Normal T cells express two T cell antigen receptor populations, one of which is linked to the cytoskeleton via zeta chain and displays a unique activation-dependent phosphorylation pattern

ERM-Dependent Assembly of T Cell Receptor Signaling and Co-stimulatory Molecules on Microvilli prior to Activation

T cell surfaces are covered with microvilli, actin-rich and flexible protrusions. We use super-resolution microscopy to show that ≥90% of T cell receptor (TCR) complex molecules TCRαβ and TCRζ, as well as the co-receptor CD4 (cluster of differentiation 4) and the co-stimulatory molecule CD2, reside on microvilli of resting human T cells. Furthermore, TCR proximal signaling molecules involved in the initial stages of the immune response, including the protein tyrosine kinase Lck (lymphocyte-specific protein tyrosine kinase) and the key adaptor LAT (linker for activation of T cells), are also enriched on microvilli. Notably, phosphorylated proteins of the ERM (ezrin, radixin, and moesin) family colocalize with TCRαβ as well as with actin filaments, implying a role for one or more ERMs in linking the TCR complex to the actin cytoskeleton within microvilli. Our results establish microvilli as key signaling hubs, in which the TCR complex and its proximal signaling molecules and adaptors are preassembled prior to activation in an ERM-dependent manner, facilitating initial antigen sensing.

Proteomics and Network Analyses Reveal Inhibition of Akt-mTOR Signaling in CD4+ T Cells by Mycobacterium tuberculosis Mannose-Capped Lipoarabinomannan

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) cell wall glycolipid mannose-capped lipoarabinomannan (ManLAM) inhibits CD4+ T-cell activation by inhibiting proximal T-cell receptor (TCR) signaling when activated by anti-CD3. To understand the impact of ManLAM on CD4+ T-cell function when both the TCR-CD3 complex and major costimulator CD28 are engaged, we performed label-free quantitative MS and network analysis. Mixed-effect model analysis of peptide intensity identified 149 unique peptides representing 131 proteins that were differentially regulated by ManLAM in anti-CD3- and anti-CD28-activated CD4+ T cells. Crosstalker, a novel network analysis tool identified dysregulated translation, TCA cycle, and RNA metabolism network modules. PCNA, Akt, mTOR, and UBC were found to be bridge node proteins connecting these modules of dysregulated proteins. Altered PCNA expression and cell cycle analysis showed arrest at the G2M phase. Western blot confirmed that ManLAM inhibited Akt and mTOR phosphorylation, and decreased expression of deubiquitinating enzymes Usp9x and Otub1. Decreased NF-κB phosphorylation suggested interference with CD28 signaling through inhibition of the Usp9x-Akt-mTOR pathway. Thus, ManLAM induced global changes in the CD4+ T-cell proteome by affecting Akt-mTOR signaling, resulting in broad functional impairment of CD4+ T-cell activation beyond inhibition of proximal TCR-CD3 signaling.

Unique ζ-chain motifs mediate a direct TCR-actin linkage critical for immunological synapse formation and T-cell activation

TCR-mediated activation induces receptor microclusters that evolve to a defined immune synapse (IS). Many studies showed that actin polymerization and remodeling, which create a scaffold critical to IS formation and stabilization, are TCR mediated. However, the mechanisms controlling simultaneous TCR and actin dynamic rearrangement in the IS are yet not fully understood. Herein, we identify two novel TCR ζ-chain motifs, mediating the TCR's direct interaction with actin and inducing actin bundling. While T cells expressing the ζ-chain mutated in these motifs lack cytoskeleton (actin) associated (cska)-TCRs, they express normal levels of non-cska and surface TCRs as cells expressing wild-type ζ-chain. However, such mutant cells are unable to display activation-dependent TCR clustering, IS formation, expression of CD25/CD69 activation markers, or produce/secrete cytokine, effects also seen in the corresponding APCs. We are the first to show a direct TCR-actin linkage, providing the missing gap linking between TCR-mediated Ag recognition, specific cytoskeleton orientation toward the T-cell-APC interacting pole and long-lived IS maintenance.

Methods and protocols to study T cell signaling abnormalities in human systemic lupus erythematosus

Abnormal expression of key signaling molecules and defective functions of T lymphocytes play a significant role in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). T cell receptor (TCR/CD3)-mediated stimulation of SLE T cells show increased protein tyrosine phosphorylation of cellular proteins with faster kinetics, heightened calcium flux response, and decreased IL-2 production. The molecular mechanisms of T cell signaling abnormalities in SLE T cells are complex. Current research has been directed towards investigating various factors that contribute to abnormal tyrosine phosphorylation, intracellular calcium response, and cytokine production. Central to this dysfunction is the aberrant expression and function of the TCR/CD3ζ chain. Latest developments suggest multiple explanations are involved, including altered receptor structure, supramolecular assembly, modulation of membrane clustering, aberrant cellular distribution, and pre-compartmentalization with lipid-rafts. The methods and protocols described here pertaining to T cell signaling abnormalities in SLE T cells are optimized in many ways and are derived by the combined task and continuous efforts of many researchers in the lab over a long period of time. These simplified protocols can be readily applied to study T cell signaling abnormalities in SLE to identify the genetic, molecular, and biochemical factors contributing to aberrant immune cell function and unravel the pathophysiology of SLE.

Proteomic approaches to understanding the role of the cytoskeleton in host-defense mechanisms

The cytoskeleton is a cellular scaffolding system whose functions include maintenance of cellular shape, enabling cellular migration, division, intracellular transport, signaling and membrane organization. In addition, in immune cells, the cytoskeleton is essential for phagocytosis. Following the advances in proteomics technology over the past two decades, cytoskeleton proteome analysis in resting and activated immune cells has emerged as a possible powerful approach to expand our understanding of cytoskeletal composition and function. However, so far there have only been a handful of studies of the cytoskeleton proteome in immune cells. This article considers promising proteomics strategies that could augment our understanding of the role of the cytoskeleton in host-defense mechanisms.

