Bighorn sheep × domestic sheep hybrids survive Mannheimia haemolytica challenge in the absence of vaccination

Bighorn sheep (BHS, Ovis canadensis) are much more susceptible than domestic sheep (DS, Ovis aries) to pneumonia caused by leukotoxin (Lkt)-producing members of the Family Pasteurellaceae, particularly Mannheimia haemolytica and Bibersteinia trehalosi. Leukotoxin is widely accepted as the critical virulence factor of these bacteria since Lkt-negative mutants do not cause death of BHS. Typically, DS carry Lkt-positive M. haemolytica and/or B. trehalosi as commensal bacteria in their nasopharynx. In contrast, most BHS do not carry Lkt-positive M. haemolytica or B. trehalosi, or carry Lkt-negative strains in their nasopharynx. In previous studies, we demonstrated that unimmunized DS resist M. haemolytica challenge while BHS succumb to it. We hypothesized that Lkt-neutralizing antibodies, induced by Lkt-positive M. haemolytica and/or B. trehalosi innately carried by DS in their nasopharynx, render them less susceptible to infection by these bacteria. In this study we developed BHS×DS F1 hybrids by artificial insemination of domestic ewes with BHS semen. F1 hybrids were fertile, and produced F2 hybrids and back-crosses. The F1, F2, and back-crosses were raised together with domestic ewes. All these animals acquired Lkt-positive M. haemolytica and/or B. trehalosi, and developed high titers of Lkt-neutralizing antibodies in the absence of vaccination. Furthermore, all of these animals resisted challenge with lethal dose of M. haemolytica. These results suggest that lack of previous exposure to Lkt is at least partially responsible for fatal pneumonia in BHS when they acquire Lkt-positive M. haemolytica and/or B. trehalosi from DS when the two species commingle.

Mannheimia (Pasteurella) haemolytica leukotoxin binding domain lies within amino acids 1 to 291 of bovine CD18

Previously, we identified bovine CD18 as the receptor for leukotoxin secreted by Mannheimia (Pasteurella) haemolytica. In this study, we constructed bovine-murine CD18 chimeras to locate the leukotoxin binding domain on CD18. Leukotoxin specifically lysed transfectants expressing bovine CD18 fragment encompassing amino acids 1 to 291, indicating that leukotoxin binding domain lies within amino acids 1 to 291 of bovine CD18.

Peptide transport activity of the transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP) is inhibited by an early protein of equine herpesvirus-1

Equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) downregulates surface expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules on infected cells. The objective of this study was to investigate whether EHV-1 interferes with peptide translocation by the transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP) and to identify the proteins responsible. Using an in vitro transport assay, we showed that EHV-1 inhibited transport of peptides by TAP as early as 2 h post-infection (p.i). Complete shutdown of peptide transport was observed by 8 h p.i. Furthermore, pulse–chase experiments revealed that maturation of class I molecules in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) was delayed in EHV-1-infected cells, which may be due to reduced availability of peptides in the ER as a result of TAP inhibition. Metabolic inhibition studies indicated that an early protein(s) of EHV-1 is responsible for this effect.

Inhibition of TAP by pseudorabies virus is independent of its vhs activity

Previously we have shown that pseudorabies virus (PrV) down-regulates the expression of porcine MHC class I molecules by interfering with the transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP). During lytic PrV infection, the half-lives of both host and viral mRNA are regulated by the product of virion host shut-off (vhs) gene, UL41. PrV vhs protein induces degradation of cellular mRNA including those encoding class I and TAP. Therefore, further elucidation of specific mechanisms of down-regulation of class I molecules by PrV necessitates construction of a vhs deletion mutant. Two such mutants (vhsDelta1 and vhsDelta2) were generated by homologous recombination between the wild type (wt) PrV Indiana-F strain, and plasmids containing truncated UL41 gene of PrV into which the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) cassette was inserted. Compared with the wt virus, both the vhs mutants exhibited slower in vitro growth kinetics. The mutants, like the wt virus, inhibited the peptide transport activity of TAP and down-regulated cell surface expression of class I molecules. These findings suggest that, inhibition of TAP activity in PrV-infected cells is due to mechanism(s) specifically directed at class I pathway and not due to the non-specific vhs activity of the virus.

T cell epitope identification for bovine vaccines: an epitope mapping method for BoLA A-11

T cell responses play an important role in immunity to parasites and other microbial agents of infectious diseases, therefore a number of T cell-directed vaccines are in development. Computer-driven algorithms that facilitate the discovery of T cell epitopes from protein and genome sequences are now being used to accelerate preclinical studies of human vaccines. Similar tools are not yet available for predicting T cell epitopes for animal vaccines, but there may be sufficient data available to begin the process of compiling the algorithms. We describe the construction of a novel mathematical 'matrix' that describes the properties of bovine major histocompatibility complex (BoLA) system antigen (BoLA) A-11 peptide ligands, developed for use with EpiMatrix, an existing T cell epitope-mapping algorithm. An alternative means of developing BoLA matrices, using the pocket profile method, is also discussed. Matrices such as the one described here may be used to develop T cell epitope-mapping tools for cattle and other ruminants. Epitope-mapping algorithms offer a significant advantage over other methods of epitope selection, such as the screening of synthetic overlapping peptides, because high throughput screening can be performed in silico, followed by ex vivo confirmatory studies. Furthermore, using epitope-mapping algorithms, putative T cell epitopes can be derived directly from genomic sequences, allowing researchers to circumvent labor-intensive cloning steps in the genome-to-vaccine discovery pathway.

Effects of virion host shut-off activity of bovine herpesvirus 1 on MHC class I expression

Previously, we have shown that bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1) down-regulates the expression of major histocompatibility complex class I molecules by interfering with transport of peptides by the transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP). Further studies revealed that BHV-1 down-regulates the expression of mRNA for class I molecules and other cellular proteins. To further elucidate the mechanisms of down-regulation of class I molecules, a virion host shut-off (vhs) deletion mutant was generated. The mutant, like the wildtype (wt) virus, interfered with transport of peptides by the TAP, and down-regulated cell surface expression of class I molecules. However, unlike the wt virus, the mutant did not impair the synthesis of class I molecules. These results indicate that down-regulation of class I molecules by BHV-1 is mediated by vhs activity of the virus, as well as mechanisms specifically directed at the class I pathway. Absence of vhs activity should result in decreased pathogenicity and enhanced immunogenicity of BHV-1 vhs deletion mutant, making it a better vaccine candidate.

