A large noncoding RNA is a marker for murine hepatocellular carcinomas and a spectrum of human carcinomas

Tumor markers can facilitate understanding molecular cell biology of neoplasia and provide potential targets for the diagnosis and insight for intervention. We here identify a novel murine gene, hepcarcin (hcn), encoding a 7-kb mRNA-like transcript. The gene appears to be the murine ortholog of the human alpha gene, that is, MALAT-1. The gene and homologs lack credible open reading frames, consistent with a highly conserved large noncoding RNA (ncRNA). In all nodules of procarcinogen-induced murine hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) and human HCCs, expression was markedly elevated compared to the uninvolved liver. Quantitative analyses indicated a 6-7-fold increased RNA level in HCCs versus uninvolved liver, advancing this as a molecule of interest. This ncRNA was overexpressed in all five non-hepatic human carcinomas analysed, consistent with a potential marker for neoplastic cells and potential participant in the molecular cell biology of neoplasia.

A recombinant human enzyme for enhanced interstitial transport of therapeutics

Subcutaneously injected therapeutics must pass through the interstitial matrix of the skin in order to reach their intended targets. This complex, three-dimensional structure limits the type and quantity of drugs that can be administered by local injection. Here we found that depolymerization of the viscoelastic component of the interstitial matrix in animal models with a highly purified recombinant human hyaluronidase enzyme (rHuPH20) increased the dispersion of locally injected drugs, across a broad range of molecular weights without tissue distortion. rHuPH20 increased infusion rates and the pattern and extent of appearance of locally injected drugs in systemic blood. In particular, rHuPH20 changed the pharmacokinetic profiles and significantly augmented the absolute bioavailability of locally injected large protein therapeutics. Importantly, within 24 h of injection, the interstitial viscoelastic barriers were restored without histologic alterations or signs of inflammation. rHuPH20 may function as an interstitial delivery enhancing agent capable of increasing the dispersion and bioavailability of coinjected drugs that may enable subcutaneous administration of therapeutics and replace intravenous delivery.

Platelet-induced expression of tissue factor procoagulant activity in freshly isolated human mononuclear cells: implications for experimental use

Monocytes express tissue factor (TF) as a result of cytokine stimulation or endothelial adherence. We evaluated monocyte-platelet interaction in vitro as another trigger for monocyte TF enhancement in human mononuclear cells isolated by density gradient centrifugation from peripheral blood. Cell TF procoagulant activity (TF-PCA) was quantitated by a one-stage recalcification clotting time assay. Platelets were counted and identified by whole blood flow cytometry as CD61 positive particles, activated platelets were characterized by P-Selectin (CD62) expression, and monocytes by surface CD14 expression. A significant correlation between normalized TF-PCA of isolated mononuclear cells and platelet count was shown (r = 0.43, P < 0.001). Percentage of activated platelets in baseline samples was 4.2 +/- 3.5 while adenosine diphosphate (ADP) increased platelet positivity to 34 +/- 17% (P < 0.001). After isolation, 52 +/- 12% of platelets within suspensions were activated (P < 0.0001). Percentage of CD62-positive monocytes (CD14+ particles) increased from baseline 5% to 13 +/- 6% in ADP-stimulated samples to 53 +/- 17% after isolation (P < 0.001). These findings suggest that density gradient centrifugation activates platelets and that an adhesive interaction between monocytes and platelets may promote TF-PCA expression in isolated mononuclear suspensions. Enhanced monocyte TF expression as a result of an activated platelet-monocyte interaction seems to be an important laboratory effect requiring consideration when utilizing this technique in an experimental setup.

Dimerization of tissue factor supports solution-phase autoactivation of factor VII without influencing proteolytic activation of factor X

Tissue factor (TF) is a transmembrane receptor that initiates the thrombogenic cascade by assembly with the serine protease factor VII or VIIa (VII/VIIa) resulting in formation of the bimolecular active complex TF.VIIa. Chemical cross-linking studies identified that a minor population of TF forms dimers on the surface of cells, possibly influencing TF.VIIa proteolytic function as a result of dimerization. We here investigate the effects of dimerization of the extracellular domain of TF on the proteolytic function of the TF. VIIa complex. The leucine zipper dimerization domain of the yeast transcriptional factor GCN4 (LZ) was genetically fused at the C-terminus of the extracellular domain of TF separated by a short linker (TF(L)LZ). TF(L)LZ homodimerized with a K(d) similar to that of the LZ peptide. Tryptophan fluorescence indicated that the two TF moieties were in close proximity and parallel orientation in TF(L)LZ. TF(L)LZ dimers bound two molecules of VIIa, and VIIa binding did not influence the TF dimer equilibrium. Dimerization influenced neither amidolytic nor the factor X activation activities of the TF. VIIa complexes. Notably, dimer TF(L)LZ efficiently promoted the autoactivation of VII to VIIa in solution in contrast to monomeric TF(L)LZ or TF(1)(-)(218). Thus, TF dimerization on cells may serve to "prime" the initiation of the coagulation pathway by generating active TF.VIIa complexes for the subsequent activation of downstream macromolecular substrates.

Leukaemia inhibitory factor enhances tissue factor expression in human monocyte-derived macrophages: a gp130-mediated mechanism

Leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and interleukin (IL)-6 are members of a cytokine group that share a common signal transducer gp130 and induce pleiotropic biological effects in cells of diverse lineage. In monocytes, LIF facilitates differentiation, which may stimulate the biosynthesis of tissue factor (TF) that initiates the coagulation cascade. We tested the hypothesis that LIF would enhance TF expression in human monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs). Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells separated from whole blood by density centrifugation were allowed to differentiate into MDMs in primary culture, and were then exposed to LIF, IL-6 and oncostatin M (OSM) for 24 h. LIF and IL-6 receptors, and gp130 were demonstrated in MDMs by immunocytochemistry and RT-PCR. TF procoagulant activity (TF-PCA) was measured by recalcification clotting time and TF protein by Western blotting. The results show that both TF procoagulant activity and TF protein increased significantly in response to LIF over the concentration range of 1-100 nM (P < 0.03). Although OSM and IL-6 tended to enhance TF expression by MDMs, the increase did not reach statistical significance. Anti-LIF receptor and anti-gp130 antibodies attenuated the effect of LIF on TF expression as assayed by both bioassay and flow-cytometry. In conclusion, LIF increases TF-PCA and TF protein in MDMs, and specific anti-LIF receptor antibodies attenuate this effect. Thus, LIF may regulate by a gp130-dependent pathway macrophage-mediated procoagulant function in diverse pathological states involving inflammation and thrombosis and seems to serve as an important mediator at the interface between these processes.

