Enhanced insulin secretion and improved glucose tolerance in mice lacking CD26

A subset of prolyl oligopeptidases, including dipeptidyl-peptidase IV (DPP IV or CD26, EC ), specifically cleave off N-terminal dipeptides from substrates having proline or alanine in amino acid position 2. This enzyme activity has been implicated in the regulation of the biological activity of multiple hormones and chemokines, including the insulinotropic peptides glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). Targeted inactivation of the CD26 gene yielded healthy mice that have normal blood glucose levels in the fasted state, but reduced glycemic excursion after a glucose challenge. Levels of glucose-stimulated circulating insulin and the intact insulinotropic form of GLP-1 are increased in CD26(-/-) mice. A pharmacological inhibitor of DPP IV enzymatic activity improved glucose tolerance in wild-type, but not in CD26(-/-), mice. This inhibitor also improved glucose tolerance in GLP-1 receptor(-/-) mice, indicating that CD26 contributes to blood glucose regulation by controlling the activity of GLP-1 as well as additional substrates. These data reveal a critical role for CD26 in physiological glucose homeostasis, and establish it as a potential target for therapy in type II diabetes.

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.

Thymocytes in Thy-1-/- mice show augmented TCR signaling and impaired differentiation

Thy-1, a single variable-like immunoglobulin superfamily domain anchored in the plasma membrane by a glycosyl phosphaditylinositol tail [1], is a major surface glycoprotein in adult mammalian neurons and rodent thymocytes [2]; the function of Thy-1 has remained enigmatic since its discovery [3]. Studies in vitro have implicated Thy-1 in homotypic and heterotypic cell-cell interactions [2,4]. Ligation of Thy-1 initiates transmembrane signaling pathways that lead to diverse physiological outcomes in different cells [2,5-7]. In rodents, Thy-1 is highly expressed on the surface of CD4+CD8+ double-positive immature thymocytes and downregulated in mature T cells. Here, we report that thymocytes from Thy-1-/- mice [8] had altered cell-cell contacts, and hyperresponsiveness to T-cell receptor (TCR) triggering as demonstrated by the heightened activation of p56lck, phosphorylation of TCR subunits, Ca2+ fluxes and cell proliferation. Thy-1-/- thymocytes exhibited impaired maturation from the double positive to single positive stage of thymocyte development, possibly due to inappropriate negative selection, and were prone to T lymphomas in aged mice. These observations indicate that Thy-1 negatively regulates TCR-mediated signaling and controls activation thresholds during thymocyte differentiation.

Thy-3, a developmentally regulated T-cell glycoprotein associated to Thy-1 in detergent-resistant membrane microdomains

The function of the Thy-1 molecule, a major T-cell glycoprotein, is still obscure. Its functional properties might be due to the anchoring via a glycosylphosphatidylinositol group which favors gathering of molecules in functional membrane subregions called microdomains. Using novel monoclonal antibodies, we describe a 53-kDa Thy-1-associated glycoprotein called Thy-3. Thy-3 expression is restricted to T lymphocytes, becomes detectable on double-positive thymocytes, and depends on that of Thy-1. Anti-Thy-3 antibodies immunoprecipitate Thy-1 and Thy-3 or Thy-3 alone in detergents which preserve or disrupt microdomains, respectively. These antibodies induce thymocyte aggregation and interfere with adhesion of thymocytes to a thymic epithelial cell line as previously shown with anti-Thy-1 antibodies. Thus, Thy-3 is a T lineage-specific glycoprotein associated to Thy-1 in membrane microdomains and might contribute to the function of Thy-1 in T-cell differentiation.

Synthetic peptides coupled to the lipotripeptide P3CSS induce in vivo B and Thelper cell responses to HIV-1 reverse transcriptase

To evaluate the ability of the lipotripeptide P3CSS to increase peptide-specific immune responses in vivo, we immunized mice from different inbred strains (BALB/c, C3H/HeJ, C57BL/6) with the 22-mer lipopeptide conjugates P3CSS-[RT-(522-543)] and P3CSS-[RT-(528-549)] of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT) which included an immunodominant Th epitope [i.e. RT-(528-543)] characterized previously. Analysis of T and B cell responses to these lipopeptide conjugates indicated that specific Th responses could be readily induced in vivo. The peptide segments could also efficiently prime mice for secondary recognition of native RT. The use of shorter peptides permitted a delineation of the minimal T cell recognition site of this RT C-terminal region [i.e. RT-(528-540)]. Close to this T cell epitope we identified a B cell determinant containing the motif EQVD [RT-(546-549)] which was recognized in three different strains of mice (H-2b, H-2d and H-2k). A comparison with X-ray analysis of the C-terminal region of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase indicated exposed positions of these Th and B cell epitopes. Both the presence of T and B cell sites and its limited polymorphism make the region RT-(528-549) a promising candidate for vaccine design. The use of the P3CSS adjuvant/carrier principle as a nontoxic adjuvant may be of major importance in the development of vaccines applicable to humans.

Deficient antigen presentation by thymic epithelial cells reveals differential induction of T cell clone effector functions by CD28-mediated costimulation

Thymic epithelial cells participate in tolerance induction by deleting or inducing anergy of autoreactive lymphocytes. To explore this process in vitro, the antigen-presenting function of thymic epithelial cell lines was evaluated using a panel of T hybridoma and cloned cells displaying the same antigenic specificity. These mouse thymic epithelial cell lines could process different exogenous antigens and stimulate T hybridoma cells but only induced a partial activation of helper cloned T cells. This state of incomplete activation was characterized by the inability to produce IL-2 and IFN-gamma upon antigenic stimulation, whereas T cell IL-2R alpha expression and cytolytic potential were optimally induced. Thymic epithelial cells failed to express CD28 ligands detected by a CTLA-4/Ig probe even after induction by IFN-gamma. Optimal cloned T cell activation was only observed in the presence of LPS blasts or exogenous IL-2. Costimulation with anti-CD28 mAb was found to restore IFN-gamma but not IL-2 production. Thus, T cell activation by thymic epithelial cell lines provides a useful model to further dissect the requirements for costimulatory molecules, which, in addition to CD28, are required for optimal T cell activation.

Structure of the mouse dipeptidyl peptidase IV (CD26) gene

Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV, EC 3.4.14.5) is an ectopeptidase whose expression is modulated during thymocyte differentiation and T cell activation. We describe here the organization of the mouse DPP IV gene. This gene, which encompasses more than 90 kb, is composed of 26 exons separated by introns, the lengths of which vary from 100 bp to more than 20 kb. Reverse PCR performed on RNA from different tissues indicated that DPP IV transcripts do not contain alternatively spliced CDS sequences and, therefore, are supposed to yield a single polypeptide. However, two types of specific mRNA have been detected that differ in their 3'UTR sequences. They derive from alternative polyadenylation of the DPP IV primary transcript, since the different 3'UTR sequences are contiguous in the mouse DPP IV gene. Sequence analysis of the gene 5'-flanking region revealed several structural features found in the TATAA-box-less promoters, including a G+C-rich segment, a high frequency of dinucleotide CpG, and an imperfect symmetrical dyad. The DPP IV gene was assigned by in situ hybridization to the mouse [2C2-2D] region, which is syntenic with human chromosome 2. These data indicate that the human Dpp4 locus is located within this synteny region (i.e., 2q14-q37). The genomic organization of the mouse DPP IV gene is compared to that of classical serine proteases and serine hydrolases. As structural and mechanistic conservation in the absence of sequence similarity is the most remarkable feature among alpha/beta hydrolases [Ollis, D. L., et al. (1992) Protein Eng. 5, 197-211], we report the possible evolutionary link between the DPP IV related family and alpha/beta hydrolases.

