes and activate naive T cells located there. By contrast, follicular dendritic cells, acquiring antigen-antibody complexes, maintain 'memory' via B-cell activation. Effector memory T cells recognize various tissue cells bearing antigen and we speculate that they may also target specialized antigen-presenting dendritic populations.

GM-CSF and TNF-alpha cooperate in the generation of dendritic Langerhans cells

Dendritic cells comprise a system of highly efficient antigen-presenting cells which initiate immune responses such as the sensitization of T cells restricted by major histocompatibility complex molecules, the rejection of organ transplants and the formation of T-cell-dependent antibodies. Dendritic cells are found in many non-lymphoid tissues, such as skin (Langerhans cells) and mucosa, and they migrate after antigen capture through the afferent lymph or the bloodstream to lymphoid organs, where they efficiently present antigen to T cells. Dendritic cells are difficult to isolate and, although they originate from bone marrow their site of maturation and the conditions that direct their growth and differentiation are still poorly characterized. Granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) favours the outgrowth of dendritic cells from mouse peripheral blood. Here we extend this finding to man and demonstrate that cooperation between GM-CSF and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) is crucial for the generation of human dendritic/Langerhans cells from CD34+ haematopoietic progenitors. The availability of large numbers of these cells should now facilitate the understanding of their role in immunological regulation and disorder.

Epitope mapping of CD1a, CD1b, and CD1c antigens in human skin: differential localization on Langerhans cells, keratinocytes, and basement membrane zone

CD1 antigens are classified into at least three groups, CD1a, CD1b, and CD1c. In order to delineate the localization of epitopes of CD1 antigens in human skin, we examined the immunoreactivity of fourteen different CD1 antibodies (seven CD1a, five CD1b, and two CD1c antibodies). The epitopes for CD1a, CD1b, and CD1c are differentially localized on epidermal Langerhans cells, dermal dendritic cells, keratinocytes, the luminal portion of eccrine gland ducts, and the basement membrane zone in normal human skin.

Epitopes for CD1a, CD1b, and CD1c antigens are differentially mapped on Langerhans cells, dermal dendritic cells, keratinocytes, and basement membrane zone in human skin

BACKGROUND

CD1 antigens are classified serologically into at least three groups, CD1a, CD1b, and CD1c, and many kinds of monoclonal antibodies are available for each subgroup of CD1 antigens. CD1a, CD1b, and CD1c antigens have been shown to be selectively and differentially expressed on epidermal Langerhans cells and dermal dendritic cells in normal human skin.

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to further delineate the localization of epitopes of CD1 antigens in human skin.

METHODS

We examined the immunoreactivity of 14 different CD1 antibodies (seven CD1a, five CD1b, and two CD1c antibodies) with the immunoperoxidase technique. We also studied the reactivity of NU-T2 (CD1b) antibody by immunogold electron microscopy.

RESULTS

The epitopes for CD1a, CD1b, and CD1c antigens were differentially mapped on epidermal Langerhans cells, dermal dendritic cells, keratinocytes, the luminal portion of eccrine gland ducts, and the basement membrane zone in human skin.

CONCLUSION

These CD1 antibodies may be useful to analyze the phenotypic alteration of immune and nonimmune cells in various skin diseases.

Intracellular expression of CD1 molecules on PHA-activated normal T lymphocytes

In this study we have analyzed, using immunoperoxidase (IPx) and indirect immunofluorescence (IIF), the intracellular and cell surface expression of CD1 antigens on PHA activated human T cells. By IIF, CD1 isotypes were not detected on the surface of 3 days PHA activated cells. Conversely, CD1a, CD1b and CD1c molecules were found by IPx in the cytoplasm of normal activated cells from 13 different donors. Kinetic studies showed that, while CD25 was already observed 24 h after activation, all 3 isotypes of CD1 molecules started to be detected 48 h after PHA activation, with a peak expression at 72 h.

Eosinophilic granuloma of bone and biochemical demonstration of 49-kDa CD1a molecule expression by Langerhans-cell histiocytosis

Histiocytic cells infiltrating the lesions in eosinophilic granuloma of bone as well as in cutaneous histiocytosis X were studied using a murine monoclonal antibody (MA) produced with proliferating cells from an eosinophilic granuloma of bone. This MA reacts with Langerhans cells (LC) of normal human skin or mucous membranes and with proliferating cells of eosinophilic granuloma of bone and skin lesions of Letter-Siwe disease, as shown by immunohistochemistry and immunogold labelling. As other murine MA's obtained after immunization with human cortical thymocytes, this MA immunoprecipitates the 49-kDa CD1a antigen found on human LC and thymic-cell surfaces but not its breakdown product after treatment with trypsin, as demonstrated by analysis of immunoelectron labelling, cytofluorometry and gel electrophoresis. This first production of a CD1a MA from an eosinophilic granuloma supports the concept of Langerhans-cell histiocytosis.

