Direct binding of a soluble natural killer cell inhibitory receptor to a soluble human leukocyte antigen-Cw4 class I major histocompatibility complex molecule

KIR signaling is regulated by electrostatic interaction of its cytosolic tail with the plasma membrane despite being neutral polyampholyte

Many receptors signal upon phosphorylation of tyrosine-based motifs in their cytosolic tail, with intrinsic disorder as a common feature. Studies on CD3ζ and CD3ε tails, which are disordered and polybasic, suggested regulation of phosphorylation through accessibility of tyrosines, governed by electrostatic interactions with membrane anionic lipids. We noticed characteristics of intrinsic disorder and previously unappreciated features in tyrosine-based motif-bearing cytosolic tails of many, especially, inhibitory receptors. They are neutral or acidic polyampholytes, with acidic and basic residues linearly segregated. To explore roles of these electrostatic features, we studied inhibitory killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR). Its cytosolic tail is a disordered neutrally charged polyampholyte, wherein juxtamembrane and membrane distal stretches are basic, and the intervening stretch is acidic. Despite lacking net charge, it interacted electrostatically with the plasma membrane. The juxtamembrane stretch was crucial for overall binding, which sequestered tyrosines in the lipid bilayer and restrained their constitutive phosphorylation. Human leukocyte antigen-C ligand binding to KIR released its tail from the plasma membrane to initiate signaling. Tail release occurred independently of KIR polymerization, clustering, or tyrosine phosphorylation, but required acidic residues of the acidic stretch. Tail interaction with the plasma membrane dictated signaling strength of KIR. These results revealed an electrostatic protein-lipid interaction that is unusual in being governed by segregated clusters of acidic and basic residues in polyampholytic disordered region of protein. In contrast to previously known, segregated distribution of oppositely charged residues made both binding and unbinding modules inherent to receptor tail, which could make the interaction an independent signaling switch.

The Activating receptor KIR2DS2 bound to HLA-C1 reveals the novel recognition features of activating receptor

Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) are important receptors for regulating the killing of virus-infected or cancer cells of natural killer (NK) cells. KIR2DS2 can recognize peptides derived from hepatitis C virus (HCV) or global flaviviruses (such as dengue and Zika) presented by HLA-C*0102 to activate NK cells, and have shown promising results when used for cancer immunotherapy. Here, we present the complex structure of KIR2DS2 with HLA-C*0102 at a resolution of 2.5Å. Our structure reveals that KIR2DS2 can bind HLA-C*0102 and HLA-A*1101 in two different directions. Moreover, Tyr45 (in activating receptor KIR2DS2) and Phe45 (in inhibitory KIRs) distinguish the two different binding models and binding affinity between activating KIRs and inhibitory KIRs. The conserved "AT" motif of the peptide mediates recognition and determines the peptide specificity of recognition. These structural characteristic shed light on how KIRs activate NK cells and can provide a molecular basis for immunotherapy by NK cells.

Prognostic values of the mRNA expression of natural killer receptor ligands and their association with clinicopathological features in breast cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes of the innate immune system that have potent cytotoxic activity against tumor cells. NK cell recognition and activity towards cancer cells are regulated by an integrated interplay between numerous inhibitory and activating receptors acting in concert to eliminate tumor cells expressing cognate ligands. Despite strong evidence supporting the role of NK cells in breast cancer (BC) control, BC still develops and progresses to form large tumors and metastases. A major mechanism of BC escape from NK immunity is the alteration of the expression of NK receptor ligands. The aim of this study was to determine whether NK receptor ligands' mRNA expression might influence prognosis in BC patients and whether these effects differ by molecular subtypes and clinicopathological features.

METHODS

We used the KM plotter platform to analyze the correlation between mRNA expression of 32 NK receptor ligands and relapse-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) in 3951 and 1402 BC patients, respectively. The association with tumor subtypes and clinicopathological features was determined. BC samples were split into high and low expression groups according to the best cutoff value and the two patient cohorts were compared by Kaplan-Meier survival plots. The hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals and log rank P values were calculated and FDR-adjusted for multiple testing correction. The data was considered to be statistically significant when FDR-adjusted P value < 0.05.

RESULTS

High mRNA expression of around 80% of ligands for NK activating and inhibitory receptors associated with better RFS, which correlated with longer OS for only about half of the NK-activating ligands but for most NK-inhibitory ligands. Also, five NK-activating ligands correlated with worse prognosis. These prognostic values were differentially associated with the BC clinical criteria. In addition, the favorable prognostic influence of NK-activating ligands' upregulation, as a whole, was mainly significantly associated with HER2-positive and basal-like subtypes, lymph node positive phenotype, and high-grade tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

NK receptor ligands appear to play an important role in defining BC patient prognosis. Identification of a group of patients with worse prognosis expressing high levels of NK-activating ligands and low levels of NK-inhibitory ligands makes them ideal potential candidates for NK-based immunotherapy to eliminate residual tumor cells, prevent relapse and improve patient survival.

Allelic Polymorphism Determines Surface Expression or Intracellular Retention of the Human NK Cell Receptor KIR2DL5A (CD158f)

KIR2DL5 (CD158f) is the most recently identified inhibitory member of human killer-cell Ig-like receptors (KIRs), which enable NK cells to sense self-HLA. Unlike KIR2DL1–3, recognizing HLA-C allotypes through Ig-like domains of the D1–D2 type, KIR2DL5 shares a D0–D2 configuration with KIR2DL4, and its ligands have not been identified. KIR2DL5 is encoded by two paralogous genes displaying copy number variation and allelic polymorphism—KIR2DL5A and KIR2DL5B. UP-R1 mAb, raised against the common allele KIR2DL5A*001, enables specific KIR2DL5 detection. However, not every KIR2DL5⁺ individual has NK cells staining with UP-R1, discrepancy explained in part by epigenetically silent KIR2DL5B alleles with a distinctive substitution in a promoter RUNX-binding site. Furthermore, we show here that the transcribed allele KIR2DL5A*005, second most common of its locus, fails to confer NK cells UP-R1 reactivity, phenotype explained by inefficacious transport of its product to the cell surface. Two amino acid substitutions distinguish the KIR2DL5A*005 and *001 coding regions. Western blot, flow cytometry, and confocal microscopy analyses of cells transfected with tagged constructs demonstrate that a serine substitution for glycine-174, conserved in most KIR, is mainly responsible for KIR2DL5A*005 intracellular retention, and it also affects mAb recognition. In contrast, substitution of aspartate for asparagine 152 has only a minor effect on surface expression, despite destroying an otherwise conserved N-glycosylation site. Our results help to explain the variable expression profile of KIR2DL5⁺ subjects and indicate that functional polymorphisms in both its promoter and its coding regions are critical for understanding the KIR2DL5 role in immunity and its importance for human health.