TCR triggering by the pMHC complex: valency, affinity, and dynamics

The interaction between the T cell receptor (TCR) and a peptide-loaded major histocompatibility complex (pMHC) is one of the most-studied interactions in immunology, and yet the precise mechanism by which this system operates is still not fully understood. One key issue is whether TCR triggering minimally requires monomeric pMHC complexes or higher-order multimers (two or more pMHCs). Any model of TCR triggering must explain the high sensitivity, specificity, and dynamic range of ligand responsiveness that this receptor system exhibits. Most models of TCR triggering have not fully appreciated the dynamic aspects of TCR triggering. TCR triggering happens very quickly, and the properties of sensitivity and specificity can be explained by a model that accounts for the interaction dynamics of such a receptor system. In this paper, it is proposed that the important parameter in TCR triggering is the immobilization of the TCR-pMHC complex in the plasma membrane. Whether this involves monomeric or multimeric pMHCs may depend on the affinity of the TCR for the pMHC.

Contributions to our understanding of T cell physiology through unveiling the T cell proteome

Since the sequencing of the human genome was completed, attention has turned to examining the functionality of the molecular machinery, in particular of protein expression. Differential proteome analysis by two-dimensional electrophoresis has been adopted to study changes in T cell proteomes during T cell activation, and this work is increasing our understanding of the complexity of signals elicited across multiple pathways. The purpose of this review is to summarize the available evidence in the application of proteomic techniques and methodologies to understand T cell receptor activation from lipid raft and cytoskeletal rearrangements, through to signalling cascades, transcription factor modulation and changes in protein expression patterns. These include post-translational modifications, which are not encoded by the genome.

Differential Src family kinase activity requirements for CD3 zeta phosphorylation/ZAP70 recruitment and CD3 epsilon phosphorylation

The current model of T cell activation is that TCR engagement stimulates Src family tyrosine kinases (SFK) to phosphorylate CD3zeta. CD3zeta phosphorylation allows for the recruitment of the tyrosine kinase ZAP70, which is phosphorylated and activated by SFK, leading to the phosphorylation of downstream targets. We stimulated mouse CTLs with plate-bound anti-CD3 and, after cell lysis, recovered proteins that associated with the CD3 complex. The protein complexes were not preformed, and a number of tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins were inducibly and specifically associated with the TCR/CD3 complex. These results suggest that complex formation only occurs at the site of TCR engagement. The recruitment and tyrosine phosphorylation of most proteins were abolished when T cells were stimulated in the presence of the SFK inhibitor PP2. Surprisingly, CD3zeta, but not CD3epsilon, was inducibly tyrosine phosphorylated in the presence of PP2. Furthermore, ZAP70 was recruited, but not phosphorylated, after TCR stimulation in the presence of PP2, thus confirming the phosphorylation status of CD3zeta. These data suggest that there is a differential requirement for SFK activity in phosphorylation of CD3zeta vs CD3epsilon. Consistent with this possibility, ZAP70 recruitment was also detected with anti-CD3-stimulated, Lck-deficient human Jurkat T cells. We conclude that TCR/CD3-induced CD3zeta phosphorylation and ZAP70 recruitment do not absolutely require Lck or other PP2-inhibitable SFK activity, but that SFK activity is absolutely required for CD3epsilon and ZAP70 phosphorylation. These data reveal the potential for regulation of signaling through the TCR complex by the differential recruitment or activation of SFK.

HDAC6 deacetylase activity links the tubulin cytoskeleton with immune synapse organization

We investigated the role of acetylated microtubules in the antigen-specific interaction of T helper and antigen-presenting cells (APCs). In T cells, acetylated microtubules concentrated at contact site with APCs, surrounding clusters of CD3 and LFA-1. TcR engagement induced a transient deacetylation of microtubules at early times and an enhanced acetylation at late times. Confocal videomicroscopy studies revealed that the HDAC6 tubulin deacetylase was translocated and concentrated at the contact site of T cells with APCs. Overexpression of HDAC6 but not a dead deacetylase mutant in T cells disorganized CD3 and LFA-1 at the immune synapse. This effect was reverted by treatment with the deacetylase inhibitor trichostatin A. The antigen-specific translocation of the microtubule organizing center (MTOC) and IL-2 production were also severely impaired by overexpression of HDAC6. Our results underscore the key role for HDAC6 in the organization of the immune synapse and the antigen-specific reorientation of the MTOC.

Mitogenic activity of edible mushroom lectins

A special group of lectins were isolated from three popular Asian edible mushrooms: Volvariella volvacea, Pleurotus flabellatus and Hericium erinacium, and their mitogenic activities towards mouse T cells were compared to the extensively investigated Agaricus bisporus lectin (ABL) and the Jack bean lectin, Concanavalin A (Con A). Among the four mushroom lectins tested, V. volvacea lectin (VVL) exhibited strong mitogenic activity as demonstrated by 3H-thymidine incorporation, which was at least 10-fold more effective than that of Con A, and the other mushroom lectins did not exhibit any proliferative activity. Treatment with VVL and ABL resulted in activation of the protein tyrosine kinase, p56lck, and expression of early activation markers, CD69 and CD25, but only VVL induced intracellular calcium influx while ABL triggered cell death. The calcium influx was sensitive to calcium channel antagonists such as nifedipine and verapamil. The P. flabellatus lectin (PFL) and H. erinacium lectin (HEL) did not stimulate p56lck expression and cell proliferation. Neither of these lectins interfered with Con A-mediated lymphocyte proliferation, which further indicated that both PFL and HEL were non-mitogenic. Taken all results together, VVL induced mitogenesis through T cell receptors and the subsequent calcium signaling pathway.

Surface T-cell antigen receptor expression and availability for long-term antigenic signaling

It is important to understand how T-cell antigen receptor (TCR) engagement and signaling are regulated throughout an immune response. This review examines the dynamics of surface TCR expression and signaling capacity during thymic and effector T-cell development. Although the TCR can undergo vast changes in surface expression, T cells remain capable of sustaining TCR engagement for long periods of time. This may be achieved by a combination of mechanisms that involve (a) controlling the quantity of surface TCR available for ligand interaction and (b) controlling the quality of surface TCR expression during T-cell activation. TCR signaling itself appears to be one of the main quantitative modulators of surface TCR expression, and it can cause both downregulation and upregulation at different times of T-cell activation. Recent studies indicate that the degree of upregulation is tunable by the strength of antigenic stimulation. There is evidence that qualitatively distinct forms of the TCR exist, and their potential role in sustained antigenic signaling is also discussed. A goal of future studies will be to better characterize these modulations in surface TCR expression and to clarify their impact on the regulation of immune responses.