Induction of cytotoxic T-lymphocytes specific for bovine herpesvirus-1 by DNA immunization

Cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTLs) are critical for the defense against herpesvirus infections, in which cell-to-cell spread occurs earlier than the hematogenous spread. The ability of bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) to undergo latency, to induce apoptosis of CD4(+) T-lymphocytes, and to down-regulate the expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules, necessitates the development of immunization strategies that do not involve the live virus. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of DNA immunization as a means of induction of CTLs against BHV-1. Mice were injected either by intramuscular (IM) or intradermal (ID) route with a Sindbis virus-based plasmid carrying the gene encoding the glycoprotein D (gD) of BHV-1. Splenocytes from the immunized mice were re-stimulated in vitro with gD-transduced syngeneic fibroblasts. The CTLs generated specifically lysed syngeneic targets, either transduced with gD or infected with BHV-1. IM route of inoculation induced a better CTL response when compared to ID route with respect to onset, magnitude and duration of immunity. These results indicate the feasibility of using a plasmid carrying the gene encoding BHV-1 gD as an immunogen to induce CTLs against BHV-1.

Bovine CD18 is necessary and sufficient to mediate Mannheimia (Pasteurella) haemolytica leukotoxin-induced cytolysis

Leukotoxin (Lkt) secreted by Mannheimia (Pasteurella) haemolytica is an RTX toxin which is specific for ruminant leukocytes. Lkt binds to beta(2) integrins on the surface of bovine leukocytes. beta(2) integrins have a common beta subunit, CD18, that associates with three distinct alpha chains, CD11a, CD11b, and CD11c, to give rise to three different beta(2) integrins, CD11a/CD18 (LFA-1), CD11b/CD18 (Mac-1), and CD11c/CD18 (CR4), respectively. Our earlier studies revealed that Lkt binds to all three beta(2) integrins, suggesting that the common beta subunit, CD18, may be the receptor for Lkt. In order to unequivocally elucidate the role of bovine CD18 as a receptor for Lkt, a murine cell line nonsusceptible to Lkt (P815) was transfected with cDNA for bovine CD18. One of the transfectants, 2B2, stably expressed bovine CD18 on the cell surface. The 2B2 transfectant was effectively lysed by Lkt in a concentration-dependent manner, whereas the P815 parent cells were not. Immunoprecipitation of cell surface proteins of 2B2 with monoclonal antibodies specific for bovine CD18 or murine CD11a suggested that bovine CD18 was expressed on the cell surface of 2B2 as a heterodimer with murine CD11a. Expression of bovine CD18 and the Lkt-induced cytotoxicity of 2B2 cells were compared with those of bovine polymorphonuclear neutrophils and lymphocytes. There was a strong correlation between cell surface expression of bovine CD18 and percent cytotoxicity induced by Lkt. These results indicate that bovine CD18 is necessary and sufficient to mediate Lkt-induced cytolysis of target cells.

A vhs-like activity of bovine herpesvirus-1

Bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1) is a major pathogen of cattle, causing significant disease including immunosuppression in infected animals. In vitro, the surface expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules, crucial for an appropriate anti-viral immune response of the host, is down-regulated by BHV-1 infection. Northern blot analyses revealed that the mRNAs for MHC class I and class II molecules were significantly down-regulated in BHV-1 infected cells, starting as early as 2 h after infection. Furthermore, mRNA expression of the two house keeping genes actin and glyceraldehyde-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) was also repressed after infection. This BHV-1 induced effect on cellular metabolism resembled the virion host shutoff (vhs) activity of herpes simplex virus (HSV). Similar to the HSV vhs activity, the putative BHV-1 vhs activity was not abrogated in cells infected in the presence of actinomycin D (ActD) which suggested that no viral gene expression is required for the vhs function and the putative vhs protein is associated with the virion. Sequence comparison indicated a BHV-1 open reading frame having a 60% similarity to the HSV vhs sequence. This putative BHV-1 open reading frame contained the four conserved regions of the alphaherpesvirus vhs protein. Since an HSV vhs-mutant exhibited less virulence and good immunogenicity, we suggest that a BHV-1 vhs- mutant may hold promising potential as a candidate vaccine.

Heat shock protein-peptide complexes elicit cytotoxic T-lymphocyte and antibody responses specific for bovine herpesvirus 1

Epitope-based vaccines offer a promising alternative to modified live vaccines against viruses such as herpesviruses which give rise to latent infections, and induce immunosuppression. The success of this approach depends on the ability to direct the CTL epitopes to the MHC class I antigen presentation pathway. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of the heat shock protein gp96 in this regard. A group of BALB/c mice was injected with three murine CTL epitope peptides of bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1) complexed in vitro with bovine gp96 (gp96-peptides). Three other groups were injected with either the peptides alone, gp96 alone, or the peptides complexed with BSA. CTLs from mice immunized with gp96-peptides specifically lysed the peptide-pulsed syngeneic targets, as well as BHV-1-infected targets. CTLs from the other three groups did not lyse these targets. To further evaluate the utility of this approach, groups of BALB/c mice were immunized with gp96 isolated from a syngeneic cell-line transduced with BHV-1 glycoprotein D (BC-gD). Mice immunized with gp96 from BC-gD developed CTLs, as well as Abs specific for BHV-1 gD. Furthermore, in vitro stimulation of naive bovine PBMCs with gp96 from BC-gD resulted in CTLs specific for BHV-1. These results demonstrate the feasibility of using gp96-peptide complexes isolated from cells expressing BHV-1 proteins to induce CTL and Ab responses against BHV-1, without the prior knowledge of the CTL and Ab epitope sequences.

Reverse immunogenetic and polyepitopic approaches for the induction of cell-mediated immunity against bovine viral pathogens

The control of several infectious diseases of animals by vaccination is perhaps the most outstanding accomplishment of veterinary medicine in the last century. Even the eradication of some pathogens is in sight, at least in some parts of the world. However, infectious diseases continue to cost millions of dollars to the livestock industry. One of the reasons for the failure to control certain pathogens is the limited emphasis placed on cell-mediated immunity (CMI) in the design of vaccines against these pathogens. Traditionally, vaccine-induced immunity has been studied in relation to antibody-mediated protection. More recent studies, however, have focused on understanding CMI and developing means of inducing CMI. This review focuses on recent advances made in the study of CMI in general and of cytotoxic T lymphocytes in particular. Parallels from studies in human and mouse immunology are drawn in order to point out implications to bovine immunology, specifically for immunity against bovine herpesvirus 1.

