Abstract 1253: Dietary tryptophan catabolite released by intratumoralLactobacillus reuterifacilitates aPD-L1 therapy

The use of probiotics by cancer patients is increasing, including amongst those undergoing immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy. Here, we elucidate a critical microbial-host crosstalk between probiotic-released aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonist indole-3-aldehyde (I3A) and CD8 T cells within the tumor microenvironment that potently enhances spontaneous antitumor immunity and facilitates ICI therapy in preclinical melanoma. Our study reveals that probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri (L.reuteri) translocates to, colonizes, and persists within melanoma, where via its released dietary tryptophan catabolite I3A, it locally promotes interferon-γ-producing CD8 T cells, thereby facilitating ICI therapy efficacy. Moreover, L.reuteri secreted I3A was both necessary and sufficient for antitumor immunity, and loss of AhR signaling within CD8 T cells abrogated L.reuteri’s ability to restrain melanoma growth. Further, a tryptophan-enriched diet potentiated both L.reuteri- and ICI-induced antitumor immunity. Finally, we provide evidence for a potential role of I3A in promoting ICI therapy efficacy and survival in advanced melanoma patients.

Citation Format: Mackenzie Bender, Alex McPherson, Catherine Phelps, Diwakar Davar, Dario A. Vignali, Hassane Zarour, Marlies Meisel. Dietary tryptophan catabolite released by intratumoralLactobacillus reuterifacilitates aPD-L1 therapy [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 1253.

Abstract A004: Radiation-induced changes to the immune microenvironment in an immunocompetent mouse model of Ewing sarcoma

Background: Ewing sarcoma is a rare, aggressive, fusion oncoprotein-driven pediatric cancer. Patients with upfront metastatic or surgically unresectable disease commonly undergo radiation as part of standard of care therapy. Currently, little is known about the effect of radiation specifically on the immune microenvironment of Ewing tumors, as no routine biopsies or other clinical samples are acquired during radiation. Further, historically, the field has lacked an immunocompetent mouse model of Ewing sarcoma in which to study Ewing tumor-immune cell interactions. Given our interest in understanding the anti-tumor immune response specifically during times of DNA damage, we sought to model Ewing sarcoma in a humanized mouse model (where human immune cell interactions with human tumor cells can be examined) in order to examine the Ewing tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) during radiation. Here, we determine the likeness of our established humanized mouse model of Ewing sarcoma to that of human Ewing tumors at baseline and examine changes in the Ewing TIME upon delivery of radiation. Methods: Blood from humanized NSG mice was analyzed by flow cytometry to confirm human immune cell reconstitution. Human Ewing tumor cells were injected into humanized mice and allowed to grow for approximately three weeks. Tumors were treated with radiation (either single dose or fractioned doses x 5 days) using the MultiRad350 Precision irradiator and lead shields were used to isolate the tumor area in the radiation field. Immune cells infiltrating tumors with/without radiation exposure were subsequently analyzed by multiplexed immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, PCR, and RNAseq analysis. Ewing tumor immune infiltrates (as baseline/without radiation) from humanized mice models were compared to that of patient Ewing tumors. Results: Ewing tumors from both established and primary cell lines were successfully established in humanized mice. Similar to patient primary Ewing tumor samples, local Ewing tumors in humanized mice demonstrate a proportion of T-cell infiltration, although the overall number of infiltrating immune cells is low. Macrophage populations in Ewing sarcoma are not as predominant as in tumors such as osteosarcoma and are represented in this model. Analyses detailing the spatial localization and transcriptional profiles of Ewing tumor immune infiltrates following radiation are ongoing. Conclusions: In the absence of syngeneic and transgenic models of Ewing sarcoma, the use of humanized mouse models is a feasible alternative to address specific questions regarding the Ewing sarcoma TIME. Understanding the Ewing immune microenvironment during radiation therapy, a commonly used treatment modality in Ewing sarcoma, provides clues as to promising agents that may be worthy of preclinical testing to enhance the anti-tumor immune response during radiation in high-risk patients.

Citation Format: Jessica D. Daley, Elina M. Mukherjee, Anthony R. Cillo, Adriana C. Tufino, Nathanael G. Bailey, Tullia C. Bruno, Linda M. McAllister-Lucas, Dario A. Vignali, Kelly M. Bailey. Radiation-induced changes to the immune microenvironment in an immunocompetent mouse model of Ewing sarcoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Sarcomas; 2022 May 9-12; Montreal, QC, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2022;28(18_Suppl):Abstract nr A004.

Intractable Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and Prolonged Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Replication in a Chimeric Antigen Receptor-Modified T-Cell Therapy Recipient: A Case Study

A chimeric antigen receptor-modified T-cell therapy recipient developed severe coronavirus disease 2019, intractable RNAemia, and viral replication lasting >2 months. Premortem endotracheal aspirate contained >2 × 1010 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA copies/mL and infectious virus. Deep sequencing revealed multiple sequence variants consistent with intrahost virus evolution. SARS-CoV-2 humoral and cell-mediated immunity were minimal. Prolonged transmission from immunosuppressed patients is possible.

A Hybrid Insulin Epitope Maintains High 2D Affinity for Diabetogenic T Cells in the Periphery

β-Cell antigen recognition by autoreactive T cells is essential in type 1 diabetes (T1D) pathogenesis. Recently, insulin hybrid peptides (HIPs) were identified as strong agonists for CD4 diabetogenic T cells. Here, using BDC2.5 transgenic and NOD mice, we investigated T-cell recognition of the HIP2.5 epitope, which is a fusion of insulin C-peptide and chromogranin A (ChgA) fragments, and compared it with the WE14 and ChgA_{29 -42} epitopes. We measured in situ two-dimensional affinity on individual live T cells from thymus, spleen, pancreatic lymph nodes, and islets before and after diabetes. Although preselection BDC2.5 thymocytes possess higher affinity than splenic BDC2.5 T cells for all three epitopes, peripheral splenic T cells maintained high affinity only to the HIP2.5 epitope. In polyclonal NOD mice, a high frequency (∼40%) of HIP2.5-specific islet T cells were identified at both prediabetic and diabetic stages comprising two distinct high- and low-affinity populations that differed in affinity by 100-fold. This high frequency of high- and low-affinity HIP2.5 T cells in the islets potentially represents a major risk factor in diabetes pathogenesis.