Human immunodeficiency virus-1 reverse transcriptase immunodominant CD4+ T cell epitopes: a peptide-based multiparametric assessment in the mouse

We previously identified an immunodominant CD4+ T cell determinant in the carboxy-terminal region of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT528-543). The present study aimed at enumerating all the potential sites of HIV-1 RT recognized by Th cells in the BALB/c (H-2d) mouse model. To achieve this we used a panel of 62 overlapping 15-mer synthetic peptides covering the whole RT sequence to assay the following parameters: (i) immunogenicity in naive BALB/c mice injected either with peptides pools or individual peptides; (ii) antigenicity, as detected by their ability to restimulate in vitro T cells from BALB/c mice primed with native RT; (iii) MHC class II (Ad)-binding capacity as measured by the inhibition of the antigen-specific, Ad-restricted presentation of unfolded apamin (4-Acm) by fixed antigen-presenting cells to Ad/4-Acm-specific, interleukin-2-producing T hybridoma cells; and (iv) the presence of typical or degenerate consensus Ad-binding motifs. The results in this study permitted identification of three novel immunodominant RT mouse CD4+ T cell sites (RT276-290, RT375-389 and RT411-425) located in regions of limited polymorphism among RT from several HIV isolates. Some of these RT segments were found to be in the vicinity of B cell or H-2Kk- or HLA-A2-restricted cytotoxic T lymphocyte epitopes. Finally, the approach used in this study was found to be very efficient for enumerating most T cell recognition sites in a complex protein, a result that would have not been achieved by a single parameter-based analysis.

Thy-1 triggers mouse thymocyte apoptosis through a bcl-2-resistant mechanism

Programmed cell death plays an important role during thymocyte development, since a vast majority (97%) of mouse cortical thymocytes die in thymus, whereas only 3% of these cells are rescued from cell death and positively selected. Although it seems well established that thymocyte fate depends upon appropriate surface-expressed T cell receptor, little is known about the molecular mechanism(s) responsible for the massive thymocyte elimination that occurs in the thymus. We report here that Thy-1 is capable of triggering mouse thymocyte death in vitro through a bcl-2-resistant mechanism. We have previously shown that Thy-1 is involved in mouse thymocyte adhesion to thymic stroma through interaction with an epithelial cell ligand. To examine the Thy-1 signaling function in thymocytes, we have mimicked its interaction with stromal cells by culturing mouse thymocytes onto tissue culture plates coated with monoclonal antibodies (mAb) directed at distinct Thy-1 epitope regions. mAb recognizing determinants in a defined Thy-1 structural domain, but not others, were found to induce marked thymocyte apoptosis as evidenced by morphological and biochemical data. Use of a quantitative DNA dot blot assay indicated that Thy-1-mediated thymocyte apoptosis was not blocked by RNA or protein synthesis inhibitors, EGTA, or by cyclosporin A, and differed, therefore, from "activation-driven cell death". Moreover, Thy-1(+)-transfected, but not wild-type AKR1 (Thy-1-d) thymoma cells underwent apoptosis after ligation with apoptosis-inducing, Thy-1-specific mAb. In contrast to thymocytes, the latter event was inhibitable by RNA and protein synthesis inhibitors, an indication that thymocytes, but not thymoma cells, contain the molecular components necessary for Thy-1-driven apoptosis. We further showed that Thy-1-triggered thymocyte death is a developmentally regulated process operative in fetal thymocytes from day 17 of gestation, but not in peripheral T cells. Indeed, the target of apoptosis by anti-Thy-1 was found to reside mainly within the CD4+8+3- and CD4+8+3lo double positive immature thymocyte subsets. Finally, it is of major interest that Thy-1-mediated apoptosis, which was found to be readily detectable in thymocytes from bcl-2-transgenic mice, represents a thus far unique experimental system for studying bcl-2-resistant thymocyte death mechanism(s).

Thy-1 functions as a recognition/signaling molecule during mouse T lymphocyte development

Thy-1 is a prototype of mammalian glycosyl phosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored molecules and belongs to the Ig superfamily. This cell surface glycoprotein is expressed on mouse T lymphocytes, neurons and hematopoietic stem cells. Despite detailed structural studies, little is known about the physiological role(s) of Thy-1. We discuss here our results on the role of Thy-1 in immature T lymphocytes during intrathymic maturation. It was observed that Thy-1-mediated adhesion of mouse thymocytes to thymic stromal cells occurs through interaction with an unknown ligand. The interaction occurs by a Ca(2+)-independent mechanism and does not require TCR/CD3 surface expression. To evaluate the signal transduction upon Thy-1 ligation in immature thymocytes, we cultured mouse thymocytes with monoclonal antibodies specific for Thy-1, immobilized onto the tissue culture plates. Monoclonal antibodies directed at determinants located in a defined epitope domain, but not others, triggered marked physiological cell death (apoptosis) of immature thymocytes, as evidenced by morphological and biochemical data. This apoptosis is independent of the cell surface expression of TCR/CD3. It is a developmentally regulated process since the period in which thymocytes are sensitive to Thy-1-dependent apoptosis corresponds to the developmental "window" during which massive death of immature thymocytes takes place within the thymus. Therefore, we propose that Thy-1 could function as a cell survival/death regulator in mouse T lymphocyte development.

Identification of serine 624, aspartic acid 702, and histidine 734 as the catalytic triad residues of mouse dipeptidyl-peptidase IV (CD26). A member of a novel family of nonclassical serine hydrolases

Dipeptidyl-peptidase IV (DPP IV, CD26, EC 3.4.14.5), a multifunctional ectoenzyme, is involved not only in the proteolytic cleavage of X-Pro from the NH2 terminus of a variety of biologically active peptides, but also in activation signal transduction and cell matrix adherence processes. We recently characterized mouse DPP IV cDNA and identified the serine protease Gly-X-Ser-X-Gly consensus motif in its extracellular domain. Mouse DPP IV does not exhibit sequence similarity with any of the classical members of this enzyme family (e.g. chymotrypsin and subtilisin) but shares a conserved structural domain of approximately 200 amino acids with several nonclassical serine hydrolases. In this study, analysis of the similarity of secondary structures and amino acid sequences between these enzymes led us to identify several conserved residues likely to be involved in the catalytic site of these DPP IV-related enzymes. These amino acids (Ser624, Asp702, and His734) were found to be arranged in a novel sequential order as compared with that of archetypal serine proteases (e.g. nucleophile (Ser)-acid-His versus His-acid-nucleophile (Ser), respectively). To directly explore the involvement of these residues in the catalytic function of these enzymes, we performed in vitro site-directed mutagenesis on mouse DPP IV cDNA. Our results indicate that although conservative or non-conservative permutations at these positions do not significantly alter the surface expression and biochemical properties of the mutant molecules, they completely impair their DPP IV enzymatic function. In contrast, mutagenesis of two other aspartic residues (Asp599 and Asp657), also conserved between these DPP IV-related enzymes, did not affect the enzymatic properties of the mouse enzyme. These data provide evidence that DPP IV and its related enzymes belong to a novel family that displays a catalytic triad distinct from that of the classical serine proteases.

