Cross-linking of Fc gamma receptor to surface immunoglobulin on B cells provides an inhibitory signal that closes the plasma membrane calcium channel

Update on Intravenous Immunoglobulin in Neurology: Modulating Neuro-autoimmunity, Evolving Factors on Efficacy and Dosing and Challenges on Stopping Chronic IVIg Therapy

In the last 25 years, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) has had a major impact in the successful treatment of previously untreatable or poorly controlled autoimmune neurological disorders. Derived from thousands of healthy donors, IVIg contains IgG1 isotypes of idiotypic antibodies that have the potential to bind pathogenic autoantibodies or cross-react with various antigenic peptides, including proteins conserved among the "common cold"-pre-pandemic coronaviruses; as a result, after IVIg infusions, some of the patients' sera may transiently become positive for various neuronal antibodies, even for anti-SARS-CoV-2, necessitating caution in separating antibodies derived from the infused IVIg or acquired humoral immunity. IVIg exerts multiple effects on the immunoregulatory network by variably affecting autoantibodies, complement activation, FcRn saturation, FcγRIIb receptors, cytokines, and inflammatory mediators. Based on randomized controlled trials, IVIg is approved for the treatment of GBS, CIDP, MMN and dermatomyositis; has been effective in, myasthenia gravis exacerbations, and stiff-person syndrome; and exhibits convincing efficacy in autoimmune epilepsy, neuromyelitis, and autoimmune encephalitis. Recent evidence suggests that polymorphisms in the genes encoding FcRn and FcγRIIB may influence the catabolism of infused IgG or its anti-inflammatory effects, impacting on individualized dosing or efficacy. For chronic maintenance therapy, IVIg and subcutaneous IgG are effective in controlled studies only in CIDP and MMN preventing relapses and axonal loss up to 48 weeks; in practice, however, IVIg is continuously used for years in all the aforementioned neurological conditions, like is a "forever necessary therapy" for maintaining stability, generating challenges on when and how to stop it. Because about 35-40% of patients on chronic therapy do not exhibit objective neurological signs of worsening after stopping IVIg but express subjective symptoms of fatigue, pains, spasms, or a feeling of generalized weakness, a conditioning effect combined with fear that discontinuing chronic therapy may destabilize a multi-year stability status is likely. The dilemmas of continuing chronic therapy, the importance of adjusting dosing and scheduling or periodically stopping IVIg to objectively assess necessity, and concerns in accurately interpreting IVIg-dependency are discussed. Finally, the merit of subcutaneous IgG, the ineffectiveness of IVIg in IgG4-neurological autoimmunities, and genetic factors affecting IVIg dosing and efficacy are addressed.

Mechanisms of action of intravenous immunoglobulin in inflammatory muscle disease

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a unique immune-modulating therapy that has a wide range of effects on the immune system at multiple levels. This allows it to be used successfully in a variety of immune-mediated, systemic, and neurological disorders, including the inflammatory myopathies. It is likely that the specific action of IVIG varies depending on the underlying pathogenesis of a given disease. In dermatomyositis (DM), IVIG has been shown to diminish the activity of complement and deposition of membrane attack complex on capillaries and muscle fibers, the expression of adhesion molecules, and cytokine production. IVIG also appears to modify gene expression in the muscle of DM patients. The mechanism by which IVIG affects muscle in polymyositis and inclusion body myositis has not been well-studied. However, it may work via suppression of T-cell activation (including cytotoxic T cells) and migration into muscle tissue and alterations in cytokine production. IVIG generally yields the greatest therapeutic benefit in DM and is often of marginal utility in inclusion body myositis. It is generally considered as second-line or adjunctive therapy in the inflammatory myopathies.

FcγRIIB regulation of BCR/TLR-dependent autoreactive B-cell responses

Crosslinking of Fc γ receptor II B (FcγRIIB) and the BCR by immune complexes (IC) can downregulate antigen-specific B-cell responses. Accordingly, FcγRIIB deficiencies have been associated with B-cell hyperactivity in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and mouse models of lupus. However, we have previously shown that murine IgG2a-autoreactive AM14 B cells respond robustly to chromatin-associated IC through a mechanism dependent on both the BCR and the endosomal TLR9, despite FcγRIIB coexpression. To further evaluate the potential contribution of FcγRIIB to the regulation of autoreactive B cells, we have now compared the IC-triggered responses of FcγRIIB-deficient and FcγRIIB-sufficient AM14 B cells. We find that FcγRIIB-deficient cells respond significantly better than FcγRIIB-sufficient cells when stimulated with DNA IC that incorporate low-affinity TLR9 ligand (CG-poor dsDNA fragments). AM14 B cells also respond to RNA-associated IC through BCR/TLR7 coengagement, but such BCR/TLR7-dependent responses are normally highly dependent on IFN-α costimulation. However, we now show that AM14 FcγRIIB(-/-) B cells are very effectively activated by RNA IC without supplemental IFN-α priming. These results demonstrate that FcγRIIB can effectively modulate both BCR/TLR9 and BCR/TLR7 endosomal-dependent activation of autoreactive B cells.

Decreased transcription of the human FCGR2B gene mediated by the -343 G/C promoter polymorphism and association with systemic lupus erythematosus

The role for inhibitory Fc gamma receptors class IIb (FcgammaRIIb) in the onset, progression and severity of several animal models of autoimmune diseases is well established. By contrast, the pathogenic potential of FcgammaRIIb in human autoimmune diseases remains largely unknown. Here we report the identification of a polymorphism in the human FCGR2B promoter (dbSNP no. rs3219018) that is associated in homozygosity with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) phenotype in European-Americans (OR=11.1, P=0.003). Experimental evidence correlates the polymorphism (a G-C substitution at position -343 relative to the start of transcription) with altered FcgammaRIIb expression and function. The G-C substitution correlated with decreased transcription of the FCGR2B promoter, and resulted in decreased binding of the AP1 transcription complex to the mutant promoter sequence. The surface expression of FcgammaRIIb receptors was significantly reduced in activated B cells from (-343 C/C) SLE patients. These findings suggest that genetic defects may lead to deregulated expression of the FCGR2B gene in -343 C/C homozygous subjects, and may play a role in the pathogenesis of human SLE.