Current strategies for protein production and purification enabling membrane protein structural biology

Membrane proteins are still heavily under-represented in the protein data bank (PDB), owing to multiple bottlenecks. The typical low abundance of membrane proteins in their natural hosts makes it necessary to overexpress these proteins either in heterologous systems or through in vitro translation/cell-free expression. Heterologous expression of proteins, in turn, leads to multiple obstacles, owing to the unpredictability of compatibility of the target protein for expression in a given host. The highly hydrophobic and (or) amphipathic nature of membrane proteins also leads to challenges in producing a homogeneous, stable, and pure sample for structural studies. Circumventing these hurdles has become possible through the introduction of novel protein production protocols; efficient protein isolation and sample preparation methods; and, improvement in hardware and software for structural characterization. Combined, these advances have made the past 10-15 years very exciting and eventful for the field of membrane protein structural biology, with an exponential growth in the number of solved membrane protein structures. In this review, we focus on both the advances and diversity of protein production and purification methods that have allowed this growth in structural knowledge of membrane proteins through X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM).

The Impact of KIR Polymorphism on the Risk of Developing Cancer: Not as Strong as Imagined?

The polymorphism of killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) has been associated with several diseases, including infection, autoimmunity and cancer. KIR molecules are a family of receptors expressed on the surface of natural killer cells (NK), frontline defense of innate immunity against microorganisms and neoplastic cells. Some studies have shown conflicting results concerning the role that KIR polymorphism plays in tumor susceptibility, particularly in leukemia and lymphoma. Interestingly, the presence of HLA ligands is sometimes strongly associated with several types of cancer and apparently is not related with their interaction with KIR. This manuscript briefly reviews the uncommon polymorphism of KIR and critically summarizes the recent findings with regards of the importance of KIR variation for cancer susceptibility.

KIR and HLA under pressure: evidences of coevolution across worldwide populations

KIR (killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors) and HLA (human leukocyte antigens) are two distinct gene families with remarkable importance for human immune responses. The recognition of HLA molecules by activating and inhibitory KIR promotes a balance of signals that regulates NK cell function and is especially important for the innate defense against pathogens and early placentation. There is no documented gametic association between these two gene families and no evidence of common regulation. However, due to the critical role of KIR recognition for immunity and reproduction, the possibility of KIR-HLA combinations being under selective pressure is not surprising. In this manuscript, we first summarize the HLA-KIR system, the HLA molecules that are the putative ligands for KIR, and then we review the evidences that suggest these two gene families are coevolving as an integrated system.

A single amino acid change in inhibitory killer cell Ig-like receptor results in constitutive receptor self-association and phosphorylation

Signaling by immunoreceptors is often initiated by phosphorylation of cytosolic tyrosines, which then recruit effector molecules. In the case of MHC class I-specific inhibitory receptors, phosphorylation of cytosolic tyrosine residues within ITIMs results in recruitment of a protein tyrosine phosphatase that blocks activation signals. Recent work showed that signaling by an HLA-C-specific killer cell Ig-like receptor (KIR) is independent of signaling by activation receptors. It is not known how ITIM phosphorylation is initiated and regulated. In this article, we show that substitution of His-36 in the first Ig domain of KIR2DL1 with alanine (KIR2DL1-H36A) resulted in constitutive KIR2DL1 self-association and phosphorylation, as well as recruitment of tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1. Furthermore, substitution of His-36 with a similar bulky amino acid, phenylalanine, maintained the receptor in its unphosphorylated state, suggesting that steric hindrance by the His-36 side chain prevents constitutive KIR2DL1 self-association and ITIM phosphorylation. The equally strong phosphorylation of KIR2DL1 and KIR2DL1-H36A after inhibition of tyrosine phosphatase by pervanadate suggested that KIR2DL1-H36A is selectively protected from dephosphorylation. We propose that KIR phosphorylation is controlled by the accessibility of ITIM to tyrosine phosphatases and that KIR binding to HLA-C must override the hindrance that His-36 puts on KIR2DL1 self-association. Expression of KIR2DL1-H36A on NK cells led to stronger inhibition of lysis of HLA-C(+) target cells than did expression of wild-type KIR2DL1. These results revealed that ITIM phosphorylation is controlled by self-association of KIR and that His-36 serves as a gatekeeper to prevent unregulated signaling through KIR2DL1.

Diversity of natural self-derived ligands presented by different HLA class I molecules in transporter antigen processing-deficient cells

The transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP) translocates the cytosol-derived proteolytic peptides to the endoplasmic reticulum lumen where they complex with nascent human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I molecules. Non-functional TAP complexes and viral or tumoral blocking of these transporters leads to reduced HLA class I surface expression and a drastic change in the available peptide repertoire. Using mass spectrometry to analyze complex human leukocyte antigen HLA-bound peptide pools isolated from large numbers of TAP-deficient cells, we identified 334 TAP-independent ligands naturally presented by four different HLA-A, -B, and -C class I molecules with very different TAP dependency from the same cell line. The repertoire of TAP-independent peptides examined favored increased peptide lengths and a lack of strict binding motifs for all four HLA class I molecules studied. The TAP-independent peptidome arose from 182 parental proteins, the majority of which yielded one HLA ligand. In contrast, TAP-independent antigen processing of very few cellular proteins generated multiple HLA ligands. Comparison between TAP-independent peptidome and proteome of several subcellular locations suggests that the secretory vesicle-like organelles could be a relevant source of parental proteins for TAP-independent HLA ligands. Finally, a predominant endoproteolytic peptidase specificity for Arg/Lys or Leu/Phe residues in the P(1) position of the scissile bond was found for the TAP-independent ligands. These data draw a new and intricate picture of TAP-independent pathways.

Structural features of the apelin receptor N-terminal tail and first transmembrane segment implicated in ligand binding and receptor trafficking

G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) comprise a large family of membrane proteins with rich functional diversity. Signaling through the apelin receptor (AR or APJ) influences the cardiovascular system, central nervous system and glucose regulation. Pathophysiological involvement of apelin has been shown in atherosclerosis, cancer, human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection and obesity. Here, we present the high-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy-based structure of the N-terminus and first transmembrane (TM) segment of AR (residues 1-55, AR55) in dodecylphosphocholine micelles. AR55 consists of two disrupted helices, spanning residues D14-K25 and A29-R55(1.59). Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of AR built from a hybrid of experimental NMR and homology model-based restraints allowed validation of the AR55 structure in the context of the full-length receptor in a hydrated bilayer. AR55 structural features were functionally probed using mutagenesis in full-length AR through monitoring of apelin-induced extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation in transiently transfected human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293A cells. Residues E20 and D23 form an extracellular anionic face and interact with lipid headgroups during MD simulations in the absence of ligand, producing an ideal binding site for a cationic apelin ligand proximal to the membrane-water interface, lending credence to membrane-catalyzed apelin-AR binding. In the TM region of AR55, N46(1.50) is central to a disruption in helical character. G42(1.46), G45(1.49) and N46(1.50), which are all involved in the TM helical disruption, are essential for proper trafficking of AR. In summary, we introduce a new correlative NMR spectroscopy and computational biochemistry methodology and demonstrate its utility in providing some of the first high-resolution structural information for a peptide-activated GPCR TM domain.