Abstract IA05: Targeting regulatory T cells in tumors

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) inhibit beneficial antitumor responses. Treg depletion enhances tumor rejection in animal models and the clinic but also leads to substantial adverse events. Thus approaches have been sought to target Tregs in tumors while limiting systemic autoimmune and inflammatory manifestations. Two approaches will be discussed. First, the signals that maintain Treg stability and potentiate their function remain obscure. We have shown that the immune cell surface ligand semaphorin-4a (Sema4a) on conventional T cells and DCs, and the Treg-restricted receptor neuropilin-1 (Nrp1) interact to potentiate Treg function. Mice with a Treg-restricted deletion of Nrp1 exhibit limited tumor-induced tolerance and thus substantial resistance to tumors, yet do not develop any autoimmune manifestations. Thus, Nrp1 ligation maintains Treg stability and function in highly inflammatory sites but is dispensable for the maintenance of immune homeostasis, highlighting Nrp1 as a potential immunotherapeutic target in cancer. Second, the relative importance of different Treg suppressive mechanisms remains contentious. Interleukin-35 (IL35) is a Treg-secreted cytokine known to inhibit effector T cell proliferation and mediate infectious tolerance via induction of suppressive IL35-producing induced Tregs, iTr35. Using antibody-mediated neutralization, Treg-restricted deletion of Ebi3 and novel reporter mice, we have shown that IL35 facilitated tumor growth by limiting antitumor immunity in transplantable and genetically-induced murine models of melanoma and lung carcinoma. These findings reveal the previously unappreciated importance of IL35 in limiting antitumor immunity and present IL35 as a potential therapeutic target in cancer.

Citation Format: Dario A. Vignali. Targeting regulatory T cells in tumors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Second CRI-CIMT-EATI-AACR International Cancer Immunotherapy Conference: Translating Science into Survival; 2016 Sept 25-28; New York, NY. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2016;4(11 Suppl):Abstract nr IA05.

Mucosal Administration of Collagen V Ameliorates the Atherosclerotic Plaque Burden by Inducing Interleukin 35-dependent Tolerance

We have shown previously that collagen V (col(V)) autoimmunity is a consistent feature of atherosclerosis in human coronary artery disease and in the Apoe(-/-) mouse model. We have also shown sensitization of Apoe(-/-) mice with col(V) to markedly increase the atherosclerotic burden, providing evidence of a causative role for col(V) autoimmunity in atherosclerotic pathogenesis. Here we sought to determine whether induction of immune tolerance to col(V) might ameliorate atherosclerosis, providing further evidence for a causal role for col(V) autoimmunity in atherogenesis and providing insights into the potential for immunomodulatory therapeutic interventions. Mucosal inoculation successfully induced immune tolerance to col(V) with an accompanying reduction in plaque burden in Ldlr(-/-) mice on a high-cholesterol diet. The results therefore demonstrate that inoculation with col(V) can successfully ameliorate the atherosclerotic burden, suggesting novel approaches for therapeutic interventions. Surprisingly, tolerance and reduced atherosclerotic burden were both dependent on the recently described IL-35 and not on IL-10, the immunosuppressive cytokine usually studied in the context of induced tolerance and amelioration of atherosclerotic symptoms. In addition to the above, using recombinant protein fragments, we were able to localize two epitopes of the α1(V) chain involved in col(V) autoimmunity in atherosclerotic Ldlr(-/-) mice, suggesting future courses of experimentation for the characterization of such epitopes.

On the dynamics of TCR:CD3 complex cell surface expression and downmodulation

TCR downmodulation following ligation by MHC:peptide complexes is considered to be a pivotal event in T cell activation. Here, we analyzed the dynamics of TCR:CD3 cell surface expression on resting and antigen-activated T cells. We show that the TCR:CD3 complex is very stable and is rapidly internalized and recycled in resting T cells. Surprisingly, the internalization rate is not increased following TCR ligation by MHC:peptide complexes, despite significant TCR downmodulation, suggesting that constitutive internalization rather than ligation-induced downmodulation serves as the force that drives serial ligation. Furthermore, TCR downmodulation is mediated by the intracellular retention of ligated complexes and degradation by lysosomes and proteasomes. Thus, our data demonstrate that ligation induces TCR downmodulation by preventing recycling rather than inducing internalization.

Multiplexed particle-based flow cytometric assays

Several methods have been developed to quantify soluble analytes in biological fluids and tissue culture samples, including bioassays, ELISA, RPA and PCR. However, each of these techniques possesses one or more significant limitations; ELISA will only measure one analyte as a time; PCR does not detect native protein. The recent development of particle-based flow cytometric assays has raised hopes that many of these limitations can be overcome. The technology utilizes microspheres as the solid support for a conventional immunoassay, affinity assay or DNA hybridization assay which are subsequently analyzed on a flow cytometer. Several multiplexed bead systems are currently marketed by different vendors. We have used the Luminex FlowMetrix system which consists of 64 different bead sets manufactured with uniform, distinct proportions of red and orange fluorescent dyes (detected by FL2/FL3 on a FACScan). Each bead set forms the basis of an individual assay using a green fluorescent reporter dye (FL1). This system facilitates the development of multiplexed assays that simultaneously measure many different analytes in a small sample volume. They can also be developed into rapid, 'no wash' assays that can be completed in <2 h. This review traces the historical association between microspheres and flow cytometry, the development and use of particle-based flow cytometric assays, how they compare with current assays and potential future developments of this very exciting technology.

Simultaneous quantitation of 15 cytokines using a multiplexed flow cytometric assay

Several methods have been developed to quantify cytokines and chemokines in biological fluids and tissue culture samples, including bioassays, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), intracellular staining, ribonuclease protection assay (RPA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). However, each of these techniques possesses one or more significant limitations. Here, we describe a new multiplexed assay, using the FlowMetrix system, that can quantify multiple cytokines simultaneously in a small sample volume. This assay was found to be more accurate, sensitive and reproducible than the conventional microtitre ELISA procedure. Furthermore, the time and cost involved are comparable to, or less than, the ELISA. A key feature of the FlowMetrix assay is its ability to multiplex: here, we show that this assay can accurately quantitate 15 cytokines in a 100 microl sample volume while the same analysis by ELISA requires 1.5 ml (100 microl for each cytokine assay). By using this Flow Metrix assay, we could demonstrate that only T helper 1 (T(H)1)-deviated cells produce detectable levels of interleukin (IL)-2, while only T(H)2-deviated cells produce significant amounts of IL-4. Six other cytokines were produced by both T cell subsets, with the T(H)1 population producing more IL-3, granulocyte-monocyte colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and interferon (IFN)-gamma, and the T(H)2 population producing more IL-5, IL-10, and IL-13. Seven other cytokines were not produced in detectable amounts. This assay should prove to be a powerful tool in the quantitation of cytokines, or any other soluble product for which antibody pairs are available. It will also provide a more complete picture of the plethora of cytokines secreted during an immune response.