Macromolecular substrate affinity for the tissue factor-factor VIIa complex is independent of scissile bond docking

The upstream coagulation enzymes are homologous trypsin-like serine proteases that typically function in enzyme-cofactor complexes, exemplified by coagulation factor VIIa (VIIa), which is allosterically activated upon binding to its cell surface receptor tissue factor (TF). TF cooperates with VIIa to create a bimolecular recognition surface that serves as an exosite for factor X binding. This study analyzes to what extent scissile bond docking to the catalytic cleft contributes to macromolecular substrate affinity. Mutation of the P1 Arg residue in factor X to Gln prevented activation by the TF.VIIa complex but did not reduce macromolecular substrate affinity for TF.VIIa. Similarly, mutations of the S and S' subsites in the catalytic cleft of the enzyme VIIa failed to reduce affinity for factor X, although the affinity for small chromogenic substrates and the efficiency of factor X scissile bond cleavage were reduced. Thus, docking of the activation peptide bond to the catalytic cleft of this enzyme-cofactor complex does not significantly contribute to affinity for macromolecular substrate. Rather, it appears that the creation of an extended macromolecular substrate recognition surface involving enzyme and cofactor is utilized to generate substrate specificity between the highly homologous, regulatory proteases of the coagulation cascade.

Importance of factor VIIa Gla-domain residue Arg-36 for recognition of the macromolecular substrate factor X Gla-domain

Macromolecular substrate docking with coagulation enzyme-cofactor complexes involves multiple contacts distant from the enzyme's catalytic cleft. Here we characterize the binding of the Gla-domain of macromolecular substrate coagulation factor X to the complex of tissue factor (TF) and VIIa. Site-directed mutagenesis of charged residue side chains in the VIIa Gla-domain identified Arg-36 as being important for macromolecular substrate docking. Ala substitution for Arg-36 resulted in an increased KM and a decreased rate of X activation. X with a truncated Gla-domain was activated by mutant and wild-type VIIa at indistinguishable rates, demonstrating that Arg-36 interactions require a properly folded Gla-domain of the macromolecular substrate. VIIa Arg-36 was also required for effective docking of the X Gla-domain in the absence of phospholipid, demonstrating that the Gla-domain of VIIa participates in protein-protein interactions with X. In the absence of TF, the mutant VIIa had essentially normal function, indicating that the cofactor positions VIIa's Gla-domain for optimal macromolecular substrate docking. Computational docking suggests multiple charge complementary contacts of the X Gla-domain with TF.VIIa. A prominent interaction is made by the functionally important X residue Gla-14 with the center of the extended docking site created by residues in the carboxyl module of TF and the contiguous VIIa Gla-domain. These data demonstrate the functional importance of interactions of the Gla-domains of enzyme and substrate, and begin to elucidate the molecular details of the ternary TF.VIIa.X complex.

The mechanism of an inhibitory antibody on TF-initiated blood coagulation revealed by the crystal structures of human tissue factor, Fab 5G9 and TF.G9 complex

The tissue factor (TF)-initiated blood coagulation protease cascade can be greatly inhibited in vivo by a potent anti-human-TF monoclonal antibody, 5G9. This antibody binds the carboxyl module of the extracellular domain of TF with a nanomolar binding constant and inhibits the formation of the TF.VIIa.X ternary initiation complex. We have determined the crystal structures of the extra-cellular modules of human TF, Fab 5G9, and their complex (TF.5G9) to 2.4 A, 2. 5 A, and 3.0 A, respectively, and measured the apparent inhibition constants of 5G9 on a panel of TF mutants. In our unliganded TF structure, a 7 degrees change in the relative orientation between the D1 and D2 modules was observed when compared with other published TF structures. Comparison of the free and bound Fab 5G9 indicates that small segmental and side chain variation of the antibody complementarity determining regions occurred on complexation with TF. The antibody-antigen recognition involves 18 TF antigen residues and 19 Fab residues from six CDR with one of the largest buried surface areas seen to date. A combination of structural and mutagenesis data indicate that Tyr156, Lys169, Arg200, and Lys201 play the major role in the antibody recognition. The TF. 5G9 structure provides insights into the mechanism by which the antibody 5G9 inhibits formation of the TF.VIIa.X ternary complex.

Activation of coagulation and angiogenesis in cancer: immunohistochemical localization in situ of clotting proteins and vascular endothelial growth factor in human cancer

Thrombin-catalyzed, cross-linked fibrin (XLF) formation is a characteristic histopathological finding in many human and experimental tumors and is thought to be of importance in the local host defense response. Although the pathogenesis of tumor-associated fibrin deposition is not entirely clear, several tumor procoagulants have been described as likely primary stimuli for the generation of thrombin (and XLF) in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In a previous study of a variety of human tumors we have shown that tissue factor (TF) is the major procoagulant. However, the relative contribution to fibrin deposition in the TME of tumor cell TF and host cell TF (eg, macrophage-derived) was not established. In addition, recent evidence has implicated TF in the regulation of the synthesis of the pro-angiogenic factor vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) by tumor cells. In the current study we used in situ techniques to determine the cellular localization of XLF, TF, VEGF, and an alternative tumor procoagulant, so-called cancer procoagulant (CP), a cysteine protease that activates clotting factor X. In lung cancer we have found XLF localized predominantly to the surface of tumor-associated macrophages, as well as to some endothelial cells and perivascular fibroblasts in the stromal area of the tumors co-distributed with TF at the interface of the tumor and host cells. Cancer pro-coagulant was localized to tumor cells in several cases but not in conjunction with the deposition of XLF. TF and VEGF were co-localized in both lung cancer and breast cancer cells by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemical staining. Furthermore, a strong relationship was found between the synthesis of TF and VEGF levels in human breast cancer cell lines (r2 = 0.84; P < 0.0001). Taken together, these data are consistent with a highly complex interaction between tumor cells, macrophages, and endothelial cells in the TME leading to fibrin formation and tumor angiogenesis.

Lipopolysaccharide induction of the tumor necrosis factor-alpha promoter in human monocytic cells. Regulation by Egr-1, c-Jun, and NF-kappaB transcription factors

Biosynthesis of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) is predominantly by cells of the monocytic lineage. This study examined the role of various cis-acting regulatory elements in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induction of the human TNF-alpha promoter in cells of monocytic lineage. Functional analysis of monocytic THP-1 cells transfected with plasmids containing various lengths of TNF-alpha promoter localized enhancer elements in a region (-182 to -37 base pairs (bp)) that were required for optimal transcription of the TNF-alpha gene in response to LPS. Two regions were identified: region I (-182 to -162 bp) contained an overlapping Sp1/Egr-1 site, and region II (-119 to -88) contained CRE and NF-kappaB (designated kappaB3) sites. In unstimulated THP-1, CRE-binding protein and, to a lesser extent, c-Jun complexes were found to bind to the CRE site. LPS stimulation increased the binding of c-Jun-containing complexes. In addition, LPS stimulation induced the binding of cognate nuclear factors to the Egr-1 and kappaB3 sites, which were identified as Egr-1 and p50/p65, respectively. The CRE and kappaB3 sites in region II together conferred strong LPS responsiveness to a heterologous promoter, whereas individually they failed to provide transcriptional activation. Furthermore, increasing the spacing between the CRE and the kappaB3 sites completely abolished LPS induction, suggesting a cooperative interaction between c-Jun complexes and p50/p65. These studies indicate that maximal LPS induction of the TNF-alpha promoter is mediated by concerted participation of at least two separate cis-acting regulatory elements.

