Beta-ray photography of lyophilized animal sections

A new photographic method that images the density distribution of lyophilized animal sections approximately 50 microns in thickness is described. The new method involves sandwiching the animal section between a radiation sensor and a 147Pm planar radiation source. Either conventional photographic film or an imaging plate for radioluminography can be used as the sensor. The method described herein will find promising applications in whole body autoradiography as well as in the study of osteoporosis in experimental animals.

Histamine selectively enhances human immunoglobulin E (IgE) and IgG4 production induced by anti-CD58 monoclonal antibody

We studied the effects of histamine on human immunoglobulin (IgE) and IgG4 production. Histamine selectively enhanced IgE and IgG4 production in purified surface IgE and IgG4 negative (sIgE-sIgG4-) B cells from normal donors stimulated with interleukin (IL)-4 plus anti-CD58 or IL-13 plus anti-CD58 monoclonal antibody (mAb) without affecting production of IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgM, IgA1, or IgA2. In cultures with IL-4 plus anti-CD58 mAb, histamine-induced enhancement of IgE and IgG4 production was specifically blocked by thioperamide (H3 receptor antagonist), and was inhibited by anti-IL-10 antibody (Ab). In contrast, in cultures with IL-13 plus anti-CD58 mAb, histamine-induced enhancement was blocked by dimaprit (H1 receptor antagonist), and was inhibited by anti-IL-6 mAb. Histamine also enhanced IgE and IgG4 production by in vivo-generated sIgE+ and sIgG4+ B cells, respectively, from atopic patients; enhancement was blocked by dimaprit and thioperamide, and was inhibited by anti-IL-6 mAb and anti-IL-10 Ab. In sIgE-sIgG4- B cells, IL-4 plus anti-CD58 mAb induced IL-10 production and IL-10 receptor expression, whereas IL-13 plus anti-CD58 mAb induced IL-6 production and IL-6 receptor expression. Histamine increased IL-10 and IL-6 production without affecting IL-10 and IL-6 receptor expression, in cultures with IL-4 plus anti-CD58 mAb and with IL-13 plus anti-CD58 mAb, respectively, which was blocked by thioperamide and dimaprit, respectively. In contrast, sIgE+ and sIgG4+ B cells spontaneously produced both IL-6 and IL-10 and constitutively expressed IL-6 and IL-10 receptors, and histamine increased IL-6 and IL-10 production without affecting IL-6 or IL-10 receptor expression, which was blocked by thioperamide and dimaprit. These results indicate that histamine enhanced IgE and IgG4 production by increasing endogenous IL-6 and IL-10 production via H1 and H3 receptors, respectively.

Vasoactive intestinal peptide enhances immunoglobulin production and growth in human plasma cells via mechanisms that may involve protein kinase C

The effects of various neuropeptides on human plasma cells were studied. Of the various neuropeptides tested, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) enhanced Ig production and growth in human plasma cell lines, IM-9 and AF-10, and in plasma cells generated in vivo (four out of four patients with plasma cell leukemia) and in vitro. In contrast, other neuropeptides (neuropeptide Y, somatostatin, substance P, peptide YY, neurokinin A, calcitonin gene-related peptide, chole-cystokinin octapeptide, and beta-endorphin) were ineffective. Moreover, VIP-induced enhancement was specifically blocked by VIP receptor antagonist. Among the various cytokines, IL-6, GH, and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) also enhanced Ig production and thymidine uptake in plasma cells. However, VIP-induced enhancement was not mediated by IL-6, GH, or IGF-I because antibodies to these cytokines failed to block VIP-induced enhancement. Phorbol 12,13 dibutyrate enhanced Ig production and thymidine uptake in plasma cells, and the Phorbol 12,13 dibutyrate-induced enhancement was blocked by H7 (a protein kinase C inhibitor) but not by H8 (a protein kinase A inhibitor). Similarly, VIP-induced enhancement was blocked by H7 but not by H8. Collectively, VIP enhances plasma cell responses via mechanisms that may involve protein kinase C.