Sustained exposure to bacterial antigen induces interferon-γ-dependent T cell receptor ζ down-regulation and impaired T cell function

T cell antigen receptor zeta chain down-regulation and impaired in vitro T cell function have been described in cancer and autoimmune and infectious diseases. However, the immunological basis for this phenomenon is unknown. Sustained exposure to antigen and chronic systemic inflammation, factors shared by the various pathologies, might account for this phenomenon. We developed an in vivo experimental system that mimics these conditions and show that sustained exposure of mice to bacterial antigens was sufficient to induce T cell antigen receptor zeta chain down-regulation and impair T cell function, provided an interferon-gamma-dependent T helper type 1 immune response developed. This indicates zeta chain down-regulation could be a physiological response that attenuates an exacerbated immune response. However, it can act as a 'double-edged sword', impairing immune responses to chronic diseases.

The actin cytoskeleton and cytotoxic T lymphocytes: evidence for multiple roles that could affect granule exocytosis-dependent target cell killing

One important mechanism cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) use to kill virus-infected, transplanted or tumour targets is exocytosis of granules that contain cytotoxic agents such as perforin and granzymes. Granule exocytosis-dependent target cell killing is a complex process, involving initial T-cell receptor (TCR)-dependent signalling that includes Ca2+ influx and activation of protein kinase C, shape changes that serve to bind the CTL to the target and, finally, exocytosis of lytic granules at the site of contact with the target cell. Although there is reason to propose that multiple steps in the lytic process could involve the actin cytoskeleton of CTLs, few studies have examined this issue, and those that have do not allow the specific step(s) involved to be determined. We have used the potent membrane-permeant actin cytoskeleton-modifying drugs jasplakinolide and latrunculin A to investigate the actin dependence of defined processes that are expected to be important for granule exocytosis-dependent killing. Our results, obtained using TALL-104 human leukaemic CTLs as a model system, are consistent with the idea that a functional actin cytoskeleton is required for TCR/CD3-dependent signalling, for activation of store-dependent Ca2+ influx and for CTL shape changes. When cells were stimulated with solid-phase anti-CD3 antibodies, treatment with either jasplakinolide or latrunculin A abolished granule exocytosis. However, when cells were stimulated in a manner that bypasses TCR/CD3-dependent signalling, granule exocytosis was not significantly altered, suggesting that the actin cytoskeleton does not function as a barrier to exocytosis.

The roles of membrane microdomains (rafts) in T cell activation

Detergent-resistant membrane microdomains enriched in sphingolipids, cholesterol and glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored proteins play essential roles in T cell receptor (TCR) signaling. These 'membrane rafts' accumulate several cytoplasmic lipid-modified molecules, including Src-family kinases, coreceptors CD4 and CD8 and transmembrane adapters LAT and PAG/Cbp, essential for either initiation or amplification of the signaling process, while most other abundant transmembrane proteins are excluded from these structures. TCRs in various T cell subpopulations may differ in their use of membrane rafts. Membrane rafts also seem to be involved in many other aspects of T cell biology, such as functioning of cytokine and chemokine receptors, adhesion molecules, antigen presentation, establishing cell polarity or interaction with important pathogens. Although the concept of membrane rafts explains several diverse biological phenomena, many basic issues, such as composition, size and heterogeneity, under native conditions, as well as the dynamics of their interactions with TCRs and other immunoreceptors, remain unclear, partially because of technical problems.

All roads lead to actin: the intimate relationship between TCR signaling and the cytoskeleton

Regardless of cell type, the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton is tightly linked to vital biological properties such as polarity, motility, cell-cell contact, exocytosis and proliferation. In the immune system, where rapid and efficient response to antigen-provoked stimuli is crucial, an overwhelming amount of data implicate the actin cytoskeleton and its regulators as central to immune function. Increasingly, the cytoskeleton is considered an essential amplification step in T cell receptor (TCR)-, costimulatory-, and integrin-mediated signaling. Advances in genetic manipulation and confocal imaging have led to a keener appreciation of the importance of TCR signal integration by the actin cytoskeleton. This review outlines recent advances in elucidating the regulation of T cell function through the actin cytoskeleton. We also examine intriguing parallels between the immune system and other models of cytoskeletal regulation.

Effect of trichostatin A on human T cells resembles signaling abnormalities in T cells of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a new mechanism for TCR zeta chain deficiency and abnormal signaling

Trichostatin A (TSA) is a potent reversible inhibitor of histone deacetylase, and it has been reported to have variable effects on the expression of a number of genes. In this report, we show that TSA suppresses the expression of the T cell receptor zeta chain gene, whereas, it upregulates the expression if its homologous gene Fc(epsilon) receptor I gamma chain. These effects are associated with decreased intracytoplasmic-free calcium responses and altered tyrosine phosphorylation pattern of cytosolic proteins. Along with these effects, we report that TSA suppresses the expression of the interleukin-2 gene. The effects of TSA on human T cells are predominantly immunosuppressive and reminiscent of the signaling aberrations that have been described in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

Interface accumulation of receptor/ligand couples in lymphocyte activation: methods, mechanisms, and significance

Cellular interaction is vital to the activation of most lymphocytes. At the interface between the lymphocyte and the cell that activates it, multiple receptor/ligand pairs accumulate in distinct patterns. This accumulation is intriguing, as it is likely to shape the quality of receptor signaling and thereby lymphocyte behavior. Here we address such receptor/ligand accumulation with an emphasis on T and natural killer (NK) cells. First, we discuss the strengths and limitations of commonly used approaches to visualize receptor/ligand accumulation. Second, we discuss two principal mechanisms of receptor and ligand translocation, diffusion and cytoskeletal transport, as understanding these mechanisms can be invaluable in the determination of the significance of receptor/ligand accumulation. We show that the extent of receptor/ligand accumulation at the T cell/antigen presenting cell interface is dominated by diffusion for all but the lowest affinity interactions, while patterning of these receptors/ligands within the interface is strongly influenced by cytoskeletal transport. Third, we discuss two specific issues in lymphocyte receptor/ligand accumulation. We review the abundant but frequently controversial data on T cell receptor (TCR)/major histocompatibility complex (MHC) accumulation and suggest that central TCR/MHC accumulation is a mediator of efficient T cell activation. In the investigation of NK cell/target cell interactions, we characterize the often tentative NK cell/target cell couple maintenance, as it creates a major obstacle in studying receptor/ligand accumulation.