The use of intravenous immunoglobulin in the treatment of autoimmune neuromuscular diseases: evidence-based indications and safety profile

Intravenous immunoglobulin (i.v.Ig) has multiple actions on the immunoregulatory network that operate in concert with each other. For each autoimmune neuromuscular disease, however, there is a predominant mechanism of action that relates to the underlying immunopathogenetic cause of the respective disorder. The best understood actions of i.v.Ig include the following: (a) modulation of pathogenic autoantibodies, an effect relevant in myasthenia gravis (MG), Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), and stiff-person syndrome (SPS); (b) inhibition of complement activation and interception of membranolytic attack complex (MAC) formation, an action relevant to the complement-mediated mechanisms involved in GBS, CIDP, MG, and dermatomyositis (DM); (c) modulation of the inhibitory or activation Fc receptors on macrophages invading targeted tissues in nerve and muscle, as seen in CIDP, GBS, and inflammatory myopathies; (d) down-regulation of pathogenic cytokines and adhesion molecules; (e) suppression of T-cell functions; and (f) interference with antigen recognition. Controlled clinical trials have shown that i.v.Ig is effective as first-line therapy in patients with GBS, CIDP, and multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN), and as second-line therapy in DM, MG, LEMS, and SPS. In paraproteinemic IgM anti-MAG (myelin-associated glycoprotein) demyelinating polyneuropathies and inclusion body myositis (IBM), the benefit is variable, marginal, and not statistically significant. i.v.Ig has a remarkably good safety record for long-term administration, however, the following side effects have been observed: mild, infusion-rate-related reactions, such as headaches, myalgia, or fever; moderate but inconsequential events, such as aseptic meningitis and skin rash; and severe, but rare, complications, such as thromboembolic events and renal tubular necrosis. Future studies are needed to (a) find the appropriate dose and frequency of infusions that maintain a response; (b) address pharmacoeconomics, comparing the high cost of i.v.Ig to the cost of the other therapies, which, although less expensive, cause significantly more long-term side effects; (c) determine why some patients respond better than others; and (d) examine the merits of combining i.v.Ig with other immunosuppressive drugs.

Advances in understanding and treatment of immune-mediated disorders of the peripheral nervous system

During recent years, novel insights in basic immunology and advances in biotechnology have contributed to an increased understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms of immune-mediated disorders of the peripheral nervous system. This increased knowledge has an impact on the management of patients with this class of disorders. Current advances are outlined and their implication for therapeutic approaches addressed. As a prototypic immune-mediated neuropathy, special emphasis is placed on the pathogenesis and treatment of the Guillain-Barré syndrome and its variants. Moreover, neuropathies of the chronic inflammatory demyelinating, multifocal motor, and nonsystemic vasculitic types are discussed. This review summarizes recent progress with currently available therapies and--on the basis of present immunopathogenetic concepts--outlines future treatment strategies.

Visualization of negative signaling in B cells by quantitative confocal microscopy

Numerous biochemical experiments have invoked a model in which B-cell antigen receptor (BCR)-Fc receptor for immunoglobulin (Ig) G (FcgammaRII) coclustering provides a dominant negative signal that blocks B-cell activation. Here, we tested this model using quantitative confocal microscopic techniques applied to ex vivo splenic B cells. We found that FcgammaRII and BCR colocalized with intact anti-Ig and that the SH2 domain-containing inositol 5'-phosphatase (SHIP) was recruited to the same site. Colocalization of BCR and SHIP was inefficient in FcgammaRII-/- but not gamma chain-/- splenic B cells. We also examined the subcellular location of a variety of enzymes and adapter proteins involved in signal transduction. Several proteins (CD19, CD22, SHP-1, and Dok) and a lipid raft marker were co-recruited to the BCR, regardless of the presence or absence of FcgammaRII and SHIP. Other proteins (Btk, Vav, Rac, and F-actin) displayed reduced colocalization with BCR in the presence of FcgammaRII and SHIP. Colocalization of BCR and F-actin required phosphatidylinositol (PtdIns) 3-kinase and was inhibited by SHIP, because the block in BCR/F-actin colocalization was not seen in B cells of SHIP-/- animals. Furthermore, BCR internalization was inhibited with intact anti-Ig stimulation or by expression of a dominant-negative mutant form of Rac. From these results, we propose that SHIP recruitment to BCR/FcgammaRII and the resulting hydrolysis of PtdIns-3,4,5-trisphosphate prevents the appropriate spatial redistribution and activation of enzymes distal to PtdIns 3-kinase, including those that promote Rac activation, actin polymerization, and receptor internalization.

SHIP inhibits Akt activation in B cells through regulation of Akt membrane localization

Activation of the serine/threonine kinase Akt and the regulation of its activation are recognized as critical in controlling proliferative/survival signals via many hematopoietic receptors. In B lymphocytes, the B-cell receptor (BCR)-mediated activation of Akt is attenuated by co–cross-linking of BCR with the inhibitory receptor FcγRIIB1, and the binding of the SH2 domain-containing inositol phosphatase, SHIP, to FcγRIIB1. Because SHIP dephosphorylates phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP3) and activation of Akt requires PIP3, the destruction of this phospholipid has been proposed as the mechanism for Akt inhibition. However, upstream kinases that activate Akt, such as PDK1, also require PIP3 for activation. In this report, we addressed whether SHIP inhibits Akt directly at the level of Akt recruitment to the membrane, indirectly through PDK recruitment/phosphorylation of Akt, or both. We generated stable B-cell lines expressing a regulatable, but constitutively membrane-bound Akt that still required PDK-dependent phosphorylation for activation. Several lines of evidence suggested that activation of this membrane-targeted Akt is not inhibited by FcγRIIB1/SHIP and that PDK is not a target for SHIP-mediated inhibition. These data demonstrate that SHIP inhibits Akt primarily through regulation of Akt membrane localization. We also observed during these studies that FcγRIIB1/SHIP does not inhibit p70S6k activation, even though several other PIP3-dependent events were down-regulated. Because the enhanced activation of Akt in the absence of SHIP correlates with hyperproliferation in the myeloid lineage, our data have implications for SHIP and Akt-dependent regulation of proliferation in the hematopoietic lineage.

SHIP inhibits Akt activation in B cells through regulation of Akt membrane localization

Activation of the serine/threonine kinase Akt and the regulation of its activation are recognized as critical in controlling proliferative/survival signals via many hematopoietic receptors. In B lymphocytes, the B-cell receptor (BCR)-mediated activation of Akt is attenuated by co–cross-linking of BCR with the inhibitory receptor FcγRIIB1, and the binding of the SH2 domain-containing inositol phosphatase, SHIP, to FcγRIIB1. Because SHIP dephosphorylates phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP3) and activation of Akt requires PIP3, the destruction of this phospholipid has been proposed as the mechanism for Akt inhibition. However, upstream kinases that activate Akt, such as PDK1, also require PIP3 for activation. In this report, we addressed whether SHIP inhibits Akt directly at the level of Akt recruitment to the membrane, indirectly through PDK recruitment/phosphorylation of Akt, or both. We generated stable B-cell lines expressing a regulatable, but constitutively membrane-bound Akt that still required PDK-dependent phosphorylation for activation. Several lines of evidence suggested that activation of this membrane-targeted Akt is not inhibited by FcγRIIB1/SHIP and that PDK is not a target for SHIP-mediated inhibition. These data demonstrate that SHIP inhibits Akt primarily through regulation of Akt membrane localization. We also observed during these studies that FcγRIIB1/SHIP does not inhibit p70S6k activation, even though several other PIP3-dependent events were down-regulated. Because the enhanced activation of Akt in the absence of SHIP correlates with hyperproliferation in the myeloid lineage, our data have implications for SHIP and Akt-dependent regulation of proliferation in the hematopoietic lineage.