The structural basis of function of the TF. VIIa complex in the cellular initiation of coagulation

Cell surface tissue factor (TF), the major in vivo initiator of coagulation, activates coagulation by binding and allosteric activation of the serine protease factor. VIIa (VIIa). A graphic scheme to account for function of this initial bimolecular activation complex has emerged from the integration of structural with functional analyses. The VIIa light chain, specifically the Gla and EGF-1 domains, form extended hydrophobic contacts with TF which account for most of the free energy of binding. These contacts tether VIIa and facilitate interactions of the protease domain with TF necessary for induction of protease function. Several contact residues in the VIIa protease domain-TF interface are involved in the activation of VIIa by complex allosteric effects. Macromolecular substrate zymogens interact with both the VIIa protease domain and the carboxyl-terminal module of TF. Docking of the VIIa Gla-domain to the latter region of TF appears to contribute to substrate assembly. The current data suggest an extended embrace between TF and VIIa to form the bimolecular enzyme TF.VIIa.

Influence of mutations in tissue factor on the fine specificity of macromolecular substrate activation

The C-terminal fibronectin-type-III-like module of the tissue factor (TF) extracellular domain plays a requisite role in the activation of macromolecular substrates by factor VIIa (VIIa) in complex with TF. Unlike the mutations Lys165-->Ala, Lys166-->Ala in TF, which prevent efficient proteolysis of factor X, we found that the coagulant defect of a site-specific Trp158-->Arg, Ser160-->Gly replacement mutant of TF is largely attributable to the inability of TF to efficiently support the activation of the bound zymogen VII to the active protease VIIa. Binding studies demonstrated comparable affinity of binding of VIIa or VII by wild-type TF and TF(R158G160). In comparison with wild-type TF, the catalytic efficiency of factor X activation was reduced 56-fold with TF(A165A166) as the cofactor, but only 3.5-fold with TF(R165G160). The activation of VII bound to TF by factor Xa or VIIa was reduced 2-fold in the presence of TF(R158G160) and 7-8-fold with TF(A165A166). This suggests that the molecular recognition of VII in complex with TF by the enzymes TF-VIIa and factor Xa are similar. Generation of factor IXa by TF(R158G160)-VIIa was unaltered, but reduced 2-fold with TF(A165A166). In addition, the mutations affected the cleavage of the two scissile bonds of factor IX differently, providing further support for the idea that the cofactor, TF, influences the fine specificity of activation of macromolecular substrates by the TF-VIIa complex.

Tumor infarction in mice by antibody-directed targeting of tissue factor to tumor vasculature

Selective occlusion of tumor vasculature was tested as a therapy for solid tumors in a mouse model. The formation of blood clots (thrombosis) within the tumor vessels was initiated by targeting the cell surface domain of human tissue factor, by means of a bispecific antibody, to an experimentally induced marker on tumor vascular endothelial cells. This truncated form of tissue factor (tTF) had limited ability to initiate thrombosis when free in the circulation, but became an effective and selective thrombogen when targeted to tumor endothelial cells. Intravenous administration of the antibody-tTF complex to mice with large neuroblastomas resulted in complete tumor regressions in 38 percent of the mice.

Effector cell protease receptor-1 is a vascular receptor for coagulation factor Xa

The binding and assembly of the coagulation proteases on the endothelial cell surface are important steps not only in the generation of thrombin and thrombogenesis, but also in vascular cell signaling. Effector cell protease receptor (EPR-1) was identified as a novel leukocyte cell surface receptor recognizing the coagulation serine protease Factor Xa but not the precursor Factor X. We now demonstrate that EPR-1 is expressed on vascular endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells. Northern blots of endothelial and smooth muscle cells demonstrated three abundant mRNA bands of 3.0, 1.8, and 1.3 kDa. 125I-Labeled Factor Xa bound to endothelial cells in a dose-dependent saturable manner, and the binding was inhibited by antibody to EPR-1. No specific binding was observed with a recombinant mutant Factor X in which the activation site was substituted by Arg196 --> Gln to prevent the proteolytic conversion to Xa. EPR-1 was identified immunohistochemically on microvascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells. Functionally, exposure of smooth muscle cells or endothelial cells to Factor Xa induced a 3-fold and a 2-fold increase in [3H]thymidine uptake, respectively. However, receptor occupancy alone is insufficient for mitogenic signaling because the active site of the enzyme is required for mitogenesis. Thus, EPR-1 represents a site of specific protease-receptor complex assembly, which during local initiation of the coagulation cascade could mediate cellular signaling and responses of the vessel wall.

Tissue Factor residue Asp44 regulates catalytic function of the bound proteinase Factor VIIa

The coagulation pathways are initiated by the cell-surface receptor Tissue Factor (TF), which binds the serine proteinase coagulation Factor VIIa (VIIa), resulting in enhanced catalytic function, both amidolytic, towards small pseudo-substrates, and proteolytic, towards macromolecular substrates. Here we implicate Asp44 in TF as a ligand-interactive residue that, in contrast with previously characterized binding residues, is involved in the enhancement of VIIa catalytic function. Whereas charge neutralization by replacement of Asp44 with Asn did not reduce function of human TF, the exchange by Ala resulted in mutants with 8-fold reduced affinity for binding of VIIa. Enhancement of VIIa amidolytic function by TF Ala44 was reduced by 20-25% relative to wild-type and support of proteolytic function was diminished 6-fold indicating that this cofactor residue is significantly enhancing proteolysis of the macromolecular substrate by VIIa. Replacement of Asp44 by Glu, Thr, and Arg exhibited a less severe phenotype with an approx. 4-fold reduced affinity for VIIa and a 2-3 fold diminished activation of Factor X. The improved activity of these mutants as compared with the Ala replacement is consistent with functional importance of an extended side chain at this position. The specific influence of the Asp44 exchange on catalytic function of the TF x VIIa complex indicates fine specificity of the TF ligand interface in mediating receptor and cofactor function.

Procoagulant activity on injured arteries and associated thrombi is mediated primarily by the complex of tissue factor and factor VIIa

BACKGROUND

Rethrombosis limits the efficacy of coronary thrombolysis and may result from surface-associated thrombin, de-novo prothrombin activation, or both. This study was designed to determine the relative roles of thrombin, factor Xa, and the complex of tissue factor and factor VIIa in the procoagulant activity on injured arteries with evolving thrombi.