Age-dependent defects in TCR-triggered cytoskeletal rearrangement in CD4+ T cells

Previous research has shown that many of the CD4 T cells from older mice do not form functional immune synapses after conjugation with peptide-pulsed APC. We now show that the defect lies at a very early stage in the cytoskeletal reorganization that precedes movement of protein kinases and their substrates to the TCR/APC interface. Antagonist peptides presented to T cells from young mice induce migration of talin (but not paxillin, vinculin, or F-actin) to the APC contact zone, but CD4 T cells from older donors typically fail to show the talin polarization response. A spreading assay in which contact with anti-CD3-coated slides induces CD4 T cells to assume a conical shape and develop lammelopodia also shows a decline with age in the proportion of T cells that can initiate cytoskeletal changes in response to this simplified stimulus. Finally, the transition from detergent-soluble to cytoskeletal forms of the p16, p21, and p23 isoforms of CD3zeta in response to CD3/CD4/CD28 cross-linking is much stronger in young than in old T cells. Thus, defects in cytoskeletal reorganization triggered by initial contact between TCR and peptide-bearing APC precede, and presumably contribute to, defective activation of protein kinase-mediated signals in the first few minutes of the activation cascade in T cells from aged mice.

Oxidative stress is involved in the heat stress-induced downregulation of TCR zeta chain expression and TCR/CD3-mediated [Ca(2+)](i) response in human T-lymphocytes

Exposure of human T-lymphocytes to heat downregulates TCR zeta chain expression and inhibits (TCR)/CD3-mediated production of inositol triphosphate and [Ca(2+)](i) signaling. Here we investigated whether oxidative stress is involved in the heat-induced downregulation of TCR/CD3-mediated signaling. To this end, we have studied the effect of a thiol antioxidant, N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), and a non-thiol antioxidant, allopurinol, on heat-induced downregulation of TCR/CD3-mediated signaling. We found that preincubation of cells with 10mM NAC significantly reversed the downregulation of TCR/CD3-mediated [Ca(2+)](i) response and restored the suppression of TCR zeta chain protein expression as well as prevented its increased membrane distribution in heat-treated cells. NAC also reversed the downregulation of TCR zeta chain mRNA expression and the active 94kDa TCR zeta chain transcription factor, Elf-1, in heat-treated cells. Consistent with the increase in the TCR zeta chain, preincubation with NAC increased the levels of antigen receptor-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of several cytosolic proteins. Finally, treatment with NAC was able to reverse the suppression of IL-2 production in heat-treated cells. Inactive analog, N-acetylserine, failed to reverse the heat-induced downregulation of TCR/CD3-mediated signaling. Allopurinol, another potent non-thiol antioxidant, also restored the TCR/CD3-mediated [Ca(2+)](i) response in heat-treated cells. These results demonstrate that antioxidants restore the expression of TCR zeta chain and reverse the TCR/CD3-mediated signaling abnormalities associated with heat stress and suggest that heat shock-induced oxidative stress is a mediator of the heat-induced biochemical damage that leads to downregulation of signaling in human T-lymphocytes.

Abnormal expression of various molecular forms and distribution of T cell receptor zeta chain in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVE

T cells from the majority of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) display antigen receptor-mediated signaling aberrations associated with defective T cell receptor (TCR) zeta chain expression. The TCR zeta chain, a critical signaling molecule, exists in multiple molecular forms and membrane fractions with distinct functions in antigen-mediated signaling processes. This study was undertaken to investigate the complete spectrum of expression of the different forms and distribution of the TCR zeta chain in SLE T cells.

METHODS

T cells were isolated from 48 SLE patients and 21 healthy subjects. The expression of various forms of the TCR zeta chain was investigated by immunoblotting with specific antibodies. The lipid raft-associated form of the zeta chain was determined by quantitating the solubilized zeta chain after disruption of the lipid rafts by cholesterol depletion using methyl-betacyclodextrin. The distribution of the zeta chain was investigated by fluorescence microscopy.

RESULTS

The phosphorylated 21- and 23-kd forms and the detergent-insoluble membrane-associated form of the TCR zeta chain and alternatively spliced zeta chain were significantly decreased in SLE T cells. In contrast, major ubiquitinated forms of the zeta chain were increased in these cells. We also identified up-regulation of a novel 14-kd form of the zeta chain in SLE T cells. Resting SLE T cell membranes had an increased percentage of the residual membrane-bound zeta chain in the lipid rafts. Fluorescence microscopy findings indicated that the residual zeta chain is more clustered on the cell membranes of SLE T cells.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that, in addition to the 16-kd form, expression of other molecular forms and fractions of the TCR zeta chain as well as its membrane distribution are abnormal in SLE T cells. Increased lipid raft association and surface clustering of the zeta chain may explain the molecular mechanisms underlying the signaling abnormalities in these cells.

Comparative study on the effect of phosphorylated TCR zeta chain ITAM sequences on early activation events in Jurkat T cells

One of the main dilemma in T cell receptor (TCR) signal transduction is whether the presence of multiple Immunoreceptor Tyrosine-based Activation Motifs (ITAMs) within the TCR signaling module serves for signal amplification or signal distribution. To contribute to answer this question, we analyzed the effect of synthetic oligopeptides representing the three bi-phosphorylated zeta chain-ITAMs on the early signaling events in permeabilized leukemia T cells. Our main observations were as follows: 1/Stimulation of the cells with the bi-phosphorylated membrane proximal and central ITAMs (zeta (1)y(p)y(p) and zeta (2)y(p)y(p), respectively) resulted in a strong phosphorylation of proteins with a similar pattern. In contrast, the membrane distal ITAM, zeta (3)y(p)y(p) had a reduced ability to promote tyrosine phosphorylation and failed to induce the phosphorylation of a number of proteins. 2/ The phospho-peptide induced tyrosine phosphorylation events were at least partially mediated by p56(lck) and Syk/ZAP70 protein tyrosine kinases as it was shown in p56(lck) and Syk/ZAP70 deficient Jurkat variants. 3/The patterns of the association of the adaptor protein, Grb2 with tyrosine phosphorylated proteins following cell stimulation with the bi-phosphorylated membrane proximal or the central ITAMs were similar, while the membrane distal ITAM was unable to induce any of these associations. Our data provide additional evidence that the three zetaITAMs differ in their capacity to induce tyrosine phosphorylation of intracellular proteins in permeabilized T cells, depending to their primary sequence. The first and second ITAM sequences of the zeta chain may have similar but not totally overlapping functions. This conclusion results from their similar but not identical abilities to induce tyrosine phosphorylation and association of Grb-2 with intracellular phosphoproteins. In contrast, the third ITAM (zeta3) may have distinct functions since this peptide fails to induce tyrosine phosphorylation of a number of proteins compared to the other two ITAMs, and it is unable to induce either new association or the increase in the amount of Grb-2 associated phosphoproteins.