Differential CD3 zeta phosphorylation is not required for the induction of T cell antagonism by altered peptide ligands

T cells recognize foreign Ags in the form of short peptides bound to MHC molecules. Ligation of the TCR:CD3 complex gives rise to the generation of two tyrosine-phosphorylated forms of the CD3 zeta-chain, pp21 and pp23. Replacement of residues in MHC-bound peptides that alter its recognition by the TCR can generate altered peptide ligands (APL) that antagonize T cell responses to the original agonist peptide, leading to altered T cell function and anergy. This biological process has been linked to differential CD3zeta phosphorylation and generation of only the pp21 phospho-species. Here, we show that T cells expressing CD3zeta mutants, which cannot be phosphorylated, exhibit a 5-fold reduction in IL-2 production and a 30-fold reduction in sensitivity following stimulation with an agonist peptide. However, these T cells are still strongly antagonized by APL. These data demonstrate that: 1) the threshold required for an APL to block a response is much lower than for an agonist peptide to induce a response, 2) CD3zeta is required for full agonist but not antagonist responses, and 3) differential CD3zeta phosphorylation is not a prerequisite for T cell antagonism.

Profound enhancement of T cell activation mediated by the interaction between the TCR and the D3 domain of CD4

CD4 plays an important role in the activation and development of CD4+ T cells. This is mediated via its bivalent interaction with MHC class II molecules and the TCR:CD3 complex through p56lck. Recent studies have implicated a third site of interaction between the membrane-proximal extracellular domains of CD4 and the TCR. Due to these multiple interactions, direct evidence for the functional importance of this extracellular association has remained elusive. Furthermore, the residues that mediate this interaction are unknown. In this study, we analyzed the function of 61 CD4 mutants. Alanine substitution of just 2 residues, either Q114/F182 or F182/F201, which are partially buried and located close to the D2/D3 interface, completely abrogated CD4 function. Direct evidence for the functional importance of TCR:CD4.D3 interaction was obtained using an anti-CD3fos:anti-CD4jun-bispecific Ab. Surprisingly, it induced strong T cell activation in hybridomas transfected with cytoplasmic-tailless CD4, despite the lack of association with either p56lck or MHC class II molecules. However, this effect was completely abrogated with the CD4 mutants Q114A/F182A or F182A/F201A. These data demonstrate that TCR:CD4.D3 interaction can have a profound effect on T cell activation and obviates the need for receptor oligomerization.

Immunoregulation of Th cells by naturally processed peptide antagonists

Th cells recognize protein Ags as short peptides bound to MHC class II molecules. Altered peptide ligands can antagonize (inhibit) T cell responses to stimulatory peptides. Peptides generated by APC may contain peptide flanking residues (PFR), which lie outside the minimal binding epitope and can be recognized by the TCR. Our data show that PFR-dependent T cells were found to be potently antagonized by peptides that lack PFR and responded poorly to native protein or the immunogenic epitope delivered by a recombinant influenza virus. These data provide the first evidence that Ag processing generates both stimulatory and antagonist peptides from a single immunogenic epitope, an observation that may have important implications for T cell immunoregulation and autoimmunity.

T cell receptor recognition of MHC class II-bound peptide flanking residues enhances immunogenicity and results in altered TCR V region usage

Naturally processed MHC class II-bound peptides possess ragged NH2 and COOH termini. It is not known whether these peptide flanking residues (PFRs), which lie outside the MHC anchor residues, are recognized by the TCR or influence immunogenicity. Here we analyzed T cell responses to the COOH-terminal PFR of the H-2A(k) immunodominant epitope of hen egg lysozyme (HEL) 52-61. Surprisingly, the majority of T cells were completely dependent on, and specific for, the COOH-terminal PFR of the immunogen. In addition, there were striking correlations between TCR V beta usage and PFR dependence. We hypothesize that the V alpha CDR1 region recognizes NH2-terminal PFRs, while the V beta CDR1 region recognizes COOH-terminal PFRs. Last, peptides containing PFRs were considerably more immunogenic and mediated a greater recall response to the HEL protein. These results demonstrate that PFRs, which are a unique characteristic of peptides bound to MHC class II molecules, can have a profound effect on TCR recognition and T cell function. These data may have important implications for peptide-based immunotherapy and vaccine development.

TCR-mediated adhesion of T cell hybridomas to planar bilayers containing purified MHC class II/peptide complexes and receptor shedding during detachment

T cell recognition of foreign Ag/MHC class II complexes is sensitive down to approximately 100 complexes per cell or approximately 0.2 complexes/micron2. To better understand the physical basis of the recognition stage of Ag presentation, we examined adhesion of the lysozyme- specific T cell hybridoma, 3A9, to artificial bilayers containing covalent MHC class II/peptide complexes or adhesion molecules. Adhesion of 3A9 cells required a superphysiologic density of the MHC class II/peptide complex and was partly dependent on CD4; cells adhered but did not crawl. No adhesion was observed to bilayers containing MHC class II molecules without the lysozyme peptide. Activated 3A9 cells adhered and crawled on bilayers containing ICAM-1. The physical strength of contacts was tested with fluid shear. 3A9 cells adherent to bilayers containing MHC class II/peptide complexes shed their contact, which remained on the substrate and contained TCR. In contrast, 3A9 cells peeled from the ICAM-1 bilayer, and held firmly on LFA-1 bilayers; in a manner dependent on filamentous actin. When ICAM-1 and the MHC/peptide complexes were combined, the 3A9 cells adhered tightly and spread, but did not crawl, on the bilayers and TCR clustered at the center of the contact area. Physiologically, the TCR is unlikely to directly initiate adhesion. TCR clusters formed with the assistance of adhesion mechanisms may have to be shed to allow de-adhesion, and this may contribute to TCR down-regulation.