METHODS

Extensive vascular injury and platelet-rich thrombi were induced in the abdominal aorta of 25 anesthetized rabbits by applying anodal current through a transluminal electrode for 3 h. Injured vessel segments were excised and placed in a chamber permitting perfusion over the luminal surface and associated thrombus.

RESULTS

Vessel segments perfused with recalcified, citrated human plasma induced marked increases in the concentration of fibrinopeptide A, a marker of thrombin-induced fibrin formation, in the effluent plasma after 10 min (4636 +/- 1894% of fibrinopeptide A in the nonperfused plasma, n = 5). Perfusion with plasma depleted of vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors prevented the increase in fibrinopeptide A (122 +/- 30%, n = 4), indicating the lack of preformed functional thrombin. Furthermore, appearance of fibrinopeptide A was attenuated by perfusion with plasma containing 0.1 mumol/l recombinant tick anticoagulant peptide, a specific inhibitor of factor Xa (594 +/- 320%, n = 3), and by preincubation of vessel segments with a monoclonal antibody to rabbit tissue factor (438 +/- 220%, n = 3).

CONCLUSIONS

Procoagulant activity on injured vessels and associated thrombi is mediated by factor Xa, a product of the functional initiation of coagulation by factor VIIa associated with tissue factor. Accordingly, inhibition of tissue factor-mediated coagulation may be effective for attenuation of active thrombogenesis on injured vessels and during thrombolysis.

Tissue factor mediates prolonged procoagulant activity on the luminal surface of balloon-injured aortas in rabbits

BACKGROUND

Activation of coagulation has been implicated in both acute thrombotic occlusion and restenosis after balloon angioplasty. However, concomitant administration of antithrombotic agents has thus far failed to prevent these complications. Importantly, the factors contributing to procoagulant activity of balloon-injured arteries over time have not been defined. This study was designed to determine the duration of procoagulant activity on the luminal surface of balloon-injured arteries and the relative roles of tissue factor and thrombin in this response.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Abdominal aortas in rabbits were subjected to repetitive balloon hyperinflations sufficient to disrupt the internal elastic lamina. Aortas were excised at < 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 24, 48, and 72 hours and 1, 2, and 4 weeks after injury; divided into segments; and perfused with recalcified human pooled plasma (n = 58) or plasma depleted of vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors (n = 27) or first incubated with a monoclonal antibody to rabbit tissue factor (n = 33) followed by perfusion with human plasma. Samples of the effluent and plasma perfusate were collected over 10 minutes and assayed for fibrinopeptide A (FPA) as an index of the rate of thrombin-induced fibrin formation. FPA in the effluent from segments perfused with recalcified plasma, expressed as a percentage of FPA in the perfusate, was elevated for 16 hours after balloon-induced injury and exhibited two distinct increases occurring < 1 hour (1297 +/- 473%, mean +/- SD, n = 5) and 8 hours (1052 +/- 330%, n = 6) after injury (P < or = .000001 versus uninjured vessels). Preincubation of segments at these intervals with an antibody to tissue factor markedly attenuated the increases in FPA, as did perfusion of segments with plasma depleted of vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors, indicating that the observed increases in FPA in whole plasma did not result from performed thrombin bound to the injured vessel wall.

CONCLUSIONS

Tissue factor-mediated coagulation appears to be primarily responsible for prolonged procoagulant activity of balloon-injured arteries.

Recombinant soluble human tissue factor secreted by Saccharomyces cerevisiae and refolded from Escherichia coli inclusion bodies: glycosylation of mutants, activity and physical characterization

Tissue factor (TF) is the cell-surface transmembrane receptor that initiates both the extrinsic and intrinsic blood coagulation cascades. The abilities of TF to associate with Factor VIIa and Factor X in a ternary complex and to enable proteolytic activation of Factor X by Factor VIIa reside in the extracellular domain of TF. We describe the expression of the surface domain of TF (truncated TF, tTF) in both Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Escherichia coli and the biochemical and physical characterization of the recombinant proteins. Wild-type tTF and several glycosylation-site mutants were secreted efficiently by S. cerevisiae under the control of the yeast prepro-alpha-signal sequence; the T13A,N137D double mutant was the most homogeneous variant expressed in milligram quantities. Wild-type tTF was expressed in a non-native state in E. coli inclusion bodies as a fusion protein with a poly(His) leader. The fusion protein could be fully renatured and the leader removed by proteolysis with thrombin; the correct molecular mass (24,729 Da) of the purified protein was confirmed by electrospray mass spectrometry. Recombinant tTFs from yeast, E. coli and Chinese hamster ovary cells were identical in their abilities to bind Factor VIIa, to enhance the catalytic activity of Factor VIIa and to enhance the proteolytic activation of Factor X by Factor VIIa. Furthermore, CD, fluorescence emission and NMR spectra of the yeast and E. coli proteins indicated that these proteins are essentially identical structurally.

Energetic contributions and topographical organization of ligand binding residues of tissue factor

Tissue factor is the cellular receptor and macromolecular enzymatic cofactor for the serine protease coagulation factor VIIa. The ligand binding extracellular domain of tissue factor consists of two structural modules which fold similar to fibronectin type III modules, consistent with the classification of tissue factor as a member of the class 2 cytokine receptor family. On the basis of the three-dimensional structure, we here analyze the importance of tissue factor residues for binding of ligand by scanning alanine mutagenesis. The identified significant binding contacts account for as much as 80% of the calculated total free energy of ligand binding. Most residues with energetic contributions to ligand binding are well exposed to solvent, and the area for ligand interaction extends from the cleft formed by the two structural modules (residues Lys20, Ile22, Lys48, Asp58, Arg135, Phe140) to the convex-shaped edge of the three- and four-stranded sheets characterized by a patch of surface-exposed hydrophobic side chains in the amino-terminal module (residues Gln37, Asp44, Trp45, Phe76, Tyr78). The binding residues are dispersed over an extended surface area, indicating adaptation to the recognition of specific structural modules of the macromolecular ligand factor VIIa. This analysis provides detailed insight into the three-dimensional organization of the ligand docking structure of the initiating cofactor for the coagulation pathways.