Human epidermal Langerhans cells undergo profound morphologic and phenotypical changes during in vitro culture

Morphology, phenotype, and enzyme activity of highly enriched (80%) unlabeled human epidermal Langerhans cells (LC) have been studied, with emphasis on changes during a short-term culture of three days in vitro. All freshly isolated LC contained Birbeck granules and expressed high levels of CD1a, CD1c, and MHC class II molecules HLA-DR, -DP, and -DQ. They have a weak to moderate expression of RFD1, C3biR, Fc gamma R, p 150/95, MHC class I molecules HLA-ABC, and of the adhesion molecules LFA-3 and ICAM-1, whereas no expression of LFA-1 and several monocyte/macrophage markers were detected. Human LC undergo profound changes during in vitro culture. Birbeck granules, C3biR, Fc gamma R, and p 150/95 were completely lost and the expression of CD1a and CD1c was markedly decreased or lost. Expression of molecules that have essential functions in antigen presentation remained present at the same level (MHC class II molecules and ICAM-1) or was markedly enhanced (LFA-3 and MHC class I). Highly remarkable was the dramatically enhanced expression of interdigitating cell marker RFD1. The monocyte/macrophage markers initially absent remained absent and the enzyme activity initially present (including ATPase and nonspecific esterase) remained present. In conclusion, the results in this report stress rapid alterations of human LC during in vitro culture, resulting in transformation into cells that have phenotypical characteristics of potent antigen presenting cells that resemble interdigitating cells.

A macrophage phenotype for a constitutive, class II antigen-expressing, human dermal perivascular dendritic cell

A previously uncharacterized population of class II antigen-bearing dendritic cells that are intimately associated with the dermal microvasculature was identified in normal human skin using a double-label, indirect immunofluorescence technique. The only other major HLA-DR positive dermal cell type noted in these studies, the dermal microvascular endothelial cell (DMVEC), appeared to express lesser amounts of HLA-DR region gene product than did this dermal perivascular dendritic cell (DPDC). These DPDC were particularly common around small vessels in the superficial vascular plexus of the papillary dermis and were distinct from the mast cell, another cell type normally seen in a similar location. Phenotypic and ultrastructural studies have determined that the DPDC is more closely related to the monocyte/macrophage lineage than the dendritic cell lineage. The perivascular location and phenotype of this cell distinguishes it from other previously described constitutive dermal cell types such as the classic "histiocyte," veiled cell, and dendrocyte. The relatively rich expression of all three major HLA-D region gene products by this dermal perivascular dendritic macrophage would suggest that it could play a significant role in the immunobiology of the dermal microvascular unit.

Characterization of B cells in severe combined immunodeficiency disease

The circulating lymphoid cells of eight consecutive untreated infants with severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID) with B cells were analyzed for surface marker expression and function. The B cells of these children expressed sIg, HLA-DR, CD19 (B4), CD20 (B1), CD21 (B2), Leu-8, and lacked expression of CD10 (CALLA), as do normal peripheral blood B lymphocytes. SCID B cells also expressed antigens that are normally absent or present on only a minor subset of circulating adult B lymphocytes, including CD1c (M241), CD38 (OKT10), CD23 (PL13), with or without concomitant CD5 (Leu-1) expression. The B cells of these children were capable of proliferating in vitro when stimulated with Staphylococcus aureus Cowan I. However, in the presence of pokeweed mitogen, S. aureus Cowan I, and normal T cells, the sIg+ cells of these children produced only IgM. Studies performed on normal B cells obtained from cord blood, young children, and adults reveal that whereas cord blood B cells are predominantly CD1c, CD38, and CD23 positive, B-cell expression of these antigens decreases with age. Cord blood B cells, similar to SCID B cells, produce only IgM when stimulated in vitro with pokeweed mitogen and S. aureus Cowan I. Based on these observations, we hypothesize that SCID B cells represent a population of B cells present during normal B-cell ontogeny which becomes a minor subset when an individual develops full immunologic competence.