Sulfated glycans directly interact with mouse Thy-1 and negatively regulate Thy-1-mediated adhesion of thymocytes to thymic epithelial cells

Thy-1 is a major brain cell surface glycoprotein of adult mammal species also expressed in rodent thymus. Despite extensive studies, the function(s) of this molecule has remained so far ill defined. We have recently shown that Thy-1 was involved in the adhesion of mouse thymocytes to thymic epithelium through a specific interaction with a heterophilic ligand(s) expressed on the epithelial cell surface. In the present study, we aimed at evaluating the interaction of sulfated glycans with mouse Thy-1, as well as its consequence on Thy-1-mediated thymic lympho-epithelial cell interaction. It was shown that 125I-labeled Thy-1 directly bound to immobilized heparin. Sulfated glycans such as pentosan sulfate, dextran sulfate, and fucoidan were found to strongly inhibit the binding of Thy-1 to heparin. In contrast, chondroitin sulfate, keratan sulfate, and heparan sulfate were not inhibitory. Sulfated glycans (e.g., pentosan sulfate, assayed at a concentration of 50 micrograms/ml) completely blocked the Thy-1-dependent adhesion of T cells to a mouse thymic epithelial cell monolayer. To explore the mechanism of this inhibition, we compared the ability of T cell to adhere to mouse thymic epithelial cell monolayer or to sulfated glycans. Our results suggest that sulfated glycans bind to a Thy-1 site distinct from that with which this molecule interacts with its heterophilic ligand. Moreover, sulfate glycans could modulate the binding of rat mAb directed at spatially distinct Thy-1 epitopes. The present results identified a potential mechanism regulating Thy-1-mediated lympho-epithelial cell adhesion.

Sulfated glycans directly interact with mouse Thy-1 and negatively regulate Thy-1-mediated adhesion of thymocytes to thymic epithelial cells

Thy-1 is a major brain cell surface glycoprotein of adult mammal species also expressed in rodent thymus. Despite extensive studies, the function(s) of this molecule has remained so far ill defined. We have recently shown that Thy-1 was involved in the adhesion of mouse thymocytes to thymic epithelium through a specific interaction with a heterophilic ligand(s) expressed on the epithelial cell surface. In the present study, we aimed at evaluating the interaction of sulfated glycans with mouse Thy-1, as well as its consequence on Thy-1-mediated thymic lympho-epithelial cell interaction. It was shown that 125I-labeled Thy-1 directly bound to immobilized heparin. Sulfated glycans such as pentosan sulfate, dextran sulfate, and fucoidan were found to strongly inhibit the binding of Thy-1 to heparin. In contrast, chondroitin sulfate, keratan sulfate, and heparan sulfate were not inhibitory. Sulfated glycans (e.g., pentosan sulfate, assayed at a concentration of 50 micrograms/ml) completely blocked the Thy-1-dependent adhesion of T cells to a mouse thymic epithelial cell monolayer. To explore the mechanism of this inhibition, we compared the ability of T cell to adhere to mouse thymic epithelial cell monolayer or to sulfated glycans. Our results suggest that sulfated glycans bind to a Thy-1 site distinct from that with which this molecule interacts with its heterophilic ligand. Moreover, sulfate glycans could modulate the binding of rat mAb directed at spatially distinct Thy-1 epitopes. The present results identified a potential mechanism regulating Thy-1-mediated lympho-epithelial cell adhesion.

cDNA cloning for mouse thymocyte-activating molecule. A multifunctional ecto-dipeptidyl peptidase IV (CD26) included in a subgroup of serine proteases

Thymocyte-activating molecule (THAM) was initially characterized as a developmentally regulated, dimeric cell-surface molecule capable of activating mouse thymocytes and T lymphocytes upon monoclonal antibody (mAb)-mediated cross-linking. We recently obtained structural evidence indicating that this molecule is the mouse homologue of the human T cell-activating ectoenzyme CD26 (dipeptidyl peptidase IV, DPP IV). We describe here the cloning and the characterization of THAM cDNA. Two clones (3.3 and 2.8 kilobases) were isolated. THAM-3.3 cDNA contains an open reading frame of 2,280 nucleotides that encodes a protein of 760 amino acids having a calculated size of 87,500 Da. Complete N-glycosylation at each of the nine potential sites would result in a mature 110,000-Da molecule. Protein sequence comparisons revealed a significant homology (in particular in the COOH-terminal domain) between THAM and the rat or human DPP IV or the yeast dipeptidyl aminopeptidase B molecules (92, 85, and 30% sequence identity, respectively). Structural comparison of serine proteases (i.e. acyl-amino acid hydrolase or prolyl endopeptidase) with the most conserved domain of THAM identified a stretch of 200 amino acids containing a putative catalytic triad arranged in a novel topological order (Ser-624, Asp-702, and His-734) thereby defining a subfamily of nonclassical serine proteases. Expression of THAM during thymus ontogeny was found to be mainly regulated at the transcriptional level as determined by RNase protection assay. To investigate directly some of the functions which have been ascribed to DPP IV, we transfected an ovalbumin/Aq-reactive, THAM- T hybridoma cell line with THAM-3.3 cDNA. The resultant transfectants acquired (i) DPP IV enzymatic activity that precisely paralleled the density of surface-expressed THAM; (ii) an Mr = 115,000 (reduced) and 110,000/128,000 (nonreduced) molecule that could be immunoprecipitated by the THAM-specific mAb H194-112; and (iii) the capacity of being triggered by this mAb to release interleukin-2. These data indicate that a single cDNA species can encode a multifunctional molecule (e.g. activation signal-transducing structure and ectopeptidase), the heterodimeric state of which very likely results from a differential post-translational modification of the same protein core.

Isolation and characterization of a novel glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol-anchored glycoconjugate expressed by developing neurons

In search of new markers for studying thymic and nervous system ontogeny, we raised rat monoclonal antibodies against glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol-anchored molecules among which larger groupings have been shown to be ectoenzymes and adhesion molecules. Two of these monoclonal antibodies (H193-4 and H194-563, IgG) were found to recognize glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol-anchored glycoconjugates of 28-33 kDa (P31) and 50-70 kDa in developing mouse brain and thymus respectively, when these tissues were analysed by immunoblot experiments. P31 antigen was found to be transiently expressed by neurons in neural primary cultures [Rougon, G., Alterman, L., Dennis, K., Guo, X. J. & Kinnon, K. (1991) Eur. J. Immunol. 21, 1397-1402]. We show in this report that, in developing mouse brain, a maximal expression occurred between embryonic day 17 and post-natal day 5, a period that corresponds to the formation of neuronal networks. P31 antigen was immunopurified and found to possess the following properties: (a) it was soluble in alkaline solvents; (b) it bound to DEAE-cellulose and was eluted by a salt gradient of 0-1 M NaCl; (c) it was sensitive to endoglycosidase F digestion; (d) it was insensitive to heparinase, hyaluronidase, chondroitinase ABC, endo-beta-galactosidase and sialidase treatment; (e) it was labile to mild acid hydrolysis without loss of immunoreactivity; (f) it contained phosphate; (g) it lost its immunoreactivity after treatment with phosphatidylinositol phospholipase C and treatment. These characteristics combine to suggest that P31 is an anionic glycoconjugate sharing similarities with Leishmania donovani lipophosphoglycan and with the heat-stable antigen recognized by J11d antibody on murine hematopoïetic cells. This last hypothesis was further confirmed by the observation that oligonucleotide probes derived from the heat-stable antigen-encoding cDNA detect, in developing brain, a 1.8-kb mRNA species similar in size to that reported for the heat-stable antigen mRNA and following the same developmental expression as P31 antigen.