An early pseudorabies virus protein down-regulates porcine MHC class I expression by inhibition of transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP)

The objectives of this study were to identify the mechanism(s) of pseudorabies virus (PrV)-induced down-regulation of porcine class I molecules and the viral protein(s) responsible for the effect. The ability of PrV to interfere with the peptide transport activity of TAP was determined by an in vitro transport assay. In this assay, porcine kidney (PK-15) cells were permeabilized with streptolysin-O and incubated with a library of 125I-labeled peptides having consensus motifs for glycosylation in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The efficiency of transport of peptides from the cytosol into the ER was determined by adsorbing the ER-glycosylated peptides onto Con A-coupled Sepharose beads. Dose-dependent inhibition of TAP activity was observed in PrV-infected PK-15 cells. This inhibition, which occurred as early as 2 h postinfection (h.p.i.), reached the maximum level by 6 h.p.i., indicating that TAP inhibition is one of the mechanisms by which PrV down-regulates porcine class I molecules. Infection of cells with PrV in the presence of metabolic inhibitors revealed that cycloheximide a protein synthesis inhibitor, but not phosphonoacetic acid a herpesvirus DNA synthesis inhibitor, could restore the cell surface expression of class I molecules, indicating that late proteins are not responsible for the down-regulation. Infection in the presence of cycloheximide followed by actinomycin-D, which results in accumulation of the immediate-early protein, failed to down-regulate class I, indicating that one or more early proteins are responsible for the down-regulation of class I molecules.

The leukotoxin of Pasteurella haemolytica binds to beta(2) integrins on bovine leukocytes

The putative receptor proteins of Pasteurella haemolytica leukotoxin were isolated from bovine polymorphonuclear neutrophil lysate by affinity chromatography on a leukotoxin-specific monoclonal antibody column to which the leukotoxin was pre-bound. SDS-PAGE of the purified proteins showed four bands at 180 kDa, 170 kDa, 150 kDa and 95 kDa, in addition to the expected 102-kDa leukotoxin band and a series of bands with molecular masses lower than 102 kDa representing the disintegrated leukotoxin. N-terminal amino acid sequencing of the 170-kDa band showed homology with human and murine CD11b. The purified proteins reacted specifically with monoclonal antibodies specific for CD11a, CD11b, CD11c (the alpha chains of beta(2) integrins), and CD18 (the beta chain of beta(2) integrins). Pre-incubation of polymorphonuclear neutrophils with a monoclonal antibody specific for CD18 reduced the cytotoxicity of the leukotoxin to the cells. These results indicate that the leukotoxin binds to the beta(2) integrins on bovine leukocytes, very likely via CD18.

Bovine lymphocyte antigen-A11--specific peptide motif as a means to identify cytotoxic T-lymphocyte epitopes of bovine herpesvirus 1

Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules present 8- to 10-mer viral peptides to antiviral cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). Identification of the allele-specific peptide motifs (ASPMs) of class I molecules enables the prediction of potential CTL epitopes of a virus from its protein sequences. Based on the bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1) protein sequences that conform to the BoLA-A11 ASPM that we identified previously, potential CTL epitopes of BHV-1 were synthesized for use in cytotoxicity assays with CTLs from BHV-1-immunized calves. A peptide binding assay used to select the peptides that are most likely to be CTL epitopes categorized the peptides into groups of high, intermediate, and low binding capacity. Synthetic peptides stimulated lymphocytes from BHV-1-immunized calves to secrete interferon-gamma. Groups of peptides from the major glycoproteins of BHV-1 restimulated CTLs in vitro and sensitized targets for lysis by means of restimulated bulk CTLs.

Identification of murine cytotoxic T-lymphocyte epitopes of bovine herpesvirus 1

Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules present endogenously derived viral peptides to CD8+ cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTLs). The objective of this study was to identify the H-2Dd- and H-2Kd-restricted CTL epitopes of bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1), based on the allele-specific peptide motifs (ASPMs) of the above class I molecules. Nine sequences conforming to the H-2Dd and H-2Kd ASPMs were identified on BHV-1 proteins, and the respective peptides were synthesized. Five of these peptides exhibited moderate to strong binding to the Dd molecule. CTLs generated by BALB/c mice immunized with BHV-1 proteins emulsified in a suitable adjuvant effectively lysed peptide-pulsed syngeneic targets, indicating that these epitopes were generated in vivo. Mice immunized with these peptides emulsified in a suitable adjuvant also developed anti-BHV-1 CTLs. These CTLs identified three veritable CTL epitopes among the "potential epitopes" synthesized based on the ASPMs. The elucidation of the CTL epitopes of BHV-1 should aid in the development of efficacious vaccines against this virus.

Development of a syngeneic bovine fibroblast cell line: implications for the study of bovine cytotoxic T lymphocytes

The study of T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity in domestic animals, especially in cattle, has been hampered by the lack of proper restimulatory as well as target systems. While the currently available bovine cell lines have not been typed for the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules they express, methods to derive lines of cells obtained from animals that are MHC-typed have not been thoroughly explored. In the present study, we describe a method for the development of cell lines from MHC-typed animals. Cells obtained from the skin of a calf typed as bovine lymphocyte antigen-A11/-A13 were transfected with a plasmid containing the whole genome of simian vacuolating virus 40 (SV40). A cell line was derived from the resultant transfectants. This cell line expressed bovine MHC class I molecules on the cell surface, and SV40 large T antigen in the nucleus. The cells were permissive to the replicative cycle of bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1), and the major glycoproteins of BHV-1 were expressed at expected times after infection. The present study should contribute to the study of cytotoxic T lymphocyte response of cattle to BHV-1 and other intracellular pathogens.

Bovine herpesvirus-1 infection affects the peptide transport activity in bovine cells

Infection of cattle with bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) impairs the cell-mediated immune response (CMI) of the affected host. We investigated the location of interference of BHV-1 with the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I antigen presentation pathway by employing an assay that allows assessment of the peptide transport activity of the Transporter associated with Antigen Presentation (TAP) from the cytoplasm into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). We found a considerable down-regulation of the peptide transport activity in bovine epithelial cells, taking place as early as 2 h after virus infection. This down-regulation was also dose-dependent, and, at high multiplicities of infection (moi), led to an almost complete shutdown of TAP. By inhibiting peptide transport into the ER, the virus impairs loading of MHC class I molecules and their subsequent egress from the ER to the cell surface. This may lead to defective priming of cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Thus, BHV-1 is yet another member of its family Herpesviridae that selectively interferes with the host's antigen presentation machinery to evade the host's immune response in vivo.