Cleavage of Langerhans cell surface CD1a molecule by trypsin

The T-cell surface differentiation antigens expressed on cortical thymocytes are composed of 3 molecules, CD1a (Mr 49,000), CD1b (Mr 45,000), and CD1c (Mr 43,000), which are non-covalently attached to beta 2-microglobulin. In the present study, differences in quantitative binding (immunogold labelling) were observed with four CD1a monoclonal antibodies (mAb), Na1/34, L544, Vit6 and OKT6, on epidermal Langerhans cells obtained through trypsinization and Ficoll-Hypaque sedimentation. These cells were surface-labelled with 125I and then lysed. Immunoprecipitation was carried out with five CD1a mAb, BL6, 10D12.2, L404, L544 and OKT6, and immunoprecipitates were electrophoretically run. All CD1a mAb except OKT6 immunoprecipitated an additional molecule with an apparent relative mass of 27,000, under reducing conditions. CD1a antigen (Mr 49,000) was borne by the same chain of Mr 49,000 on cortical thymocytes and Langerhans cells, whereas the Mr 27,000 molecule was never found on thymic cells. On two-dimensional gel analysis, the Mr 27,000 molecule showed a pattern with 3 major spots with pI of 5.6, 5.9 and 6.2. This Mr 27,000 protein was found to contain one N-linked oligosaccharide residue by endoglycosidase-F treatment. By sequential immunoprecipitation, this Mr 27,000 molecule was shown to be different from the major histocompatibility complex class II beta-chains (DR, DP). As the Mr 27,000 molecule was not precipitated with OKT6, sequential immunoprecipitation confirmed specific recognition of this low molecular weight protein by other CD1a mAb. The protein of apparent molecular mass 27,000 was considered to be a breakdown product of Mr 49,000 (CD1a) antigen. These results suggested that the CD1a molecule was sensitive to trypsin.

DMC1: a monoclonal antibody produced from histiocytosis X cells which reacts with the native CD1a molecule of human epidermal Langerhans cells

Human epidermal Langerhans cells express two (CD1a and CD1c) of the three human thymic cell surface differentiation antigens (CD1a, CD1b, and CD1c). The first cluster of differentiation antigens (CD1) is defined by a group of monoclonal antibodies (MCA). All these MCA were obtained after immunization of mice or rats with human cortical thymocytes. OKT6 MCA (a CD1a MCA) was the first to be described as reactive with human epidermal Langerhans cells. We produced a murine MCA, called DMC1, after immunization with proliferating Langerhans cells of Eosinophilic Granuloma of the bone (Histiocytosis X). In tissues DMC1 MCA reacted with epidermal dendritic cells (Langerhans cells) in the skin and cortical thymocytes in the thymus as observed on indirect immunofluorescence. At the ultrastructural level, DMC1 MCA was specific for Birbeck granule-containing Langerhans cells and did not react with melanocyte and keratinocyte populations. The quantitative analysis of immunoelectron labeling and the cytofluorometric study showed that the intensity of labeling was inversely correlated with the concentration of trypsin used in the preparation of epidermal cell from skin samples. DMC1 MCA precipitated a protein with a relative mass of 49,000 (CD1a molecule) from lysates of iodinated epidermal Langerhans cells under reducing conditions. It recognized the original CD1a molecule (Mr 49,000) but not the membrane breakdown product of CD1a (Mr 27,000) brought about by trypsin.

Reappearance of CD1a antigenic sites after endocytosis on human Langerhans cells evidenced by immunogoldrelabeling

We show evidence of the reappearance of CD1a antigenic sites on the surface of human isolated Langerhans cells after internalization of CD1a antigen/CD1a monoclonal antibody (BL6) complexes. The internalization was visualized by immunogoldlabeling, and the reappearance of CD1a binding sites was shown by immunogoldrelabeling. The relabeling was distinguished from the labeling either by using two sizes of gold granules (15 and 5 nm) or by quantitative estimation with one size of gold granules, before and after the relabeling. This reappearance of sites is cycloheximide insensitive, and is evidenced, even if the transfer of gold particles to lysosomes is blocked by the monensin. These results suggest that the reexpression of CD1a antigens is due to antigens stored in the cytoplasm or to recycling of internalized sites. Some immunolabeled Birbeck granules were observed in continuity with the plasma membrane, which demonstrates their membrane origin and their involvement in the endocytosis process. However, the weak labeling of these organelles makes us believe that they are not specialized CD1a endocytosis structures.