SHP-1/immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif-independent inhibitory signalling through murine natural killer cell receptor Ly-49A in a transfected B-cell line

Ly-49A is a member of the Ly-49 family of mouse natural killer cell receptors that inhibit cytotoxicity upon recognition of their ligands, the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules, on the target cell surface. Although Ly-49A has an immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif (ITIM) in its cytoplasmic tail, relatively little is known about the mechanisms underlying its inhibitory function. We report here that antibody-mediated co-ligation of the B-cell receptor (BCR) with the transfected Ly-49A molecule results in abrogation of BCR-induced interleukin-2 (IL-2) secretion and mild reduction in activation of Erk1/2 and p38 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases in the B-cell line A20. Surprisingly, BCR-induced calcium mobilization was unaffected by cross-linking of BCR with Ly-49A. Furthermore, substitution of the single tyrosine residue in ITIM with phenylalanine, did not result in a complete loss of inhibitory function, as measured by BCR-induced IL-2 secretion. Deletion of the N-terminal 37 amino acid peptide, which includes the ITIM, did abrogate the inhibitory activity. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments revealed that, upon induction of tyrosine phosphorylation, Ly-49A recruits tyrosine phosphatase src-homology 2 (SH2) containing tyrosine phosphatases-1 (SHP-1), but not inositol phosphatase src-homology 2 (SH2) containing inositol phosphatase (SHIP), and that the tyrosine residue in the ITIM is critical for this interaction. These results suggest that transfected Ly-49A utilizes two different inhibitory mechanisms in B-cell signalling: ITIM-dependent and ITIM-independent.

Essential role for the C-terminal noncatalytic region of SHIP in FcgammaRIIB1-mediated inhibitory signaling

The inositol phosphatase SHIP binds to the FcgammaRIIB1 receptor and plays a critical role in FcgammaRIIB1-mediated inhibition of B-cell proliferation and immunoglobulin synthesis. The molecular details of SHIP function are not fully understood. While point mutations of the signature motifs in the inositol phosphatase domain abolish SHIP's ability to inhibit calcium flux in B cells, little is known about the function of the evolutionarily conserved, putative noncatalytic regions of SHIP in vivo. In this study, through a systematic mutagenesis approach, we identified the inositol phosphatase domain of SHIP between amino acids 400 and 866. Through reconstitution of a SHIP-deficient B-cell line with wild-type and mutant forms of SHIP, we demonstrate that the catalytic domain alone is not sufficient to mediate FcgammaRIIB1/SHIP-dependent inhibition of B-cell receptor signaling. Expression of a truncation mutant of SHIP that has intact phosphatase activity but lacks the last 190 amino acids showed that the noncatalytic region in the C terminus is essential for inhibitory signaling. Mutation of two tyrosines within this C-terminal region, previously identified as important in binding to Shc, showed a reduced inhibition of calcium flux. However, studies with an Shc-deficient B-cell line indicated that Shc-SHIP complex formation is not required and that other proteins that bind these tyrosines may be important in FcgammaRIIB1/SHIP-mediated calcium inhibition. Interestingly, membrane targeting of SHIP lacking the C terminus is able to restore this inhibition, suggesting a role for the C terminus in localization or stabilization of SHIP interaction at the membrane. Taken together, these data suggest that the noncatalytic carboxyl-terminal 190 amino acids of SHIP play a critical role in SHIP function in B cells and may play a similar role in several other receptor systems where SHIP functions as a negative regulator.

Ionomycin, a carboxylic acid ionophore, transports Pb(2+) with high selectivity

Studies utilizing phospholipid vesicle loaded with chelator/indicators for polyvalent cations show that ionomycin transports divalent cations with the selectivity sequence Pb(2+) > Cd(2+) > Zn(2+) > Mn(2+) > Ca(2+) > Cu(2+) > Co(2+) > Ni(2+) > Sr(2+). The selectivity of this ionophore for Pb(2+) is in contrast to that observed for A23178 and 4-BrA23187, which transport Pb(2+) at efficiencies that are intermediate between those of other cations. When the selectivity difference of ionomycin for Pb(2+) versus Ca(2+) was calculated from relative rates of transport, with either cation present individually and all other conditions held constant, a value of approximately 450 was obtained. This rose to approximately 3200 when both cations were present and transported simultaneously. 1 microM Pb(2+) inhibited the transport of 1 mM Ca(2+) by approximately 50%, whereas the rate of Pb(2+) transport approached a maximum at a concentration of 10 microM Pb(2+) when 1 mM Ca(2+) was also present. Plots of log rate versus log ionomycin or log Pb(2+) concentration indicated that the transporting species is of 1:1 stoichiometry, ionophore to Pb(2+), but that complexes containing an additional Pb(2+) may occur. The species transporting Pb(2+) may include H.IPb.OH, wherein ionomycin is ionized once and the presence of OH(-) maintains charge neutrality. Ionomycin retained a high efficiency for Pb(2+) transport in A20 B lymphoma cells loaded with Indo-1. Both Pb(2+) entry and efflux were observed. Ionomycin should be considered primarily as an ionophore for Pb(2+), rather than Ca(2+), of possible value for the investigation and treatment of Pb(2+) intoxication.

A dual role for Src homology 2 domain-containing inositol-5-phosphatase (SHIP) in immunity: aberrant development and enhanced function of b lymphocytes in ship -/- mice

In this report, we demonstrate that the Src homology 2 domain-containing inositol-5-phosphatase (SHIP) plays a critical role in regulating both B cell development and responsiveness to antigen stimulation. SHIP(-/-) mice exhibit a transplantable alteration in B lymphoid development that results in reduced numbers of precursor B (fraction C) and immature B cells in the bone marrow. In vitro, purified SHIP(-/)- B cells exhibit enhanced proliferation in response to B cell receptor stimulation in both the presence and absence of Fcgamma receptor IIB coligation. This enhancement is associated with increased phosphorylation of both mitogen-activated protein kinase and Akt, as well as with increased survival and cell cycling. SHIP(-/)- mice manifest elevated serum immunoglobulin (Ig) levels and an exaggerated IgG response to the T cell-independent type 2 antigen trinitrophenyl Ficoll. However, only altered B cell development was apparent upon transplantation into nonobese diabetic-severe combined immunodeficient (NOD/SCID) mice. The in vitro hyperresponsiveness, together with the in vivo findings, suggests that SHIP regulates B lymphoid development and antigen responsiveness by both intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms.