Natural HLA-B*2705 protein ligands with glutamine as anchor motif: implications for HLA-B27 association with spondyloarthropathy

The presentation of short viral peptide antigens by human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I molecules on cell surfaces is a key step in the activation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes, which mediate the killing of pathogen-infected cells or initiate autoimmune tissue damage. HLA-B27 is a well known class I molecule that is used to study both facets of the cellular immune response. Using mass spectrometry analysis of complex HLA-bound peptide pools isolated from large amounts of HLA-B*2705(+) cells, we identified 200 naturally processed HLA-B*2705 ligands. Our analyses revealed that a change in the position (P) 2 anchor motif was detected in the 3% of HLA-B*2705 ligands identified. B*2705 class I molecules were able to bind these six GlnP2 peptides, which showed significant homology to pathogenic bacterial sequences, with a broad range of affinities. One of these ligands was able to bind with distinct conformations to HLA-B27 subtypes differentially associated with ankylosing spondylitis. These conformational differences could be sufficient to initiate autoimmune damage in patients with ankylosing spondylitis-associated subtypes. Therefore, these kinds of peptides (short, with GlnP2, and similar low affinity to all HLA-B27 subtypes tested but with unlike conformations in differentially ankylosing spondylitis-associated subtypes) must not be excluded from future researches involving potential arthritogenic peptides.

Transport of misfolded endoplasmic reticulum proteins to the cell surface by MHC class II molecules

Nascent MHC class II molecules are associated with the invariant chain and are transported to the endolysosomal pathway, where MHC class II molecules acquire peptide antigens. On the other hand, misfolded endoplasmic reticulum (ER) proteins are generally degraded in the cells and are neither expressed on the cell surface nor secreted. Here, we found that MHC class II molecules associate with some misfolded ER proteins via the peptide-binding groove in competition with invariant chain. The misfolded proteins associated with MHC class II molecules are transported intact to the cell surface without processing to peptides. Furthermore, these complexes efficiently stimulate antigen-specific B cells. These findings reveal that MHC class II molecules function as a chaperone for the cell surface expression of misfolded ER proteins. In addition, we suggest that MHC class II molecules present not only peptides but also intact host-cell-derived proteins on the cell surface. These findings provide new insights into the function of MHC class II molecules.

A viral, transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP)-independent, high affinity ligand with alternative interactions endogenously presented by the nonclassical human leukocyte antigen E class I molecule

The transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP) enables the flow of viral peptides generated in the cytosol by the proteasome and other proteases to the endoplasmic reticulum, where they complex with nascent human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I. Later, these peptide-HLA class I complexes can be recognized by CD8(+) lymphocytes. Cancerous cells and infected cells in which TAP is blocked, as well as individuals with unusable TAP complexes, are able to present peptides on HLA class I by generating them through TAP-independent processing pathways. Here, we identify a physiologically processed HLA-E ligand derived from the D8L protein in TAP-deficient vaccinia virus-infected cells. This natural high affinity HLA-E class I ligand uses alternative interactions to the anchor motifs previously described to be presented on nonclassical HLA class I molecules. This octameric peptide was also presented on HLA-Cw1 with similar binding affinity on both classical and nonclassical class I molecules. In addition, this viral peptide inhibits HLA-E-mediated cytolysis by natural killer cells. Comparison between the amino acid sequences of the presenting HLA-E and HLA-Cw1 alleles revealed a shared structural motif in both HLA class molecules, which could be related to their observed similar cross-reactivity affinities. This motif consists of several residues located on the floor of the peptide-binding site. These data expand the role of HLA-E as an antigen-presenting molecule.

Multiple viral ligands naturally presented by different class I molecules in transporter antigen processing-deficient vaccinia virus-infected cells

The transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP) delivers the viral proteolytic products generated by the proteasome in the cytosol to the endoplasmic reticulum lumen that are subsequently recognized by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). However, several viral epitopes have been identified in TAP-deficient models. Using mass spectrometry to analyze complex human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-bound peptide pools isolated from large numbers of TAP-deficient vaccinia virus-infected cells, we identified 11 ligands naturally presented by four different HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C class I molecules. Two of these ligands were presented by two different HLA class I alleles, and, as a result, 13 different HLA-peptide complexes were formed simultaneously in the same vaccinia virus-infected cells. In addition to the high-affinity ligands, one low-affinity peptide restricted by each of the HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C class I molecules was identified. Both high- and low-affinity ligands generated long-term memory CTL responses to vaccinia virus in an HLA-A2-transgenic mouse model. The processing and presentation of two vaccinia virus-encoded HLA-A2-restricted antigens took place via proteasomal and nonproteasomal pathways, which were blocked in infected cells with chemical inhibitors specific for different subsets of metalloproteinases. These data have implications for the study of the effectiveness of early empirical vaccination with cowpox virus against smallpox disease.

Uterine natural killer (uNK) cells and their missions during pregnancy: a review

Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes of the innate immune system. The aim of this review is to describe the properties and roles of NK cells in the human uterus during pregnancy. Uterine natural killer cells (uNK) constitute a major lymphocyte population during early gestation in the uterus. The uterine natural killer cells are recognized owing to their CD56(bright), CD16(-), CD3(-) phenotype. Their number increases in the first trimester with a subsequent decline as pregnancy progresses. They have been shown to be closely associated with cells of the extravillous trophoblast (EVT) and spiral arteries. They play important roles in remodeling of the spiral arteries, control of trophoblast invasion and in the development of the placenta. Some studies have shown the number and repertoire of receptors of uNK differ between women with healthy pregnancies and those with pathologic pregnancies, such as pre-eclampsia or intrauterine growth retardation. During pregnancy, the cytotoxic characteristics of the uterine killer cells are not directed towards the fetus, and scientists continue to question and explore this phenomenon with increasing evidence that these cells may perform differing beneficial roles during pregnancy. Contrary to their previously suspected "hostile" characteristics, the uterine killer cells are considered to be "friendly" and appear to be essential and very important regulators of successful implantation and pregnancy.

TAP-independent human histocompatibility complex-Cw1 antigen processing of an HIV envelope protein conserved peptide

Individuals with nonfunctional transporters associated with antigen processing (TAP) complexes are not particularly susceptible to viral infections or neoplasms. Therefore, their immune system must be reasonably efficient, and the present, though reduced, cytolytic CD8 αβ T subpopulation specific for TAP-independent antigens may be sufficient to establish an immune defense protecting against viral infections in these individuals. The objective of the present study was to identify TAP-independent ligands from HIV gp160 protein. An analysis and comparison of complex human histocompatibility complex (HLA)-bound peptide pools isolated from large quantities of healthy or HIV gp160-expressing human cells was performed using mass spectrometry and bioinformatics tools. A conserved TAP-independent HLA peptide ligand endogenously processed and presented in infected human cells was identified. This ligand originates from the envelope protein bound to the HLA-Cw1 class I molecule with high affinity. It was concluded that HLA class I peptides derived from a large fraction of the N-terminal HIV envelope protein could be presented even in the absence of the TAP complex.