Enhancement of in vitro spontaneous IgE production by topical steroids in patients with atopic dermatitis

BACKGROUND

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an inflammatory skin disease. Although topical steroids are widely used for AD, management of severe AD is not satisfactory because of relapse or occasional aggravation of symptoms. Moreover, glucocorticoids induce in vitro IgE production. On the other hand, topical sodium cromoglycate (SCG) solution is a safe and effective treatment for AD.

METHODS

We treated 43 patients with AD with SCG solution (n = 21) or with topical steroids, beclomethasone dipropionate (BD) ointment (n = 22). After 2 weeks, clinical evaluation and spontaneous immunoglobulin production by peripheral blood B cells or surface IgE+ B cells from patients in the SCG and BD groups were assessed.

RESULTS

Both SCG and BD treatment remarkably improved eczema. However, although SCG treatment decreased spontaneous IgE production by B cells without affecting production of IgG, IgM, or IgA, BD treatment selectively increased spontaneous IgE production. SCG treatment also decreased IgE production by surface IgE+ B cells, whereas BD treatment increased it.

CONCLUSION

Topical steroid treatment increases in vitro spontaneous IgE production by B cells. This indicated that topical steroids may decrease inflammation; however, a large-scale study on the effect of topical steroids on IgE production in vitro and in vivo may be necessary.

RANTES and macrophage inflammatory protein 1 alpha selectively enhance immunoglobulin (IgE) and IgG4 production by human B cells

We studied the effects of various chemokines including neutrophil-activating peptide 2 (NAP-2), beta-thromboglobulin (beta-TG), platelet factor 4 (PF-4), melanoma growth stimulating activity (GRO), gamma interferon-induced protein (IP-10), regulated on activation, normal T expressed and secreted (RANTES), macrophage inflammatory protein 1 alpha (MIP-1 alpha), MIP-1 beta, and monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1) on Immunoglobulin (IgE) and IgG4 production by human B cells. None of these chemokines with or without interleukin (IL-4), anti-CD40 or -CD58 monoclonal antibody (mAb), induced IgE and IgG4 production by B cells from nonatopic donors. However, RANTES and MIP-1 alpha selectively enhanced IgE and IgG4 production induced by IL-4 plus anti-CD40 or -CD58 mAb without affecting production of IgM, IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgA1, or IgA2, whereas other chemokines failed to do so. Enhancement of IgE and IgG4 production by RANTES and MIP-1 alpha was specifically blocked by anti-RANTES mAb and anti-MIP-1 alpha antibody (Ab), respectively, whereas anti-IL-5 mAb, anti-IL-6 mAb, anti-IL-10 Ab, anti-IL-13 Ab, and anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha mAb failed to do so. Purified surface IgE positive (slgE4) and slgG4+ B cells generated either in vitro or in vivo spontaneously produced IgE and IgG4, respectively, whereas sIgE- and sIgG4- B cells failed to do so. RANTES and MIP-1 alpha enhanced spontaneous IgE and IgG4 production in slgE+ and slgG4- B cells, respectively, whereas neither RANTES nor MIP-1 alpha did so in sIgE- or sIgG4- B cells. Purified sIgE4+ and sIgG4+, but not sIgE- or sIgG4- B cells, generated in vitro and in vivo expressed receptors for RANTES and MIP-1 alpha, whereas they failed to express receptors for other chemokines. These findings indicate that RANTES and MIP-1 alpha enhance IgE and IgG4 production by directly stimulating sIgE+ and sIgG4+ B cells.

Inhibition of spontaneous immunoglobulin production by ganglioside GM2 in human B cells

The effects of gangliosides on spontaneous immunoglobulin (Ig) production in human B cells were studied. Of the various gangliosides tested, including GM1, GM2, GM3, GD1a, GD1b, GD3, GT1b, and GQ1b, only GM2 inhibited Ig production, but not thymidine uptake, in human B cell lines. Moreover, the GM2-induced inhibition was blocked by anti-GM2 mAb, but not by control IgM. Of various cytokines, IL-10 and TNF-alpha each partially counteracted the GM2-induced inhibition, and addition of both IL-10 and TNF-alpha completely counteracted the inhibition. On the other hand, anti-IL-10 mAb plus anti-TNF-alpha mAb inhibited spontaneous Ig production. GM2 inhibited endogenous production of IL-10 and TNF-alpha without affecting the binding of IL-10 and TNF-alpha in B cell lines. GM2 also specifically inhibited spontaneous production of Ig, IL-10, and TNF-alpha in in vivo activated B cells obtained from normal donors. This inhibition was blocked by anti-GM2 mAb and was counteracted specifically by IL-10 plus TNF-alpha. Collectively, GM2 may inhibit spontaneous Ig production by inhibiting endogenous production of IL-10 and TNF-alpha in B cells.

