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The cytoplasmic domain of the H-2Ld class I major histocompatibility complex molecule is differentially accessible to immunological and biochemical probes during transport to the cell surface.

An antiserum was generated against a synthetic peptide corresponding to a portion of the cytoplasmic domains of the H-2Ld and H-2Db class I major histocompatibility complex molecules of the mouse. This antibody preparation, R4, binds exclusively to endoglycosidase H-resistant H-2Ld/Db molecules which are not associated with beta 2-microglobulin. Interestingly, acquisition of resistance to endoglycosidase H precedes acquisition of R4 reactivity by 30 min. R4-reactive H-2Ld and H-2Db molecules occur on the cell surface and are phosphorylated in vivo. Other studies show that the tyrosine in the cytoplasmic domain is accessible to radioiodination on only a subset of H-2Ld molecules, and that the two-dimensional electrophoretic profiles of phosphorylated H-2L/Db molecules, of R4-reactive molecules, and of H-2Ld molecules radiolabeled on this cytoplasmic domain tyrosine are virtually identical. R4-reactive H-2Ld molecules do not undergo the peptide- and beta 2-microglobulin-induced conformational changes characteristic of free class I major histocompatibility complex heavy chains. The accessibility of the H-2Ld cytoplasmic domain to R4 and to radioiodination late in biosynthesis and its biological significance are discussed.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

Development of spontaneous arthritis in beta2-microglobulin-deficient mice without expression of HLA-B27: association with deficiency of endogenous major histocompatibility complex class I expression.

OBJECTIVE: Mice deficient in beta2-microglobulin (beta2m), but expressing the human major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecule HLA-B27, have been reported to develop spontaneous inflammatory arthritis (SA). We sought to determine whether, under certain conditions, beta2m deficiency alone was sufficient to cause SA, and if this might be a result of class I deficiency. METHODS: The following types of mice were produced: mice of the MHC b haplotype genetically deficient in beta2m (beta2m(0)) on several genetic backgrounds (C57BL/6J [B6], BALB/cJ, SJL/J, MRL/MpJ, and B6,129), mice deficient in the transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP1(0)) on a B6,129 background, and HLA-B27-transgenic beta2m(0) mice on a B6 background. Cohorts were transferred from specific pathogen-free (SPF) to conventional (non-SPF) animal rooms, and evaluated clinically and histologically for the development of SA. RESULTS: SA occurred in TAP1(0) and beta2m(0)/class I-deficient mice with a mixed B6,129 genome at a frequency of 30-50%, while 10-15% of B6, SJL/J, and BALB/cJ beta2m(0) mice developed this arthropathy. MRL/ MpJ beta2m(0) mice were unaffected. Expression of B27 did not increase the frequency of SA in B27-transgenic B2m(0) B6 mice compared with that in beta2m(0) B6 controls. CONCLUSION: Class I deficiency is sufficient to cause SA in mice. The frequency of disease, as well as B27-specific SA, is markedly dependent on a non-MHC genetic background. These results suggest that class I deficiency in a genetically susceptible mouse can mimic B27-associated arthropathy.

Animals↗

The effect of anchor residue modifications on the stability of major histocompatibility complex class I-peptide interactions.

Anchor residues in peptides determine the specificity of binding to major histocompatibility complex class I molecules through interactions of their side chains with pockets in the peptide-binding groove. We have compared the kinetics of association of a Sendai virus nucleoprotein-derived peptide (FAPGNYPAL, termed SV9) with H-2Kb class I molecules, and the same peptide iodinated on the anchor residue tyrosine (125I-SV9). Even though the association rates were too rapid for direct measurements, competition studies indicated that they were similar for SV9 and 125I-SV9. To measure the binding of non-radioactive SV9 directly, SV9 was tritiated (3H-SV9). 3H-SV9 remained stably associated with H-2Kb molecules, whereas 125I-SV9 dissociated in a temperature-dependent fashion. Thus, modifications on anchor residues do not necessarily have to affect the specificity and association kinetics of peptide binding to class I molecules but can affect the stability of the resulting class I-peptide interaction. The dissociation of peptides with modified and, more generally, suboptimal anchor residue side chains may explain the presence of empty class I molecules and free class I heavy chains at the cell surface.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

Presentation of endogenous viral proteins in association with major histocompatibility complex class II: on the role of intracellular compartmentalization, invariant chain and the TAP transporter system.

Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II-associated antigen presentation is mainly linked to processing of exogenous antigens upon cellular uptake by endocytosis, but has also been observed for endogenously synthesized antigens. We have studied the MHC class II-associated presentation of the endogenously synthesized membrane associated glycoprotein (GP) and the cytosolic nucleoprotein (NP) of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) in professional antigen presenting cells (APC) of mice. Since LCMV is a noncytopathic virus and minimally affects cellular protein synthesis, it is a convenient virus for the study of antigen presentation. In contrast, most other studies assessing class II-associated presentation of endogeneously synthesized viral antigens used cytolytic viruses such as vaccinia, measles and influenza virus, which drastically interfere with host cell functions. In addition, most studies were performed using non-professional APC. We found that class II-associated presentation of endogenously synthesized membrane associated LCMV-GP was efficient and could not be inhibited by chloroquine or leupeptin. Neither the transporter associated with processing (TAP) system nor the invariant chain (Ii) were significantly involved in this process. In contrast, MHC class II-associated presentation of endogenously synthesized cytosolic LCMV-NP was not observed even in Ii-deficient APC. Thus, MHC class II loading of endogenously synthesized LCMV-GP apparently does not require processing in acidic endosomal compartments as defined by chloroquine and leupeptin insensitivity. Furthermore, although the TAP molecules transport peptides of up to 15 amino acids in length, which potentially could bind to MHC class II molecules in the endoplasmic reticulum, such a process apparently does not occur for either the glycoprotein or the nucleoprotein. Therefore, the subcellular localization of an endogenously synthesized protein influences crucially whether or not MHC class II loading can occur independently of the acidic compartments usually involved in MHC class II loading.

ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters↗

Binding interactions between peptides and proteins of the class II major histocompatibility complex.

The activation of helper T cells by peptides bound to proteins of the class II Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC II) is pivotal to the initiation of an immune response. The primary functional requirement imposed on MHC II proteins is the ability to efficiently bind thousands of different peptides. Structurally, this is reflected in a unique architecture of binding interactions. The peptide is bound in an extended conformation within a groove on the membrane distal surface of the protein that is lined with several pockets that can accommodate peptide side-chains. Conserved MHC II protein residues also form hydrogen bonds along the length of the peptide main-chain. Here we review recent advances in the study of peptide-MHC II protein reactions that have led to an enhanced understanding of binding energetics. These results demonstrate that peptide-MHC II protein complexes achieve high affinity binding from the array of hydrogen bonds that are energetically segregated from the pocket interactions, which can then add to an intrinsic hydrogen bond-mediated affinity. Thus, MHC II proteins are unlike antibodies, which utilize cooperativity among binding interactions to achieve high affinity and specificity. The significance of these observations is discussed within the context of possible mechanisms for the HLA-DM protein that regulates peptide presentation in vivo and the design of non-peptide molecules that can bind MHC II proteins and act as vaccines or immune modulators.

Animals↗

Empty and peptide-loaded class II major histocompatibility complex proteins produced by expression in Escherichia coli and folding in vitro.

The human class II major histocompatibility complex protein HLA-DR1 has been expressed in Escherichia coli as denatured alpha and beta subunits and folded in vitro to form the native structure. DR1 folding yields are 30-50% in the presence or absence of tight-binding antigenic peptides. The protein produced in this manner is soluble and monomeric with the expected apparent molecular weight. It reacts with conformation-sensitive anti-DR antibodies and exhibits peptide-dependent resistance to SDS-induced chain dissociation and to proteolysis as does the native protein. The observed peptide specificity and dissociation kinetics are similar to those of native DR produced in B-cells and finally the protein exhibits circular dichroism spectra and cooperative thermal denaturation as expected for a folded protein. We conclude that the recombinant DR1 has adopted the native fold. We have folded DR1 in the absence of peptide and isolated a soluble, peptide-free alphabeta-heterodimer. The empty DR1 can bind antigenic peptide but exhibits altered far UV-circular dichroism and thermal denaturation relative to the peptide-bound form.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

The chimpanzee major histocompatibility complex class II DR subregion contains an unexpectedly high number of beta-chain genes.