Nonlipopolysaccharide component(s) of Lactobacillus acidophilus stimulate(s) the production of interleukin-1 alpha and tumor necrosis factor-alpha by murine macrophages

Previous studies in our laboratory suggested that Lactobacillus acidophilus strain DDS-1 (LA1) has a suppressive effect on chemically induced tumors in experimental animals. In an effort to understand the possible mechanisms underlying this effect, we investigated the ability of LA1 to induce the production of interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1 alpha) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), which have potent cytocidal and cytostatic effects on tumor cells. The mouse macrophage cell line RAW264.7 was incubated with live or heat-killed cells of four strains of L. acidophilus or Bifidobacterium bifidum. Escherichia coli was used as a source of lipopolysaccharide that is known to induce the above cytokines. The amount of the cytokines present in the culture fluid was quantitated by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. LA1 induced the production of higher levels of IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha than other lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. Stimulation of the production of the cytokines was not due to the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) component, since LPS at concentrations equivalent to, or 100-fold greater than, that of LA1 induced only negligible amounts of IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha. These results reveal that non-LPS component(s) of LA1 stimulate(s) the production of IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha by macrophages, indicating that this organism stimulates the production of immunologic factors.

Bovine herpesvirus 1 downregulates the expression of bovine MHC class I molecules

The mechanism of immunosuppression induced by bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1) was investigated by studying the effects of the virus on the expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules. After infection with the virus, the expression of class I molecules was detected by flow cytometry and pulse-chase analysis. A selective downregulation of expression of class I molecules was seen in the infected cells, while the class II expression remained unaffected. The reduction in surface expression was evident as early as 8 hours postinfection, reaching significant levels by 12 hours. The downregulation was seen with a multiplicity of infection as low as 0.1. A modified live vaccine strain of BHV-1 also induced the downregulation of class I expression. Analysis of the viral proteins(s) involved in this downregulation with metabolic inhibitors (cycloheximide or phosphonoacetic acid), suggested that the immediate early and/or early proteins of the virus mediate this effect. Pulse-chase analysis revealed that the synthesis of the class I heavy chain, and the assembly/transport of class I molecules were affected by the virus infection. These results suggest that BHV-1 interferes with the molecular mechanisms involved in the synthesis, and assembly/transport of MHC-class I molecules. This interference with the class I antigen processing pathway might help the virus to evade the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte response of the host.

The use of bovine MHC class I allele-specific peptide motifs and proteolytic cleavage specificities for the prediction of potential cytotoxic T lymphocyte epitopes of bovine viral diarrhea virus

Cell mediated immunity (CMI) is crucial for the defense against viruses. Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) play a major role in CMI. They recognize endogenous antigenic peptides presented by antigen presenting cells in association with the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules. The elucidation of the sequence of CTL epitopes of viruses should help in designing better vaccines. In this study, we have identified candidate epitopes restricted by five bovine MHC class I molecules that are potentially available for presentation to CTLs. The candidate peptide epitopes were identified by using the computer programs available as a part of the Genetics Computer Group package and applying the information on allele-specific peptide motifs and intracellular enzymatic cleavage patterns to the bovine viral diarrhea virus polyprotein. Several candidate peptides were found for each of the bovine lymphocyte antigens (BoLA)-A11, -A20, -HD1, and -HD6 whereas no peptide was found for BoLA-HD7. Based on this finding, the probable contribution of genomic segments of BVDV to the CTL response and strategies for recombinant vaccines are discussed.

Prediction of potential cytotoxic T lymphocyte epitopes of bovine herpesvirus 1 based on allele-specific peptide motifs and proteolytic cleavage specificities

Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules present endogenous peptides to cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). Elucidation of CTL epitopes of intracellular pathogens helps in designing better vaccines to control economically important human and animal diseases. In this study, candidate epitopes that are potentially available for presentation to the CTLs via five bovine MHC class I molecules have been identified. This was accomplished by using the computer programs "Find-patterns" and "Peptidestructure" of GCG package and applying the information on cleavage patterns of cytosolic and endoplasmic reticulum proteases and peptidases as well as MHC class I allele-specific peptide motifs on 23 bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) proteins available on protein sequence database. Several candidate peptides were found for each of the bovine lymphocyte antigens (BoLA)-A11, -A20, -HD1, and -HD6 whereas no peptide was found for BoLA-HD7. Majority of the candidate peptides were from the viral glycoproteins. The contribution of such studies towards the identification of CTL epitopes of BHV-1 and other intracellular pathogens is discussed.

Serological recognition of feline infectious peritonitis virus spike gene regions expressed as synthetic peptides and E. coli fusion protein

Cats exposed to feline infectious peritonitis virus (FIPV) or feline enteric coronavirus (FECV) cannot be differentiated by serological analysis. Three synthetic peptides and an E. coli recombinant fusion protein generated from FIPV 79-1146 spike gene sequence were produced. Coronavirus positive cat sera reacted to peptide aa 950-990 but were non-reactive to aa137-151 and aa 150-180 peptides as demonstrated by ELISA. Amino acid sequence 97-222 expressed as a galk fusion protein in E. coli was tested against coronavirus positive cat sera by western blot analysis. Only sera from cats exposed to the FIPV type-II strains DF-2 or 79-1146 that were exhibiting signs of FIP recognized the fusion protein. Sera from FECV exposed cats did not recognize the 97-222 fusion protein in western blot analysis.

Pasteurella haemolytica leukotoxin-induced synthesis of eicosanoids by bovine neutrophils in vitro

Exposure of isolated bovine neutrophils to partially purified Pasteurella haemolytica leukotoxin caused increased synthesis of leukotriene B4 (LTB4) but not thromboxane B2 (TXB2) from endogenous arachidonic acid. Synthesis of LTB4 was closely correlated with leukotoxin-induced neutrophil lysis. At low toxin concentrations, LTB4 production lagged behind leukotoxin-induced neutrophil lysis over a 3-h period. The neutralizing monoclonal antileukotoxin antibody MM601 neutralized both leukotoxin-induced neutrophil lysis and LTB4 synthesis. Both leukotoxin-induced neutrophil lysis and LTB4 synthesis were Ca(2+)-dependent. When leukotoxin-induced LTB4 synthesis from exogenous arachidonic acid was examined, significant LTB4 synthesis occurred at 5 min of leukotoxin exposure, which was before leukotoxin-induced lysis developed. Leukotoxin-induced LTB4 synthesis from endogenous arachidonic acid appears to require leukotoxin-induced plasma membrane damage (occurring during neutrophil lysis), whereas LTB4 synthesis from exogenous arachidonic acid is initiated rapidly and occurs in the absence of plasma membrane damage.