Evidence that thymocyte-activating molecule is mouse CD26 (dipeptidyl peptidase IV)

We previously described a developmentally regulated, Mr 115,000 (reduced) and 110,000/128,000 (nonreduced) mouse T cell-activating molecule (THAM) also expressed on a variety of epithelial cell surfaces, and associated with neutral exoaminopeptidase activity. In the present study, we show that THAM is the mouse counterpart of the human T cell-activating ectoenzyme CD26 (dipeptidyl peptidase IV, DPP IV) and that highly purified THAM lacks neutral exoaminopeptidase activity. This conclusion is based on the following: 1) the N-terminal segments of the THAM Mr 110,000 and 128,000 components shared the same amino acid sequence with the rat DPP IV. These N-termini comprised a short intracytoplasmic tail of six residues followed by a downstream hydrophobic transmembrane segment. 2) THAM-specific mAb H194-112-Affi-Gel immunoadsorbent was capable of removing DPP IV enzymatic activity from mouse thymoma cell detergent extracts. 3) H194-112 reactivity pattern on developing thymocytes was found to parallel that previously reported for membrane-bound DPP IV enzymatic activity. The extent of THAM N-glycosylation, as measured by N-glycanase treatment of H194-112 immunoprecipitates, was found to be similar to that of human and rat DPP IV (i.e., approximately 20 kDa). Cross-linking experiments indicated that THAM was expressed at the cell surface as a dimer of approximately 220 kDa. Its two subunits were found to be structurally related but not identical as shown by their different Mr under nonreducing conditions and by their slightly distinct peptide profiles after proteolytic cleavage. We conclude from these data that DPP IV, in addition to its extracellular matrix receptor and ectoenzymatic functions, is a T cell-activating structure in both human and mouse species.

Evidence that thymocyte-activating molecule is mouse CD26 (dipeptidyl peptidase IV)

We previously described a developmentally regulated, Mr 115,000 (reduced) and 110,000/128,000 (nonreduced) mouse T cell-activating molecule (THAM) also expressed on a variety of epithelial cell surfaces, and associated with neutral exoaminopeptidase activity. In the present study, we show that THAM is the mouse counterpart of the human T cell-activating ectoenzyme CD26 (dipeptidyl peptidase IV, DPP IV) and that highly purified THAM lacks neutral exoaminopeptidase activity. This conclusion is based on the following: 1) the N-terminal segments of the THAM Mr 110,000 and 128,000 components shared the same amino acid sequence with the rat DPP IV. These N-termini comprised a short intracytoplasmic tail of six residues followed by a downstream hydrophobic transmembrane segment. 2) THAM-specific mAb H194-112-Affi-Gel immunoadsorbent was capable of removing DPP IV enzymatic activity from mouse thymoma cell detergent extracts. 3) H194-112 reactivity pattern on developing thymocytes was found to parallel that previously reported for membrane-bound DPP IV enzymatic activity. The extent of THAM N-glycosylation, as measured by N-glycanase treatment of H194-112 immunoprecipitates, was found to be similar to that of human and rat DPP IV (i.e., approximately 20 kDa). Cross-linking experiments indicated that THAM was expressed at the cell surface as a dimer of approximately 220 kDa. Its two subunits were found to be structurally related but not identical as shown by their different Mr under nonreducing conditions and by their slightly distinct peptide profiles after proteolytic cleavage. We conclude from these data that DPP IV, in addition to its extracellular matrix receptor and ectoenzymatic functions, is a T cell-activating structure in both human and mouse species.

Identification of a major human immunodeficiency virus-1 reverse transcriptase epitope recognized by mouse CD4+ T lymphocytes

Delineation of major T helper cell recognition sites of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) proteins represents one important step in the design of an efficient acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) vaccine. Towards this end, we have explored the immunogenicity of HIV-1BRU proteins in the mouse model. Preliminary experiments revealed that inbred mice primed with whole inactivated HIV-1 developed strong CD4+ T cell proliferative responses to a variety of recombinant viral proteins including reverse transcriptase (RT). To characterize further the mouse T cell responses to this protein, several Ad- or Ed-restricted T hybridoma cells (THC) were established from BALB/c or DBA/2 mice. These THC were tested for their capacity to recognize a series of 15-mer synthetic overlapping peptides spanning three segments of HIV-1 RT that had been preselected on the basis of either alpha-helicity, amphipaticity, and/or for containing rare amino acid sequence patterns. Peptides corresponding to a C-terminal region (residues 528-560) of RT were recognized by several of the THC established from RT-primed mice. Furthermore, a non-alpha-helical peptide from this region (A3, 528-543) was capable of priming mice with different H-2 haplotypes for both peptide A3 and native RT CD4+ T cell recognition. In addition to the recently identified RT determinant 203-219 capable of triggering both mouse and human CD8+ CTL, the present results identify a good candidate for an immunodominant RT epitope capable of eliciting RT-specific T helper cell responses.

Cell-surface enzymes and lymphocyte functions

Recent studies have provided insights into the enzymatic functions of many surface molecules expressed by monocytes and lymphocytes. These ectoenzymes act as cell-differentiation markers of lymphomonocytic lineages; some of them are also involved in activation, signal-transduction and cell-matrix adhesion processes, as well as in the regulation of biological responses of bioactive peptides.

Thy-1 supports adhesion of mouse thymocytes to thymic epithelial cells through a Ca2(+)-independent mechanism

The aim of this study was to explore whether Thy-1, like other members of the Ig-like superfamily (e.g., CD2 and neural cell adhesion molecule), participates in cell-cell adhesion. This was investigated by measuring the binding of Thy-1+ probe cells (thymocytes or AKR1 T lymphoma cells) to Thy-1- cloned mouse thymic epithelial (MTE) cells using a quantitative cell adhesion assay. The results were as follows: (a) the thymo-epithelial cell interaction was found to be inhibitable (by 25-40%) by soluble Thy-1 molecules purified from phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C-treated mouse thymocytes as well as by Fab' fragments of a Thy-1-specific mAb; (b) the binding of the Thy-1- AKR1 (Thy-1-d) mutant to MTE cells was found to be reduced (by 50%) as compared with that of the wild type T lymphoma; (c) the Thy-1-mediated adhesion pathway did not require Ca2+ and promoted the initial thymo-epithelial binding measured at 4 degrees C. These data provide the first direct evidence of an adhesive function of Thy-1 and suggest that this molecule, in addition to its T cell triggering properties, might play a role during the early T cell maturation by promoting thymocyte adhesion to thymic stroma.

Epitope mapping of apamin by means of monoclonal antibodies raised against free or carrier-coupled peptide

A panel of 20 monoclonal antibodies raised against the bee-venom peptide apamin (18 residues, 2 disulfide bridges) was prepared. Nine monoclonal antibodies (mAb) were obtained from a mouse immunized with free apamin and 11 from a mouse immunized with a mixture of free and carrier-coupled peptide. Using a panel of 11 synthetic apamin analogs, we examined the fine antigenic specificity of each antibody. The mAb generated against free apamin preferentially bound to the central part of the peptide and less frequently recognized the N- and C-terminal regions. However, monoclonal antibodies obtained by immunization with carrier-bound apamin showed a broader range of specificities, consistent with the possibility of the entire surface of this small antigen becoming immunogenic upon coupling to the carrier.