TCR-mediated adhesion of T cell hybridomas to planar bilayers containing purified MHC class II/peptide complexes and receptor shedding during detachment

T cell recognition of foreign Ag/MHC class II complexes is sensitive down to approximately 100 complexes per cell or approximately 0.2 complexes/micron2. To better understand the physical basis of the recognition stage of Ag presentation, we examined adhesion of the lysozyme- specific T cell hybridoma, 3A9, to artificial bilayers containing covalent MHC class II/peptide complexes or adhesion molecules. Adhesion of 3A9 cells required a superphysiologic density of the MHC class II/peptide complex and was partly dependent on CD4; cells adhered but did not crawl. No adhesion was observed to bilayers containing MHC class II molecules without the lysozyme peptide. Activated 3A9 cells adhered and crawled on bilayers containing ICAM-1. The physical strength of contacts was tested with fluid shear. 3A9 cells adherent to bilayers containing MHC class II/peptide complexes shed their contact, which remained on the substrate and contained TCR. In contrast, 3A9 cells peeled from the ICAM-1 bilayer, and held firmly on LFA-1 bilayers; in a manner dependent on filamentous actin. When ICAM-1 and the MHC/peptide complexes were combined, the 3A9 cells adhered tightly and spread, but did not crawl, on the bilayers and TCR clustered at the center of the contact area. Physiologically, the TCR is unlikely to directly initiate adhesion. TCR clusters formed with the assistance of adhesion mechanisms may have to be shed to allow de-adhesion, and this may contribute to TCR down-regulation.

Requirement for Stat4 in interleukin-12-mediated responses of natural killer and T cells

Signal transducers and activators of transcription (STATs) are activated by tyrosine phosphorylation in response to cytokines and mediate many of their functional responses. Stat4 was initially cloned as a result of its homology with Stat1 (refs 4, 5) and is widely expressed, although it is only tyrosine-phosphorylated after stimulation of T cells with interleukin (IL)-12 (refs 6,7). IL-12 is required for the T-cell-independent induction of the cytokine interferon (IFN)-gamma, a key step in the initial suppression of bacterial and parasitic infections. IL-12 is also important for the development of a Th1 response, which is critical for effective host defence against intracellular pathogens. To determine the function of Stat4 and its role in IL-12 signalling, we have produced mice that lack Stat4 by gene targeting. The mice were viable and fertile, with no detectable defects in haematopoiesis. However, all IL-12 functions tested were disrupted, including the induction of IFN-gamma, mitogenesis, enhancement of natural killer cytolytic function and Th1 differentiation.

The two membrane proximal domains of CD4 interact with the T cell receptor

During T cell activation, CD4 is intimately involved in colocalizing the T cell receptor (TCR) with its specific peptide ligand bound to class II molecules of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). Previously, the COOH-terminal residues, Trp62/63, which flank the immunodominant epitope of hen egg lysozyme (HEL 52-61), were shown to have a profound effect on TCR recognition. CD4 maintains the fidelity of this interaction when short peptides are used. To determine which portion of CD4 was responsible for this effect, a series of CD4 mutants were made and transfected into CD4 loss variants of two HEL 52-61-specific T cell hybridomas. Surprisingly, some CD4 mutants that failed to interact with MHC class II molecules (D2 domain mutant) or with p56kk (cytoplasmic-tailless mutant) restored responsiveness. Nevertheless, a significant reduction in association between cytoplasmic-tailless CD4 and the TCR, as determined by fluorescence resonance energy transfer, was observed. Thus, neither colocalization of CD4 and the TCR nor signal transduction via CD4 was solely responsible for the functional restoration of these T cell hybridomas by wild-type CD4. However, substitution of the two membrane proximal domains of murine CD4 (D3 and D4) with domains from human CD4 or intercellular adhesion molecule 1 not only abrogated its ability to restore function, but also substantially reduced its ability to associate with the TCR. Furthermore, the mouse/human CD4 chimera had a potent dominant negative effect on T cell function in the presence of equimolar concentrations of wild-type CD4. These data suggest that the D3/D4 domains of CD4 may interact directly or indirectly with the TCR-CD3 complex and influence the signal transduction processes. Given the striking structural differences between CD4 and CD8 in this region, these data define a novel and unique function for CD4.

Lack of IL-4-induced Th2 response and IgE class switching in mice with disrupted Stat6 gene

Signal transducers and activators of transcription (Stats) are activated by tyrosine phosphorylation in response to cytokines, and are thought to mediate many of their functional responses. Stat6 is activated in response to interleukin (IL)-4 and may contribute to various functions including mitogenesis, T-helper cell differentiation and immunoglobulin isotype switching. To evaluate the role of Stat6, we generated Stat6-null mice (Stat6 -/-) by gene disruption in embryonic stem cells. The mice were viable, indicating the lack of a non-redundant function in normal development. Although naive lymphoid cell development was normal, Stat6 -/- mice were deficient in IL-4-mediated functions including Th2 helper T-cell differentiation, expression of cell surface markers, and immunoglobulin class switching to IgE. In contrast, IL-4-mediated proliferation was only partly affected.

The interaction between CD4 and MHC class II molecules and its effect on T cell function

During T cell activation, CD4 and CD8 form a 'bridge' between the T cell receptor (TCR) and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II and class I molecules, respectively. Due to this intimate association, CD4 and CD8 are now termed co-receptors and considered an integral part of this multimolecular complex. In addition, interest in CD4 has been heightened by the discovery that it is, in part, the receptor for HIV. Although CD4 and CD8 appear to perform similar immune functions, they are structurally diverse suggesting that their mode of interaction with the TCR and MHC molecules may differ. This review will focus primarily on a series of studies which have attempted to map the residues which mediate CD4:MHC class II interaction. These data will be evaluated in light of our current understanding of CD8:MHC class I, and CD4:TCR interactions. In addition, a model to explain the structural and functional differences between CD4 and CD8 will be presented. Finally, the potential effect of these multiple interactions on T cell function will be discussed.