Enhancement of Pasteurella haemolytica leukotoxic activity by bovine serum albumin

Growth of Pasteurella haemolytica A1 in RPMI 1640 medium containing 0.5% bovine serum albumin (BSA) for 2.5 hours enhanced culture supernatant leukotoxic activity (30,700 +/- 12,900 toxic units/ml, compared with leukotoxic activity of culture supernatants produced in RPMI 1640 medium alone (120 +/- 40 toxic units/ml). Gel filtration chromatography of the leukotoxic activity from RPMI 1640 medium supernatants in buffer containing 50 mM NaCl indicated a single leukotoxic activity peak (peak I) eluting near the gel resin molecular mass exclusion limit (estimated molecular mass of approx 8,000 kd). In contrast, culture supernatants produced in RPMI 1640 plus bovine serum albumin medium (RPMI + BSA) had peak I and 2 additional leukotoxic activity peaks (peaks II and III) with estimated molecular mass of approximately 80 and < 30 kd, respectively. All leukotoxic activity peaks were composed of approximately 100-kd molecular mass leukotoxin protomer, as determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting with a monoclonal antibody against leukotoxin. Subjecting culture supernatant leukotoxic activity produced in RPMI + BSA to gel filtration chromatography in buffer containing 500 mM NaCl or 6M urea resulted in detection of only a single leukotoxic activity peak with estimated approximate molecular mass of 250 and 800 kd, respectively. These findings suggest that P haemolytica exists as a high molecular mass aggregate with low leukotoxic activity which, in the presence of BSA, partially disaggregates to multiple toxin forms with enhanced leukotoxic activity. Some of these leukotoxin forms interact with dextran-based gel resins at low ionic strength.

Identification of a putative cellular receptor for bovine herpesvirus 1

Recognition of a host cell receptor by a virus is the first and perhaps the most crucial step in initiating the disease process. This study was undertaken to identify the cellular receptor(s) for bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1). Previously, we reported the development and characterization of bovine anti-idiotypic antibodies (anti-ids) that induce neutralizing antibodies to BHV-1. These anti-ids inhibit BHV-1 penetration of permissive cells. We have used these anti-ids, which mimic an epitope on the virus glycoprotein IV (gIV), and gradient-purified virus in immunoprecipitation (IP) as well as photoaffinity labelling (PAL) assays. In the IP assays, both bovine anti-ids and BHV-1 virions coupled to Sepharose precipitated a 60K protein from 125I-labelled BHV-1 permissive cell membrane extracts. Normal bovine IgG or an irrelevant virus, transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), used as negative controls failed to precipitate this protein. Similarly, in the PAL assays, the 60K cell surface protein was identified on cells permissive for BHV-1 infection, but not on non-permissive cells when 125I-labelled ligands, the anti-ids or BHV-1 were used as probes. The iodinated ligands failed to identify the 60K protein if they had been pretreated with the antibody 1. Pretreatment of the iodinated ligands with an isotype-matched control antibody had no effect on the identification of the 60K protein present on cells permissive for BHV-1 infection. The negative controls, i.e. normal bovine IgG and TGEV, failed to identify this 60K protein on permissive or non-permissive cells. These results suggest that the 60K protein is a cellular receptor recognized by BHV-1 during the infection process.

Bovine x murine T-cell hybridomas specific for bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1) glycoproteins

Difficulties in the isolation and long-term maintenance of bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) specific T-cell clones have hindered the analysis of bovine cell-mediated immune response to this virus. In an effort to identify the T-cell epitopes of the virus, bovine murine T-cell hybridomas specific for BHV-1 were generated as an alternative to T-cell clones. Peripheral blood lymphocytes from a calf immunized with BHV-1 were restimulated in vitro with the virus to generate bulk T-cell cultures. The antigen-specific T-cell-enriched bulk culture lymphocytes were fused with the T-cell receptor-deficient mutant of the murine thymoma cell line BW 5147. T-cell hybridomas were screened for their ability to produce interferon-gamma in response to BHV-1 stimulation. Hybridomas with various specificities were obtained. One of them was specific for the BHV-1 glycoprotein gI, two were specific for gIV, while three other hybridomas were specific for gIII. One hybridoma responded to stimulation with BHV-1, but not to any of the glycoproteins gI, gIII, or gIV, suggesting that proteins other than these major glycoproteins may be involved in the bovine T-cell response to BHV-1. Of these hybridomas, one was MHC Class I restricted, while all the others were Class II restricted.

Cross-reactive idiotopes among anti-foot and mouth disease virus neutralizing antibodies

Foot and mouth disease virus (FMDV) viral protein 1 is the only one of the four viral proteins (VP) that induces neutralizing antibodies as an isolated protein. A 32 amino acid (AA) residue (32dimer) of FMDV subtype A12 Lp ab VP1 (AA 137-168) was immunogenic against the A12 subtype. Three antibody populations each recognizing different epitopes on 32dimer were isolated by affinity chromatography (AFC) from the serum of a steer which had been immunized with the 32dimer. The 32dimer contains an AA sequence that is recognized by a protective paratope carried on a murine monoclonal antibody (mAb) (7SF-3.H3.1). Polyclonal anti-7SF-3 idiotype antibodies specifically inhibited the binding activity of one of these anti-32dimer antibody populations suggesting the existence of cross-reactive paratopic-related idiotopes between mAb 7SF-3 and antibodies elicited by the 32dimer. These anti-idiotypic antibodies were used in AFC to purify antibodies from the anti-32dimer serum. The purified antibody population has characteristics that resemble those of the mAb 7SF-3, i.e. its reactivity with FMDV A subtypes in ELISA, radioimmunoassay (RIA), mouse neutralization and its lack of reactivity with a mAb 7SF-3 neutralizing escape virus variant. Furthermore, these antibodies were specifically inhibited by either anti-mAb 7SF-3 idiotypic antibodies or peptides containing the mAb 7SF-3 epitope. Using the same experimental approach, mAb 7SF-3 idiotope-bearing antibodies were shown to be present in serum from bovine and swine convalescent from FMDV A12 Lp ab infection. Thus, the highly immunogenic area between residues 137 and 168 of FMDV VP1 elicited a cross-reactive neutralizing idiotope response conserved amongst several animal species.