Unusual viral ligand with alternative interactions is presented by HLA-Cw4 in human respiratory syncytial virus-infected cells

Short viral antigens bound to human major histocompatibility complex (HLA) class I molecules are presented on infected cells. Vaccine development frequently relies on synthetic peptides to identify optimal HLA class I ligands. However, when natural peptides are analyzed, more complex mixtures are found. By immunoproteomics analysis, we identify in this study a physiologically processed HLA ligand derived from the human respiratory syncytial virus matrix protein that is very different from what was expected from studies with synthetic peptides. This natural HLA-Cw4 class I ligand uses alternative interactions to the anchor motifs previously described for its presenting HLA-Cw4 class I molecule. Finally, this octameric peptide shares its C-terminal core with the H-2D(b) nonamer ligand previously identified in the mouse model. These data have implications for the identification of antiviral cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses and for vaccine development.

Characterization of an HLA-C-restricted CTL response in chronic HIV infection

HIV-specific CTL play an important role in the host control of HIV infection. HIV-nef may facilitate escape of HIV-infected cells from CTL recognition by selectively downregulating the expression of HLA-A and HLA-B molecules, while surface expression of HLA-C is unaffected. The HLA-C-restricted CTL responses have previously been largely ignored and poorly characterized. We examined the frequency, function, and phenotype of HLA-C-restricted CTL in ten antiretroviral therapy-naïve Caucasian and African individuals with chronic HIV-1 infection (for at least 8 years; CD4 cell counts in the range of 50-350) who carried the HLA-Cw04 allele. HLA-Cw04-restricted CTL that recognize a conserved epitope within HIV-1 envelope (aa 375-383 SF9) were analyzed using IFN-gamma ELISPOT assays and phenotypic analysis was carried out by flow cytometry. HLA-C-restricted CTL play an important role in the HIV-specific response, and can account for as much as 54% of the total response. HLA-C-restricted CTL are functionally and phenotypically identical to HLA-A- and HLA-B-restricted CTL. HLA-C-restricted CTL in chronic HIV infection are memory cells of an intermediate phenotype, characterized by high CD27 and low CD28 expression and lack of perforin production.

Multiple, non-conserved, internal viral ligands naturally presented by HLA-B27 in human respiratory syncytial virus-infected cells

Cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL)-mediated death of virus-infected cells requires prior recognition of short viral peptide antigens that are presented by human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I molecules on the surface of infected cells. The CTL response is critical for the clearance of human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) infection. Using mass spectrometry analysis of complex HLA-bound peptide pools isolated from large amounts of HRSV-infected cells, we identified nine naturally processed HLA-B27 ligands. The isolated peptides are derived from six internal, not envelope, proteins of the infective virus. The sequences of most of these ligands are not conserved between different HRSV strains, suggesting a mechanism to explain recurrent infection with virus of different HRSV antigenic subgroups. In addition, these nine ligands represent a significant fraction of the proteome of this virus, which is monitored by the same HLA class I allele. These data have implications for vaccine development as well as for analysis of the CTL response.

HLAMatchmaker-defined triplet matching is not associated with better survival rates of patients with class I HLA allele mismatched hematopoietic cell transplants from unrelated donors

This report addresses the concept that permissible HLA mismatching, that is, mismatches that do not generate an allogeneic response, in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) can be determined with structural similarity of polymorphic regions. We have applied the triplet version of a structural algorithm called HLAMatchmaker, which considers short sequences involving polymorphic amino acid residues on the molecular surface as key elements of immunogenic epitopes. The triplet matching effect was analyzed in a National Marrow Donor Program dataset consisting of 744 unrelated hematopoietic cell transplantation cases with 1 HLA-A, -B, or -C mismatch and 1690 fully HLA-A, -B, -C, -DR, or -DQ allele matched cases. In multivariate models adjusting for other significant clinical risk factors, the degree of triplet mismatching did not significantly correlate with patient survival, engraftment, or acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD). Other structurally based strategies should be pursued to identify permissible HLA mismatches in HCT.

NK cells and their receptors

Despite early reports that natural killer (NK) cells are non-specific or have non-major histocompatibility complex (MHC)- restricted killing, it is now clear that NK cells express a panoply of receptors with defined specificity for ligands expressed on their cellular targets. The roles of these receptors in terms of physiological NK cell effector functions, such as cytotoxicity and cytokine production, are beginning to be unravelled. Inasmuch as NK cells accumulate in the uterus, an appreciation of NK cell receptor specificities and their physiological functions should provide valuable clues to the role of NK cells in the uterus and during pregnancy.

Single-cell analysis of the human NK cell response to missing self and its inhibition by HLA class I

Natural killer (NK) cells activate quickly in response to pathogens, tumors, and allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplants. Modulating the NK cell response are clonally distributed NK cell receptors that survey cells for change in the expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and structurally related ligands. Here the enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) assay, intracellular cytokine staining (ICS), and short-term culture were used to quantify the response of bulk NK cell populations from human donors to HLA class I–deficient 221 cells and to 221 cells transfected with single HLA class I allotypes. NK cells in cultures containing interleukin-2 (IL-2) or IL-12 exhibited specificities of HLA class I–mediated inhibition that correlated well with those previously defined using NK cell clones in long-term culture and with the frequencies of cells expressing particular inhibitory HLA class I receptors. Culture with IL-12, but not IL-2, gave an increased frequency of cells expressing CD94: NKG2A but no change in killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) expression. For some heterozygote combinations of KIR3DL1 alleles, ICS can be used to compare the functional properties of the 2 allotypes. Thus, both the low-expressing KIR3DL1*005 and the high-expressing KIR3DL1*002 gave similar inhibitory response on challenge with an HLA-B*5801 ligand. The single-cell assays developed here should facilitate future population study and clinical analysis of human NK cell regulation by MHC class I.

Spontaneous clustering and tyrosine phosphorylation of NK cell inhibitory receptor induced by ligand binding

Inhibition of NK cell cytotoxicity by killer cell Ig-like receptors (KIR) depends on phosphorylation of cytoplasmic tyrosines in KIR, which recruit tyrosine phosphatase Src homology protein tyrosine phosphatase 1. It is not clear how KIR, whose function lies downstream of a tyrosine kinase, succeeds in blocking proximal NK cell activation signals upon binding HLA class I on target cells. Here we show that mixing NK cells with insect cells expressing HLA-C was sufficient to induce clustering of KIR, and phosphorylation of KIR and SHP-1. Transient phosphorylation of KIR was detected in the presence of pervanadate, an inhibitor of protein tyrosine phosphatases, at suboptimal concentration. Phosphorylation of KIR was specifically induced by ligand binding because it was detected only when HLA-C was loaded with a peptide that permits KIR binding. KIR phosphorylation was not dependent on ICAM-1-mediated adhesion and was not blocked by inhibition of actin polymerization, but required Zn(2+). Fluorescence resonance energy transfer between HLA-C molecules revealed close molecular interactions induced by KIR binding. These results demonstrate tight clustering of KIR and rapid KIR phosphorylation induced simply by binding to HLA-C. The unique property of KIR to become phosphorylated in the absence of adhesion and of actin cytoskeleton rearrangement explains how KIR can efficiently block early activation signals during NK-target cell contacts.