High dose of dexamethasone upregulates TCR/CD3-induced calcium response independent of TCR zeta chain expression in human T lymphocytes

Glucocorticoids are very potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agents that modulate cellular immune responses, although, the molecular mechanisms that impart their complex effects have not been completely defined. We have previously demonstrated that dexamethasone (Dex), a synthetic glucocorticoid, biphasically modulates the expression of TCR (T cell receptor) zeta chain in human T cells. At 10 nM, it induced the expression of TCR zeta chain whereas at 100 nM, it inhibited its expression. In parallel to the upregulation of TCR zeta chain, the TCR/CD3-mediated [Ca(2+)](i) response was enhanced in 10 nM Dex-treated cells. However, at 100 nM, Dex treatment enhanced TCR/CD3-mediated [Ca(2+)](i) response without the induction of TCR zeta chain expression. Because the classical transcriptional model of glucocorticoid action cannot account for the effects of high dose of Dex, here we studied alternative mechanisms of action. We show that, increased and more sustained TCR/CD3-mediated [Ca(2+)](i) response was also observed in 100 nM Dex-treated cells in the presence of actinomycin D or cycloheximide suggesting that cellular transcription and/or de novo protein synthesis are not required for the induction. The TCR/CD3-mediated hyper [Ca(2+)](i) response in 100 nM Dex-treated cells was readily reversible by short-term culture in steroid-free medium. RU-486, a competitive antagonist of Dex, inhibited the increase in [Ca(2+)](i) response suggesting that the effect of Dex is mediated through the glucocorticoid receptor. Although the lipid-raft association of the TCR zeta chain was not significantly increased, high-dose of Dex increased the amount of ubiquitinated form of the TCR zeta chain in the cell membrane along with increased levels of actin. Fluorescence microscopy showed that high-dose of Dex alters the distribution of the TCR zeta chain and form more distinct clusters upon TCR/CD3 stimulation. These results suggest that high dose of Dex perturbs the membrane distribution of TCR zeta chain leading to more functional signaling clusters that result in increased TCR/CD3-mediated [Ca(2+)](i) response independent of TCR zeta chain expression.

Generation and biochemical analysis of human effector CD4 T cells: alterations in tyrosine phosphorylation and loss of CD3zeta expression

Human effector T cells have been difficult to isolate and characterize due to their phenotypic and functional similarity to the memory subset. In this study, a biochemical approach was used to analyze human effector CD4 T cells generated in vitro by activation with anti-CD3 and autologous monocytes for 3 to 5 days. The resultant effector cells expressed the appropriate activation/differentiation markers and secreted high levels of interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) when restimulated. Biochemically, effector CD4 T cells exhibited increases in total intracellular tyrosine phosphorylation and effector-associated phosphorylated species. Paradoxically, these alterations in tyrosine phosphorylation were concomitant with greatly reduced expression of CD3zeta and CD3epsilon signaling subunits coincident with a reduction in surface T-cell receptor (TCR) expression. Because loss of CD3zeta has also been detected in T cells isolated ex vivo from individuals with cancer, chronic viral infection, and autoimmune diseases, the requirements and kinetics of CD3zeta down-regulation were examined. The loss of CD3zeta expression persisted throughout the course of effector T-cell differentiation, was reversible on removal from the activating stimulus, and was modulated by activation conditions. These biochemical changes occurred in effector T cells generated from naive or memory CD4 T-cell precursors and distinguished effector from memory T cells. The results suggest that human effector T-cell differentiation is accompanied by alterations in the TCR signal transduction and that loss of CD3zeta expression may be a feature of chronic T-cell activation and effector generation in vivo. (Blood. 2001;97:3851-3859)

Changes in the T cell receptor macromolecular signaling complex and membrane microdomains during T cell development and activation

Initiation and propagation of T cell receptor signaling pathways involves the mobilization and aggregation of a variety of signaling intermediates with the T cell receptor and associated molecules into specialized signaling complexes. Accumulating evidence suggests that differential regulation of the formation and composition of the T cell receptor macromolecular signaling complex may affect the different biological consequences of T cell activation. The regulatory mechanisms involved in the assembly of these complexes remains poorly understood, but in part is affected by the avidity of the T cell receptor ligand, co-stimulatory signals, and by the differentiation state of the T cell.

Dexamethasone modulates TCR zeta chain expression and antigen receptor-mediated early signaling events in human T lymphocytes

Dexamethasone is a potent anti-inflammatory and immunosupressive agent that has complex, yet incompletely defined, effects on the immune response. Here, we explored the effect of dexamethasone on the expression of TCR zeta chain and TCR/CD3-induced early signaling events in human T lymphocytes. Immunoblotting studies using TCR zeta chain specific mAb showed a dose-dependent biphasic effect of dexamethasone on TCR zeta chain expression, that is, it was increased when cells were incubated with 10 nM, whereas the expression was decreased when incubated with 100 nM dexamethasone. The dose-dependent biphasic effect of dexamethsone on the TCR zeta chain expression was also revealed by FACS analysis of permeabilized cells. Time course studies showed that upregulation of the TCR zeta chain at 10 nM dexamethasone reached maximum levels at 24 h and remained elevated up to 48 h. Other subunits of the TCR/CD3 complex were minimally affected under these conditions. The increased expression of the TCR zeta chain following treatment with 10 nM dexamethasone correlated with increased anti-CD3 antibody-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of the TCR zeta chain and downstream signaling intermediate ZAP-70 and PLC gamma with faster kinetics. Similarly, the induction of TCR zeta chain expression at 10 nM dexamethasone correlated with increased and more sustained TCR/CD3-mediated [Ca(2+)](i) response. Reporter gene assays using TCR zeta chain promoter-driven luciferase gene constructs in Jurkat cells showed that treatment with 10 nM dexamethasone increased TCR zeta chain promoter activity and that the region between -160 and +58 was responsible for the observed effect. These results suggest that dexamethasone primarily acts at the transcriptional level and differentially modulates TCR zeta chain expression and antigen receptor-mediated early signaling events in human peripheral T lymphocytes.