Inverse Association Between IgG–Anti-κ and Antierythrocyte Autoantibodies in Patients With Cold Agglutination

It has been known for a long time that IgG–anti-F(ab′)2 antibodies (Abs) are able to suppress the B-cell response. We showed that natural IgG-anti–F(ab′)2 autoantibodies appear in the serum of patients with cold agglutination. If the anti-F(ab′)2 Ab suppresses cold agglutinin (CA)-producing B cells, one would expect an inverse correlation between the titers of these two Abs. Our study confirmed this correlation. Subsequent experiments showed that some anti-F(ab′)2 Abs bind to the hinge region of IgG. It was difficult to explain how this Ab suppresses CA-producing B cells, which are of IgM isotype. Here we show that patients with cold agglutination have an IgG–anti-κ light chain autoantibody in their serum. This is another member of the anti-F(ab′)2 Ab group. Because the vast majority of CAs are IgM-κ Abs, the anti-κ Ab might suppress CA-producing B cells. If this is the case, there should be an inverse association between the titer of anti-κ Ab and CA. In a group of 302 patients, we found that high titers of the anti-κ Ab correlate with low titers of CA and vice versa (P= .009). Interestingly, this association is found only in patients whose disease is caused by noninfectious agents, including mainly B-cell proliferations (P = .0058). Our data show that the inverse correlation is not confined to a particular CA autoantibody specificity. The results are discussed in the light of recent findings showing that anti-IgM Abs may either inactivate or kill tumoral B cells by apoptosis.

Inverse Association Between IgG–Anti-κ and Antierythrocyte Autoantibodies in Patients With Cold Agglutination

It has been known for a long time that IgG–anti-F(ab′)2 antibodies (Abs) are able to suppress the B-cell response. We showed that natural IgG-anti–F(ab′)2 autoantibodies appear in the serum of patients with cold agglutination. If the anti-F(ab′)2 Ab suppresses cold agglutinin (CA)-producing B cells, one would expect an inverse correlation between the titers of these two Abs. Our study confirmed this correlation. Subsequent experiments showed that some anti-F(ab′)2 Abs bind to the hinge region of IgG. It was difficult to explain how this Ab suppresses CA-producing B cells, which are of IgM isotype. Here we show that patients with cold agglutination have an IgG–anti-κ light chain autoantibody in their serum. This is another member of the anti-F(ab′)2 Ab group. Because the vast majority of CAs are IgM-κ Abs, the anti-κ Ab might suppress CA-producing B cells. If this is the case, there should be an inverse association between the titer of anti-κ Ab and CA. In a group of 302 patients, we found that high titers of the anti-κ Ab correlate with low titers of CA and vice versa (P= .009). Interestingly, this association is found only in patients whose disease is caused by noninfectious agents, including mainly B-cell proliferations (P = .0058). Our data show that the inverse correlation is not confined to a particular CA autoantibody specificity. The results are discussed in the light of recent findings showing that anti-IgM Abs may either inactivate or kill tumoral B cells by apoptosis.

Intravenous immunoglobulin in the treatment of autoimmune neuromuscular diseases: present status and practical therapeutic guidelines

This review summarizes the current status of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) in the treatment of autoimmune neuromuscular disorders and the possible mechanisms of action of the drug based on work in vivo, in vitro, and in animal models. Supply of idiotypic antibodies, suppression of antibody production, or acceleration of catabolism of immunoglobulin G (IgG) are relevant in explaining the efficacy of IVIg in myasthenia gravis (MG), Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), and antibody-mediated neuropathies. Suppression of pathogenic cytokines has putative relevance in inflammatory myopathies and demyelinating neuropathies. Inhibition of complement binding and prevention of membranolytic attack complex (MAC) formation are relevant in dermatomyositis (DM), Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), and MG. Modulation of Fc receptors or T-cell function is relevant in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), GBS, and inflammatory myopathies. The clinical efficacy of IVIg, based on controlled clinical trials conducted in patients with GBS, CIDP, multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN), DM, MG, LEMS, paraproteinemic IgM anti-myelin-associated glycoprotein (anti-MAG) demyelinating polyneuropathies, and inclusion body myositis is summarized and practical issues related to each disorder are addressed. The present role of IVIg therapy in other disorders based on small controlled or uncontrolled trials is also summarized. Finally, safety issues, risk factors, adverse reactions, spurious results or serological tests, and practical guidelines associated with the administration of IVIg in the treatment of neuromuscular disorders are presented.

B Cell Antigen Receptor-Mediated Activation of Cyclin-Dependent Retinoblastoma Protein Kinases and Inhibition by Co-Cross-Linking with Fcγ Receptors

Cross-linking the B cell Ag receptor (BCR) to surface Fc receptors for IgG (FcγR) inhibits G1-to-S progression; the mechanism by which this occurs is not completely known. We investigated the regulation of three key cell cycle regulatory components by BCR-FcγR co-cross-linking: G1-cyclins, cyclin-dependent kinases (Cdks), and the retinoblastoma gene product (Rb). Rb functions to suppress G1-to-S progression in mammalian cells. Rb undergoes cell-cycle-dependent phosphorylation, leading to its inactivation and thereby promoting S phase entry. We demonstrate in this paper for the first time that BCR-induced Rb phosphorylation is abrogated by co-cross-linking with FcγR. The activation of Cdk4/6- and Cdk2-dependent Rb protein kinases is concomitantly blocked. FcγR-mediated inhibition of Cdk2 activity results in part from an apparent failure to express Cdk2 protein. By contrast, inhibition of Cdk4/6 activities is not due to suppression of Cdk4/6 or cyclins D2/D3 expression or inhibition of Cdk-activating kinase activity. Cdk4- and Cdk6-immune complexes recovered from B cells following BCR-FcγR co-cross-linking are devoid of coprecipitated D-type cyclins, indicating that inhibition of their Rb protein kinase activities is due in part to the absence of bound D-type cyclin. Thus, BCR-derived activation signals that up-regulate D-type cyclin and Cdk4/6 protein expression remain intact; however, FcγR-mediated signals block cyclin D-Cdk4/6 assembly or stabilization. These results suggest that assembly or stabilization of D-type cyclin holoenzyme complexes 1) is an important step in the activation of Cdk4/6 by BCR signals, and 2) suffice in providing a mechanism to account for inhibition of BCR-stimulated Rb protein phosphorylation by FcγR.

Bruton's tyrosine kinase controls a sustained calcium signal essential for B lineage development and function

Genetic data support a role for Btk during the B lineage development transitions regulated by signaling through both the pre-B and the B cell antigen receptors. Dysregulated signaling at each of these transitions can result in failure of these cell populations to proliferate and subsequent cell death. Btk-dependent IP3 production is crucial for maintaining the sustained calcium signal in response to BCR engagement and is likely to regulate a subset of transcriptional events essential for B lineage growth or survival. Identification of these Btk-dependent signals will be important in understanding B cell activation, differentiation, and cell death. This information may lead to therapies specifically targeting these events in B cell autoimmunity or malignancy and provide a fuller understanding of the appropriate target populations and potential negative consequences of Btk gene therapy in XLA. Identification of Btk/Tec family kinases in an increasing number of vertebrate and invertebrate cell lineages suggests that the link between Btk and the PLC gamma/IP3/calcium signaling pathways may be broadly conserved.