Down regulation of murine MHC class I expression by bovine herpesvirus 1

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect(s) of bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1) infection on the expression of MHC class I molecules in murine fibroblasts. L-cells were infected with BHV-1 at a multiplicity of infection (m.o.i.) of 10 plaque forming units (PFU) per cell, and the expression of MHC class I molecules was analyzed by flow cytometry and immunoprecipitation. Temporal studies revealed a reduction in class I expression beginning at 8 h post infection (p.i.) which reached a maximum between 10 to 16 h p.i. The loss of class I expression was restored in the presence of phosphonoacetic acid (30 micrograms/ml), a late herpesviral protein synthesis inhibitor. However, addition of cycloheximide, a total protein synthesis inhibitor (100 micrograms/ml), did not result in any difference in class I expression between virus-infected and mock-infected cells. These results suggest that the reduced class I expression is a direct consequence of BHV-1 infection, and that the late viral gene product(s) may be involved in this process. Similar phenomena may occur in natural BHV-1 infection in cattle, and this may be one of the mechanisms of immune suppression by BHV-1.

Effects of Pasteurella haemolytica A1 leukotoxin on bovine neutrophils: degranulation and generation of oxygen-derived free radicals

To further define the role of Pasteurella haemolytica A1 leukotoxin in the pathogenesis of bovine pneumonic pasteurellosis, its in vitro effects on bovine neutrophils were investigated. Leukotoxin-containing culture supernatant, from P. haemolytica, stimulated a neutrophil respiratory burst as measured by the generation of oxygen-derived free radicals O2- and H2O2. This effect was immediate because preincubation of neutrophils with the culture supernatant for 5 min or longer substantially suppressed this respiratory burst. This suppression was due to cytolysis of the neutrophils. Prolonged incubation of neutrophils with the same culture supernatant caused further cytolysis and degranulation. Heat-inactivated P. haemolytica culture supernatant that had lost its cytotoxic properties failed to stimulate respiratory burst by neutrophils. Furthermore, the respiratory burst, cytolysis and degranulation were abrogated only by leukotoxin-neutralizing monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies, but not by antibodies against the lipopolysaccharide. These studies show that the leukotoxin component in the culture supernatant was responsible for the generation of oxygen-derived free radicals and proteolytic enzymes from neutrophils which may participate in direct lung injury.

Bovine viral diarrhea virus-specific neutralizing antibodies induced by anti-idiotypic antibodies

Two murine neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (MAbs), 4D8 and 6D11, recognizing epitopes on gp53, a surface glycoprotein of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), were used to generate anti-idiotypic antibodies (anti-ids) in a calf. The polyclonal anti-ids were isolated from serum by affinity chromatography on their respective Ab-1-Sepharose columns, followed by repeated adsorption on isotype-matched antibody-Sepharose columns. The anti-ids reacted specifically with their respective Ab-1, but not with isotype-matched controls. They also inhibited the binding of their Ab-1 to BVDV in a concentration-dependent manner. Mice immunized with the two anti-id preparations developed antibodies to BVDV, which neutralized the virus in vitro.

Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae-induced thymic lesions in mice and pigs

Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae produces several hemolysins/cytotoxins that may be important in the pathogenesis of acute lesions. Little is known, however, about the role of these virulence factors in chronic disease or the carrier state. We investigated the effects of live bacterial infection and transthoracic injection of a sterile culture supernatant on primary lymphoid organs and lymphocyte populations. Transthoracic inoculation of mice or intranasal inoculation of pigs with virulent A. pleuropneumoniae serotypes 1 and 7 induced thymic cortical lymphoid necrosis. These lesions were reproduced in mice by transthoracic injection of a concentrated sterile culture supernatant. The cytotoxic effect of this culture supernatant was also demonstrated in vitro by using a tetrazolium dye reduction assay. Both porcine and murine thymic lymphocytes as well as splenic T lymphocytes were susceptible to the toxin. Porcine convalescent serum, but not preimmune serum, prevented thymic lesions and neutralized the in vitro cytotoxic effect of the culture supernatant on murine thymic lymphocytes. Thymic lesions also were reproduced in mice by using purified lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Escherichia coli O111:B4; however, LPS had no in vitro cytotoxic effect on either porcine or murine thymic lymphocytes. These results suggest that secreted A. pleuropneumoniae toxin(s) is capable of affecting host T-lymphocyte populations and may affect host immune function.

Activation of bovine neutrophils by partially purified Pasteurella haemolytica leukotoxin

In this study we developed a new method for the partial purification of Pasteurella haemolytica leukotoxin by size-exclusion high-performance liquid chromatography. The partially purified leukotoxin had a molecular weight of 104,000, as estimated by using sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and reacted on an immunoblot with an antileukotoxin monoclonal antibody. As expected, high concentrations of the leukotoxin were inhibitory or lethal to bovine neutrophils. Incubation of bovine neutrophils with diluted leukotoxin, however, resulted in significant neutrophil activation that was comparable in magnitude to that obtained with standard activating agents such as opsonized zymosan or zymosan-activated serum. Dilute leukotoxin (1:128 to 1:8,192 dilutions) stimulated an oxidative burst (luminol-dependent chemiluminescence) by bovine neutrophils that was comparable in magnitude to that obtained with opsonized zymosan. Preincubation with leukotoxin did not significantly prime the neutrophils for an enhanced oxidative burst when they were then exposed to opsonized zymosan as a second stimulus. Dilute leukotoxin (1:100 to 1:1,000 dilutions) also stimulated cytoskeletal alterations in bovine neutrophils, as measured by a significant shape change response. Preferential release of secondary granule constituents (lactoferrin) occurred when neutrophils were incubated with 1:100 to 1:500 dilutions of leukotoxin. Significant release of primary granules, as measured by beta-glucosaminidase activity, was not observed except at low dilutions (1:20) of leukotoxin that resulted in significant release of cytosolic constituents (i.e., lactate dehydrogenase activity). The neutrophil-activating activity of the leukotoxin was heat labile, unaffected by polymyxin B, and abrogated by a leukotoxin-neutralizing monoclonal antibody. These data indicate that P. haemolytica leukotoxin, like the closely related Escherichia coli hemolysin, is a potent neutrophil-activating agent. Leukotoxin-stimulated release of neutrophil oxygen intermediates and granule constituents may contribute to the intense inflammation that characterizes bovine pulmonary pasteurellosis.