Integrin regulation of an inflammatory effector gene. Direct induction of the tissue factor promoter by engagement of beta 1 or alpha 4 integrin chains

Inflammatory genes are regulated in cells of monocyte (Mo) lineage by a variety of cellular encounters, including adhesion mediated by integrins. The role of the beta 1 family of integrins in the direct induction of immediate early gene expression was analyzed by using the tissue factor (TF) gene. Engagement of alpha 4 or beta 1 on Mo, but not members of the beta 2 integrin family, with specific mAbs as surrogate ligands immediately and directly induced high level surface expression of TF, and accumulation of TF mRNA, as well as production of TNF-alpha and HIV-1 virus. The mechanism responsible for induction of TF gene transcription mediated by the engagement of alpha 4 or beta 1 was elucidated by using THP-1 monoblastic leukemia cells. Functional analysis of plasmids containing the TF promoter expressing the luciferase reporter gene identified a cis-acting integrin-responsive element (InRE), which contained two AP-1 sites as well as a single kappa B-like site. Mutation of either the AP-1 sites or kappa B-like site greatly diminished responsiveness to integrin engagement. This InRE also conferred responsiveness to a heterologous promoter in the same reporter plasmid. Binding of mAbs to either alpha 4 or beta 1 led to nuclear translocation of the c-Rel/p65 heterodimer that preferentially bound to the TF kappa B-like site. In contrast, constitutive binding of AP-1 proteins to the two AP-1 sites was not increased by alpha 4 or beta 1 integrin engagement. These studies expand knowledge of integrin regulation of immediate early gene expression in Mo and molecular encounters that are inferred to play an active role in Mo effector functions.

Integrin regulation of an inflammatory effector gene. Direct induction of the tissue factor promoter by engagement of beta 1 or alpha 4 integrin chains

Inflammatory genes are regulated in cells of monocyte (Mo) lineage by a variety of cellular encounters, including adhesion mediated by integrins. The role of the beta 1 family of integrins in the direct induction of immediate early gene expression was analyzed by using the tissue factor (TF) gene. Engagement of alpha 4 or beta 1 on Mo, but not members of the beta 2 integrin family, with specific mAbs as surrogate ligands immediately and directly induced high level surface expression of TF, and accumulation of TF mRNA, as well as production of TNF-alpha and HIV-1 virus. The mechanism responsible for induction of TF gene transcription mediated by the engagement of alpha 4 or beta 1 was elucidated by using THP-1 monoblastic leukemia cells. Functional analysis of plasmids containing the TF promoter expressing the luciferase reporter gene identified a cis-acting integrin-responsive element (InRE), which contained two AP-1 sites as well as a single kappa B-like site. Mutation of either the AP-1 sites or kappa B-like site greatly diminished responsiveness to integrin engagement. This InRE also conferred responsiveness to a heterologous promoter in the same reporter plasmid. Binding of mAbs to either alpha 4 or beta 1 led to nuclear translocation of the c-Rel/p65 heterodimer that preferentially bound to the TF kappa B-like site. In contrast, constitutive binding of AP-1 proteins to the two AP-1 sites was not increased by alpha 4 or beta 1 integrin engagement. These studies expand knowledge of integrin regulation of immediate early gene expression in Mo and molecular encounters that are inferred to play an active role in Mo effector functions.

Upregulation of human immunodeficiency virus-1 in chronically infected monocytic cell line by both contact with endothelial cells and cytokines

Cells of monocytic lineage (Mo) persistently infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have been suspected to be a major reservoir for in vivo transmission of virus to susceptible target cells. Cellular events and mechanisms that upregulate viral gene expression in such cells are important issues. Because the traffic of such cells is central to biodistribution of HIV, we have explored the impact of interaction of endothelium with HIV-1-infected U1 promonocytic cells. Coculturing of U1 with human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVEC) for 24 to 72 hours in the absence of stimulation induced HIV-1 p24 biosynthesis significantly. Antibody-blocking experiments indicated that CD11/CD18 integrins play a role in upregulation of HIV expression elicited by interaction with HUVEC. Engagement of CD11b/CD18 by adherence of U1 to surfaces coated with either the cognate ligand fibrinogen or monoclonal antibody specific for CD11b/CD18 also enhanced p24 biosynthesis. Furthermore, endothelial cells were found to constitutively synthesize and secrete soluble factors that enhanced HIV-1 synthesis. The enhancing factors, of estimated size 10 to 45 kD, were induced in HUVEC to high levels by monokines or by lipopolysaccharide, resulting in markedly enhanced HIV-1 expression by U1. These endothelial cell-derived HIV-1-enhancing factors consist of, among others, interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1 beta, and granulocyte-macrophage CSF (GM-CSF). Our results suggest that activation of HIV biosynthesis in infected Mo via interaction with endothelium may impact significantly on the tissue distribution and pathogenesis of HIV infections.

High molecular weight kininogen binds to Mac-1 on neutrophils by its heavy chain (domain 3) and its light chain (domain 5)

High molecular weight kininogen (HK) binds specifically, saturably, and reversibly to neutrophils and also reciprocally inhibits the binding of fibrinogen to neutrophils. Since fibrinogen binds to the leukocyte integrin CD11b/18 (Mac-1, alpha M beta 2), we investigated whether HK bound to Mac-1 and whether the binding site was similar to that for factor X. We also examined whether one or both chains of cleaved HK (HKa) were involved. Two monoclonal antibodies, 2B5 (0.29 microM) to HK heavy chain domains 2 (D2) and 3 (D3), and C11C1 (0.26 microM) to HK light chain domain 5 (D5), inhibited by 99 and 93% the binding, respectively, of 125I-HK (8.3 nM) to neutrophils. To minimize steric hindrance, we further demonstrated that the Fab' fragments of 2B5 and C11C1 were able to inhibit the binding of this ligand to virtually the same extent as the intact antibody, indicating that, as in binding of HK to platelets and endothelial cells, both chains are involved. To directly demonstrate the involvement of each chain, we showed that the reduced alkylated light chain derived from HK and low molecular weight kininogen, which contains the same heavy chain as HK, each markedly inhibited the binding of HK to neutrophils. We localized the domain responsible for the binding in each chain by showing that recombinant D3 and D5 decreased the binding of HK to neutrophils. To define the receptor for HK, we employed three monoclonal antibodies to Mac-1: OKM1 and OKM10 to epitopes on the alpha M subunit and IB4 to an epitope on the beta 2 chain. OKM1, which can inhibit fibrinogen binding to neutrophils, inhibited HK binding by 79%, whereas the other antibodies inhibited HK binding less than 25%. Coagulation factor X also binds to Mac-1 on monocytes at a similar site to C3bi. Synthetic peptides which define noncontiguous surface loops in factor X that interact with Mac-1, failed to inhibit 125I-HK binding to neutrophils. We conclude that HK binds, via domains on its heavy chain, D3, and light chain, D5, to Mac-1 on the neutrophil surface, and HK occupies a site overlapping with fibrinogen and different from factor X.