Vasoactive intestinal peptide differentially modulates human immunoglobulin production

The effects of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) on human immunoglobulin (Ig) production were studied in (1) B cell lines; (2) anti-CD40 mAb-stimulated B cells from non-atopic donors; and (3) unstimulated mononuclear cells from atopic patients. In B cell lines, GM-1056, IM-9, and CBL, VIP enhanced IgA1, IgG1 and IgM production, respectively, in a dose-dependent fashion, while the other neuropeptides somatostatin (SOM) or substance P (SP) failed to do so. Among the various cytokines examined including IL-1 beta, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-13, and G-CSF. IL-6 and IL-10 also enhanced Ig production. However, VIP-induced enhancement of Ig production was specific, and was not mediated via these cytokines, since enhancement was blocked by the VIP antagonist, while SOM and SP antagonists, anti-IL-6 mAb, or anti-IL-10 Ab failed to do so. In anti-CD40 mAb-stimulated B cells from nonatopic donors, VIP selectively induced IgA1 and IgA2 production without affecting IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4, IgM, or IgE production. This stimulatory effect was specifically blocked by the VIP antagonist, but not by SOM or SP antagonists, anti-IL-5 mAb, anti-IL-10 Ab, or anti-TGF-beta Ab. VIP induced IgA1 and IgA2 production by surface IgA1- (sIgA1-) and sIgA2-B cells, respectively, while this agent had no effect on sIgA1+ and sIgA2+B cells. In contrast, in unstimulated mononuclear cells from atopic patients, VIP selectively inhibited spontaneous IgE and IgG4 production without affecting IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgM, IgA1, or IgA2 production. This inhibitory effect was specifically blocked by the VIP antagonist, but not by anti-IFN-alpha Ab, anti-IFN-gamma mAb, anti-IL-12 Ab, or anti-TGF-beta Ab. VIP did not inhibit IgE or IgG4 production in B cells or in B cells cultured with either T cells or monocytes. However, VIP inhibited IgE and IgG4 production when B cells were cultured with both T cells and monocytes.

Interferon-alpha treatment for severe atopic dermatitis

Patients with both severe atopic dermatitis (AD) and chronic myeloid leukemia, chronic hepatitis B, or chronic hepatitis C were treated with interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha). IFN-alpha treatment improved AD. Moreover, there were also significant decreases in serum IgE and IgG4 levels and in in vitro spontaneous IgE and IgG4 production by patients' mononuclear cells.

Involvement of interleukin (IL)-13, but not IL-4, in spontaneous IgE and IgG4 production in nephrotic syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a renal disease characterized by proteinuria and hypoalbuminemia. In NS patients without any allergic disease, serum IgE and IgG4 levels were selectively increased, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (MNC) spontaneously produced IgE and IgG4. T cells produced interleukin (IL)-13 spontaneously, and B cells constitutively expressed IL-13 receptors (IL-13R). In addition, T cells stimulated surface IgE-negative (sIgE-) and sIgG4- B cells to produce IgE and IgG4, respectively, and IgE and IgG4 production was specifically blocked by anti-IL-13 antibody (Ab). MNC from atopic dermatitis (AD) patients also produced IgE and IgG4 spontaneously. However, in AD patients, T cells spontaneously produced IL-4, but not IL-13, and B cells constitutively expressed IL-4R, but not IL-13R. T cells stimulated sIgE- and sIgG4- B cells to produce IgE and IgG4, respectively, and the production was specifically blocked by anti-IL-4 Ab. On the other hand, sIgE+ and sIgG4+ B cells from both NS and AD patients spontaneously produced IgE and IgG4, respectively, and this production was not affected by T cells, anti-IL-4 Ab, or anti-IL-13 Ab. These results indicate that IL-13 is involved in the enhanced production of IgE and IgG4 in NS, while IL-4 is involved in these responses in AD.