Characterization of the neutral aminopeptidase activity associated to the mouse thymocyte-activating molecule

We previously characterized a dimeric, Mr = 115,000, developmentally regulated mouse T cell-activating molecule (THAM). We show in this report that the THAM-specific mAb H194-112 exhibits strong reactivity with several nonlymphoid tissues including polarized enterocytes from small intestine, kidney cortical tubuli, and liver bile ductuli, as well as kidney glomeruli and lung alveoloar pneumocytes. Both the tissue distribution and the structural features of THAM made it likely that this molecule belongs to the ectoenzyme family. This was confirmed by the following experimental evidence: 1) the H194-112+ molecules from enterocyte brush borders (BB) or M14.T thymoma cells were recognized by several antisera specific for intestinal aminopeptidase N (AP-N); 2) mAb H194-112 was found to immunodeplete the AP-N activity from both thymic or enterocyte BB detergent extracts; 3) the hydrophilic, Mr = 115,000 form obtained by papain treatment of thymoma or enterocyte BB could be immunopurified on H194-112 column and exhibited, after hypotonic elution, strong enzymatic activity on the AP-N substrates (i.e., leucyl or alanyl beta-derivatives); 4) mAb H194-112 was found to inhibit the AP-N activity when assayed on alanyl but not leucyl beta-naphthylamide substrate; and 5) preincubation of AP-N with mAb H194-112 prevented the inhibiting effects of bestatin and D,L-methionyl hydroxamate on AP-N activity. These data add a new member to the list of functional ectoenzymatic markers of lymphoid cells (i.e., CD10, CD13, CD26, CD55, and CD73). In view of the known immunomodulating properties of bestatin, one may speculate that the T cell-activating effects of mAb H194-112 is related to an impairment of a surface enzymatic function regulating lymphoid cell activation.

Characterization of the neutral aminopeptidase activity associated to the mouse thymocyte-activating molecule

We previously characterized a dimeric, Mr = 115,000, developmentally regulated mouse T cell-activating molecule (THAM). We show in this report that the THAM-specific mAb H194-112 exhibits strong reactivity with several nonlymphoid tissues including polarized enterocytes from small intestine, kidney cortical tubuli, and liver bile ductuli, as well as kidney glomeruli and lung alveoloar pneumocytes. Both the tissue distribution and the structural features of THAM made it likely that this molecule belongs to the ectoenzyme family. This was confirmed by the following experimental evidence: 1) the H194-112+ molecules from enterocyte brush borders (BB) or M14.T thymoma cells were recognized by several antisera specific for intestinal aminopeptidase N (AP-N); 2) mAb H194-112 was found to immunodeplete the AP-N activity from both thymic or enterocyte BB detergent extracts; 3) the hydrophilic, Mr = 115,000 form obtained by papain treatment of thymoma or enterocyte BB could be immunopurified on H194-112 column and exhibited, after hypotonic elution, strong enzymatic activity on the AP-N substrates (i.e., leucyl or alanyl beta-derivatives); 4) mAb H194-112 was found to inhibit the AP-N activity when assayed on alanyl but not leucyl beta-naphthylamide substrate; and 5) preincubation of AP-N with mAb H194-112 prevented the inhibiting effects of bestatin and D,L-methionyl hydroxamate on AP-N activity. These data add a new member to the list of functional ectoenzymatic markers of lymphoid cells (i.e., CD10, CD13, CD26, CD55, and CD73). In view of the known immunomodulating properties of bestatin, one may speculate that the T cell-activating effects of mAb H194-112 is related to an impairment of a surface enzymatic function regulating lymphoid cell activation.

Mouse thymic epithelial cell lines interact with and select a CD3lowCD4+CD8+ thymocyte subset through an LFA-1-dependent adhesion--de-adhesion mechanism

Differentiation of bone-marrow-derived precursor cells into mature mouse T lymphocytes occurs in the thymus and involves sequential interactions with MHC-positive hemopoietic and epithelial stromal cells. To study the in vitro molecular mechanisms at play during the lympho-epithelial cell adhesion, we derived thymic stromal cell lines which were shown to possess cytokeratin filaments and tight junctions. These mouse thymic epithelial (MTE) cell lines did not express the classical hemopoietic stromal cell surface markers (i.e. LFA-1, Mac-1, and CD45) but expressed ICAM-1, NCAM, J11d, CD44, and MHC molecules. A quantitative cell adhesion assay was used to evaluate the interaction of various lymphoid cell subsets with MTE cells. Two cell interaction patterns could be defined: first, a rapid adhesion of a fraction of CD4+CD8+ and of a few CD4-CD8- immature thymocytes to MTE cells was observed at 4 degrees C. The CD8 molecule was shown to be partially involved in this initial contact. The strength of adhesion between MTE cells and distinct thymocyte subsets was evaluated and found to be maximal with neonatal thymocytes. Second, a temperature-dependent adhesion step characterized by a rapid and active stabilization of the interaction of MTE cells with 20% of CD4+CD8+CD3low thymocytes was seen, followed by a more progressive de-adhesion step. This active process of engagement was highly LFA-1-dependent, involved the CD4 and CD8 molecules, and required protein kinase C activation and cytoskeletal integrity. The results are consistent with the involvement of LFA-1 in a transient and regulated cell adhesion under the control of the TCR-CD3 complex that progressively appears on maturing cells. This phenomenon might contribute to the selection of a subset of immature thymocytes by epithelial cells occurring during the process of maturation of these cells.

Structural analysis of the interaction of apamin with Ia and its recognition by Ad- or Ab-restricted mouse T cells

Apamin is a single-chain, disulfide-bonded, 18-amino acid peptide that elicits mouse T cell responses when presented by cells expressing syngeneic Ad or Ab class II MHC molecules. We previously showed that both the unfolding of this peptide by APC and the integrity of its N terminus segment were required for efficient apamin T cell recognition. To seek further information on the sites through which this peptide interacts with Ia and/or TCR, we used a panel of Ad- or Ab-restricted, apamin-specific THC to probe the antigenicity of a series of synthetic apamin analogs. These included peptides either truncated at the N terminus, or substituted by Ala at position 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, or 10. Analysis of THC responses to apamin analogs and use of the latter in competition assays for peptide presentation revealed the following: 1) optimal apamin T cell recognition critically involved Lys4, Ala5, Pro6, Glu7, and Leu10. The role of these residues in either "Ia or TCR binding regions" was found to depend upon the restricting Ia molecules at play. Thus, Lys4, Glu7, and Leu10 were TCR-binding residues in both Ad- and Ab-apamin complexes, whereas Lys4 participated in apamin/Ab but not, or to a marginal extent, in apamin/Ad interaction. Furthermore, Pro6 was associated either with an Ia contact region or a TCR interaction site when apamin was presented by Ab or Ad molecules, respectively. Unfolded apamin and the unrelated chicken OVA323-339 peptide were found to bind to the same, or closely related site(s) of Ad, as shown by their ability to compete reciprocally for recognition by appropriate Ad-restricted THC. Four distinct TCR V beta genes (V beta 2, V beta 4, V beta 6, and V beta 8) were found to be used in our panel of 16 apamin-specific THC. These data indicate that apamin interacts with Ad or TCR through a motif resembling other beta-sheeted, Ad-binding sequences; however, based on the spacing of the critical residues (i.e., 4, 7, and 10), the possibility exists that apamin processing permits the folding of this sequence into an alpha-helix.

Structural analysis of the interaction of apamin with Ia and its recognition by Ad- or Ab-restricted mouse T cells

Apamin is a single-chain, disulfide-bonded, 18-amino acid peptide that elicits mouse T cell responses when presented by cells expressing syngeneic Ad or Ab class II MHC molecules. We previously showed that both the unfolding of this peptide by APC and the integrity of its N terminus segment were required for efficient apamin T cell recognition. To seek further information on the sites through which this peptide interacts with Ia and/or TCR, we used a panel of Ad- or Ab-restricted, apamin-specific THC to probe the antigenicity of a series of synthetic apamin analogs. These included peptides either truncated at the N terminus, or substituted by Ala at position 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, or 10. Analysis of THC responses to apamin analogs and use of the latter in competition assays for peptide presentation revealed the following: 1) optimal apamin T cell recognition critically involved Lys4, Ala5, Pro6, Glu7, and Leu10. The role of these residues in either "Ia or TCR binding regions" was found to depend upon the restricting Ia molecules at play. Thus, Lys4, Glu7, and Leu10 were TCR-binding residues in both Ad- and Ab-apamin complexes, whereas Lys4 participated in apamin/Ab but not, or to a marginal extent, in apamin/Ad interaction. Furthermore, Pro6 was associated either with an Ia contact region or a TCR interaction site when apamin was presented by Ab or Ad molecules, respectively. Unfolded apamin and the unrelated chicken OVA323-339 peptide were found to bind to the same, or closely related site(s) of Ad, as shown by their ability to compete reciprocally for recognition by appropriate Ad-restricted THC. Four distinct TCR V beta genes (V beta 2, V beta 4, V beta 6, and V beta 8) were found to be used in our panel of 16 apamin-specific THC. These data indicate that apamin interacts with Ad or TCR through a motif resembling other beta-sheeted, Ad-binding sequences; however, based on the spacing of the critical residues (i.e., 4, 7, and 10), the possibility exists that apamin processing permits the folding of this sequence into an alpha-helix.