Fc receptor homologs: newest members of a remarkably diverse Fc receptor gene family

Newfound relatives of the classical Fc receptors (FcR) have been provisionally named the Fc receptor homologs (FcRH). The recent identification of eight human and six mouse FcRH genes substantially increases the size and functional potential of the FcR family. The extended family of FcR and FcRH genes spans approximately 15 Mb of the human chromosome 1q21-23 region, whereas in mice this family is split between chromosomes 1 and 3. The FcRH genes encode molecules with variable combinations of five subtypes of immunoglobulin (Ig) domains. The presence of a conserved sequence motif in one Ig domain subtype implies Ig Fc binding capability for many FcRH family members that are preferentially expressed by B lineage cells. In addition, most FcRH family members have consensus tyrosine-based activating and inhibitory motifs in their cytoplasmic domains, while the others lack features typical of transmembrane receptors. The FcRH family members, like the classical FcRs, come in multiple isoforms and allelic variations. The unique individual and polymorphic properties of the FcR/FcRH members indicate a remarkably diverse Fc receptor gene family with immunoregulatory function.

Soluble HLA-DR is a potent predictive indicator of disease progression in serum from early-stage melanoma patients

Despite numerous therapeutic options, the prognosis of malignant melanoma, once metastasized, is still poor. Thus, the search for reliable methods to identify patients with high risk of disease progression as early as possible is of major importance. In our study, we analyzed the predictive value of soluble HLA-DR (sHLA-DR) in comparison to S100-beta in serum from 183 melanoma patients of different stages of disease and with or without current therapy using immunosorbent assays. sHLA-DR serum levels of 121 healthy individuals served as controls. We found significantly (p < 0.0005) reduced sHLA-DR serum levels in melanoma patients (0.70 +/- 0.08 SEM microg/ml) compared to controls (1.49 +/- 0.10 SEM microg/ml). Reduced sHLA-DR and increased S100-beta levels were associated with advanced disease stages and tumor load. S100-beta was increased under cytostatic therapy (p < 0.0005), whereas sHLA-DR was not influenced by therapy modalities. Univariate analysis showed an association of sHLA-DR < 0.3 microg/ml and S100-beta > 0.12 microg/l with poor overall (p = 0.021 and p = 0.0009) and progression-free survival (p < 0.0005 and p = 0.0025). Multivariate analysis revealed disease stage (p = 0.0093) and tumor burden (p < 0.0005) as independent predictive factors for overall survival, and sHLA-DR (p = 0.0007) and tumor burden (p = 0.0015) for progression-free survival. In contrast to S100-beta, sHLA-DR serum concentrations < 0.3 microg/ml were strongly associated (p = 0.0001) with poor progression-free survival in a subgroup of 60 nonmetastasized patients. In conclusion, our results suggest sHLA-DR as a potent prognostic serum marker in melanoma patients superior to S100-beta in helping to identify early-stage patients at high risk of disease progression.

Bovine leukemia virus SU protein interacts with zinc, and mutations within two interacting regions differently affect viral fusion and infectivity in vivo

Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) and human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) belong to the genus of deltaretroviruses. Their entry into the host cell is supposed to be mediated by interactions of the extracellular (SU) envelope glycoproteins with cellular receptors. To gain insight into the mechanisms governing this process, we investigated the ability of SU proteins to interact with specific ligands. In particular, by affinity chromatography, we have shown that BLV SU protein specifically interacted with zinc ions. To identify the protein domains involved in binding, 16 peptides distributed along the sequence were tested. Two of them appeared to be able to interact with zinc. To unravel the role of these SU regions in the biology of the virus, mutations were introduced into the env gene of a BLV molecular clone in order to modify residues potentially interacting with zinc. The fusogenic capacity of envelope mutated within the first zinc-binding region (104 to 123) was completely abolished. Furthermore, the integrity of this domain was also required for in vivo infectivity. In contrast, mutations within the second zinc-binding region (218 to 237) did not hamper the fusogenic capacity; indeed, the syncytia were even larger. In sheep, mutations in region 218 to 237 did not alter infectivity or viral spread. Finally, we demonstrated that the envelope of the related HTLV-1 was also able to bind zinc. Interestingly, zinc ions were found to be associated with the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of Friend murine leukemia virus (Fr-MLV) SU glycoprotein, further supporting their relevance in SU structure. Based on the sequence similarities shared with the Fr-MLV RBD, whose three-dimensional structure has been experimentally determined, we located the BLV zinc-binding peptide 104-123 on the opposite side of the potential receptor-binding surface. This observation supports the hypothesis that zinc ions could mediate interactions of the SU RBD either with the C-terminal part of SU, thereby contributing to the SU structural integrity, or with a partner(s) different from the receptor.

KIR: diverse, rapidly evolving receptors of innate and adaptive immunity

KIR genes have evolved in primates to generate a diverse family of receptors with unique structures that enable them to recognize MHC-class I molecules with locus and allele-specificity. Their combinatorial expression creates a repertoire of NK cells that surveys the expression of almost every MHC molecule independently, thus antagonizing the spread of pathogens and tumors that subvert innate and adaptive defense by selectively downregulating certain MHC class I molecules. The genes encoding KIR that recognize classical MHC molecules have diversified rapidly in human and primates; this contrasts with conservation of immunoglobulin- and lectin-like receptors for nonclassical MHC molecules. As a result of the variable KIR-gene content in the genome and the polymorphism of the HLA system, dissimilar numbers and qualities of KIR:HLA pairs function in different humans. This diversity likely contributes variability to the function of NK cells and T-lymphocytes by modulating innate and adaptive immune responses to specific challenges.

Structure and function of natural killer cell receptors: multiple molecular solutions to self, nonself discrimination

In contrast to T cell receptors, signal transducing cell surface membrane molecules involved in the regulation of responses by cells of the innate immune system employ structures that are encoded in the genome rather than generated by somatic recombination and that recognize either classical MHC-I molecules or their structural relatives (such as MICA, RAE-1, or H-60). Considerable progress has recently been made in our understanding of molecular recognition by such molecules based on the determination of their three-dimensional structure, either in isolation or in complex with their MHC-I ligands. Those best studied are the receptors that are expressed on natural killer (NK) cells, but others are found on populations of T cells and other hematopoietic cells. These molecules fall into two major structural classes, those of the immunoglobulin superfamily (KIRs and LIRs) and of the C-type lectin-like family (Ly49, NKG2D, and CD94/NKG2). Here we summarize, in a functional context, the structures of the murine and human molecules that have recently been determined, with emphasis on how they bind different regions of their MHC-I ligands, and how this allows the discrimination of tumor or virus-infected cells from normal cells of the host.