Bovine monoclonal anti-idiotypes induce antibodies specific for a synthetic peptide bearing a neutralizing epitope of bovine herpesvirus 1 glycoprotein gI (gB)

Bovine monoclonal anti-Id mimicking a neutralizing epitope of bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) glycoprotein gI were developed. An epitope present on the 74K subunit of gI identified by a murine mAb 1E11 was selected for this study. Bovine lymphocytes from the prefemoral lymph node of a heifer immunized with mAb 1E11 were fused with SP-2/0, a nonsecreting murine cell-line. Two bovine x murine hybridomas secreting bovine monoclonal anti-Id specific for the Id of 1E11 were stabilized. These anti-Id inhibited the binding of 1E11 to purified glycoprotein gI in a dose-dependent fashion. Naive mice immunized with the anti-Id produced anti-anti-Id (Ab3) that reacted with BHV-1 glycoprotein gI in a RIA, and neutralized BHV-1 infection in vitro. The Ab3 also showed reactivity to the 74K subunit of authentic gI glycoprotein in a Western blot analysis, and to the synthetic peptide bearing the 1E11 epitope in a RIA. These results substantiate the presence of the population of anti-Ab2 that functionally resemble antibodies specific for the immunizing Ag BHV-1 in Ab3, and demonstrate the ability of these anti-Id to elicit BHV-1-specific antibody response.

Bovine monoclonal anti-idiotypes induce antibodies specific for a synthetic peptide bearing a neutralizing epitope of bovine herpesvirus 1 glycoprotein gI (gB)

Bovine monoclonal anti-Id mimicking a neutralizing epitope of bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) glycoprotein gI were developed. An epitope present on the 74K subunit of gI identified by a murine mAb 1E11 was selected for this study. Bovine lymphocytes from the prefemoral lymph node of a heifer immunized with mAb 1E11 were fused with SP-2/0, a nonsecreting murine cell-line. Two bovine x murine hybridomas secreting bovine monoclonal anti-Id specific for the Id of 1E11 were stabilized. These anti-Id inhibited the binding of 1E11 to purified glycoprotein gI in a dose-dependent fashion. Naive mice immunized with the anti-Id produced anti-anti-Id (Ab3) that reacted with BHV-1 glycoprotein gI in a RIA, and neutralized BHV-1 infection in vitro. The Ab3 also showed reactivity to the 74K subunit of authentic gI glycoprotein in a Western blot analysis, and to the synthetic peptide bearing the 1E11 epitope in a RIA. These results substantiate the presence of the population of anti-Ab2 that functionally resemble antibodies specific for the immunizing Ag BHV-1 in Ab3, and demonstrate the ability of these anti-Id to elicit BHV-1-specific antibody response.

Neutralizing monoclonal antibodies to Pasteurella haemolytica leukotoxin affinity-purify the toxin from crude culture supernatants

The leukotoxin of Pasteurella haemolytica is a major virulence factor of the organism. It is an unstable protein which has proven very difficult to purify using traditional techniques. Hybridomas secreting monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to P. haemolytica leukotoxin were derived from spleen cells of a mouse immunized with crude culture supernatant. Five hybridomas secreting mAbs specific for the leukotoxin were stabilized. Each of the mAbs reacted with a protein of approximately 100 kDa in toxic culture supernatants, and two of them completely neutralized the toxin in vitro. Affinity chromatography of crude culture supernatant on a column prepared with one of the neutralizing mAbs resulted in the isolation of biologically active toxin.

Bovine viral diarrhoea virus-specific bovine monoclonal antibody

A bovine monoclonal antibody specific for bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) recognized all the reference strains of BVDV and over 90% of the field isolates tested. It neutralized the virus and precipitated a 56 k-58 k viral protein.

Quantitation of bovine immunoglobulins in culture fluids by use of sandwich radioimmunoassay with monoclonal antibodies

Bovine immunoglobulin isotype-specific murine monoclonal antibodies were used in sandwich radioimmunoassays to detect and quantitate bovine IgG1, IgG2, IgM, and IgA in culture fluids. The concentrations of bovine immunoglobulins in unknown samples were extrapolated from standard curves generated with bovine monoclonal immunoglobulins. The lowest detection limits for the bovine immunoglobulin isotypes ranged from 65 to 270 ng/ml.

Anti-idiotypic antibodies induce neutralizing antibodies to bovine herpesvirus 1

A neutralizing murine monoclonal antibody (mAb) of the IgG2a isotype (MM-113), specific for bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1) glycoprotein gIV, was used to develop anti-idiotypic antibodies (anti-Id) in a calf. The bovine anti-Id were isolated from the serum of the immunized calf by affinity chromatography on an MM-113-Sepharose column, followed by repeated adsorption on a murine IgG2a column. The anti-Id thus obtained specifically reacted with MM-113, but not with isotype-matched controls. They also inhibited the binding of MM-113 to BHV-1 in a concentration-dependent manner. Mice immunized with the anti-Id produced neutralizing antibodies to BHV-1. The anti-Id bound to cells permissive to BHV-1 in a cell-binding radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Bovine monoclonal antibodies specific for bovine herpesvirus-1 glycoprotein gIII

Spleen cells from a calf immunized with bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) were fused with the nonsecreting murine cell line SP2/0. Several bovine-murine hybridomas secreting bovine immunoglobulins were stabilized. Of these, 9 hybridomas secreted bovine monoclonal antibodies that specifically bound to BHV-1 in a radioimmunoassay. Two of these monoclonal antibodies reacted specifically with BHV-1 in an indirect fluorescent antibody test and immunoprecipitated a BHV-1 glycoprotein with molecular mass of 97 kilodaltons.