Key ligand interface residues in tissue factor contribute independently to factor VIIa binding

Scanning alanine mutagenesis of the cell surface protease receptor tissue factor suggested importance of residues Lys20, Ile22, Asp58, Arg135, and Phe140 for binding of ligand, the serine protease coagulation factor VIIa. Ligand binding by single alanine replacement mutants was characterized by functional assays which concordantly demonstrated a calculated 1-2.5 kcal/mol reduction in free energy of binding as a result of each of the mutations. Catalytic and proteolytic function appeared to be not impaired by the residue replacements, indicating that these residues are not specifically required for the catalytic enhancement of VIIa produced by the assembly with tissue factor. Multiple mutations were further combined in one mutant protein to assess whether these residues provide independent contacts with the ligand VIIa. The Lys20/Asp58 and the Arg135/Phe140 residue pairs did not independently contribute to the binding of ligand. In contrast, the combination with Ile22 consistently produced a further decrease in affinity for VIIa, demonstrating that this residue acts as an independent contact site for the ligand VIIa. The total contribution of the five residues to the free energy of binding of VIIa at 37 degrees C was calculated to be 5.4 kcal/mol representing approximately one-third of the total binding energy.

Two independent sets of monoclonal antibodies define neoepitopes linked to soluble ligand binding and leukocyte adhesion functions of activated alpha M beta 2

The integrin alpha M beta 2 mediates a variety of events, adhesive, phagocytic, and inflammatory. Evidence has suggested that the functional events may be mediated by the "activated" conformational forms of alpha M beta 2 produced by appropriate stimulation of myeloid and monocytic lineage. The activation of alpha M beta 2 may be associated with new epitopes on alpha M beta 2, sites that may be related to the acquired receptor functions. Monoclonal antibodies were produced that preferentially bind neoepitopes expressed by activated alpha M beta 2. These anti-neo antibodies each inhibited three activation-associated specific receptor alpha M beta 2 functions, though to different extents. One set of anti-neo antibodies inhibited in a concordant manner the binding of factor X and of fibrinogen by > 90%, abolished the alpha M beta 2-initiated cellular coagulant response, and inhibited monocyte adhesion to unstimulated endothelial monolayers. A second set of anti-neo antibodies only diminished factor X and fibrinogen binding by approximately 40% to 50% but markedly suppressed Xa generation and only partially inhibited monocyte adherence to unstimulated endothelium. Concordance was observed between binding of factor X or fibrinogen and competence for leukocyte adhesion to unstimulated endothelium. Antibody competition assays segregated the anti-neo antibodies into the same two distinct sets, consistent with recognition of separate neoepitopes that are linked to alpha M beta 2 function. These data support the conclusion that the activated conformer of alpha M beta 2 that binds fibrinogen and factor X also mediates monocyte-endothelial interactions as well as the alternative cellular coagulation pathway.

Monoclonal antibody to an activation neoepitope of alpha M beta 2 inhibits multiple alpha M beta 2 functions

alpha M beta 2, a beta 2 integrin expressed on cells of myelomonocytic differentiation, functions as a receptor for factor X (X) and fibrinogen (Fg) and participates in leukocyte adhesion to vascular endothelium. Acquisition of high affinity ligand binding has been suggested to result from a conformational change of alpha M beta 2 in response to agonist-induced leukocyte stimulation. We now describe mAb 7A10, which preferentially binds to alpha M beta 2 on activated cells and reports the functional activation of this integrin. Agonist-stimulated monocytes and monocytic cells, but not resting cells, maximally expressed the 7A10 neoepitope, whereas expression of other selected alpha M beta 2 epitopes remained unchanged. The neoepitope was elicited equally by exposure of cells to either ADP or FMLP and did not require divalent cations for expression. Saturation of the 7A10 neoepitope by this Ab on stimulated THP-1 cells inhibited both X and Fg binding and abolished the alpha M beta 2-driven cellular coagulant response. Stimulated monocytic cells, which bound X and/or Fg, exhibited a sustained adhesion to unstimulated endothelial cell monolayers and Ab 7A10 inhibited this sustained adhesion. We conclude that activated conformers of alpha M beta 2 mediate X and Fg binding, that assembly of either X or Fg or both on alpha M beta 2 mediates leukocyte adhesion to unstimulated endothelium through sparse ICAM-1, and that mAb 7A10 can report and functionally inhibit this pathway of leukocyte adhesion.

Monoclonal antibody to an activation neoepitope of alpha M beta 2 inhibits multiple alpha M beta 2 functions

alpha M beta 2, a beta 2 integrin expressed on cells of myelomonocytic differentiation, functions as a receptor for factor X (X) and fibrinogen (Fg) and participates in leukocyte adhesion to vascular endothelium. Acquisition of high affinity ligand binding has been suggested to result from a conformational change of alpha M beta 2 in response to agonist-induced leukocyte stimulation. We now describe mAb 7A10, which preferentially binds to alpha M beta 2 on activated cells and reports the functional activation of this integrin. Agonist-stimulated monocytes and monocytic cells, but not resting cells, maximally expressed the 7A10 neoepitope, whereas expression of other selected alpha M beta 2 epitopes remained unchanged. The neoepitope was elicited equally by exposure of cells to either ADP or FMLP and did not require divalent cations for expression. Saturation of the 7A10 neoepitope by this Ab on stimulated THP-1 cells inhibited both X and Fg binding and abolished the alpha M beta 2-driven cellular coagulant response. Stimulated monocytic cells, which bound X and/or Fg, exhibited a sustained adhesion to unstimulated endothelial cell monolayers and Ab 7A10 inhibited this sustained adhesion. We conclude that activated conformers of alpha M beta 2 mediate X and Fg binding, that assembly of either X or Fg or both on alpha M beta 2 mediates leukocyte adhesion to unstimulated endothelium through sparse ICAM-1, and that mAb 7A10 can report and functionally inhibit this pathway of leukocyte adhesion.

Regulation of tissue factor gene expression in epithelial cells. Induction by serum and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate

Cell-specific expression of tissue factor (TF) in vivo is consistent with its primary role in hemostasis. In addition, TF expression is induced in cultured cells by a variety of agents, including serum and growth factors, which define the TF gene as a "primary response" gene. In this study we examined the signaling pathways and cis-acting regulatory elements required for induction of TF gene expression in HeLa cells in response to serum and the tumor promoter, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA). TF activity and mRNA were induced greater than sixfold in quiescent HeLa cells by serum and PMA. TF mRNA induction by both agonists required intracellular Ca2+ mobilization, whereas inhibition of protein kinase C abolished induction of the TF gene by PMA but had no effect on induction by serum. Functional studies demonstrated that a region of the human TF promoter between -96 and +121 bp contained regulatory elements required for serum and PMA induction. These data indicate that different signaling pathways regulate TF gene expression in response to serum and PMA, although the same cis-acting DNA elements may mediate induction.