A structural perspective on MHC class I recognition by killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors

Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) play a critical role in the regulation of natural killer (NK) cell activity through their recognition of class I MHC molecules expressed on target cells. KIR recognition provides vital information to NK cells about whether a target cell should be lysed or spared. Understanding the molecular mechanism of this recognition has remained a strong focus of investigation. This has resulted in the crystal structures of several members of the KIR family and more recently the determinations of the three dimensional structures of KIR2DL2 and KIR2DL1 complexed with their respective ligands, HLA-Cw3 and HLA-Cw4. A strong structural conservation has been revealed both in the receptor design and in the overall mode of KIR binding to class I molecules. Nevertheless, distinct differences in the receptor binding sites allow for high specificity between ligands. Furthermore, unexpected similarities with T-cell receptor (TCR) recognition of MHC molecules are also observed. The detailed interactions between KIR and HLA-C molecules and their functional implications will be reviewed here.

Human cytomegalovirus US2 endoplasmic reticulum-lumenal domain dictates association with major histocompatibility complex class I in a locus-specific manner

The human cytomegalovirus-encoded US2 glycoprotein targets endoplasmic reticulum-resident major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I heavy chains for rapid degradation by the proteasome. We demonstrate that the endoplasmic reticulum-lumenal domain of US2 allows tight interaction with class I molecules encoded by the HLA-A locus. Recombinant soluble US2 binds properly folded, peptide-containing recombinant HLA-A2 molecules in a peptide sequence-independent manner, consistent with US2's ability to broadly downregulate class I molecules. The physicochemical properties of the US2/MHC class I complex suggest a 1:1 stoichiometry. These results demonstrate that US2 does not require additional cellular proteins to specifically interact with soluble class I molecules. Binding of US2 does not significantly alter the conformation of class I molecules, as a soluble T-cell receptor can simultaneously recognize class I molecules associated with US2. The lumenal domain of US2 can differentiate between the products of distinct class I loci, as US2 binds several HLA-A locus products while being unable to bind recombinant HLA-B7, HLA-B27, HLA-Cw4, or HLA-E. We did not observe interaction between soluble US2 and either recombinant HLA-DR1 or recombinant HLA-DM. The substrate specificity of US2 may help explain the presence in human cytomegalovirus of multiple strategies for downregulation of MHC class I molecules.

Crystal structure of the human natural killer cell inhibitory receptor KIR2DL1-HLA-Cw4 complex

Inhibitory natural killer (NK) cell receptors down-regulate the cytotoxicity of NK cells upon recognition of specific class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules on target cells. We report here the crystal structure of the inhibitory human killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor 2DL1 (KIR2DL1) bound to its class I MHC ligand, HLA-Cw4. The KIR2DL1-HLA-Cw4 interface exhibits charge and shape complementarity. Specificity is mediated by a pocket in KIR2DL1 that hosts the Lys80 residue of HLA-Cw4. Many residues conserved in HLA-C and in KIR2DL receptors make different interactions in KIR2DL1-HLA-Cw4 and in a previously reported KIR2DL2-HLA-Cw3 complex. A dimeric aggregate of KIR-HLA-C complexes was observed in one KIR2DL1-HLA-Cw4 crystal. Most of the amino acids that differ between human and chimpanzee KIRs with HLA-C specificities form solvent-accessible clusters outside the KIR-HLA interface, which suggests undiscovered interactions by KIRs.

A novel immunoadsorption device for removing beta2-microglobulin from whole blood

BACKGROUND

High plasma levels of beta2-microglobulin (beta2m) have been implicated in the formation of the severely destructive and potentially fatal amyloid deposits that are characteristic of dialysis-related amyloidosis (DRA). Conventional renal replacement technologies remove insufficient quantities of beta2m to normalize plasma levels. This limitation arises because of nonspecific adsorptive qualities and reliance on size exclusion, which can also remove other middle molecular weight proteins. These nonspecific approaches also make it difficult to evaluate the role and contribution of middle molecular weight molecules to the pathology of DRA and other morbidities of end-stage renal disease. A high-affinity and biologically specific approach could target a protein, prevent a significant loss of other important molecules, and improve the apparent adsorption rate within an extracorporeal device.

METHODS

Agarose-immobilized murine anti-human beta2m monoclonal antibodies were used in a Vortex Flow Plasmapheretic Reactor (VFPR) to remove donor baseline and controlled amounts of recombinant beta2m from human blood in vitro. The extracorporeal circuit was hemoperfused at 200 mL/min for two hours.

RESULTS

The immunoadsorptive media had a binding site density of 30 microg beta2m per mL of settled gel. The VFPR cleared baseline quantities of donor beta2m below detectable limits of the assay. The experiments with higher initial beta2m concentrations reached an equilibrium concentration within 20 minutes, corresponding to a 92% clearance. No deleterious hemocompatibility issues were observed (complete blood count, total protein, and plasma free hemoglobin).

CONCLUSIONS

The adsorptive kinetics of the VFPR are optimal for the conditions used and support the use of immunoadsorption for the removal of beta2m.

The role of zinc in the binding of killer cell Ig-like receptors to class I MHC proteins

The binding of killer cell Ig-like Receptors (KIR) to their Class I MHC ligands was shown previously to be characterized by extremely rapid association and dissociation rate constants. During experiments to investigate the biochemistry of receptor-ligand binding in more detail, the kinetic parameters of the interaction were observed to alter dramatically in the presence of Zn(2+) but not other divalent cations. The basis of this phenomenon is Zn(2+)-induced multimerization of the KIR molecules as demonstrated by BIAcore, analytical ultracentrifugation, and chemical cross-linking experiments. Zn(2+)-dependent multimerization of KIR may be critical for formation of the clusters of KIR and HLA-C molecules, the "natural killer (NK) cell immune synapse," observed at the site of contact between the NK cell and target cell.

The role of zinc in the binding of killer cell Ig-like receptors to class I MHC proteins

The binding of killer cell Ig-like Receptors (KIR) to their Class I MHC ligands was shown previously to be characterized by extremely rapid association and dissociation rate constants. During experiments to investigate the biochemistry of receptor-ligand binding in more detail, the kinetic parameters of the interaction were observed to alter dramatically in the presence of Zn(2+) but not other divalent cations. The basis of this phenomenon is Zn(2+)-induced multimerization of the KIR molecules as demonstrated by BIAcore, analytical ultracentrifugation, and chemical cross-linking experiments. Zn(2+)-dependent multimerization of KIR may be critical for formation of the clusters of KIR and HLA-C molecules, the "natural killer (NK) cell immune synapse," observed at the site of contact between the NK cell and target cell.

N-linked carbohydrate on human leukocyte antigen-C and recognition by natural killer cell inhibitory receptors

The possible role of carbohydrate in the interaction of HLA-C with a human inhibitory natural Killer cell Immunoglobulin-like Receptor with two Ig domains, KIR2DL1, was investigated. Transfectants of 721.221 (a class I MHC-negative human B cell line) expressing only HLA-Cw4 or -Cw6 or their respective non-glycosylated mutants (N86Q, S88A) were made. The binding of a KIR2DL1-Ig fusion protein to the non-glycosylated mutant HLA-Cw4- or -Cw6-expressing cells was markedly decreased compared to the wild type-expressing cells. The ability to induce an inhibitory signal in the NK tumor line YTS transfected with KIR2DL1 was also impaired in the nonglycosylated mutant expressing cells. Furthermore, in a second functional assay, mutant HLA-Cw4 and -Cw6 molecules had impaired ability to induce signal transduction in BW cells expressing a KIR2DL1-CD3 zeta chain chimeric protein. Thus, the deletion of the N-linked glycosylation signal in HLA-Cw4 and -Cw6 greatly reduced recognition by KIR2DL1. Alternative interpretations of the data are discussed.