The cytoskeleton-associated TCR zeta chain is constitutively phosphorylated in the absence of an active p56(lck) form

The TCR recognizes peptide-MHC complexes and transmits activation signals leading to cellular responses. We have previously characterized two TCR populations expressed on the T cell surface; one is linked to the cytoskeleton via a detergent-insoluble cytoskeleton-associated zeta (cska-zeta) chain, while the other is detergent soluble and not linked to the cytoskeleton. The cska-zeta form displays unique properties: it is constitutively phosphorylated, does not undergo hyperphosphorylation upon TCR stimulation as opposed to its non-cytoskeleton-associated counterpart (non-cska-zeta) and it maintains a molecular mass of 16 kDa. It is well established that p56(lck) and possibly p59(fyn) are responsible for the generation of the 21/23-kDa phosphorylated detergent-soluble zeta form. We now demonstrate that the phosphorylation of cska-zeta does not require the activity of p56(lck). We also show that although Lck does not phosphorylate cska-zeta in vivo, it retains the capacity to phosphorylate cska-zeta in vitro. Moreover, differences in zeta-associated kinase activity were detected for non-cska-zeta and cska-zeta. Our results indicating that different kinases phosphorylate the two zeta forms are consistent with a growing consensus that each TCR form may regulate distinct cellular functions.

Rac is involved in early TCR signaling

The GTPase Rac controls signaling pathways often related to actin polymerization in various cell types. In T lymphocytes, Rac is activated by Vav, a major component of the multiprotein transduction complex associated to the TCR. Although profound signaling defects have been observed in Vav-deficient mice, a role of Rac in the corresponding early TCR signaling has not been tested directly. This question was investigated in Jurkat T cells transfected with either a dominant-negative (RacN17) or a constitutively active (RacV12) form of Rac. In T cells expressing either RacN17 or RacV12, the anti-CD3-induced Ca2+ response and production of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate were inhibited. The basal level of phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate was not significantly diminished by Rac mutants. The major inhibitory effect of Rac mutants on Ca2+ signaling is exerted on the activity of phospholipase C-gamma and, before that, on the phosphorylation of ZAP-70 and of the linker molecule for activation of T cells, LAT. An anti-CD3-induced increase in actin polymerization was observed in control cells but not in cells transfected with a Rac mutant. In addition, latrunculin, which binds to monomeric actin, simultaneously inhibited basal and CD3-induced actin polymerization and Ca2+ signaling. These findings suggest a link between the effects exerted by Rac mutants on cortical actin polymerization and on TCR signaling. Rac cycling between its GTP- and GDP-bound states is necessary for this signaling. Alterations observed in early TCR-dependent signals suggest that Rac contributes to the assembly of the TCR-associated multiprotein transduction complex.

Heat stress downregulates TCR zeta chain expression in human T lymphocytes

After heat treatment, human T lymphocytes downregulate the T-cell receptor (TCR)/CD3-mediated [Ca(2+)](i) response and production of inositol triphosphate. Here we demonstrate that heat treatment of T lymphocytes at sublethal temperature decreases the expression of TCR zeta chain, which plays a critical role in the regulation of TCR/CD3-mediated signal transduction. Downregulation of TCR zeta chain in heat-treated T cells was observed at 8 h and reached a maximum at 16 h. Under these conditions, the expression of CD3 epsilon or TCR alphabeta chains was minimally affected. Consistent with the decrease in TCR zeta chain, a reduction in the level of TCR/CD3 induced tyrosine phosphorylation of several cellular protein substrates, and a delay in the kinetics of peak tyrosine phosphorylation was observed in heat-treated T cells. Interestingly, analysis of the TCR zeta chain content in the detergent-insoluble membrane fraction showed that heat treatment induces translocation of soluble TCR zeta chain to the cell membranes. In addition, the mRNA level of TCR zeta chain was reduced in heat-treated T cells. Correlative with the downregulation of TCR zeta chain mRNA, the level of the TCR zeta chain transcription factor Elf-1 was also reduced in heat-treated cells. We conclude that heat stress causes a decrease in the level of TCR zeta chain by increasing its association with the membranes and decreasing the transcription of the TCR zeta gene. Decreased expression of the TCR zeta chain is apparently responsible for the decreased TCR/CD3 responses of T cells.

Searching for significance in TCR-cytoskeleton interactions

Two T-cell receptor (TCR) populations are expressed on T cells; one is linked to the cytoskeleton via its zeta chain. These cytoskeleton-linked receptors (30-40% of the total number of TCRs) might be important in TCR-mediated signaling and/or concurrent events. Here, differences between the two populations are summarized, and new data are examined to speculate on the functional significance of cytoskeleton-linked TCRs.

Diminished levels of T cell receptor zeta chains in peripheral blood T lymphocytes from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVE

To examine the expression of molecules known to participate in early T cell receptor (TCR)/CD3 signaling in peripheral blood (PB) T lymphocytes from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

METHODS

Signaling molecules were analyzed by immunoprecipitation and Western blotting of unstimulated PB T lymphocyte cell lysates from SLE patients, non-SLE disease controls, and healthy controls. Flow cytometry was used for analysis of the expression of membrane markers in intact cells.

RESULTS

PB T lymphocytes from SLE patients showed diminished levels of TCRzeta chains. This was not due to trapping of these molecules in the cytoskeleton, nor was it dependent on the presence of monocyte/macrophages. There was normal expression of CD3epsilon chains and normal assembly of TCR/CD3 complexes in membranes. We observed a lack of expression of TCRzeta chains in in vitro cultures of SLE T cells, and reversal of the defective expression in some patients by culturing T cells in the presence of NH4Cl.

CONCLUSION

Blood lymphocytes from SLE patients have a diminished expression of TCRzeta chains that may be related to enhanced degradation in the lysosomal compartment. The defective expression of these molecules may alter signal transduction via the CD3 pathway and contribute to abnormal T cell responses in T lymphocytes from SLE patients.