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II DR subregion of the chimpanzee was studied by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis. Genomic DNA obtained from a panel of 94 chimpanzees was digested with the restriction enzyme Taq I and hybridized with an HLA-DR beta probe specific for the 3' untranslated (UT) region. Such a screening revealed the existence of 14 distinct DRB/Taq I gene-associated fragments allowing the definition of 11 haplotypes. Segregation studies proved that the number of chimpanzee class II DRB/Taq I fragments is not constant and varies from three to six depending on the haplotype. Comparison of these data with a human reference panel manifested that some MHC DRB/Taq I fragments are shared by man and chimpanzee. Moreover, the number of HLA-DRB/Taq I gene-associated fragments detected in a panel of homozygous typing cells varies from one to three and corresponds with the number of HLA-DRB genes present for most haplotypes. However, a discrepancy is observed for the HLA-DR4, -DR7, and -DR9 haplotypes since a fourth HLA-DRB pseudogene present within these haplotypes lacks its 3' UT region and thus is not detected with the probe used. These results suggest that chimpanzees have a higher maximum number of DRB genes per haplotype than man. As a consequence, some chimpanzee haplotypes must show a dissimilar organization of the MHC DR subregion compared to their human equivalents. The implications of these findings are discussed in the context of the trans-species theory of MHC polymorphism.

Animals↗

Human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV 16) E7 and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and II expression in human keratinocytes in culture.

The low expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I antigens on human papillomavirus (HPV)-infected cervical carcinoma cells may be responsible for an insufficient cytotoxic T cell response against these cells. To investigate in vitro whether the HPV type 16 early gene product E7 influences cell surface expression of MHC class I and II molecules the HPV negative keratinocyte cell line HaCaT was either stably transfected with the E7 gene or infected with E7-recombinant vaccinia viruses. No difference in MHC class I transcription was detected between E7-transfected and untransfected HaCaT cells. MHC class I cell surface expression as determined by FACS analysis was stronger in some of the transfectants and less intensive in others when compared to untransfected HaCaT cells. In wildtype as well as in E7-recombinant vaccinia virus infected HaCaT cells downregulation of MHC class I molecules on protein and transcriptional level was observed. The alterations in MHC class I expression were independent of the presence and amount of E7-specific transcripts. None of the transfectants or infected HaCaT cells had MHC class II molecules on their cell surface. Hence, our data did not show a correlation between HPV 16 E7 and MHC expression in vitro.

Cell Line↗

Structures of two major histocompatibility complex class I genes of the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

Here we describe two rainbow trout major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I genes characterized from lambda phage genomic clones prepared from a single fish. Clone GC71 contains all exons except a leader peptide-encoding exon. An open reading frame is maintained, and thus the gene MhcOnmy-U71 could be expressed in this individual. The class I gene found on clone GC41 lacks exons encoding the leader peptide and cytoplasmic domain. This gene, MhcOnmy-U41p, is a pseudogene due to a deletion in the alpha(2) domain-encoding exon causing premature termination. Both the Onmy-U71 and Onmy-U41p genes are distinguished by long introns between the exons encoding the alpha(1) and alpha(2) domains. Clone GC41 also contains the 3' exons of the LMP7/ PSMB8 gene encoding the gamma-interferon-induced proteosome subunit of rainbow trout.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

Molecular characterization of major histocompatibility complex class 1 (MHC-I) from squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus).

Little is known about the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class 1 in squirrel monkeys ( Saimiri sciureus). We cloned, sequenced and characterized two alleles and the cDNA of the coding region of MHC class 1 in these New World monkeys. Phylogenetic analyses showed that these sequences are related to HLA class 1 genes ( HLA-A and HLA-G). The structure and organization of one of the two identified clones was similar to that of a class 1 MHC gene ( HLA-A2). All the exon/intron splice acceptor/donor sites are conserved and their locations correspond to the HLA-A2 gene. The sequences of the newly described cDNAs reveal that they code for the characteristic class 1 MHC proteins, with all the features thought necessary for cell surface expression. Typical sequences for the leader peptide, alpha(1), alpha(2), alpha(3), transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains were found.