CD1 expression on B-CLL lymphocytes

In a previous report we showed that D47 CD1a monoclonal antibody positively labelled B-CLL cells of some patients. Six cases were selected to further characterize CD1 antigenic expression at the leukaemic cell surface using flow cytometry with a battery of six CD1a, two CD1b and two CD1c monoclonal antibodies. CLL cells were positively labelled with CD1a antibodies except OKT6 and NA1/34; in all cases they were CD1b negative and CD1c positive. These results suggested that CD1a, c epitopes can be detected on leukaemic B cells in addition to other T cell differentiation antigens. In view of recently published data demonstrating the presence of CD1c molecule in normal B cell subsets, our results further question the relationship of B-CLL with a restricted subpopulation of B cells.

Simultaneous colloidal gold immunoelectronmicroscopy labeling of CD1a, HLA-DR, and CD4 surface antigens of human epidermal Langerhans cells

The simultaneous demonstration of three surface antigens of Langerhans cells (LC) within LC-enriched fresh epidermal cell suspensions from normal human skin was achieved, by means of a triple immunogold (IG) staining, using commercially available monoclonal antibodies (moAb) and immunoreagents, in a simple pre-embedding immunoelectronmicroscopy (IEM) procedure. As a result, suspended LC were triple-stained as follows: gold particles of 40 nm revealed the CD1 a antigen; gold particles of 20 nm revealed the HLA-DR antigen; and gold particles of 5 nm revealed the CD4 antigen. All the observed epidermal Birbeck granule-bearing LC were triple IG stained, thus simultaneously expressing the three surface differentiation antigens, which are therefore different from but coexisting with each other. The present investigation assesses the constant simultaneous expression by Birbeck granules bearing LC of not only CD1a and HLA-DR antigens, but also CD4 antigen. The occurrence is therefore excluded of both CD1a-positive HLA-DR-negative LC subpopulation and CD4-negative LC subpopulation, presumably due to the different sensitivity of the various procedures performed. The hypothetical occurrence of CD4-positive, CD1a-, and/or HLA-DR-negative LC subpopulations is ruled out. This study reaffirms indeed the high specificity and sensitivity of the IG-IEM method for a precise detection of the cell surface antigens of LC, and states the suitability of the IG labeling even for accurate multiple IEM stainings of LC.

Characterization of a bovine thymic differentiation antigen analogous to CD1 in the human

Three monoclonal antibodies (MoAb), TH97A, CC13, and CC14, define a thymic differentiation antigen in cattle. The antigen is expressed on 50-60% of bovine thymocytes, located mainly in the cortical areas, but is not expressed on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). In cryostat sections of lymph node, the antibodies react with large dendritic-like cells in the paracortical regions. They also react with a proportion of the large 'frilly' cells in afferent lymph and with dendritic-like cells in the dermis. The antibodies apparently do not react with cells in the epidermis. Biochemical analysis of the antigen recognized by MoAb TH97A reveals two bands of 44 kDa and 12 kDa under reducing conditions. These polypeptides are distinct from bovine class I major histocompatibility complex molecules reactive with the MoAb w6/32. The tissue distribution of positive cells together with results of biochemical analyses indicate that the antigen recognized by these MoAb is the bovine analogue of the human CD1.

Intermolecular complexes between three human CD1 molecules on normal thymus cells

The first cluster of differentiation (CD1) defines at least three distinct human thymic cell-surface differentiation antigens-CD1a, CD1b, and CD1c. We looked for structural homology of the three CD1 heavy chains at their peptide level by two-dimensional peptide maps. We show here that the CD1a Mr 49,000 heavy chain and the CD1b Mr 45,000 heavy chain appear to be more homologous to each other than to the CD1c Mr 43,000 heavy chain and that only one tyrosil peptide is common to the three heavy chains. Study of the CD1 heavy chains from several individuals reveals a very limited polymorphism of these molecules. We also demonstrate here that CD1a or CD1a-like molecules and other CD1 molecules can form intermolecular complexes on the surface of normal thymus cells. Molecules that are structurally very similar to CD1a molecules are associated noncovalently either with CD1c molecules or with CD1b molecules, and only CD1a molecules can associate covalently with CD8 molecules. In contrast, we could not find these intermolecular complexes on the surface of leukemic T-cell lines in culture.

T6 positive cells in the peripheral blood of burn patients: are they Langerhans cells precursors?