Expression of the T cell antigen receptor zeta chain following activation is controlled at distinct checkpoints. Implications for cell surface receptor down-modulation and re-expression

The multisubunit T cell antigen receptor (TCR) is involved in antigen recognition and signal transduction, leading to T cell activation and rapid down-modulation of the cell surface expressed TCRs. Although the levels of TCR cell surface expression are pivotal to the efficiency and duration of the immune response, the molecular mechanisms controlling TCR down-modulation and re-expression upon activation, remain obscure. Here, we provide a biochemical characterization of the regulatory mechanisms governing TCR expression following long-term T cell activation. We focused primarily on the TCR zeta chain, as this is considered the limiting factor in TCR complex formation and transport to the cell surface. We found that following TCR-mediated activation zeta mRNA is up-regulated by a transcription-dependent mechanism. Concomitantly, zeta protein levels are modified according to a biphasic pattern: rapid degradation coinciding with TCR cell surface down-regulation, followed by a rebound to normal levels 24 h subsequent to T cell activation. Even though there are adequate levels of all the TCR subunits within the cell following 24 h of activation, TCR cell surface expression remained very low, provided the activating antibody is continuously present. Correlative with the latter, we detected a previously undescribed monomeric form of the zeta chain. This form could be indicative of adverse endoplasmic reticulum conditions affecting correct protein folding, dimerization, and TCR assembly, all critical for optimal receptor surface re-expression. Cumulatively, our results indicate that the levels of TCR expression following activation, are tightly controlled at several checkpoints.

Cytoskeletal rearrangement during migration and activation of T lymphocytes

T lymphocytes have an inherent ability to migrate along a chemotactic gradient, which enables them to exit the bloodstream and reach different tissues. Motile T cells display a polarized morphology with two distinct cell compartments: the leading edge and the uropod. During cell polarization, chemoattractant receptors, cell-adhesion molecules and cytoskeletal proteins are redistributed within these cellular compartments. The polarity of T lymphocytes changes during the establishment of antigen-specific cell-cell interactions, and this involves rearrangement of cytoskeletal proteins. This article discusses the regulation of these cytoskeletal rearrangements, and their role in the activation, migration and effector function of T cells.

Contribution of kinases and the CD45 phosphatase to the generation of tyrosine phosphorylation patterns in the T-cell receptor complex zeta chain

The zeta subunit of the T-cell receptor complex plays a crucial role in coupling the antigen binding alphabeta and gammadelta heterodimers to the downstream activation pathways. Three tandem amino acid sequence motifs containing pairs of exactly spaced Tyr-X-X-Leu/Ile sequences, designated as Immunoreceptor Tyrosine-based Activation Motifs (ITAMs), control this function. The phosphorylated forms of ITAMs serve as docking sites for several src homology 2 (SH2) domain containing signaling proteins. The composition of the assembled signaling complex and the outcome of cell activation depends on the tyrosine phosphorylation pattern of the zeta polypeptide. The mechanism that conducts the generation of various phosphorylated forms has not yet been well established. In this study we have analyzed the ability of src family tyrosine kinases and the CD45 tyrosine phosphatase in determining the phosphorylation state of the different ITAMs and the individual tyrosine residues of the TCR zeta chain. The intracellular part of the zeta chain was phosphorylated by src family tyrosine kinases, p56lck and p59fyn in vitro. Synthetic oligopeptides representing full-length or half-sized ITAMs with a single tyrosine residue were also phosphorylated by both p56lck and p59fyn. In contrast, an additional membrane proximal tyrosine residue in the human zeta chain, located outside of the ITAMs, was not phosphorylated. We also examined the activity of the CD45 phosphatase, using a panel of ITAM derivatives, in which one or both tyrosines were phosphorylated. The efficiency of ITAM dephosphorylation by CD45 was dependent on the primary sequence of the oligopeptides and the position of the phosphotyrosine residues. The in vitro data suggest that the CD45 phosphatase rather than the tyrosine kinase(s) may control the generation of specific phosphorylation patterns of the zeta chain during cell activation.

Loss of Original Antigenic Specificity in T Cell Hybridomas Transduced with a Chimeric Receptor Containing Single-Chain Fv of an Anti-Collagen Antibody and FcεRI-Signaling γ Subunit

T cell hybridomas HCQ6 and MD.45 acquired Ab-type specificity to collagen type II, when engrafted with a chimeric cell surface receptor, scC2Fv/γ, which includes the single-chain Fv domain (scFv) of the anti-collagen type II mAb C2 and the signaling γ subunit of the FcεRI. When transduced into MD.45 cells, scC2Fv/γ or its mutated form lacking immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif (ITAM), scC2Fv/γIC−, formed mainly homodimers. A small proportion of these molecules formed heterodimers with endogenous CD3ζ in these hybridoma cells. By contrast, in HCQ6 cells, the majority of scC2Fv/γ and scC2Fv/γIC− molecules formed heterodimers with CD3ζ, and only a small proportion of them was expressed as homodimers. Stimulation with plastic-immobilized collagen induced IL-2 production in scC2Fv/γ-transduced MD.45 cells, but not in MD.45 cells transduced with the ITAM-less chimera scC2Fv/γIC−. HCQ6 cells transduced with scC2Fv/γ responded to plastic-bound collagen. Due to the high content of CD3ζ-associated chimeras, HCQ6 cells transduced with the ITAM-less scC2Fv/γIC− chimera were also responsive to plastic-bound collagen. When cells were stimulated with collagen in solution, MD.45 cells transduced with scC2Fv/γ produced IL-2, whereas transduced HCQ6 cells were unresponsive, hence suggesting that the ability of cells transduced with scC2Fv chimeras to respond to soluble collagen correlated with predominant expression of divalent scC2Fv/γ homodimers, but not monovalent scC2Fv/γ-CD3ζ or scC2Fv/γIC−-CD3ζ heterodimers. Of interest, expression of CD3 subunits in hybridomas transduced with scC2Fv chimeras was reduced, resulting in decreased response to cognate Ags.