Alleles↗

A new major histocompatibility complex class I b gene expressed in the mouse blastocyst and placenta.

Because of the role major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I b molecules may play during mouse embryonic development, we thought it would be interesting to search for additional MHC class I b molecules that might be expressed in preimplantation embryos, and in particular in the trophoblastic lineage. We therefore screened a mouse preimplantation blastocyst cDNA library for MHC class I sequences. This search led to the identification and characterization of a new MHC class I b gene, blastocyst MHC. Sequences identical to the exons and 3' untranslated region of this gene have been found in many laboratory mouse strains, as well as in the related mouse species Mus spreciligus. The presence of this gene in mouse strains of different MHC class I haplotypes argues that blastocyst MHC is a unique, newly-described gene rather than a new allele of a previously described mouse MHC class I gene. Blastocyst MHC has the structure of an MHC class I b gene, with the six exons characteristic of T-region genes. It is linked to H2-D. The amino acid sequence encoded by this gene maintains all the features of a functional antigen-presentation domain. The blastocyst MHC gene, like the human class I b gene HLA-G, is expressed at the blastocyst stage and in the placenta, and may be the mouse analog for HLA-G.

Alleles↗

Major histocompatibility complex class I binding glycopeptides for the estimation of 'empty' class I molecules.

Different forms of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I heavy chains are known to be expressed on the cell surface, including molecules which are functionally 'empty'. Direct peptide binding to cells is obvious during sensitization of target cells in vitro for cytotoxic T lymphocyte killing and 'empty' MHC-I molecules are comparatively abundant on TAP-1/2 peptide transporter mutant cells. In the present work we have estimated the fraction of 'empty' MHC class I molecules using glycosylated peptides and cellular staining with carbohydrate specific monoclonal antibodies. Synthetic Db and Kb binding peptides were coupled at different positions with different di- or trisaccharides, using different spacing between the carbohydrate and the peptide backbone. Binding of sugar specific mAbs was compared in ELISA and cellular assays. An optimal Db binding glycopeptide was used for comparative staining with anti-Db and anti-carbohydrate monoclonal antibodies to estimate fractions of 'empty' molecules on different T lymphoid cells. On activated normal T cells, a large fraction of Db molecules were found to be 'empty'. The functional role of such 'empty' MHC class I molecules on T cells is presently unclear. However, on antigen presenting cells they might participate in the antigen presentation process.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

Expression of class II major histocompatibility complex molecules in renal tubular epithelial cells of canine kidneys affected with tubulointerstitial nephritis.

Class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC) products are important molecules on various antigen-presenting cells and induce a T cell-specific immune response. The distribution of class II MHC molecules in the normal canine kidneys of dogs with tubulointerstitial nephritis was investigated by using a sensitive immunocytochemical method. In the normal canine kidney, class II MHC molecules were detected in interstitial 'dendritic' cells. In cases of tubulointerstitial nephritis, however, the expression of class II MHC molecules extended to other renal elements such as the epithelial cells of cortical and medullary tubules and, in some cases, the endothelial cells of peritubular capillaries. The tubular expression of class II MHC molecules was enhanced in dogs with higher levels of proteinuria. The results suggest that heavy proteinuria may be one triggering factor in canine tubulointerstitial damage, probably mediated by the reabsorption of filtered cytokines and immunogenic peptides which induce tubular epithelial cells to behave as immune accessory cells.

Animals↗

Pentoxifylline- and caffeine-induced modulation of major histocompatibility complex class I expression on murine tumor cell lines.

The methylxanthines, pentoxifylline (PTX) and caffeine, modulated major histocompatibility complex class I expression on three constitutively class I-positive murine T cell lymphoma lines. On two cell lines, PTX or caffeine treatment enhanced H-2K and H-2D expression. Treatment with PTX and either interferon-gamma, interferon-alpha/beta, tumor necrosis factor, or lymphotoxin increased the levels of K and D expression above those observed following treatment with either PTX or cytokines alone. On the third cell line, PTX or caffeine treatment enhanced D expression and reduced K expression. Treatment with PTX and any of the cytokines resulted in a level of D expression greater than that seen following treatment with either PTX or cytokines alone. However, PTX inhibited the cytokine-induced enhancement of K expression. PTX and caffeine did not induce class I expression on three constitutively class I-negative murine T cell lymphoma lines. Dibutyryl cAMP modulated class I expression in the same manner as PTX and caffeine. The PTX- and caffeine-mediated enhancement of class I expression was at least partially blocked by an inhibitor of cAMP-dependent protein kinase A. These results demonstrate that PTX and caffeine are able to regulate class I expression and that this regulation involves a cAMP-dependent mechanism.