I-A alpha polymorphic residues that determine alloreactive T cell recognition

An individual's T lymphocytes are highly reactive to allogeneic MHC molecules. As a step in deciphering the mechanism of allorecognition by T lymphocytes, we have attempted to identify the TCR's target on MHC class II molecules, in particular the polymorphic residues that determine the specificity of recognition. We have generated a panel of Ak-reactive, Ab-nonreactive T cell hybridomas, and sets of L cell transfectants displaying A alpha A beta molecules with wild-type, chimeric or single site-mutated A alpha chains, with reciprocal interchanges between Ak and Ab. We then measured the stimulation of the T hybridomas in response to the transfectants. The results indicate that the hybridomas recognize diverse and complex determinants, with contributions from both A alpha and A beta chains, and from several regions or amino acids of the A alpha chain. The data are most consistent with a model in which alloreactivity results from the presentation of peptides to the T cell by an allogeneic MHC molecule, peptides that cannot be presented by the responder's own MHC complexes. The specificity of allorecognition seems to be imparted mainly by peptide/MHC molecule rather than TCR/MHC molecule contacts.

A novel T cell-activating molecule (THAM) highly expressed on CD4-CD8- murine thymocytes

Recent studies have focused on the potential role of accessory molecules such as CD2, CD28, Thy-1, or TAP in the delivery of activating signals to thymocytes through antigen-independent pathways. To better understand the molecular interactions involved in the expansion of early thymic immigrants, rat mAb were raised against murine thymocyte-surface molecules and screened for their capacity to trigger thymocyte proliferation. One of these mAb (H194-112, IgG2a) was found to recognize a novel heterodimeric thymocyte-activating molecule (THAM) of Mr = 110,000 to 128,000. Flow cytometric analyses and staining patterns on frozen thymus sections subdivided adult thymocytes in three subsets expressing THAM at either low (10%), moderate (80%), or high (5 to 8%) cell-surface density; these cell groups were found to correspond, respectively, to the medullary, the cortical, and the immature CD4-CD8-, J11d+ thymocytes, in which the T cell precursor pool is included. Moreover, most (90%) day 16 fetal thymocytes were also found to upregulate THAM cell-surface expression. The THAMhigh cells were localized in the subcapsular area of the neonatal thymus and scattered throughout the adult organ. Cross-linked mAb H194-112 induced the proliferation of both immature and mature thymocytes in the presence of either PMA or IL-1 and IL-2. The observation that early thymocytes up-regulate THAM along with the IL-2R suggests that this molecule might be involved in an important activation pathway during thymocyte differentiation.

A novel T cell-activating molecule (THAM) highly expressed on CD4-CD8- murine thymocytes

Recent studies have focused on the potential role of accessory molecules such as CD2, CD28, Thy-1, or TAP in the delivery of activating signals to thymocytes through antigen-independent pathways. To better understand the molecular interactions involved in the expansion of early thymic immigrants, rat mAb were raised against murine thymocyte-surface molecules and screened for their capacity to trigger thymocyte proliferation. One of these mAb (H194-112, IgG2a) was found to recognize a novel heterodimeric thymocyte-activating molecule (THAM) of Mr = 110,000 to 128,000. Flow cytometric analyses and staining patterns on frozen thymus sections subdivided adult thymocytes in three subsets expressing THAM at either low (10%), moderate (80%), or high (5 to 8%) cell-surface density; these cell groups were found to correspond, respectively, to the medullary, the cortical, and the immature CD4-CD8-, J11d+ thymocytes, in which the T cell precursor pool is included. Moreover, most (90%) day 16 fetal thymocytes were also found to upregulate THAM cell-surface expression. The THAMhigh cells were localized in the subcapsular area of the neonatal thymus and scattered throughout the adult organ. Cross-linked mAb H194-112 induced the proliferation of both immature and mature thymocytes in the presence of either PMA or IL-1 and IL-2. The observation that early thymocytes up-regulate THAM along with the IL-2R suggests that this molecule might be involved in an important activation pathway during thymocyte differentiation.

Slot-machine mutagenesis of a polymorphic residue on the A kappa alpha-chain

This study explores the limitations on variability at a polymorphic position of an MHC class II molecule. Using a convenient and rapid method termed "slot-machine mutagenesis," we have converted Glu75 on the A kappa-chain to 15 alternative amino acids. This residue is of interest because it is an immunodominant site on the A kappa alpha chain and because it participates in certain T cell epitopes. The wild-type and mutant A kappa alpha cDNA were transfected into L cells (together with the A kappa beta cDNA and a selection marker), and transfectants displaying high surface levels of the A kappa complex were selected and expanded. We sought to examine three questions: what is the effect of these mutations on the expression and overall conformation of the A alpha: A beta complex? How do these diverse mutations influence mAb epitopes for which Glu75 makes a direct contribution to specificity? Do such substitutions affect T cell recognition of the A kappa alpha:A kappa beta complex? The answers to these three questions are quite different. Position 75 of the A alpha chain can accommodate essentially all chemically divergent amino acids without major consequences for expression and overall A alpha:A beta structure. In contrast, mAb that recognize Glu75-dependent epitopes are extremely particular about the amino acid residing at this position. T cells are less fastidious: those that are affected by the mutations still recognize a number of substitutions. These data emphasize the tolerance of MHC molecules to evolutionary tampering.

Slot-machine mutagenesis of a polymorphic residue on the A kappa alpha-chain

This study explores the limitations on variability at a polymorphic position of an MHC class II molecule. Using a convenient and rapid method termed "slot-machine mutagenesis," we have converted Glu75 on the A kappa-chain to 15 alternative amino acids. This residue is of interest because it is an immunodominant site on the A kappa alpha chain and because it participates in certain T cell epitopes. The wild-type and mutant A kappa alpha cDNA were transfected into L cells (together with the A kappa beta cDNA and a selection marker), and transfectants displaying high surface levels of the A kappa complex were selected and expanded. We sought to examine three questions: what is the effect of these mutations on the expression and overall conformation of the A alpha: A beta complex? How do these diverse mutations influence mAb epitopes for which Glu75 makes a direct contribution to specificity? Do such substitutions affect T cell recognition of the A kappa alpha:A kappa beta complex? The answers to these three questions are quite different. Position 75 of the A alpha chain can accommodate essentially all chemically divergent amino acids without major consequences for expression and overall A alpha:A beta structure. In contrast, mAb that recognize Glu75-dependent epitopes are extremely particular about the amino acid residing at this position. T cells are less fastidious: those that are affected by the mutations still recognize a number of substitutions. These data emphasize the tolerance of MHC molecules to evolutionary tampering.