Antibodies elicited by a biosynthetic peptide related to a major immunogenic area of FMDV A12

Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) capsid contains 60 copies each of four structural proteins, virus proteins 1-4. Virus protein 1 (VP1) plays an important immunogenic role, being the only VP that is immunogenic as an isolated protein. Even peptides representing a partial amino acid (AA) sequence of VP1 can induce protective immunity in experimental hosts. A 32 AA residue, in a tandem repeat configuration (32dimer), of sero/subtype A-12 Lp ab VP1 (AA 132-168) was highly immunogenic for its homologous subtype and partially protective for FMDV serotype A strain A24. This cross-reactivity was further demonstrable in the ELISA and mouse protection tests. Three different antibody populations were isolated by affinity chromatography (AFC) from the serum of a steer immunized with the 32dimer. Each population seems to recognize a different epitope on the 32dimer peptide since each fraction was defined as unique by its reactivity with different subtypes of FMDV virus in RIA, ELISA, neutralization and competition assays. Considering the neutralizing activity of each of the antibody populations the pattern of neutralization of the 32dimer elicited antiserum can be described. Two of the three epitopes were mapped by competition assays using synthetic peptides.

A microplate immunofluorescence assay for the detection of monoclonal antibodies against viral antigens in cell culture

A microplate immunofluorescence assay for the screening of culture fluids from large numbers of hybridoma clones has been developed. This method enables the simultaneous screening of a small volume of culture fluid from initial hybridoma clones on several different viruses or several strains of the same virus, enabling the early isolation and stabilization of the clones with the desired specificity.

Monoclonal antibodies for coagglutination of Streptococcus suis type 1

Monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) were sought that would identify Streptococcus suis. Spleen cells from Balb/c mice immunized with formalin-killed S. suis were fused with the murine cell-line SP-2/0. Hybridomas positive for S. suis were identified by a solid-phase radioimmunoassay with a mixture of all available serotypes of S. suis. On further screening with individual serotypes of S. suis (Types 1, 2, 1/2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9 and 12) and other related and unrelated bacteria, a hybridoma specific for Type 1 was identified. Another hybridoma was positive for all serotypes of S. suis. S. suis Type 1-specific MAbs in the form of ascites fluid was used in coagglutination test. Agglutination with S. suis Type 1 was observed within 45 s, while there was no reaction with other serotypes of S. suis or other bacteria, during the 5-min observation period. A library of type-specific MAbs should help in rapid and accurate serotyping of S. suis isolates.

Detection of bovine herpesvirus-1-specific IgM using a capture enzyme immune assay with isotype-specific monoclonal antibodies

The detection of virus-specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies in acute-phase serum samples offers the possibility of making an accurate and rapid serologic diagnosis. We have developed a solid-phase capture assay that uses murine monoclonal antibodies specific for bovine IgM to separate the whole IgM fraction of a bovine serum sample. The IgM specific for bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) is then detected by the addition of viral antigen, which in turn is detected by BHV-1-specific monoclonal antibodies conjugated to horseradish peroxidase. A BHV-1 IgM antibody response was detected during the early postinfection period (7-40 days PI). Bovine herpesvirus-1 IgM antibody was not detected in sera taken from 3 animals following dexamethasone-induced viral reactivation. This method compares favorably with viral isolation, antigen detection in the clinical samples, and paired serology in the diagnosis of BHV-1 infection at a herd level.

Induction of neutralizing antibodies to transmissible gastroenteritis virus by anti-idiotypic antibodies

The potential of anti-idiotypic antibodies (anti-ids) as immunogens against transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) was tested in a heterologous system. A month-old pig was immunized with a neutralizing murine monoclonal antibody (MAb, 5A5) of the IgG2a isotype, specific for the E2 glycoprotein of TGEV. The anti-ids were isolated from the serum of the immunized pig by affinity chromatography, initially on a 5A5-Sepharose column, followed by repeated adsorption on a mouse IgG2a column. The swine anti-ids thus obtained bound to the MAb 5A5 (the idiotype), but not to MAbs of the same isotype IgG2a but of different idiotypes. The anti-ids also inhibited the binding of 5A5 to TGEV in a concentration-dependent manner. Mice immunized with the anti-ids produced antibodies to TGEV. These antibodies, neutralized TGEV in vitro and inhibited the binding of 5A5 to TGEV.

Production and characterization of monoclonal antibodies to bovine beta 2-microglobulin

In an attempt to isolate monoclonal antibodies specific for bovine lymphocytes, spleen cells from mice immunized with bovine lymphocytes were fused with the mouse myeloma cell line SP-2/0. The resulting hybridoma cell lines were tested for reactivity with bovine lymphocytes, polymorphonuclear neutrophils, RBC, gamma-globulin, kappa-casein, beta-casein, alpha-S1-casein, and beta 2-microglobulin (beta 2m) and with beta 2m from rabbits, goats, and human beings. None of the clones secreted anti-bovine lymphocyte-specific antibody. However, 4 secreted monoclonal antibodies to bovine beta 2m. They also reacted with beta 2m from rabbit, goat, and human being. One monoclonal antibody also was found to be reactive with bovine immunoglobulin. Monoclonal antibodies to beta 2m could serve as a tool to (1) explore the homology of the beta 2m molecule among various species, (2) examine the relationship of beta 2 m with the constant region of the immunoglobulin molecule, (3) quantitate bovine beta 2m in various body fluids and major histocompatibility antigens on cell surfaces, (4) help characterize those antigens in cattle, and (5) be used for tissue typing of those antigens.

The application of hybridoma technology to the study of bovine immunoglobulins

Studies are described in which hybridoma technology is used to produce a variety of reagents for the characterization and manipulation of the bovine humoral immune system. Selected members of a set of murine monoclonal antibodies (MAb) specific for each of four major isotypes of bovine Ig constant regions, one specific for anti-bovine Ig constant regions as well as one specific for anti-bovine light chains are discussed. Interspecific fusion of bovine lymphocytes with the established mouse cell line, SP2/0 was used to produce a collection of stable hybridomas among which were found secretors of bovine IgG1, IgG2, IgM, IgA and bovine light chain. Interspecific fusion of SP2/0 with lymphocytes from a multiparous Holstein four days post immunization with Streptococcus agalactiae yielded MAb with specificity for the immunizing antigen. One of these hybridomas, LHRB 19.17, which displayed a particularly stable secretory phenotype, was used as an immunogen for the production of a library of murine monoclonal anti-idiotype antibodies. Competitive antigen binding analysis showed that 15 of the 24 anti-LHRB 19.17 idiotype antibodies isolated blocked the binding of the idiotype to its nominal antigen and so were candidates for evaluation as antigen mimics. Some of the ways in which monoclonal anti-idiotypes in particular, and monoclonal in general, might be of use in problems of animal disease are discussed.