Amino acid residues that flank core peptide epitopes and the extracellular domains of CD4 modulate differential signaling through the T cell receptor

Hen egg lysozyme 52-61-specific CD4+ T cells responded by interleukin 2 (IL-2) secretion to any peptide containing this epitope regardless of length of NH2- and COOH-terminal composition. However, CD4- variants could only respond to peptides containing the two COOH-terminal tryptophans at positions 62 and 63. Substitutions at these positions defined patterns of reactivity that were specific for individual T cells inferring a T cell receptor (TCR)-based phenomenon. Thus, the fine specificity of major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-peptide recognition by the TCR was dramatically affected by CD4 and the COOH-terminal peptide composition. Peptides that failed to induce IL-2 secretion in the CD4- variants nevertheless induced strong tyrosine phosphorylation of CD3 zeta. Thus, whereas the TCR still recognized and bound to the MHC class II-peptide complex resulting in protein phosphorylation, this interaction failed to induce effective signal transduction manifested by IL-2 secretion. This provides a clear example of differential signaling mediated by peptides known to be naturally processed. In addition, the external domains of CD4, rather than its cytoplasmic tail, were critical in aiding TCR recognition of all peptides derived from a single epitope. These data suggest that the nested flanking residues, which are present on MHC class II but not class I bound peptides, are functionally relevant.

Interactions of CD4 with MHC class II molecules, T cell receptors and p56lck

CD4 and CD8 are members of the immunoglobulin supergene family of proteins, and function as co-receptors with the T cell receptor (TCR) in binding MHC class II or class I molecules, respectively. Within this multimeric complex, CD4 interacts with three distinct ligands. CD4 interacts through its D1 and D2 domains with MHC class II proteins, through its D3 and D4 domains with T cell receptors, and through its cytoplasmic tail with p56lck, a src-related, protein tyrosine kinase. Each of these interactions is important in the function of CD4 and will be discussed in turn.

Specificity and promiscuity among naturally processed peptides bound to HLA-DR alleles

Naturally processed peptides were acid extracted from immunoaffinity-purified HLA-DR2, DR3, DR4, DR7, and DR8. Using the complementary techniques of mass spectrometry and Edman microsequencing, > 200 unique peptide masses were identified from each allele, ranging from 1,200 to 4,000 daltons (10-34 residues in length), and a total of 201 peptide sequences were obtained. These peptides were derived from 66 different source proteins and represented sets nested at both the amino- and carboxy-terminal ends with an average length of 15-18 amino acids. Strikingly, most of the peptides (> 85%) were derived from endogenous proteins that intersect the endocytic/class II pathway, even though class II molecules are thought to function mainly in the presentation of exogenous foreign peptide antigens. The predominant endogenous peptides were derived from major histocompatibility complex-related molecules. A few peptides derived from exogenous bovine serum proteins were also bound to every allele. Four prominent promiscuous self-peptide sets (capable of binding to multiple HLA-DR alleles) as well as 84 allele-specific peptide sets were identified. Binding experiments confirmed that the promiscuous peptides have high affinity for the binding groove of all HLA-DR alleles examined. A potential physiologic role for these endogenous self-peptides as immunomodulators of the cellular immune response is discussed.

Minute quantities of a single immunodominant foreign epitope are presented as large nested sets by major histocompatibility complex class II molecules

The processing and presentation of immunogenetic peptides is an obligate event in the generation of an immune response. However, the degree of complexity with which an immunogenic foreign epitope is presented is still unclear. This question was addressed by analyzing the naturally processed peptides generated from exogenously-derived hen egg white lysozyme (HEL) bound to the murine major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecule, H-2Ak. Using reversed-phase chromatography (RPC), T cell hybridomas and mass spectrometry, 16 peptides were identified that contain the minimal MHC binding epitope 52-61. These peptides exhibited substantial N- and C-terminal extensions and ranged from 13-28 amino acids in length. In contrast, MHC class I molecules present peptides of 8-11 residues and each foreign epitope appears to be represented by only a single peptide. The data here also show that only approximately 0.8% of the total bound peptide was derived from this single HEL epitope. These findings provide direct evidence that relatively small amounts of processed peptide are required to stimulate an effective T cell response.

Predominant naturally processed peptides bound to HLA-DR1 are derived from MHC-related molecules and are heterogeneous in size

Peptides bound to class I molecules are 8-10 amino acids long, and possess a binding motif representative of peptides that bind to a given class I allele. In the only published study of naturally processed peptides bound to class II molecules (mouse I-Ab and I-Eb), these peptides were longer (13-17 amino acids) and had heterogenous carboxy terminals but precise amino-terminal truncations. Here we report the characterization of acid-eluted peptides bound to HLA-DR1 by high-performance liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry and microsequencing analyses. The relative molecular masses of the peptides varied between 1,602 and 2,996 (13-25 residues), the most abundant individual M(r) values being between 1,700 and 1,800, corresponding to an average peptide length of 15 residues. Complete sequence data were obtained for twenty peptides derived from five epitopes, of which all but one were from self proteins. These peptides represented sets nested at both the N- and C-terminal ends. Binding experiments confirmed that all of the isolated peptides had high affinity for the groove of DR1. Alignment of the peptides bound to HLA-DR1 and the sequences of 35 known HLA-DR1-binding peptides revealed a putative motif. Although peptides bound to class II molecules may have some related features (due to the nonpolymorphic HLA-DR alpha-chain), accounting for degenerate binding to different alleles, particular amino acids in the HLA-DR beta-chains presumably define allelic specificity of peptide binding.

Does CD4 help to maintain the fidelity of T cell receptor specificity?

During antigen presentation, a close association between CD4 and the T cell receptor (TCR) occurs as a result of interacting with the same major histocompatibility complex class II molecule. The potential consequences of such an intimate interaction on TCR specificity was addressed using CD4 loss variants of four different murine T cell hybridomas specific for the immunodominant hen egg lysozyme (HEL) peptide 46-61. While all the CD4+ and CD4- variants tested possessed comparable surface expression of TCR, CD3, CD2 and LFA-1, and responded similarly to immobilized anti-TCR and anti-CD3 monoclonal antibodies, they differed dramatically in their responses to either the naturally processed HEL antigen, synthetic peptide 46-61 or staphylococcal enterotoxin superantigens. While one hybridoma was comparatively unaffected by the loss of CD4, another lost its responsiveness to antigen and peptide completely while retaining reactivity to SE. In contrast, two other hybridomas still responded to antigen but lost reactivity to synthetic peptide and SE. These data could not be readily explained on the basis of affinity or signal transduction requirements alone, and thus suggest that the intimate association of CD4 with the TCR may result in a subtle modulation of its fine specificity for some but not all T cells.