Structural biology of tissue factor, the initiator of thrombogenesis in vivo

Thromboembolic disorders are commonly associated with cardiovascular, infectious, and neoplastic disease. A major link in the pathophysiology of thrombosis is the excessive triggering of the coagulation pathways by the initiating cofactor molecule termed tissue factor, an integral membrane glycoprotein. The tissue factor extracellular ligand binding domain is predicted to fold in an architecture similar to the cytokine receptor homology module. Functional sites in tissue factor have been defined by a combination of antibody, chemical cross-linking, and mutational analyses providing a model for cofactor function that involves discrete interactions with both enzyme and substrate. The understanding of the structural basis of tissue factor function promises to facilitate rational design of inhibitor molecules for defined functional sites, eventually leading to effective in vivo therapeutics.

Mutational mapping of functional residues in tissue factor: identification of factor VII recognition determinants in both structural modules of the predicted cytokine receptor homology domain

Alanine scanning mutagenesis of tissue factor, the initiating receptor and cofactor molecule for the coagulation pathways, was used to define residue side chains with functional contributions. Approximately half of the residues were exchanged, and several stretches of functional residues throughout the entire extracellular domain were identified which contributed to overall coagulant function. Mutants were further characterized with respect to their affinity for binding of ligand, providing evidence that identified functional sequence spans are involved in ligand interaction. The tissue factor extracellular domain is suggested to adopt the folding pattern of the cytokine receptor homology unit, which is typically composed of two seven-beta-strand modules. Evaluation of the mutational analysis within this structural context suggests that functionally important residues are spatially proximate and clustered at the boundary of the predicted beta-strand modules. Residues contributing to ligand binding by tissue factor were identified in positions corresponding to ligand interactive residues in the growth hormone receptor and contact residues of other cytokine receptors, consistent with a conserved structural region for ligand interaction throughout the cytokine receptor family.

Microfilament reorganization is associated with functional activation of alpha M beta 2 on monocytic cells

Selected agonists convert the leukocyte integrin alpha M beta 2 on monocytes from a low to a high affinity state competent to bind factor X and fibrinogen. Conformational changes of alpha M beta 2 re hypothesized to account for this functional transition. Here we report that cytochalasins known to interfere with actin filaments induce the alpha M beta 2 functional transition. Upon exposure to cytochalasin B, isolated human blood monocytes and cells of the monocytic cell line THP-1 bound 125I-factor X (X) or 125I-fibrinogen (Fg) in a Ca(2+)-dependent, saturable manner. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to the alpha M subunit and the common beta 2 subunit of leukocyte integrins inhibited X and Fg binding, whereas mAbs to the alpha chains of the other leukocyte integrins had no effect. Anti-alpha M mAb immunoprecipitated 125I-X that had been chemically cross-linked to its cognate receptor. Specific binding was not associated with an increased surface density of beta 2 integrins consistent with conformational remodeling of the receptor. Simultaneous analysis of actin forms in viable monocytes indicated a dynamic redistribution of cellular actin. The transient increase in G actin concurrent with an agonist action such as cytochalasin or ADP was reversed by an increase in F actin coincident with X/Ca2+ binding. A potential role of actin redistribution in alpha M beta 2 functional transition is supported by the finding that cells in which cellular actin is restricted to G rather than F form bound X and initiated a rapid coagulant response. We propose that a transient disassembly of actin filaments may relieve constraints on alpha M beta 2 via the cytoplasmic domains, permitting the conformational dynamics required for recognition of ligands.

Inhibition of endotoxin-induced activation of coagulation and fibrinolysis by pentoxifylline or by a monoclonal anti-tissue factor antibody in chimpanzees

Knowledge of the pathogenetic mechanisms responsible for the activation of the coagulation system associated with endotoxemia is important for the development of improved modalities for prevention and treatment. We analyzed the appearance in plasma of TNF, IL-6, and indices of coagulation and fibrinolytic system activation in normal chimpanzees after intravenous infusion of endotoxin. Endotoxin infusion elicited reproducible and dose-dependent elevations in serum TNF and IL-6, as well as marked increases in thrombin generation in vivo as measured by immunoassays for prothrombin activation fragment F1 + 2, thrombin-antithrombin III complexes, and fibrinopeptide A. Activation of the fibrinolytic mechanism was monitored with assays for plasminogen activator activity and plasmin-alpha 2-antiplasmin complexes. To potentially intervene in the molecular pathways elicited by endotoxin, pentoxifylline, an agent that interrupts "immediate early" gene activation by monocytes, or a potent monoclonal antibody that neutralizes tissue factor-mediated initiation of coagulation, were infused shortly before endotoxin. Pentoxifylline markedly inhibited increases in the levels of TNF and IL-6, as well as the effects on coagulation and fibrinolysis. In contrast, the monoclonal antibody to tissue factor completely abrogated the augmentation in thrombin generation, but had no effect on cytokine levels or fibrinolysis. We conclude that the endotoxin-induced activation of coagulation appears to be mediated by the tissue factor-dependent pathway, the fibrinolytic response triggered by endotoxin is not dependent on the generation of thrombin, and that the release of cytokines may be important in mediating the activation of both the coagulation and the fibrinolytic mechanisms in vivo.

The activation of factor X and prothrombin by recombinant factor VIIa in vivo is mediated by tissue factor

The human coagulation system continuously generates very small quantities of Factor Xa and thrombin. Current evidence suggests that basal level activation of the hemostatic mechanism occurs via Factor VIIa-dependent activation of Factor X, but direct proof has not been available for the participation of tissue factor in this pathway. To examine this issue, we infused relatively high concentrations of recombinant Factor VIIa (approximately 50 micrograms/kg body wt) into normal chimpanzees and observed significant increases in the plasma levels of Factor IX activation peptide, Factor X activation peptide, and prothrombin activation fragment F1+2. Metabolic turnover studies with radiolabeled Factor IX activation peptide, Factor X activation peptide, and F1+2 indicate that elevated levels of the activation peptides are due to accelerated conversion of the three coagulation system zymogens into serine proteases. The administration of a potent monoclonal antibody to tissue factor, which immediately neutralizes function of the Factor VIIa-tissue factor complex in vitro, abolishes the activation of Factor X and prothrombin mediated by the infused recombinant protein, and also suppresses basal level activation of Factor IX and Factor X. The above results suggest that recombinant Factor VIIa functions as a prohemostatic agent by interacting with endogenous tissue factor sites, but definitive proof will require studies in hemophilic animals using relevant hemostatic endpoints.