CD45 Regulates Tyrosine Phosphorylation of CD22 and Its Association with the Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase SHP-1

Cross-linking of CD45 induced capping and physical sequestration from CD22 leading to an increase in tyrosine phosphorylation of CD22 and SHP-1 recruitment. Additionally, CD22 isolated from a CD45-deficient B cell line exhibited increased basal/inducible tyrosine phosphorylation and enhanced recruitment of SHP-1 compared with CD22 isolated from CD45-positive parental cells. Subsequent experiments were performed to determine whether enhanced SHP-1 recruitment to CD22 is responsible for attenuation of receptor-mediated Ca2+ responses in CD45-deficient cells. Catalytically inactive SHP-1 expressed in CD45-deficient cells interacted with CD22 and decreased phosphatase activity in CD22 immunoprecipitates to levels that were comparable to those in CD45-positive cells. Expression of catalytically inactive SHP-1 restored intracellular mobilization of Ca2+ in response to MHC class II cross-linking, but did not affect B cell Ag receptor- or class II-mediated Ca2+ influx from the extracellular space. These results indicate that CD45 regulates tyrosine phosphorylation of CD22 and binding of SHP-1. The data further indicate that enhanced recruitment and activation of SHP-1 in CD45-deficient cells affect intracellular mobilization of Ca2+, but are not responsible for abrogation of receptor-mediated Ca2+ influx from the extracellular space.

Inhibitory modulation of B cell receptor-mediated Ca2+ mobilization by Src homology 2 domain-containing inositol 5'-phosphatase (SHIP)

Src homology 2 domain-containing inositol 5'-phosphatase (SHIP) mediates inhibitory signals that attenuate intracellular Ca2+ mobilization in B cells upon B cell receptor (BCR) stimulation. To clarify the mechanisms affected by SHIP, we analyzed Ca2+ mobilization in the DT40 B cell line in which the SHIP gene was disrupted. In SHIP-deficient cells, Ca2+ transient elicited by BCR stimulation was more prolonged than that in control cells both in the presence and absence of extracellular Ca2+. Inositol 1,4, 5-trisphosphate production following BCR stimulation was enhanced in SHIP-deficient cells. In SHIP-deficient cells in comparison with the control cells, BCR stimulation in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ induced a greater degree of Ca2+ store depletion and the Ca2+ influx upon re-addition of extracellular Ca2+ was also greater. However, store-operated Ca2+ influx (SOC) elicited by thapsigargin-induced store depletion was not affected by SHIP. These results indicate that the primary target pathway of SHIP is the Ca2+ release from the stores, and that Ca2+ influx by the SOC mechanism is secondarily controlled by the level of Ca2+ in the stores without direct inhibition of SOC. In this way, SHIP may play an important role in ensuring the robust tuning of Ca2+ signaling in B cells.

The antigen binding domain of non-idiotypic human anti-F(ab')2 autoantibodies: study of their interaction with IgG hinge region epitopes

In previous studies we described a natural human IgG-anti-F(ab')2 autoantibody family with immunoregulatory properties. Genes coding for the variable regions of the heavy and light chains of the Abs were isolated from a natural Ig gene library and scFv Abs were expressed in E. coli. The scFv Abs bound to F(ab')2 but not to Fab fragments. This points to an epitope located in the hinge region since Fab fragments are lacking most of the hinge. In order to verify our hypothesis, double chain peptides comprising the lower-, middle-, and part of the upper hinge subregion of IgG1-IgG4 were synthesized on cellulose membranes and tested for binding to the Abs. The results show binding of Abs to IgG1 and IgG4 hinge region peptides. In order to identify the key residues of the discontinuous epitopes we carried out complete substitutional analyses in which each amino acid of the wt peptides was substituted by all other amino acids except cysteine. The exchange of proline in the IgG1 or IgG4 middle hinge region abrogated the binding, revealing the importance of this subregion for epitope expression. No binding to the IgG2 or IgG3 hinge was detected. These results indicate that scFv anti-F(ab')2 Abs recognize the hinge region of IgG1 and IgG4 and that the expression of the epitope depends on an intact middle hinge subregion.

Glucocorticoid modulation of Ca2+ homeostasis in human B lymphoblasts

1. We determined the effect of cortisol (200 nM for 48 h) on the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and parameters of Ca2+i signalling in 19 lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs). 2. Using the fluorescent dye fura-2, the basal [Ca2+]i in Ca2+-containing medium was 63.5 +/- 2.4 nM in vehicle (ethanol)-treated LCLs and 55.7 +/- 2. 6 nM (mean +/- s.e.m.) in cortisol-treated LCLs. 3. Ca2+i signalling following platelet-activating factor (PAF, 100 nM) addition was enhanced by cortisol treatment, with LCLs having small PAF responses showing the largest percentage increase after cortisol treatment. Mean peak [Ca2+]i responses to PAF were enhanced 67.0% and 55.7% in Ca2+-free and Ca2+-containing medium, respectively. 4. The endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase inhibitor thapsigargin (100 nM) caused a transient increase in [Ca2+]i in Ca2+-free medium in which the peak change was increased in cortisol-treated cells (98.5 +/- 5.8 vs. 79.8 +/- 4.5 nM). Peak changes in the freely exchangeable Ca2+ in response to 5 microM ionomycin were also enhanced in cortisol-treated cells (923.7 +/- 113.9 vs. 652.2 +/- 64.5 nM) and correlated to the PAF-evoked [Ca2+]i response. 5. Cortisol-treated LCLs exposed to thapsigargin to empty intracellular Ca2+ stores (10 min treatment in Ca2+-free medium) and exposed to CaCl2 or MnCl2 had a greater rate of Ca2+ entry (18.6 +/- 1.8 vs. 13.8 +/- 1.5 nM s-1) and higher rate constant for Mn2+ entry (0.0345 +/- 0.0029 vs. 0. 0217 +/- 0.0020) than vehicle-treated cells. Peak [Ca2+]i in cells exposed to CaCl2 was also enhanced (869.4 +/- 114.7 vs. 562.6 +/- 61.7 nM). Parameters of divalent cation influx were highly correlated to the peak [Ca2+]i elicited by thapsigargin or ionomycin. 6. Inclusion of RU 486 (a glucocorticoid antagonist) with cortisol prevented the decrease in basal [Ca2+]i and stimulatory actions of cortisol on all Ca2+i parameters. RU 486 alone had no apparent effects on basal [Ca2+]i or Ca2+i signalling. 7. Based on data obtained over a wide range of responses (in the presence and/or absence of cortisol or RU 486), the results show that cortisol stimulation of glucocorticoid receptors decreases basal [Ca2+]i and enhances PAF-evoked [Ca2+]i signalling, most probably through its effects on intracellular Ca2+ stores. In turn, the extent of Ca2+ entry via store-operated plasma membrane Ca2+ channels is closely linked to the size of the Ca2+ stores.