pp56Lck Mediates TCR ζ-Chain Binding to the Microfilament Cytoskeleton

The TCR ζ-chain (ζ) on mature murine T lymphocytes binds to the microfilament cytoskeleton in response to Ag receptor ligation. Here, we report the role of Src family kinases in ζ-cytoskeletal binding, using mutant mice and a cell-free model system. Binding of ζ to actin in the cell-free system has a specific requirement for ATP and divalent cations, with an apparent Michaelis-Menton constant for ATP in the millimolar range, and can be disrupted by either EDTA or the microfilament poison, cytochalasin D, suggesting that microfilaments provide the structural framework for an active process involving cellular kinases. Indeed, tyrosine-phosphorylated ζ is a predominant form of the ζ-chain bound to polymerized actin, while challenge with alkaline phosphatase prevents ζ-chain association in solution and releases ζ-chain from the bound state. Phosphorylated Src-family kinase pp56Lck also associates with membrane skeleton upon TCR engagement and is a component of the reconstituted cytoskeletal pellet. ζ-Chain phosphorylation and ζ-cytoskeletal binding are abrogated in cell lysates with reduced levels of pp56Lck and in activated mutant murine T cells lacking pp56Lck, implicating pp56Lck as the kinase involved in ζ-chain tyrosine phosphorylation and ζ-cytoskeletal binding. Finally, recombinant Lck Src homology 2 domain preferentially inhibits reconstituted ζ-cytoskeleton association, suggesting that ζ-microfilament binding is dependent on interactions between phosphorylated tyrosine residues in ζ-chain activation motifs and the Src homology 2 domain of the Lck protein tyrosine kinase.

Adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-ribosylation of the guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase) rho in resting peripheral blood human T lymphocytes results in pseudopodial extension and the inhibition of T cell activation

Scrape loading Clostridium botulinum C3 exoenzyme into primary peripheral blood human T lymphocytes (PB T cells) efficiently adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-ribosylates and thus inactivates the guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase) Rho. Basal adhesion of PB T cells to the beta1 integrin substrate fibronectin (Fn) was not inhibited by inactivation of Rho, nor was upregulation of adhesion using phorbol myristate acetate (PMA; 10 ng/ml) or Mn++ (1 mM) affected. Whereas untreated PB T cells adherent to Fn remain spherical, C3-treated PB T cells extend F-actin-containing pseudopodia. Inactivation of Rho delayed the kinetics of PMA-dependent PB T cell homotypic aggregation, a process involving integrin alphaLbeta2. Although C3 treatment of PB T cells did not prevent adhesion to the beta1 integrin substrate Fn, it did inhibit beta1 integrin/CD3-mediated costimulation of proliferation. Analysis of intracellular cytokine production at the single cell level demonstrated that ADP-ribosylation of Rho inhibited beta1 integrin/ CD3 and CD28/CD3 costimulation of IL-2 production within 6 h of activation. Strikingly, IL-2 production induced by PMA and ionomycin was unaffected by C3 treatment. Thus, the GTPase Rho is a novel regulator of T lymphocyte cytoarchitecture, and functional Rho is required for very early events regulating costimulation of IL-2 production in PB T cells.

Engagement of T cell receptor triggers its recruitment to low-density detergent-insoluble membrane domains

T-cell receptors (TCRs) upon binding to peptide-MHC ligands transduce signals in T lymphocytes. Tyrosine phosphorylations in the cytoplasmic domains of the CD3 (gammadeltaepsilon) and zeta subunits of the TCR complex by Src family kinases initiate the signaling cascades via docking and activation of ZAP-70 kinase and other signaling components. We examined the role of the low-density detergent-insoluble membranes (DIMs) in TCR signaling. Using mouse thymocytes as a model, we characterized the structural organization of DIMs in detail. We then demonstrated that TCR engagement triggered an immediate increase in the amount of TCR/CD3 present in DIMs, which directly involves the engaged receptor complexes. TCR/CD3 recruitment is accompanied by the accumulation of a series of prominent tyrosine-phosphorylated substrates and by an increase of the Lck activity in DIMs. Upon TCR stimulation, the DIM-associated receptor complexes are highly enriched in the hyperphosphorylated p23 zeta chains, contain most of the TCR/CD3-associated, phosphorylation-activated ZAP-70 kinases and seem to integrate into higher order, multiple tyrosine-phosphorylated substrate-containing protein complexes. The TCR/CD3 recruitment was found to depend on the activity of Src family kinases. We thus provide the first demonstration of recuitment of TCR/CD3 to DIMs upon receptor stimulation and propose it as a mechanism whereby TCR engagement is coupled to downstream signaling cascades.

Sustained TCR Signaling Is Required for Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Activation and Degranulation by Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes

Requirements for T cell activation are not fully established. One model is that receptor occupancy and down-regulation are essential for activation, and another, not necessarily mutually exclusive, model is that sustained signals are important. Here we examine the importance of signal duration in T cell activation. First, we demonstrate that immobilized, but not soluble cross-linked, Abs to CD3 stimulate degranulation by CTL. The cross-linked Abs are not deficient in their ability to signal since they stimulate the same tyrosine phosphorylation pattern as immobilized Ab, but it is very transient relative to that stimulated by immobilized Ab. Furthermore, novel decreased migratory forms of Lck occur to a significant extent only after stimulation with immobilized Abs. A dramatic difference in the duration of signals is very evident when mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activity is examined. Immobilized anti-CD3 stimulates very high levels of MAPK activation that is still detectable 1 h after stimulation. In contrast, cross-linked Ab stimulates only transient and incomplete activation of MAPK. Taken together, these results suggest that TCR engagement and induction of tyrosine phosphorylation alone are not sufficient for T cell activation and that the duration of TCR-stimulated signals is critical to attain a functional response.

Characterization of the detergent insolubility of the T cell receptor for antigen

Aggregation of cell surface receptors plays an important role in signal transduction in many receptor systems. In the T cell receptor (TCR), as in many other cell surface receptors, this aggregation results in insolubility in certain nonionic detergents. We have characterized this insolubility for TCR, and we show it is not preexisting in HPB-ALL cells but increases with increasing TCR aggregation. It is not likely to be due to a direct interaction with cellular cytoskeletal elements, as it is not affected by inhibitors of actin or tubulin polymerization. It may be due to interaction with detergent-resistant membrane domains that have been found in various cell types and contain tyrosine kinases, the earliest known participants in TCR signal transduction. This aggregation-dependent insolubility occurs as rapidly as the anti-TCR antibody binds, so the kinetics are consistent with an involvement in signal transduction. It is not, however, dependent on signal transduction, as inhibitors of tyrosine kinases do not inhibit the insolubility. Insolubility is also enhanced by preaggregation of CD4, an important T cell surface molecule which also associates with the tyrosine kinase p56lck.