Animals↗

Increased proliferative activity, loss of beta-adrenergic receptor function and class I major histocompatibility complex antigen surface expression in a modified lymphoma cell line.

The molecular interaction of class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens (Ag) and of beta-adrenergic receptors was previously demonstrated on lymphocytes. By long-term culturing with high concentration of foetal calf serum, the murine S49 lymphoma cell line was modified (S49m) giving phenotypic alterations in beta-adrenergic receptors and class I Ag expression. S49m cells displayed a reduced number of beta-adrenergic sites that were uncoupled to the adenylate cyclase system. These were unable to respond to beta agonist stimulation, despite the fact that direct activation of Gs could be achieved with aluminium tetrafluoride. Although S49m cells showed normal expression of the thy 1.2 Ag, they displayed no expression of class I Ag of the d haplotype. This was assessed by the evident lack of cytotoxic activity of specific monoclonal antibodies (Mo Ab) and of their binding. When performing IFI staining on permeabilized cells, we found positive staining with anti-class d Ab inside the cell. This loss of expression and activity of beta-adrenoceptors and the internalization of class I Ag were accompanied by a higher rate of proliferation in S49m cells. The possibility that the loss of both molecules would modify the biology of the cell is also discussed.

Adrenergic beta-Antagonists↗

Induced neuronal expression of class I major histocompatibility complex mRNA in acute and chronic inflammation models.

Studies have demonstrated neuronal expression of class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) mRNA and protein in normal and developing brain and in response to injury or viral infection. We report neuronal expression of class I MHC mRNA in hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) neurons in rats following systemic infection with Trypanosoma brucei brucei parasites (chronic) and in response to intravenous 1 mg/kg lipopolysaccharide administration (acute peripheral) and in striatal neurons following intrastriatal 5 microg lipopolysaccharide injection (acute central). These results demonstrate that neurons can be a source of immune signaling molecules and establish class I MHC as part of the neuronal component of immune responses.

Acute Disease↗

Products of class II major histocompatibility complex gene subregions are differentially expressed on keratinocytes in cutaneous diseases.

Aberrant expression of class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC) subregion antigens by keratinocytes was examined immunohistochemically in a range of cutaneous disorders. Although cell surface expression of human lymphocyte antigen (HLA)-DR was observed, HLA-DQ and HLA-DP were not expressed in any disorder investigated except for allergic contact dermatitis. Epidermal Langerhans cells expressed antigens of all three subregions on the cell surface. Differential expression of class II MHC subregion antigens may be related to tissue levels of gamma-interferon or to different functions of each subregion.

Adult↗

Extensive nucleotide variability within a 370 kb sequence from the central region of the major histocompatibility complex.

The recent availability of the genomic sequence spanning the central and telomeric end of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) has allowed a detailed study of its organisation, gene content and level of nucleotide variability. Previous analyses of nucleotide variability in the MHC have focused on the coding regions of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) Class I and II genes. Non-coding nucleotide variability has been considered a by-product of exonic diversity. However, with the advent of genomic sequencing, the extent of non-coding nucleotide variability within the MHC has just begun to be appreciated. In this study, we compared different human haplotypes in 370 kb of sequence in the central region of the MHC to show the following: 1. unusually high levels of non-coding nucleotide variability, up to 80 times greater than elsewhere in the genome; 2. non-coding nucleotide variability greater than 1% at nucleotide sites distant to the Class I genes; 3. nucleotide variability greater than 1% maintained over regions containing highly linked loci; and 4. distinct troughs and peaks in the level of nucleotide variability. We will discuss these observations in relation to a possible role of nucleotide variability in the organisation of the MHC.

Chromosome Mapping↗