The inositol polyphosphate 5-phosphatase ship is a crucial negative regulator of B cell antigen receptor signaling

Ship is an Src homology 2 domain containing inositol polyphosphate 5-phosphatase which has been implicated as an important signaling molecule in hematopoietic cells. In B cells, Ship becomes associated with Fcgamma receptor IIB (FcgammaRIIB), a low affinity receptor for the Fc portion of immunoglobulin (Ig)G, and is rapidly tyrosine phosphorylated upon B cell antigen receptor (BCR)-FcgammaRIIB coligation. The function of Ship in lymphocytes was investigated in Ship-/- recombination-activating gene (Rag)-/- chimeric mice generated from gene-targeted Ship-/- embryonic stem cells. Ship-/-Rag-/- chimeras showed reduced numbers of B cells and an overall increase in basal serum Ig. Ship-/- splenic B cells displayed prolonged Ca2+ influx, increased proliferation in vitro, and enhanced mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation in response to BCR-FcgammaRIIB coligation. These results demonstrate that Ship plays an essential role in FcgammaRIIB-mediated inhibition of BCR signaling, and that Ship is a crucial negative regulator of Ca2+ flux and MAPK activation.

Cutting Edge: FcγRII-B1 Regulates the Presentation of B Cell Receptor-Bound Antigens

Fcγ receptors (FcγRII) on B lymphocytes negatively regulate B cell receptor (BCR)-dependent activation upon cross-linking of the two receptors. The mechanism reflects the ability of the FcγRII cytoplasmic tail to recruit specific phosphatases that inactivate elements of the BCR-signaling cascade. We now show that cross-linking also blocks the processing and presentation of BCR-bound Ag. This occurs because the FcγRII isoform typically expressed by B cells (FcγRII-B1) is incompetent for endocytosis. When cross-linked, FcγRII-B1 acts as a dominant negative inhibitor of BCR endocytosis. In contrast, cross-linking of endocytosis-competent FcγRII isoforms did not inhibit endocytosis or processing of BCR-bound Ag. Thus, FcγRII-B1 acts not only to prevent B cell activation under conditions of Ab excess, but also to prevent clonotypic T cell activation by inhibiting the ability of B cells to generate specific MHC class II-bound TCR ligands.

Enhanced T cell proliferation and increased responder frequency following delivery of antigen to the antigen-presenting cell; B cell dependency and use in detection of autoreactive T cells

Reported frequencies of peripheral blood autoantigen-specific cells in autoimmune diseases are typically low, which could be due to true scarcity or to limitations of in vitro assays. In the present study, antigens were targeted to the antigen-presenting cell (APC) to enhance T cell proliferation, using an antigen delivery system (ADS), consisting of biotinylated anti-IgG, streptavidin and biotinylated antigen. This was able to bind B cells and monocytes and was internalized within 24 hours. T cell proliferation to tetanus toxoid was at least doubled using the ADS compared to conventional assay with antigen in simple solution. To evaluate the ADS in an autoimmune disease, we determined T cell responses to the insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM)-associated autoantigen IA-2ic in patients with recent-onset IDDM. When IA-2ic was available conventionally in solution, proliferation was poor, but significantly higher in IDDM patients than control subjects. However, the ADS significantly enhanced proliferation by a mean 3-fold for all subjects, while maintaining the significant difference between IDDM patients and healthy controls. Increases in T cell proliferation via the ADS were due to the recruitment of approximately 3 times the number of CD4 + T cells stimulated in conventional assays. B cell depletion abolished enhancement suggesting that the ADS operates through recruitment of B cells as APCs. This flexible modification of the T cell assay offers greatly enhanced sensitivity for determining the frequency of antigen and autoantigen-reactive T cells.

Inhibitory signaling by B cell Fc gamma RIIb

The fact that B cells undergo feedback suppression, or negative signaling, through the interaction of secreted antibody with specific antigen has been extensively documented but the mechanisms involved in the process have been elusive. Experiments over the past year using B cell deletion mutants and dominant-negative enzymes have firmly established an important role for SH2-domain-containing inositol 5-phosphatase (SHIP) in negative signaling. Negative signaling through SHIP appears to inhibit the Ras pathway through SH2 domain competition with Grb2 and Shc and may involve consumption of intracellular lipid mediators that act as allosteric enzyme activators or that promote entry of extracellular Ca2+.

CD38: a new paradigm in lymphocyte activation and signal transduction

CD38 is a type II transmembrane glycoprotein that is extensively expressed on cells of hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic lineage. Although the intracellular domain of CD38 is not homologous to any known proteins, the extracellular domain of CD38 is structurally related to enzymes in the ADP-ribosyl cyclase family. The structural homology between CD38 and the cyclase family members extends to functional homology, as the extracellular domain of CD38 can mediate the catalysis of beta-NAD+ into nicotinamide, ADP-ribose (ADPR) and, to a lesser extent, into cyclic ADPR-ribose (cADPR). Extensive investigation in other systems has shown that cADPR is an important regulator of intracellular Ca2+ release. Since engagement of CD38 on hematopoietic cells with anti-CD38 Abs has been shown to have potent effects on a number of in vitro cellular responses, we have speculated that cADPR might control CD38-mediated signal transduction. However, it has been difficult to understand how a mediator which is typically an intracellular signaling molecule could potentiate its effects from an extracellular location, thus posing a dilemma which pertains to all ecto-enzymes and the mechanisms by which they regulate signal transduction and cellular processes. This review describes the biologic properties of murine CD38, its role in humoral immunity, and its signal transduction properties in B lymphocytes. We suggest that signaling through CD38 represents a new paradigm in lymphocyte signal transduction and is predicated upon extracellular, rather than intracellular, crosstalk.

TGF-β1 Induces the Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor p27Kip1 mRNA and Protein in Murine B Cells

TGF-β1 inhibits the cell cycle progression of many types of cells by arresting them in the G1 phase. This cell cycle arrest has been attributed to the regulatory effects of TGF-β1 on both the levels and the activities of the G1 cyclins and their kinase partners. The activities of these kinases are negatively regulated by a number of proteins, such as p15INK4b, p21WAF1/Cip1, and p27Kip1, that physically associate with cyclins, cyclin-dependent kinases (Cdk), or cyclin-Cdk complexes. In epithelial cell lines, TGF-β1 was previously shown to inhibit cell cycle progression through down-regulation of Cdk4 and/or up-regulation of p15INK4b and/or p21WAF1/Cip1. However, TGF-β1 had little or no effect on the p27Kip1 mRNA and protein levels. In this report, we show that, in contrast to observations in epithelial cell lines, TGF-β1 increased the p27Kip1 mRNA and protein levels in the murine B cell lines CH31 and WEHI231. This TGF-β1-mediated induction of p27Kip1 also resulted in an increased association of p27Kip1 with Cdk2 and a decreased Cdk2 kinase activity. In contrast to epithelial cells, however, TGF-β1 had little or no effect on the Cdk4 and p21WAF1/Cip1 protein levels in these B cells. Finally, although several studies suggested a direct role of p53 in TGF-β1-mediated cell cycle arrest in epithelial cells, TGF-β1 inhibited cell cycle progression in CH31 even in the absence of wild-type p53. Taken together, these results suggest that TGF-β1 induces G1 arrest in B cells primarily through a p53-independent up-regulation of p27Kip1 protein.