Cobalt-mediated dimerization of the human natural killer cell inhibitory receptor

Upon engagement of specific class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules on target cells, inhibitory receptors on natural killer (NK) cells deliver a negative signal that prevents the target cell lysis by NK cells. In humans, killer cell immunoglobulin-related receptors (KIR) with two immunoglobulin-like domains (KIR2D) modulate the lysis of target cells bearing specific HLA-C alleles (Moretta, A., Vitale, M., Bottino, C., Orengo, A. M., Morelli, L., Augugliaro, R., Barbaresi, M., Ciccone, E., and Moretta, L. (1993) J. Exp. Med. 178, 597-604). The transduction of inhibitory signals by KIR2D molecules is impaired by the zinc chelator, 1,10-phenanthroline, and mutation of a putative zinc-binding site (Rajagopalan, S., and Long, E. O. (1998) J. Immunol. 161, 1299-1305), but the mechanism by which zinc may affect the function of KIR remains unknown. In this study, the inhibitory NK receptor KIR2DL1 was discovered to dimerize in the presence of Co(2+) as observed on native gel electrophoresis and by gel filtration column chromatography. Furthermore, Co(2+)-mediated KIR2DL1 dimer binds to HLA-Cw4 with higher affinity than the wild type KIR2DL1 monomer. Replacement of the amino-terminal His residue by Ala abolishes the ability of KIR2DL1 to bind Co(2+), indicating that Co(2+)-mediated KIR2DL1 dimerization involves pairing of the D1 domain. Although not observed on native gels, the inhibitory receptor KIR2DL1 can be chemically cross-linked into dimers in the presence of Zn(2+) and its related divalent metal ions, suggesting that Co(2+)-mediated dimerization of KIR2DL1 may mimic a weaker interaction between KIR2DL1 and zinc in vivo.

Expression of the CD80 and CD86 molecules enhances cytotoxicity by human natural killer cells

In contrast to the inhibitory pathway of NK cell regulation, much less is known about stimulatory or activation signals in NK cells. Both CD80 and CD86 function as costimulatory molecules in T-cell cytotoxicity. Several previous reports, most of them in the murine system, have indirectly or directly indicated the possible role of B7 molecules (CD80 and CD86) triggering NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity in vitro. Nevertheless, only little is known about the role of these molecules on human target cells. Therefore, anti-CD80 and anti-CD86 mAbs were used in blocking experiments and both were shown to inhibit lysis by human NK cells. The degree of inhibition observed was variable. 64% of these NK clones were strongly inhibited by both anti-CD80 and anti-CD86 (Type 1). A small number (19%) were only moderately inhibited by both of these antibodies (Type 2), and 17% of these NK clones were inhibited strongly by anti-CD86 but weakly or not at all by anti-CD80 (Type 3). To further examine the importance of these proteins, B7.1 (CD80) and B7.2 (CD86) genes were transfected into the mouse mastocytoma P815 cell line that could not be killed by the human NK cells. These transfectant cell lines were then tested in cytotoxicity assays using a number of human NK lines. Expression of the CD80 and CD86 molecules resulted in enhanced lysis of P815 by most of the NK lines tested. Thus, both CD80 and CD86 molecules are involved in triggering of human NK cells.

Diversity of the p70 killer cell inhibitory receptor (KIR3DL) family members in a single individual

NK cells and some T cells express members of a multigenic family of killer cell inhibitory receptors (KIRs) including p70 KIR (KIR3DL) and p58 KIR (KIR2DL) family that recognize polymorphic class I MHC molecules on target cells and transmit an inhibitory signal to prevent killer cell-mediated cytoxicity. The cDNA sequences of p70 KIR family members reported so far suggest that the p70 KIR gene consists of a multigene complex and that each gene may exhibit certain degrees of polymorphism. However, it is not clear how diverse the repertoire of the p70 KIR family is, particularly in a single individual. To address this question in more detail and to determine some indication as to the origin of the diversity, we cloned p70 KIR cDNAs from a single individual. We identified nine new KIRs that are different from the previously reported ones. A comparison of the amino acid sequences with published sequences of p70 KIRs showed that two clones belonged to the KIR3DL1 family, five clones belonged to the KIR3DL2 family, one clone belonged to the KIR2DL4 family, and one clone appeared to be an alternatively spliced form of p70 KIR. These results suggested that the repertoire of p70 KIR family members in a single individual is highly diverse. It is not clear how the diverse receptors are generated in a single individual, but a comparison of amino acid sequences of p70 KIR family members suggested that some of them may be encoded by distinct genes or their alleles, while others may be generated by a recombination mechanism and/or an alternative splicing mechanism at the maturation of the mRNA transcripts.

Molecular analyses of the interactions between human NK receptors and their HLA ligands

NK cell cytotoxicity is regulated by the action of multiple families of receptors. The interactions of these receptors with their ligands control different activating/inhibiting signal pathways and it is the balance of these signals which determines the behavior of the NK cell. The major described inhibitory pathways begin either with the recognition of a target cell classical class I HLA molecule by a killer cell immunologlobulin-like receptor (KIR) or the binding of the non-classical class I molecule HLA-E to the CD94/NKG2-A heterodimer. Activating counterparts to these inhibitory NK receptors have also been described and this review focuses on the molecular details of the binding of the inhibitory and activating receptors to their HLA ligands.

Interaction of the NK cell inhibitory receptor Ly49A with H-2Dd: identification of a site distinct from the TCR site

Natural killer cell function is controlled by interaction of NK receptors with MHC I molecules expressed on target cells. We describe the binding of bacterially expressed Ly49A, the prototype murine NK inhibitory receptor, to similarly engineered H-2Dd. Despite its homology to C-type lectins, Ly49A binds independently of carbohydrate and Ca2+ and shows specificity for MHC I but not bound peptide. The affinity of the Ly49A/H-2Dd interaction as determined by surface plasmon resonance is from 6 to 26 microM at 25 degrees C and is greater by ultracentrifugation at 4 degrees C. Biotinylated Ly49A stains H-2Dd-expressing cells. Competition experiments indicate that the Ly49A and T cell receptor (TCR) binding sites on MHC I are distinct, suggesting complex regulation of cells that bear both TCR and NK cell receptors.