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 14 patients suffering thermal injury were separated by affinity chromatography on peanut agglutinin (PNA) coupled to Sepharose macrobeads. The resulting PNA positive subset was 14% of the total mononuclear population. About 30% of these cells were found to coexpress T6(CD1), Ia-like and the myeloid differentiation antigens My4(CDw14) and Mo1(CD11). In comparison, the PNA+ subset from normal blood donors (about 5% of total mononuclear cells) contained mature monocytes that were found to be T6 negative. Electron microscopic studies using immunogold labeling showed that the T6 positive cells were slightly smaller than monocytes but larger than the classical lymphocytes and had common morphologic features with the Langerhans cells of the skin. Considering that patients suffering extensive damage of the epidermis require fast renewal of all skin elements, it is possible that the cells we identified in their peripheral blood are the precursors of the Langerhans cells of the skin en route from bone marrow to the epidermis.

Congenital self-healing histiocytosis (Hashimoto-Pritzker). An ultrastructural and immunohistochemical study

Congenital self-healing histiocytosis (CSHH) is a rare primary histiocytic skin disorder. Only a few cases have been studied by ultrastructure and immunohistochemistry. Here we report a new case that was investigated using an electron microscope and a panel of monoclonal (MCA) and polyclonal (PCA) antibodies. CSHH cells were found to bear the immunohistochemical phenotype of normal epidermal Langerhans cells (LC) and histiocytosis X (HX) cells (CD1a/c+, CD1b-, CD4+/-, human leukocyte antigen [HLA]-DR/DQ+, S-100+). However, an electron microscope showed a paucity of Birbeck granule (BG)-containing cells. This contrasted with their immunophenotype. This finding, along with other ultrastructural characteristics of CSHH cells, suggests that histologic differences exist between CSHH and HX. However, because no absolute histologic criterion is known that allows unequivocally the differential diagnosis between the two diseases, this distinction currently has to rely on clinical criteria, mainly the regressive course observed within a few months in CSHH. The precise nosologic position of CSHH among other histiocytic syndromes remains unsettled.

Interleukin 1 induces CD1 antigen expression on human gingival epithelial cells

The CD1 (T6) antigen is a highly specific marker for human Langerhans cells (LC). Previous studies have demonstrated that crude preparations containing murine interleukin-1 (IL-1) or a human epithelial cell-derived IL-1 inhibitor (ILS) modulate CD1 expression by LC in organ culture. This study examined the effect of organ-culture derived human IL-1, recombinant human IL-1, and purified ILS on CD1 expression in dispersed epithelial cell cultures. Both IL-1 preparations stimulated CD1 expression in whole and CD1-depleted cultures. The optimal dose level for this effect was 0.5 U/ml. Higher dose levels did not result in an increase in CD1 expression, implying that a limited pool of CD1 negative EC are induced to express CD1 by IL-1. Induction of CD1 expression on whole and depleted EC was abrogated by ILS. These results indicate that human IL-1 and an IL-1 inhibitor act in combination to modulate CD1 expression on Langerhans cells in the gingival epithelium.

Effects of trypsin on the in situ identification of epidermal cell membrane antigens

In this work the role of trypsin in revealing epidermal cell surface antigens, with the use of immunological markers, was investigated. Two monoclonal antibodies (MCA) were used, the first: D47, belongs to the first cluster of differentiation and recognizes a membrane antigen of human thymocytes; the second HLA-ABC-m3, is an anti-HLA-B27 MCA. Preliminary treatment with various concentrations of trypsin was performed on frozen skin sections and followed by indirect immunofluorescence. D47 reacted with epidermal dendritic cells only after trypsin pretreatment of skin sections. In addition a mild preliminary trypsinization was shown to increase in situ immunoreactivity of MCA HLA-ABC-m3 with epidermal cells. Best results were obtained when trypsin concentrations ranging from 2.5 to 5 micrograms/ml were applied for 10 min at 37 degrees C. Preliminary trypsinization may be of interest for a better exposure of some surface antigens to immunohistochemical markers.

Human epidermal Langerhans cells internalize by receptor-mediated endocytosis T6 (CD1 "NA1/34") surface antigen. Birbeck granules are involved in the intracellular traffic of the T6 antigen

Using immunogold staining of a suspension of living human epidermal cells to identify the Langerhans cell membrane-associated antigen T6 (revealed by the monoclonal antibody BL6), we have observed internalization of T6 antigen in Langerhans cells. This phenomenon is at least partly due to receptor-mediated endocytosis involving coated pits, coated vesicles, endosomes, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum, and lysosomes. These ultrastructural results suggest that T6 antigen may be part of a receptor site. Following receptor-mediated endocytosis, the appearance in the cell center of the first labeled Birbeck granules suggests that Birbeck granules could represent T6 intracellular transport organelles carrying T6 from the central part of the cell to an unknown destination.