T cell activation: distinct pathways involve phosphorylation of different cellular proteins

The murine T cell clone D10.G4.1 can be induced to proliferate by monoclonal antibodies (mAb) to the T cell receptor (TcR) or to Thy-1 molecules. When cells were stimulated by anti-TcR mAb, a group of 4 proteins (19-25 kDa) was specifically phosphorylated. This effect was completely mimicked by the Ca2+ ionophore A23187, whereas only two of these proteins (19 kDa and 25 kDa) were phosphorylated after cell exposure to the phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate. By contrast, anti-Thy-1 mAb had no effect on the phosphorylation of these proteins, but induced specifically the phosphorylation of a protein of 32 kDa. These results therefore demonstrate that distinct activating pathways in T cells involve the phosphorylation of different proteins, suggesting that the stimulation of protein kinases in T lymphocytes is an early event in cell activation.

Structure-function analysis of Ia molecules: in-phase insertion mutagenesis of the amino-terminal domain of the E beta k polypeptide chain

To identify which segments of the beta 1 domain of the E beta k polypeptide control T cell recognition of antigen, E beta genes were constructed with in-phase insertion mutations. Five independent mutants, with insertions mapping to positions 24, 50 and 93 of the E beta k polypeptide, were obtained. Cell lines expressing these mutated genes were analysed by microfluorometry using a panel of 20 anti-Ek monoclonal antibodies. None of the tested in-phase insertions has resulted in the loss of antibody binding sites. In striking contrast, mutations at position 93 and at a lesser level 50 were indicative of a crucial role of the corresponding regions in T-cell recognition, because they led to significant or complete loss of antigen-presenting function with all but one of the T hybridomas tested. These data are discussed with regard to a model of the foreign antigen binding site of Ia molecules.

Interactions between the Thy-1 and T-cell antigen receptor pathways in the activation of cytotoxic T cells: evidence from synergistic effects, loss variants, and anti-CD8 antibody-mediated inhibition

The relationship between activation of cytolytic T-lymphocyte (CTL) clones via the T-cell receptor (Ti) or the Thy-1 molecule was investigated. Anti-Ti and anti-Thy-1 monoclonal antibodies (mAb) can activate CTL clones to secrete interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma). Suboptimal doses of anti-Ti and anti-Thy-1 mAb, as well as suboptimal doses of two different anti-Thy-1 mAb, can synergize to activate T-cell clones. The addition of phorbol myristic acetate (PMA), which is not stimulatory by itself, can enhance the synergistic effect of mAb on IFN-gamma production. Although the Ti and Thy-1 molecules were not found associated at the cell surface, the results presented here indicate that these molecules are functionally associated. Use of Ti loss variants of a CTL clone confirms that Thy-1-mediated signaling is not an alternative to, but is dependent on the Ti-mediated activation pathway. Additionally, use of anti-Lyt-2/3 mAb, previously described as interfering with class I MHC-Ti binding and/or activation and, in some cases, with anti-Ti-mediated activation revealed that anti-Thy-1 mAb-mediated activation was also greatly reduced by the presence of Lyt-2/3-specific mAb. Thus the interaction between Thy-1 and Ti might also involve Lyt-2 (Lyt-3) molecules.

Processing by accessory cells for presentation to murine T cells of apamin, a disulfide-bonded 18 amino acid peptide

Apamin, an 18 amino acid peptide with two disulfide bonds, elicits specific T cell proliferative responses in H-2d and H-2b mouse strains. We evaluated the processing requirement of this compact peptide by accessory cells for presentation to apamin-reactive T hybridoma cells (THC) by analyzing the IL-2 responses of 16 THC from apamin-primed BALB/c or C57BL/6 mice, to various forms of either native or chemically synthesized apamin analogs. These included: unfolded peptides (whose four sulfhydryl groups were blocked by acetamidomethyl residues), N-and/or C-truncated peptides, and an analog with a single amino acid substitution at position 10. Assessment of the Ag-specific THC responses in the presence of either live or formaldehyde-prefixed APC indicated the following: 1) all THC stringently required Ag processing; 2) in 8 of 16 cases, the simple unfolding of apamin was sufficient to eliminate the need for Ag processing, or even induced increased THC IL-2 responses (other cells required further antigenic alterations in addition to unfolding, or rare processing steps dependent on the integrity of the two disulfide bonds); and 3) for most THC, the Leu10 and the N terminus arm of apamin were shown to be critical for expression of the epitopes involved in T cell recognition. These data indicate that apamin, a natural peptide having an appropriate size for T cell triggering, acquires its antigenic conformation after a processing by APC which primarily involves an alteration of a disulfide bond-dependent peptide folding.

Processing by accessory cells for presentation to murine T cells of apamin, a disulfide-bonded 18 amino acid peptide

Apamin, an 18 amino acid peptide with two disulfide bonds, elicits specific T cell proliferative responses in H-2d and H-2b mouse strains. We evaluated the processing requirement of this compact peptide by accessory cells for presentation to apamin-reactive T hybridoma cells (THC) by analyzing the IL-2 responses of 16 THC from apamin-primed BALB/c or C57BL/6 mice, to various forms of either native or chemically synthesized apamin analogs. These included: unfolded peptides (whose four sulfhydryl groups were blocked by acetamidomethyl residues), N-and/or C-truncated peptides, and an analog with a single amino acid substitution at position 10. Assessment of the Ag-specific THC responses in the presence of either live or formaldehyde-prefixed APC indicated the following: 1) all THC stringently required Ag processing; 2) in 8 of 16 cases, the simple unfolding of apamin was sufficient to eliminate the need for Ag processing, or even induced increased THC IL-2 responses (other cells required further antigenic alterations in addition to unfolding, or rare processing steps dependent on the integrity of the two disulfide bonds); and 3) for most THC, the Leu10 and the N terminus arm of apamin were shown to be critical for expression of the epitopes involved in T cell recognition. These data indicate that apamin, a natural peptide having an appropriate size for T cell triggering, acquires its antigenic conformation after a processing by APC which primarily involves an alteration of a disulfide bond-dependent peptide folding.

Two novel phospholipid-linked mouse thymocyte surface molecules released by phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C

We searched for mouse thymocyte surface proteins attached to the cell membrane through a phosphatidylinositol (PI)-containing glycolipid similar to that identified in the T cell-activating Thy-1 glycoprotein. Our approach was to biochemically analyse the supernatants of 125I surface-labeled thymocytes treated with 60 U/ml of Staphylococcus aureus PI-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC). In addition to Thy-1, two molecules of Mr 13,000 and 52,000 were found to be specifically solubilized by the enzymatic treatment. The 52,000 structure is a single basic polypeptide of Mr 50,000 under non-reducing conditions. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis analyses resolved the 13,000 mol. wt molecules in three relatively basic components including (i) a monomeric molecule(s), a fraction of which exhibited slower migration in reducing gels, and (ii) disulfide-linked multimeric structures comprising a major component of Mr 30,000 and a minor one of Mr 45,000. These 52,000 and 13,000 mol. wt molecules could be released from thymocytes and Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated B cell blasts, but not from a variety of mature T cell populations. These data add new members to the list of PI-linked rodent lymphoid cell differentiation markers, which already includes three activation signal-transducing T cell molecules (i.e. Thy-1, Ly-6-linked T cell-activating proteins, and RT-6).