Co-receptor and accessory regulation of B-cell antigen receptor signal transduction

The development and function of the immune system is precisely regulated to assure the generation of protective immune responses while avoiding autoimmunity. This regulation is accomplished by the engagement of a multitude of cell-surface receptors which transduce signals that activate or regulate cell differentiative and proliferative pathways. In some cases biologic responses reflect the integration of signals generated by co-aggregation of multiple receptors by complex ligands. For example, B-cell responses to antigen receptor aggregation can be modulated by co-aggregation of receptors for immunoglobulin G (Fc gamma RIIB1), complement components (CR2), and alpha 2, 6-sialoglycoproteins (CD22). Here we review our recent studies of molecular mechanisms underlying co-receptor modulation of B-cell antigen receptor signaling. Our results define interesting circuitry involving interactions among the B-cell antigen receptor, CD19 and Fc gamma RIIB1. CD19 may function as an important integrator of positive and negative signals that regulate B-cell antigen receptor signal output.

Protein-tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1 is dispensable for FcgammaRIIB-mediated inhibition of B cell antigen receptor activation

The inhibitory Fc receptor, FcgammaRIIB, provides a signal that aborts B cell antigen receptor activation, blocking extracellular calcium influx. Because the protein-tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1 binds tyrosyl phosphorylated FcgammaRIIB and FcgammaRIIB-mediated inhibition is defective in motheaten (me/me) mice, which do not express SHP-1, it was proposed that SHP-1 mediates FcgammaRIIB signaling in B cells (D'Ambrosio, D., Hippen, K. L., Minskoff, S. A., Mellman, I., Pani, G., Siminovitch, K. A., and Cambier, J. C. (1995) Science 268, 293-297). However, SHP-1 is dispensable for FcgammaRIIB-mediated inhibition of FcepsilonRI signaling in mast cells (Ono, M., Bolland, S., Tempst, P., and Ravetch, J. V. (1996) Nature 383, 263-266), prompting us to re-examine the role of SHP-1 in FcgammaRIIB signaling in B cells. We generated immortalized sIgM+, FcgammaRIIB+ cell lines from me/me mice and normal littermates. Co-ligation of FcgammaRIIB and the sIgM antigen receptor inhibits calcium influx in both cell lines. Inhibition is reversed by preincubation with anti-FcgammaRIIB antibodies, indicating that it is mediated by FcgammaRIIB. The inositol 5' phosphatase SHIP is recruited to tyrosyl-phosphorylated FcgammaRIIB in both cell lines. FcgammaRIIB-mediated CD19 dephosphorylation also occurs in the presence or the absence of SHP-1. Our results establish that SHP-1 is dispensable for FcgammaRIIB-mediated inhibition of sIgM antigen receptor signaling.

Negative signaling pathways of the killer cell inhibitory receptor and Fc gamma RIIb1 require distinct phosphatases

Inhibition of natural killer (NK) cells by the killer cell inhibitory receptor (KIR) involves recruitment of the tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1 by KIR and is prevented by expression of a dominant negative SHP-1 mutant. Another inhibitory receptor, the low affinity Fc receptor for immunoglobulin G (IgG) (Fc gamma RIIb1), has been shown to bind SHP-1 when cocross-linked with the antigen receptor on B cells (BCR). However, coligation of Fc gamma RIIb1 with BCR and with Fc epsilon RI on mast cells leads to recruitment of the inositol 5' phosphatase SHIP and to inhibition of mast cells from SHP-1-deficient mice. In this study, we evaluated the ability of these two inhibitory receptors to block target cell lysis by NK cells, and the contribution of SHP-1 and SHIP to inhibition. Recombinant vaccinia viruses encoding chimeric receptors and dominant negative mutants of SHP-1 and SHIP were used for expression in mouse and human NK cells. When the KIR cytoplasmic tail was replaced by that of Fc gamma RIIb1, recognition of HLA class I on target cells by the extracellular domain resulted in inhibition. A dominant negative mutant of SHP-1 reverted the inhibition mediated by the KIR cytoplasmic tail but not that mediated by Fc gamma RIIb1. In contrast, a dominant negative mutant of SHIP reverted only the inhibition mediated by the Fc gamma RIIb1 tail, providing functional evidence that SHIP plays a role in the Fc gamma RIIb1-mediated negative signal. These data demonstrate that inhibition of NK cells by KIR involves primarily the tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1, whereas inhibition mediated by Fc gamma RIIb1 requires the inositol phosphatase SHIP.

Co-receptors of B lymphocytes

The past year has seen advances in our understanding of accessory membrane proteins that modulate the B cell response to antigen-receptor stimulation. The generation of complement receptor deficient mice has reinforced our appreciation of the importance of complement receptors in the B cell response to antigen. The association of inositol polyphosphate 5-phosphatase with FcgammaRIIB suggests another mechanism, in addition to recruitment of the phosphotyrosine phosphatase SHP-1, by which secreted immunoglobulin can limit further response to antigen. The in vivo function of CD22 in regulating the threshold of antigen-receptor signalling has been shown using CD22-deficient mice. Lastly, B cell receptor signalling in the B-1 subset of B lymphocytes has been demonstrated to be negatively regulated by CD5.

Protein tyrosine phosphatases in signal transduction

Protein-tyrosyl phosphorylation, regulated by protein tyrosine kinases and protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs), is a key cellular control mechanism. Until recently, little was known about PTPs. However, the past two years have witnessed an explosion of information about PTP structure, regulation and function. Crystal structures of several PTPs have provided insights into enzymatic mechanisms and regulation and suggested the design of 'substrate-trapping' mutants. Candidate homophilic and heterophilic ligands for transmembrane PTPs have been identified, and roles for transmembrane PTPs in regulating cell-cell interactions have been suggested. Finally, progress has been made in understanding signaling by Src homology 2 domain containing PTPs and PTPs controlling yeast osmoregulatory pathways.