Human epidermal Langerhans cells cointernalize by receptor-mediated endocytosis "nonclassical" major histocompatibility complex class I molecules (T6 antigens) and class II molecules (HLA-DR antigens)

HLA-DR and T6 surface antigens are expressed only by Langerhans cells and indeterminate cells in normal human epidermis. We have previously demonstrated that T6 antigens are internalized in Langerhans cells and indeterminate cells by receptor-mediated endocytosis. This process is induced by the binding of BL6, a monoclonal antibody directed against T6 antigens. In the present study, using a monoclonal antibody directed against HLA-DR antigens, on human epidermal cells in suspension, we show that the surface HLA-DR antigens are also internalized by receptor-mediated endocytosis in Langerhans and indeterminate cells. Moreover, using immunogold double labeling, we demonstrate that T6 and HLA-DR antigens are internalized through common coated regions of the membrane of Langerhans or indeterminate cells. The receptor-mediated endocytosis that is induced involves coated pits and vesicles, receptosomes, lysosomes, and also, in Langerhans cells, the Birbeck granules. Thus, T6 antigens, which are considered to be "unusual" or "nonclassical" major histocompatibility complex class I molecules, and the major histocompatibility complex class II molecules, HLA-DR, are internalized in Langerhans and indeterminate cells through common receptor-mediated endocytosis organelles.

The skin immune system Its cellular constituents and their interactions

The term immunodermatology describes the systematic investigation of the complex mechanisms of the 'skin immune system' in health and disease. In this review Jan Bos and Martien Kapsenberg discuss the skin's vascular and lymphatic systems and the various cells which participate in the immune response. These include Langerhans' cells, indeterminate cells, veiled cells, endothelial cells, mast cells, tissue macrophages and 'homing' T lymphocytes, which are all present in skin under physiological conditions.

Subclustering of CD1 monoclonal antibodies based on the reactivity on human Langerhans cells

Among the differentiation antigens expressed by lymphoid cells, CD1 monoclonal antibodies (MCA) distinguish a group of antigens expressed by cortical thymocytes. Some of them (OKT6 and BL6) have been shown to react with normal human skin Langerhans cells (LC). Using indirect immunofluorescence on skin sections and LC-enriched epidermal cell suspensions obtained by skin trypsinisation, we have studied the reactivity of eight new CD1 MCA. Our immunocytochemical observations indicate that four groups of CD1 MCA can be distinguished on the basis of their reactivity on LC. NA.1.84, SK9/Leu6, 10 D.12.2 and I19 identify LC in skin and in suspensions, but 4A.76 and NUT2 were negative in both. M.241 became negative after trypsinisation of epidermal cells and D47 reacted with an antigen expressed on LC only after enzymatic treatment. These results demonstrate the heterogeneity of the antigens recognized by CD1 MCA. Some of them do not react with normal human LC. Some antigens appear to be masked in the epidermis and are expressed only after trypsin treatment. Our data confirm the heterogeneity of CD1 molecules recently documented on the basis of biochemical analysis.

Isolation and purification of the human thymocyte antigens T6 and M241

T6 and M241 antigens are products of the Class I major histocompatibility complex. The T6 and M241 antigens can be detected on human cortical thymocytes and on dendritic cells in the skin by monoclonal antibodies. Here we report a method of purification of the T6 and M241 antigens. Amino acid sequence data of purified antigens indicate that the heavy chains are blocked at their N-termini, whereas the partial N-terminal amino acid sequence of the light chains is identical to that of the human beta 2-microglobulin. In order to obtain sequence data from the heavy chains a method is described for isolation of purified cyanogen bromide fragments by electrophoretic methods.

Association between the human thymic differentiation antigens T6 and T8

The human T lymphocyte cell surface antigen T8 has been found to be associated on thymocytes with a protein of 46 kDa through disulfide bridges. Analysis by isoelectric focusing, and of peptides obtained by limited proteolysis and chemical cleavage demonstrated that this 46-kDa protein was the cell surface antigen T6, which is expressed on cortical thymocytes. The findings are discussed in the context of the importance of the T8 and T6 molecules in thymic differentiation.