Astrocytes are the primary source of tissue factor in the murine central nervous system. A role for astrocytes in cerebral hemostasis

Hemostasis in the brain is of paramount importance because bleeding into the neural parenchyma can result in paralysis, coma, and death. Consistent with this sensitivity to hemorrhage, the brain contains large amounts of tissue factor (TF), the major cellular initiator of the coagulation protease cascades. However, to date, the cellular source for TF in the central nervous system has not been identified. In this study, analysis of murine brain sections by in situ hybridization demonstrated high levels of TF mRNA in cells that expressed glial fibrillary acidic protein, a specific marker for astrocytes. Furthermore, primary mouse astrocyte cultures and astrocyte cell lines from mouse, rat, and human constitutively expressed TF mRNA and functional protein. These data indicated that astrocytes are the primary source of TF in the central nervous system. We propose that astrocytes forming the glia limitans around the neural vasculature and deep to the meninges are intimately involved in controlling hemorrhage in the brain. Finally, we observed an increase in TF mRNA expression in the brains of scrapie-infected mice. This modulation of TF expression in the absence of hemorrhage suggested that TF may function in processes other than hemostasis by altering protease generation in normal and diseased brain.

Tissue factor is expressed on monocytes during simulated extracorporeal circulation

Certain forms of extracorporeal circulation exemplified by cardiopulmonary bypass require continuous high-dose anticoagulation to prevent thromboembolic complications. We hypothesized that monocytes may be stimulated to express tissue factor (TF) during prolonged simulated extracorporeal circulation. TF was identified both by flow cytometry by using three TF-specific monoclonal antibodies and functional assay of procoagulant activity (PCA). TF significantly increased between 2 and 6 hours of simulated extracorporeal circulation by both analyses. Relative fluorescence on monocytes increased from a control value of 100 to 313 +/- 79 on cells from the simulated extracorporeal circuit (p < 0.05). PCA increased from 21 +/- 8 to 775 +/- 326 pg TF/10(6) monocytes (p < 0.05) and was blocked 99.6% by preincubation of cells with a mixture of monoclonal antibodies to TF. By 6 hours, the number of leukocytes in the circuit was decreased by 43%. The cells were recovered from the oxygenator membrane by washing with EDTA. Compared with initial values, by 6 hours, both TF antigen at 378 +/- 90 (p < 0.05) and PCA at 1,357 +/- 280 pg TF/10(6) monocytes (p < 0.01) were highest in the recovered cells. Cells incubated for 6 hours and not subjected to simulated extracorporeal circulation did not increase TF. Examination of monocytes for the adhesive receptor CD11b/18 (Mac-1) paralleled TF expression, providing an additional putative receptor for the coagulant proteins, factor X and fibrinogen or fibrin.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

CD11a/CD18 (LFA-1) integrin engagement enhances biosynthesis of early cytokines by activated T cells

To study the signaling role of CD11a/CD18 in the early events of T cell activation we have examined the induction of transcription of two important cytokines, namely TNF alpha and IL-2. Human peripheral blood T cells were stimulated with PMA/ionophore or immobilized anti-CD3 mAb (OKT3) with or without CD11a/CD18 engagement. Induced cytokine production by immobilized OKT3 was enhanced (3- to 10-fold) in cells adhering to OKT3 and ICAM-1 coimmobilized surfaces and anti-CD11a mAb abolished this enhancement effect. Similarly, inhibition of the PMA/ionophore-induced CD11a/CD18-mediated homotypic aggregations of T cells by mAbs specific for either CD11a or ICAM-1 reduced the induced cytokine production by more than 70%. We have also observed that greatly enhanced cytokine production resulted from cellular interactions between activated T cells and monolayers of endothelial cells. This enhancement was inhibited by a combination of CD11a-, CD18-, and ICAM-1-specific mAbs implicating a role of CD11a/CD18 in leukocyte adhesion to endothelium and diapedesis as part of the inflammatory process. By Northern analyses induced TNF alpha mRNA expression was significantly enhanced by the engagement of CD11a/CD18 in all the conditions mentioned above. These results, together with our previous studies on monocytes, lead to the conclusion that engagement of the CD11/CD18 family of receptors results in the transduction of cellular signals that quantitatively enhance the expression of important leukocyte-mediated immune and inflammatory responses.

Integrin regulation of leukocyte inflammatory functions. CD11b/CD18 enhancement of the tumor necrosis factor-alpha responses of monocytes

Engagement of the integrin CD11b/CD18 (alpha M beta 2, Mac-1, CR3) on cells of monocyte (Mo) lineage has recently been demonstrated to enhance synthesis and surface expression of the integral plasmalemma receptor tissue factor. The role of cognate interactions between integrin and its ligands in the regulation of cellular responses important to inflammation can be extended to the effect on the enhancement of TNF-alpha mRNA accumulation and protein secretion by Mo once stimulated by an initial signal such as LPS. At a concentration optimal for inducing TNF-alpha responses, LPS was observed to rapidly increase by two- to threefold the surface expression on Mo of CD11b but not CD11a or CD11c. In the absence of initial signal, engagement of CD11/CD18 integrins per se failed to elicit a TNF-alpha response. In the presence of the initial transcriptional agonist LPS, both TNF-alpha mRNA expression and protein secretion were enhanced several-fold by cells adherent to a CD11b/CD18 ligand, to endothelial cells as well as engagement of CD11b/CD18 integrin by specific antibodies. This enhancement appears to be CD11b/CD18 specific and not from mere attachment or spreading. The enhancement effect after HUVEC binding was inhibited 75% by anti-CD11b mAb M1/70. These studies lead to the hypothesis that engagement of the CD11b/CD18 integrin results in the transduction of cellular signals that quantitatively enhance the expression of inflammatory mediators of Mo-mediated responses.

The serine protease cofactor factor V is synthesized by lymphocytes

Ag-specific cellular immune responses result in CD4+ T cell activation, which can induce the expression of tissue factor in cells of monocyte/macrophage lineage. This results in initiation of the coagulation protease cascade, with ultimate generation of thrombin. The latter is a potent and pleiotropic mediator of cellular responses and deposition of fibrin. To explore the requirements for extravascular cellular mediation of immune effector pathways, we have searched for a cellular source of the cofactor factor Va. Factor V mRNA was identified in human lymphoid cells by using reverse transcription followed by the polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). We confirmed our reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction results by an independent cloning of factor V cDNA from a T cell cDNA library. The sequence of the factor V cDNA was virtually identical to hepatic factor V mRNA sequence. A limited span of mRNA, encoding part of the connecting region of the factor V protein, was found to contain nucleotide polymorphisms based on six nucleotide substitutions. Northern blot analysis confirmed the presence of a approximately 7-kb factor V mRNA in the Hut-78* human T lymphoma cell line and, at five- to eightfold less abundance, in unstimulated lymphocytes and long term allogeneic stimulated T cells. Immunocytology with factor V mAb identified factor V intracellularly in freshly isolated T lymphocytes but not on the surface of cells. These data provide evidence for factor V transcription and biosynthesis by human lymphocytes. They provide an additional perspective on how lymphocytes may contribute to inflammatory effector functions of cellular immune responses in extravascular sites through provision of cofactors necessary for the coagulation serine protease cascade.