Species-specific binding of CD4 to the beta 2 domain of major histocompatibility complex class II molecules

Exon-shuffled constructs between mouse (IA beta b) and human (DR3 beta) class II beta chains were made to study the interaction sites between CD4 and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules, and to determine whether a species barrier is involved. The overall structure and the peptide binding groove appeared to be unaffected by the exon shuffling procedure as determined by monoclonal antibody and peptide binding assays, respectively. While purified CD4+ BALB/c T cells responded strongly in a mixed leukocyte reaction to transfectants expressing the whole IA molecule, the response to IA molecules containing a DR beta 2 domain was substantially reduced. In addition, the presence of an IA beta 2 domain in DR failed to restore the weak xenoreactivity to the whole DR molecule. Similar observations were made with murine HEL-specific, IA alpha k beta b-restricted T cell hybridomas which responded significantly stronger to the whole compared with the exon-shuffled IA molecules. The involvement of CD4 in these differential responses was confirmed by the observation that CD4 loss variants responded to both molecules comparably, and transfection of CD4 into these cells restored the parental phenotype. In contrast, CD4 loss variants transfected with human CD4 responded equally to both the whole and the exon-shuffled molecules. Taken together, these data imply the existence of a partial species barrier, and suggest that CD4 interacts with the beta 2 domain of MHC class II molecules, probably in addition to other contact sites. Models for the interaction of CD4 with MHC class II molecules are presented.

Processing of an endogenous protein can generate MHC class II-restricted T cell determinants distinct from those derived from exogenous antigen

Class II MHC molecules on the surface of an APC present immunogenic peptides derived mainly from exogenous proteins to CD4+ T cells. During its transport to the cell surface, class II molecules intersect the endocytic pathway where they acquire peptides derived from endocytosed proteins. However, class II-restricted presentation of endogenously derived peptides can also occur. The current studies were undertaken to examine the ability of different types of APC to generate and present four different T cell determinants derived from an endogenous, nonsecreted, truncated form of hen-egg white lysozyme (HEL[1-80]-Kk). This was compared with the ability of these APC to generate the same determinants from exogenous HEL. All the peptides derived from endogenous HEL[1-80]-Kk tested, were presented by B cells to HEL-specific T cell hybridomas with an efficiency similar to presentation of the same determinants from exogenous HEL. In contrast, an I-Ak-bearing rat fibroblast was unable to generate the HEL peptide 25-43 from exogenous HEL, but could efficiently produce it from endogenous HEL[1-80]-Kk. The results indicate first, that peptides derived from an endogenous Ag can be presented by MHC class II molecules with an efficiency comparable to that of the presentation of the exogenous Ag. Second, that Ag-presenting B cells can generate the same repertoire of antigenic peptides from endogenous Ag as those generated from the exogenous protein. And third, that in contrast to B cells, certain "nonprofessional" APC can generate, from an endogenous protein, T cell determinants distinct from those generated after endocytosis of the exogenous protein. These results suggest that processing of exogenous and endogenous Ag by different APC take place in different intracellular compartments.

Processing of an endogenous protein can generate MHC class II-restricted T cell determinants distinct from those derived from exogenous antigen

Class II MHC molecules on the surface of an APC present immunogenic peptides derived mainly from exogenous proteins to CD4+ T cells. During its transport to the cell surface, class II molecules intersect the endocytic pathway where they acquire peptides derived from endocytosed proteins. However, class II-restricted presentation of endogenously derived peptides can also occur. The current studies were undertaken to examine the ability of different types of APC to generate and present four different T cell determinants derived from an endogenous, nonsecreted, truncated form of hen-egg white lysozyme (HEL[1-80]-Kk). This was compared with the ability of these APC to generate the same determinants from exogenous HEL. All the peptides derived from endogenous HEL[1-80]-Kk tested, were presented by B cells to HEL-specific T cell hybridomas with an efficiency similar to presentation of the same determinants from exogenous HEL. In contrast, an I-Ak-bearing rat fibroblast was unable to generate the HEL peptide 25-43 from exogenous HEL, but could efficiently produce it from endogenous HEL[1-80]-Kk. The results indicate first, that peptides derived from an endogenous Ag can be presented by MHC class II molecules with an efficiency comparable to that of the presentation of the exogenous Ag. Second, that Ag-presenting B cells can generate the same repertoire of antigenic peptides from endogenous Ag as those generated from the exogenous protein. And third, that in contrast to B cells, certain "nonprofessional" APC can generate, from an endogenous protein, T cell determinants distinct from those generated after endocytosis of the exogenous protein. These results suggest that processing of exogenous and endogenous Ag by different APC take place in different intracellular compartments.

Induction of immunity against Schistosoma mansoni by drug (Ro11-3128)-terminated infections: analysis of surface antigen recognition

As with 20 krad-irradiated infections in mice, the present study shows that the immunity induced by Ro11-3128 termination of unattenuated infections at the skin stage is species specific, not operating against S. japonicum. Treatment with the drug Ro15-5458, also effective at the skin stage, however, resulted in significantly lower levels of resistance than Ro11-3128. Sera from mice immunized by infection plus Ro11-3128 treatment on days 1 or 2 (Ro11S) coprecipitated essentially the same pattern of 125I-labelled surface antigens as the 20 krad vaccine serum (VMS), viz. Mr 38,000, 32,000, 23,000 and 15,000. However, recognition by Ro11S was markedly stronger. Sera from the infected and Ro15-5458-treated mice (Ro15S) failed to recognize the Mr 23,000 antigen and produced a weaker response than Ro11S or VMS against the Mr 38,000 or 32,000 antigens but a comparable response to VMS against the Mr 15,000 antigen. Ro11S and VMS also recognized the Mr 16,000 surface antigen seen by Western blotting but its recognition by Ro15S was weaker. Compared with sera from animals treated at the skin stage, sera from animals treated at the lung stage (day + 6) showed weaker recognition of the Mr 32,000 and 15,000 antigens and no recognition of the Mr 23,000 antigen. In contrast, sera from mice treated at 15 days recognized both the Mr 32,000 and 23,000 antigens but not the Mr 15,000 antigen. Mice treated at these times show progressively less immunity than at the skin stage. Infected but untreated animals only showed significant recognition of the Mr 32,000 antigen. Thus compared with infections treated with Ro11-3128 on days 1 or 2, treatment at later times or with the drug Ro15-5458 resulted in selective and differential absence or diminution of response against either the Mr 38,000, 32,000, 23,000, 16,000 or 15,000 antigens. In vitro, Ro11-3128, in contrast to Ro15-5458, caused multiple vesicle formation at the surface of skin stage schistosomula but this was progressively less pronounced with lung and liver stage worms. The vesicles were shown to express surface membrane antigens but were apparently not derived from the existing outer leaflet of the surface membrane. It is suggested that this altered antigen expression might explain the optimum immunity induced.