Reconstitution of killer cell inhibitory receptor-mediated signal transduction machinery in a cell-free model system

Recognition of class I MHC molecules on target cells by killer cell inhibitory receptors (KIRs) blocks natural cytotoxicity and antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity of NK cells and CD3/TCR dependent cytotoxicity of T cells. The inhibitory effect of KIR ligation requires phosphorylation of the cytoplasmic tail of KIR and subsequent recruitment of an SH2-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase, SHP-1. To better understand the molecular mechanism of the KIR-mediated inhibitory signal transduction, we developed an in vitro assay system using a purified His-tag fusion protein of KIR cytoplasmic tail (His-CytKIR) and Jurkat T cell lysates. We identified a target molecule of SHP-1 by comparing the phosphorylation of major cellular substrates following in vitro phosphorylation of Jurkat cell lysates in the presence and absence of the His-CytKIR in this cell-free model system. The His-CytKIR was tyrosine phosphorylated by Lck in vitro, and the phosphorylated His-CytKIR recruited SHP-1. Interestingly, we observed that among major substrates phosphorylated in vitro, PLC-gamma exhibited a dramatic decrease in phosphorylation when the His-CytKIR was mixed with Jurkat T cell lysates. However, PLC-gamma exhibited no decrease in phosphorylation when SHP-1 or Lck was depleted or deficient in this reaction mixture, suggesting that the SHP-1 recruited by the phosphorylated His-CytKIR directly mediate the dephosphorylation of PLC-gamma. The cell-free model system could be used to reveal the detailed molecular interactions in the KIR-mediated signal transduction.

Structure of human histocompatibility leukocyte antigen (HLA)-Cw4, a ligand for the KIR2D natural killer cell inhibitory receptor

The crystal structure of the human class I major histocompatibility complex molecule, human histocompatibility leukocyte antigen (HLA)-Cw4, the ligand for a natural killer (NK) cell inhibitory receptor, has been determined, complexed with a nonameric consensus peptide (QYDDAVYKL). Relative to HLA-A2, the peptide binding groove is widened around the COOH terminus of the alpha 1 helix, which contains residues that determine the specificity of HLA-Cw4 for the inhibitory NK receptor, KIR2D. The structure reveals an unusual pattern of internal hydrogen bonding among peptide residues. The peptide is anchored in four specificity pockets in the cleft and secured by extensive hydrogen bonds between the peptide main chain and the cleft. The surface of HLA-Cw4 has electrostatic complementarity to the surface of the NK cell inhibitory receptor KIR2D.

Regulation of immune responses through inhibitory receptors

Major histocompatibility complex class I-specific inhibitory receptors on natural killer cells prevent the lysis of healthy autologous cells. The outcome of this negative signal is not anergy or apoptosis of natural killer cells but a transient abortion of activation signals. The natural killer inhibitory receptors fulfill this function by recruiting the tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1 through a cytoplasmic immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif. This immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif has become the hallmark of a growing family of receptors with inhibitory potential, which are expressed in various cell types such as monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, leukocytes, and mast cells. Most of the natural killer inhibitory receptors and two members of a monocyte inhibitory-receptor family bind major histocompatibility complex class I molecules. Ligands for many of the other receptors have yet to be identified. The inhibitory-receptor superfamily appears to regulate many types of immune responses by blocking cellular activation signals.

The cytoplasmic tail of killer inhibitory receptor (KIR) associates with TCR zeta in a phosphorylation-dependent manner

Killer inhibitory receptor (KIR) inhibits cytolytic function of killer cells by specific interaction with class I MHC molecules. The inhibitory effect mediated by KIR requires co-engagement of KIR with an activating receptor, such as TCR or FcR. This implies that KIR may function in the immediate vicinity of activating molecules, and previous studies have shown that p58 KIR is associated with TCR zeta- and FcR gamma-chain in NK cells. To better understand the molecular interaction between KIR and TCR zeta-chain, we generated a His-tag fusion protein of a p70 KIR cytoplasmic tail (His-CytKIR) and used this protein to coprecipitate TCR zeta-chain from Jurkat T cells. Western blots of the resolved coprecipitates showed that the cytoplasmic tail of KIR associates with TCR zeta in vitro. Interestingly, the association between the His-CytKIR and TCR zeta was dependent on the phosphorylation of the His-CytKIR. Unlike the unphosphorylated His-CytKIR, the phosphorylated form no longer associated with TCR zeta. However, the association was not affected by the tyrosine phosphorylation of TCR zeta. These results suggest that the cytoplasmic tail of KIR may couple to TCR zeta in a phosphorylation-dependent manner, so it could fine-tune the activation signals induced via the TCR.

Crystal structure of the human p58 killer cell inhibitory receptor (KIR2DL3) specific for HLA-Cw3-related MHC class I

BACKGROUND

T cells and natural killer (NK) cells perform complementary roles in the cellular immune system. T cells identify infected cells directly through recognition of antigenic peptides that are displayed at the target cell surface by the classical major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules. NK cells monitor the target cell surface for malfunction of this display system, lysing potentially infected cells that might otherwise evade recognition by the T cells. Human killer cell inhibitory receptors (KIRs) control this process by either inhibiting or activating the cytotoxic activity of NK cells via specific binding to MHC class I molecules on the target cell.

RESULTS

We report the crystal structure of the extracellular region of the human p58 KIR (KIR2DL3), which is specific for the human MHC class I molecule HLA-Cw3 and related alleles. The structure shows the predicted topology of two tandem immunoglobulin-like domains, but comparison with the previously reported structure of the related receptor KIR2DL1 reveals an unexpected change of 23 degrees in the relative orientation of these domains.

CONCLUSIONS

The altered orientation of the immunoglobulin-like domains maintains an unusually acute interdomain elbow angle, which therefore appears to be a distinctive feature of the KIRs. The putative MHC class I binding site is located on the outer surface of the elbow, spanning both domains. The unexpected observation that this binding site can be modulated by differences in the relative domain orientations has implications for the general mechanism of KIR-MHC class I complex formation.

Crystal structure of the HLA-Cw3 allotype-specific killer cell inhibitory receptor KIR2DL2

Killer cell inhibitory receptors (KIR) protect class I HLAs expressing target cells from natural killer (NK) cell-mediated lysis. To understand the molecular basis of this receptor-ligand recognition, we have crystallized the extracellular ligand-binding domains of KIR2DL2, a member of the Ig superfamily receptors that recognize HLA-Cw1, 3, 7, and 8 allotypes. The structure was determined in two different crystal forms, an orthorhombic P212121 and a trigonal P3221 space group, to resolutions of 3.0 and 2.9 A, respectively. The overall fold of this structure, like KIR2DL1, exhibits K-type Ig topology with cis-proline residues in both domains that define beta-strand switching, which sets KIR apart from the C2-type hematopoietic growth hormone receptor fold. The hinge angle of KIR2DL2 is approximately 80 degrees, 14 degrees larger than that observed in KIR2DL1 despite the existence of conserved hydrophobic residues near the hinge region. There is also a 5 degrees difference in the observed hinge angles in two crystal forms of 2DL2, suggesting that the interdomain hinge angle is not fixed. The putative ligand-binding site is formed by residues from several variable loops with charge distribution apparently complementary to that of HLA-C. The packing of the receptors in the orthorhombic crystal form offers an intriguing model for receptor aggregation on the cell surface.