Evidence that murine hematopoietic cell subset marker J11d is attached to a glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol membrane anchor

Glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol (G-PI) has been shown to serve as membrane anchor for cell surface molecules such as Thy-1, Ly-6-controlled ThB and Qa antigens. Here, we present several lines of evidence indicating that the hematopoietic cell lineage (i.e. thymocytes, B cell subset and red blood cells) marker defined by the rat monoclonal antibody J11d is also a G-PI-linked structure. First, surface expression of the J11d-defined molecules, and that of the related antigen B2A2, was found to be specifically reduced by treatment of thymocytes and B lymphoma or hybridoma cells with excess of Staphylococcus aureus PI-specific phospholipase C; this enzyme also solubilizes a 35-40-kDa material from erythrocyte microsomal membranes corresponding to the predominant J11d-reactive red cell surface molecules. Second, Thy-1- mutants of the BW5147, T1M1, S1A or S49 murine T lymphoma cells of the complementary classes A, B, C and E (i.e. shown to be defective in the enzymatic machinery that posttranslationally modify Thy-1 molecules) also lack J11d, or express it at a very low level. Although directed at a G-PI-linked structure, the J11d monoclonal antibody, unlike other reagents to Thy-1 or Ly-6-controlled antigens, failed to induce thymocyte proliferation even in the presence of phorbol myristate acetate and cross-linker monoclonal antibody.

Thy-1 solubilization from mouse T cells by phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C: biochemical and antigenic characterization

Membrane anchorage of mouse and rat Thy-1 antigens results from the post-translational attachment of a non-proteic tail terminated by a phosphatidylinositol group. In order to determine the biochemical and antigenic properties of the material released by phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC), we studied, by one-(1-D) and two-dimensional (2-D) gel electrophoresis and by immunoprecipitation, the supernatant of surface-labelled mouse T cells treated with purified Staphylococcus aureus PI-PLC. The major protein released by this enzymatic treatment showed an apparent molecular weight (MW) and an isoelectric focusing (IEF) pattern identical to those of detergent-solubilized, immunoprecipitated Thy-1. In addition, a sandwich radioimmunoassay (RIA) utilizing two Thy-1-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAb) was used to quantitate the amounts of PI-PLC-released and spontaneously shed Thy-1. Considerable differences in susceptibility to enzymatic cleavage and in spontaneous shedding were observed for a variety of mouse T-cell populations, including thymocytes and hybridoma, helper and cytotoxic cloned T cells, even though time-course experiments demonstrated that excess enzyme was used. It might be useful to consider these differences in the cell biology of Thy-1 and the occurrence of other PI-linked proteins of the lymphocyte surface in terms of their implications in the transduction of activation signals.

A Thy-1.1-specific monoclonal alloantibody activates both mouse and rat T cells

In an attempt to further evaluate the role of Thy-1 in the antigen-independent triggering of mouse T cells, we have examined the activating properties of two Thy-1.1-specific mouse monoclonal antibodies (mAb). These reagents were established from an (A.TH X A.TL)F1 hybrid mouse (Thy-1b) immunized with IL-2 producing (BALB/c (Thy-1b) X BW5147 (Thy-1a)) T hybridoma cells. Although both mAb recognized the same Thy-1.1 determinant, one mAb of the gamma 3,kappa class (H171-146) was found to induce several T hybridoma cells to produce IL-2, and AKR thymocytes or cloned helper T cells to proliferate, whereas another mAb of the gamma 1,kappa class (H171-112) failed to do so even in the presence of phorbol myristic acetate (PMA). Increased IL-2 responses of T hybridoma cells were observed when the cell bound Thy-1.1-specific mAb were crosslinked by goat anti-mouse Ig (GaMIg) antibodies. Both a T-cell activating rat anti-Thy-1.2 mAb and the anti-Thy-1.1 mAb H171-146, although directed at distinct cell surface molecules, synergistically stimulated IL-2 production by T hybridoma cells. In addition, the mouse mAb H171-146 was found to stimulate LOU/M rat thymocytes to proliferate in the presence of exogenous IL-2. These data demonstrate that T cells can use Thy-1 as a signal-transducing molecule in both mouse and rat species, and support the notion that the activating properties of Thy-1.1-specific mAb are influenced by their heavy chain isotypes.

Accessory molecules and T cell activation. II. Antibody binding to L3T4a inhibits Ia-independent mouse T cell proliferation

Monoclonal antibody (mAb) blocking assays using L3T4- and lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1)-specific reagents were used as an approach to investigate the involvement of these accessory molecules in various T cell activation pathways. As previously reported, rat mAb to L3T4a and LFA-1A functional epitopes efficiently blocked antigen-driven T helper cell proliferation. In contrast, antigen- and Ia-independent T cell triggering induced by appropriate mAb to the Thy-1 or the T cell receptor molecules were found to be inhibitable by L3T4a- but not LFA-1A-specific mAb, although the extent of inhibition varied, depending on the cell type and the activating signal examined. These results provide further evidence that the inhibiting effects of L3T4-specific mAb on T cell responses may be due, in addition to an impairment of L3T4-class II major histocompatibility complex molecular interaction, to a down regulatory signal possibly transmitted by the L3T4 molecule itself.

Molecular heterogeneity of I-Ab molecules: analysis of I-Ab subsets with monoclonal antibodies

In the mouse there are two Ia molecules, A and E, which are encoded by two alpha genes and two beta genes. However, previous studies from this laboratory suggested the existence of multiple forms of Ia molecules. In this report, we have investigated the molecular heterogeneity of Ab molecules by isolating and analyzing subpopulations of Ia molecules. By using monoclonal antibody affinity columns, we have isolated four distinct subpopulations of Ab molecules. These subpopulations representing a significant fraction of the total A molecules were negative for determinants recognized by one or more anti-Ab monoclonal antibodies. Possible mechanisms of the origin of these molecules are discussed.

Accessory molecules and T cell activation. I. Antigen receptor avidity differentially influences T cell sensitivity to inhibition by monoclonal antibodies to LFA-1 and L3T4

A series of BALB/c-derived T hybridoma cells, capable of producing interleukin 2 (IL 2) in response to poly(Glu60, Ala30, Tyr10) (GAT) presented by syngeneic B lymphoma cells in the context of Ad restriction determinants, was used as a model system to evaluate the roles of LFA-1 and L3T4 accessory molecules in antigen-specific T cell activation. Examination of the antigen requirement for optimal IL 2 responses revealed marked differences in the apparent avidity of these cells for GAT/Ad complexes. A relationship was observed between this parameter and the susceptibility of T hybridoma cells to inhibition by monoclonal antibodies directed at 5 distinct epitopes of LFA-1, and at A beta d allodeterminants. In contrast, L3T4a-specific monoclonal antibodies were found to block in a similar fashion the antigen-specific IL 2 responses of T hybridoma cells, regardless of the apparent avidity of their antigen receptors. It was also shown that both L3T4+ and L3T4- T hybridoma cells were capable of recognizing GAT plus Ad with high avidity. Thus, the quality of T cell antigen recognition appears to critically influence the involvement of LFA-1, and only to a marginal extent that of L3T4, in antigen-specific T cell activation. The implications of these findings are discussed in the context of recent data indicating that L3T4 may not only be an Ia-binding protein.

The assignment of chain specificities for anti-Ia monoclonal antibodies using L cell transfectants

The chain specificities of 18 Ak and 26 Ab-reactive anti-Ia monoclonal antibodies have been determined. L cells were transfected with haplotype-matched (A alpha k:A beta k, A alpha b:A beta k) or haplotype-mismatched (A alpha k:A beta b, A alpha b:A beta k) cDNA pairs, lines expressing high levels of surface A complex were selected, and antibody reactivity with a panel of reagents was assessed by cytofluorimetric analysis. Most of the antibodies recognized a determinant specified by one chain, either alpha or (more commonly) beta. A few examples of more complex determinants were also observed. A knowledge of the chain specificities of anti-Ia monoclonal antibodies should prove useful for a variety of studies aimed at dissecting Ia structure-function relationships.