Antibody-dependent killing of Schistosoma mansoni schistosomula in vitro by starch-elicited murine macrophages. Critical role of the cell surface integrin Mac-1 in killing mediated by the anti-Mr 16,000 mAb B3A

Starch-elicited murine peritoneal macrophages were able to kill schistosomula in vitro in the presence of a variety of immune sera. Dose response experiments revealed the superior "quality" of serum from mice vaccinated four times with highly irradiated cercariae (4xVMS) in mediating killing at titers comparable to the other sera tested. B3A, a partially protective mAb (IgG3) that recognizes a Mr 16,000 schistosomular surface Ag, mediated higher levels of killing than any of the sera at comparable titers. In contrast, H12, a partially protective mAb (IgG2a; anti-Mr 32,000), and C1C9, a nonprotective McAb (IgG3; anti-Mr 38,000) failed to mediate killing. Two anti-Mac-1 alpha-chain mAb (5C6 and M1/70) mediated substantial dose-dependent blocking of 4xVMS and B3A-mediated macrophage killing. In contrast, a mAb to the Mac-1-associated beta-chain was less effective, whereas the mAb F4/80 did not significantly block killing despite being present on this macrophage population. Although whole 5C6 Ig was the most efficient at inhibiting B3A-mediated killing, 5C6 Fab fragments were still effective at concentrations as low as 0.5 microgram/ml (10 nM). On a molar basis 5C6 appeared to be more effective at blocking 4xVMS-mediated killing than M1/70, while only M1/70 was capable of inhibiting macrophage adherence to schistosomula. These findings, together with the observation that anti-alpha chain mAb were far more effective at blocking killing than the anti-beta-chain mAb, rules out the possibility that 5C6 is nonspecifically inhibiting B3A-FcR interaction. The data also imply a functional relationship between Mac-1 and FcRIII, the receptor for B3A, in macrophage killing.

Antibody-dependent killing of Schistosoma mansoni schistosomula in vitro by starch-elicited murine macrophages. Critical role of the cell surface integrin Mac-1 in killing mediated by the anti-Mr 16,000 mAb B3A

Starch-elicited murine peritoneal macrophages were able to kill schistosomula in vitro in the presence of a variety of immune sera. Dose response experiments revealed the superior "quality" of serum from mice vaccinated four times with highly irradiated cercariae (4xVMS) in mediating killing at titers comparable to the other sera tested. B3A, a partially protective mAb (IgG3) that recognizes a Mr 16,000 schistosomular surface Ag, mediated higher levels of killing than any of the sera at comparable titers. In contrast, H12, a partially protective mAb (IgG2a; anti-Mr 32,000), and C1C9, a nonprotective McAb (IgG3; anti-Mr 38,000) failed to mediate killing. Two anti-Mac-1 alpha-chain mAb (5C6 and M1/70) mediated substantial dose-dependent blocking of 4xVMS and B3A-mediated macrophage killing. In contrast, a mAb to the Mac-1-associated beta-chain was less effective, whereas the mAb F4/80 did not significantly block killing despite being present on this macrophage population. Although whole 5C6 Ig was the most efficient at inhibiting B3A-mediated killing, 5C6 Fab fragments were still effective at concentrations as low as 0.5 microgram/ml (10 nM). On a molar basis 5C6 appeared to be more effective at blocking 4xVMS-mediated killing than M1/70, while only M1/70 was capable of inhibiting macrophage adherence to schistosomula. These findings, together with the observation that anti-alpha chain mAb were far more effective at blocking killing than the anti-beta-chain mAb, rules out the possibility that 5C6 is nonspecifically inhibiting B3A-FcR interaction. The data also imply a functional relationship between Mac-1 and FcRIII, the receptor for B3A, in macrophage killing.

The role of antibody affinity and titre in immunity to Schistosoma mansoni following vaccination with highly irradiated cercariae

Sera from rabbits and rats vaccinated with highly irradiated cercariae of Schistosoma mansoni (VRabS, VRatS) were found to be of substantially higher affinity than sera from CBA mice vaccinated four times (4 X CVMS), single sex sera (SSS) or chronic infection sera (CIS). In contrast, VRabS and SSS appeared to possess the highest titres of antibody, followed by CIS and VRatS, with 4 X CVMS displaying the lowest titre. Two mouse strains selectively bred for high-affinity (HA) or low-affinity (LA) antibody following vaccination were tested for their ability to resist a challenge infection. LA mice, which produce high titres of low-affinity antibody, manifested significantly more resistance than HA mice, which produce low titres of high-affinity antibody. Immunoprecipitation studies demonstrated that sera from vaccinated LA mice (LVMS) recognized 125I-labelled schistosomular surface antigens more intensely than sera from vaccinated HA mice (HVMS). However, peritoneal macrophages from HA and LA mice in the presence of HVMS, LVMS or 4 X CVMS, and naive macrophages activated in vitro with interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma)/lipopolysaccharide (LPS) mediated comparable levels of schistosomula killing in vitro. The experiments described here provide evidence that the titre of antibody rather than its affinity may be a more critical factor in the development of optimal immunity to S. mansoni.

Immunity to Schistosoma mansoni in vivo: contradiction or clarification?

In recent years controversy and contradiction have hindered the elucidation of the immune effector mechanisms that are most effective against Schistosoma mansoni - an essential goal for the development of an effective vaccine. However, recent in-vivo studies have clarified the relative contributions of such mechanisms to protection. Here, Dario Vignali and colleagues summarize current evidence that suggests that both antibody and CD4+ T cells, in cooperation with macrophages, are crucial for the development of an effective response. In addition, a model is presented that may account for some of the discrepancies observed and which could be used as a basis for future research.