Co-ligation of the antigen and Fc receptors gives rise to the selective modulation of intracellular signaling in B cells. Regulation of the association of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and inositol 5'-phosphatase with the antigen receptor complex

Cross-linking of the Fc receptor (FcR) to surface immunoglobulin (sIg) on B cells inhibits the influx of extracellular calcium and abrogates the proliferative signal. The mechanism by which this occurs is not well understood. In this report we show that co-cross-linking the FcR to the antigen receptor gives rise to very selective modulation of signal transduction in B cells. Co-cross-linking sIg and the FcR enhanced the phosphorylation of the FcR, the adapter protein, Shc, and the inositol 5'-phosphatase Ship. Furthermore, phosphorylation of the FcR induced its association with Ship. Cross-linking of the FcR and sIg decreased the tyrosine phosphorylation of CD19, which led to a reduction in the association of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. In addition, the phosphorylation of several other proteins of 73, 39, and 34 kDa was reduced. Activation of the cells with either F(ab')2 or intact anti-IgG induced very similar changes in levels of tyrosine phosphorylation of most other proteins, and no differences in the activation of several protein kinases were observed. These results indicate that the inhibitory signal that is transmitted through the FcR is not mediated by a global shutdown of tyrosine phosphorylation but is, rather, a selective mechanism involving localized changes in the interactions of adapter proteins and the enzymes Ship and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase with the antigen receptor complex.

Human type II Fcgamma receptors inhibit B cell activation by interacting with the p21(ras)-dependent pathway

Co-ligation of antigen receptors and type II Fcgamma receptors (FcgammaRIIb) on B cells interrupts signal transduction and ultimately inhibits antibody production. We have identified p52 Shc in the FcgammaRIIb1-specific immunoprecipitates isolated from the membrane fraction of BL41 Burkitt lymphoma cells following B cell receptor-FcgammaRIIb1 co-ligation. The insolubilized synthetic peptide representing the phosphorylated form of the tyrosine-based inhibitory motif of FcgammaRIIb also binds Shc from the lysates of activated but not from resting BL41 cells. This suggests that the binding does not depend on the interaction of FcgammaRIIb1-phosphotyrosine with the SH2 domain of Shc. Tyr phosphorylation of FcgammaRIIb1-associated Shc is low, indicating an impaired function. Shc is implicated in regulating p21(ras) activation; thus, we have compared p21(ras) activities in BL41 cells treated in different ways. p21(ras) activity is reduced when B cell receptor and FcgammaRIIb1 are co-ligated. p21(ras) couples protein-tyrosine kinase-dependent events to the Ser/Thr kinase-mediated signaling pathway leading to the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK). Our results show that B cell receptor-FcgammaRIIb1 co-cross-linking partially inhibits mitogen-activated protein kinase activity. We conclude that FcgammaRIIb1-dependent inhibition of human B cell activation may be based on interrupting signal transduction between protein-tyrosine kinases and the p21(ras)/mitogen-activated protein kinase-dependent activation pathway.

The relationship between human epidermal growth-like factor receptor expression and cellular transformation in NIH3T3 cells

A collection of cell lines expressing each human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family member alone or in all pairwise combinations in a clone of NIH3T3 cells (3T3-7d) devoid of detectable epidermal growth factor receptor family members has been generated. Transformation, as measured by growth in soft agar, occurred only in the presence of appropriate ligand and only in cells expressing two different HER family members. Transfection of oncogenic neu (Tneu), conferred ligand-independent transformation only in cells which co-expressed HER1, HER3, or HER4, but not when expressed alone or with HER2. Cell lines were also tested for their ability to form tumors in animals. None of the cell lines expressing single HER family members was able to form tumors in animals with the exception of HER1, which was weakly tumorigenic. Although unable to form tumors when expressed alone, HER2 was tumorigenic when expressed with HER1 or HER3, but not HER4. Of all complexes analyzed, cells expressing HER1 + HER2 were the most aggressive. The relationship between HER1 activation, intracellular calcium fluxes, and phospholipase Cgamma1 activation is well established. We found that activation of HER1 was required for the induction of a calcium flux and the phosphorylation of phospholipase Cgamma1. These activities were independent of, and unaffected by, the co-expression of any other family member. Further, heregulin stimulation of all cell lines including those containing HER1 did not demonstrate any effect on intracellular calcium levels or phospholipase Cgamma1 phosphorylation. This demonstrates that heregulin induced cellular transformation by activating HER3- and HER4-containing complexes does not require the activation of either phospholipase Cgamma1 or the mobilization of intracellular calcium.

Regulation of ITAM signaling by specific sequences in Ig-beta B cell antigen receptor subunit

B cell antigen receptors (BCR) are composed of an antigen binding subunit, the membrane Ig, and Ig-alpha/Ig-beta heterodimers, that contain a transducing motif named ITAM for "immuno-receptor tyrosine-based activation motif." Ig-alpha and Ig-beta ITAMs only differ by four amino acids located before the second conserved tyrosine (DCSM in Ig-alpha and QTAT in Ig-beta), which determine the in vitro association of Ig-alpha with the src kinase fyn. We have previously shown that Ig-alpha and Ig-beta BCR subunits activate different signaling pathways by expressing, in B cells, FcgammaRII chimeras containing the cytoplasmic tails of Ig-alpha or Ig-beta. We report here that the signaling capacity of Ig-beta ITAM is regulated by peptide sequences located inside (QTAT region) or outside the ITAM (flanking sequences). Furthermore, when isolated, Ig-alpha and Ig-beta ITAM have similar abilities as the entire Ig-alpha tail and the whole BCR in triggering tyrosine kinase activation, an increase of intracellular calcium concentration as well as late events of cell activation as assessed by cytokine secretion. These data show that alterations that modify the ability of Ig-alpha and Ig-beta to interact in vitro with the src kinase fyn (switch between QTAT and DCSM) also determine signal transduction capabilities of these molecules expressed in B cells.

Negative signaling via FcgammaRIIB1 in B cells blocks phospholipase Cgamma2 tyrosine phosphorylation but not Syk or Lyn activation

Crosslinking of the B cell antigen receptor surface immunoglobulin induces tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of the Src family and Syk tyrosine protein kinases, tyrosine phosphorylation of phospholipase Cgamma2 (PLCgamma2) and increases in intracellular second messengers inositol phosphates and Ca2+. These activation events, in conjunction with other pathways, culminate in the induction of B cell proliferation and differentiation. In contrast, co-crosslinking surface Ig with the B cell IgG Fc receptor prevents many of these activation events, including B cell proliferation and differentiation. The precise nature of the negative signal(s) derived from Fc receptors that prevent B cell activation is not known. Here, early activation events were examined in B cells stimulated via the antigen receptor alone or under co-crosslinking conditions. The data indicated a selective block in the tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of PLCgamma2 but not in activation of the upstream kinases, Syk and Lyn, under co-crosslinking conditions. We conclude that the negative signal acts directly on PLCgamma2 and is consistent with recent studies describing an activation-induced association of a phosphotyrosine phosphatase with tyrosine-phosphorylated B cell Fc receptor.