A role for CD4+ but not CD8+ T cells in immunity to Schistosoma mansoni induced by 20 krad-irradiated and Ro 11-3128-terminated infections

The role of CD4+ (L3/T4+) and CD8+ (Lyt-2+) T cells in immunity to Schistosoma mansoni induced by 20 krad-irradiated and Ro 11-terminated infections in mice was investigated directly by in vivo depletion of these subsets with cytotoxic rat monoclonal antibodies (mAb). Effective physical depletion was demonstrated by flow cytometric analysis and immunohistochemical staining. Functional depletion of helper activity following anti-CD4 treatment was indicated by an abrogation of concanavalin A(Con A)-induced colony-stimulating factor (CSF) release, while anti-CD8 treatment had no effect in these assays. Pre-existing S. mansoni-specific antibody levels were unaffected by anti-CD4 and anti-CD8 treatment. In vivo depletion of CD4+ T cells resulted in a dramatic reduction in immunity induced by one (up to 100%) and two (up to 70%) vaccinations with 20 krad-irradiated cercariae and also of resistance induced by Ro 11-attenuated infections (up to 100%). Depletion of CD8+ T cells had no effect on resistance induced by any of the vaccination protocols investigated. A correlation was observed between resistance and T cell-induced, macrophage-mediated killing of schistosomula in vitro, both of which were abrogated following anti-CD4 treatment but were unaffected by CD8+ T-cell depletion. The possible role of CD4+ T cells in vivo and the implications for vaccine development are discussed.

Histological examination of the cellular reactions around schistosomula of Schistosoma mansoni in the lungs of sublethally irradiated and unirradiated, immune and control rats

Histopathological data on the cellular reactions (foci) around Schistosoma mansoni schistosomula in the lungs of both irradiated (750 rad) and unirradiated, passively immunized and normal rats were consistent with the idea that a significant proportion of immune-mediated attrition in passively immunized rats occurs in the lungs. In unirradiated rats, immune serum elicited an enhanced (i.e. larger) and accelerated (i.e. more rapidly developing) inflammatory cellular infiltration around lung-stage parasites when administered 5 days post-infection, when the parasites were already in the lungs. This demonstrated the antigenicity of lung-stage schistosomula and their potential as targets for immune attack. In irradiated rats, innate immunity was decreased as judged by an increase in the number of worms recovered by portal perfusion, and was accompanied by an overall decreased percentage of trapped parasites compared with unirradiated controls, suggesting that trapping in the lungs is involved in innate, as well as acquired immunity. In contrast to the results in unirradiated rats, passive transfer of immune serum into irradiated recipients did not result in larger lung foci than in the NRS-recipients. However, there was evidence of an accelerated response resulting in an essentially similar ratio of trapped parasites (VRS- compared with NRS-recipients) in irradiated rats, as compared with unirradiated rats, reflecting the similar levels of resistance manifested in both groups of rats. This also lent credence to the notion that it was the speed of immune recognition of the migrating schistosomula and the establishment of trapping foci that were of greater importance rather than the size of the enveloping granulomata.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Studies on immunity to Schistosoma mansoni in vivo: whole-body irradiation has no effect on vaccine-induced resistance in mice

Actively immunized mice, whole-body irradiated with 650 or 525 rad., manifested comparable levels of resistance to Schistosoma mansoni compared with unirradiated, immunized mice in spite of a marked reduction in circulating leucocytes (greater than 90%) and platelets (greater than 85%), and despite an abrogation of delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) (Type IV) response to schistosomular antigens (as determined by footpad swelling, 24 h after injection of antigen). However, limited histopathological comparison of lung sections from irradiated and unirradiated mice 7 days post-challenge showed that cellular reactions ('foci') around parasites were essentially similar in size and cellular composition except that in irradiated mice, eosinophils were poorly represented both in the foci and in lung tissue in general. Neither presumed immune complex-mediated (Type III, Arthus reaction) hypersensitivity (as determined by footpad swelling, 5 h after injection of antigen) nor serum anti-schistosomulum extract antibody levels (as determined by ELISA) were affected. In addition, the pattern of 125I-labelled schistosomular surface antigens immunoprecipitated with serum from irradiated and unirradiated mice was essentially similar. These results are consistent with antibody playing an important role in vaccine-induced immunity in mice but suggest that radiosensitive T cell function and radiosensitive cells, such as platelets and polymorphonuclear cells, including eosinophils, may not be essential.

Comparison of the role of complement in immunity to Schistosoma mansoni in rats and mice

In vivo depletion of C3 with cobra venom factor (CoF) was used to demonstrate the participation of complement in the innate immunity to S. mansoni and in the acquired immunity of both actively and passively immunized rats. Complement was shown to play an important role in innate immunity, being more involved later in larval migration (Days 8-13 post-infection) than at earlier times (Days--1-3 and Days 3-8 post-infection). Furthermore, the specific component of immunity conferred by immune serum transferred at the lung-migration stage also required complement for optimal expression. This supports the notion that both innate and acquired immunity act not against the much studied early post-penetration stages, but primarily against the lung stages. Although decomplementation at earlier stages of parasite migration (up to 3 days post-infection) did cause some reduction of innate immunity, there was no evidence of any effect on the levels of resistance actively induced by exposure to irradiated cercariae. This suggests that, while complement may play a role in innate immunity during the skin-migration phase, specific complement-mediated attrition does not play a crucial role at this time. The situation was very different in the mouse model, since no involvement of complement in either innate or irradiated vaccine-induced immunity could be demonstrated within the first 15 days of infection. Thus, there appear to be phases in the parasite migration in rats, but not in mice, during which complement becomes a critical factor in both innate and acquired immunity to S. mansoni.

The influence of 7,12-dimethylbenzanthracene on natural killer (NK) cell function in rats

The administration to 2 strains of rat (Alderley Park and Sprague Dawley) of 40 (2 X 20) mg of 7,12-dimethylbenzanthracene (DMBA) on a single day caused a transient depression of NK cell function. The splenic natural cytotoxic capacity of both DMBA treated and control animals was augmented by inclusion within the assay of interferon (IFN) but IFN failed to restore carcinogen-treated splenocyte cytotoxicity to normal values. Splenocyte populations from DMBA treated animals exhibiting reduced cytotoxic activity possessed normal frequencies of target-binding lymphocytes suggesting that the impairment of reactivity was attributable to a defect in the post-recognitive stage of NK mediated lysis. Administration of DMBA was not associated with a reduction in spleen weight or cellularity or with an impairment of splenic lymphocyte responsiveness to phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) indicating that depressed NK cell function was not a result of general lymphotoxicity. These data confirm previous reports that administration of chemical carcinogens may be associated with a depression of NK cell function.