Selective inhibition of spontaneous IgE and IgG4 production by interleukin-8 in atopic patients

The effects of interleukin (IL)-8 on spontaneous IgE and IgG4 production in atopic patients were studied. IL-8 inhibited IgE and IgG4 production by purified surface (s) IgE+ and sIgG4+ B cells, respectively, while it had no effect on IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgM, IgA1, and IgA2 production by corresponding sIg+ B cells. The IL-8-induced inhibition was counteracted by IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and was blocked by anti-IL-8 monoclonal antibody (MoAb). Conversely, the addition of anti-IL-6 MoAb and anti-TNF-alpha MoAb, in the absence of IL-8, inhibited IgE and IgG4 production by sIgE+ and sIgG4+ B cells, respectively. Purified sIgE+ and sIgG4+ B cells expressed IL-6 receptors (R), TNF-alpha R, and IL-8R, and they produced IL-6 and TNF-alpha, but not IL-8. IL-8 had no effect on IL-6R or TNF-alpha R, while it abrogated IL-6 and TNF-alpha production in these cells. In contrast, slgG1+, slgG2+, slgG2+, slgG3+, slgM+, slgA1+, and slgA2+ B cells expressed IL-6R and TNF-alpha R but not IL-8R, and they produced IL-6 and TNF-alpha. IL-8 had no effect on IL-6R and TNF-alpha R, or on TNF-alpha and IL-6 production in these cells. These results indicate that IL-8 inhibits spontaneous IgE and IgG4 production in slgE+ and slgG4+ B cells, respectively, by inhibiting the endogenous production of IL-6 and TNF-alpha.

Induction of IgA1 and IgA2 production in immature human fetal B cells and pre-B cells by vasoactive intestinal peptide

We studied the effects of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) on IgA1 and IgA2 production in human fetal B cells and pre-B cells derived from bone marrow. VIP induced IgA1, IgA2, and IgM production in sIgM+, CD19+ fetal B cells stimulated with anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody (MoAb) without inducing the production of IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4, or IgE. The anti-CD40 MoAb plus VIP also induced IgA1, IgA2, and IgM production in sIgM-, CD19+ pre-B cells, which was enhanced by the addition of interleukin-7 (IL-7). This induction by VIP was specific, as the anti-CD40 MoAb plus other neuropeptides [ie, somatostatin (SOM) or substance P (SP)] had no effect, and moreover, the induction was specifically blocked by a VIP antagonist. Furthermore, the anti-CD40 MoAb plus various cytokines, including IL-1 beta, IL-2, IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta), low-molecular-weight B-cell growth factor (BCGF), and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), did not induce IgA1 and IgA2 production in fetal B cells or pre-B cells. These findings indicate that, in the presence of costimulators, VIP may induce IgA1 and IgA2 production by isotype switching.

Effect of hydrocortisone on spontaneous IgE and IgG4 production in atopic patients

The effect of hydrocortisone on spontaneous human IgE and IgG4 production in atopic patients was studied. In cultures of mononuclear cells, hydrocortisone (HC) enhanced IgE and IgG4 production without affecting the production of IgM, IgA1, IgA2, IgG1, IgG2, or IgG3. In contrast, testosterone, beta-estradiol, progesterone, aldosterone, gonadotropin, and prolactin were without effect. HC had to be added at the initiation of culture to achieve this enhancing effect. IL-4 and IL-13 also enhanced spontaneous IgE and IgG4 production in mononuclear cells. However, the enhancement of IgE and IgG4 production by HC was not mediated by IL-4 or IL-13, as the addition of anti-IL-4 or anti-IL-13 Ab did not block the HC-induced enhancement. HC also enhanced IgE and IgG4 production in purified B cells, whereas neither IL-4 nor IL-13 did so. IL-5, IL-6, and TNF-alpha also enhanced IgE and IgG4 production in purified B cells; however, neither anti-IL-5, anti-IL-6, nor anti-TNF-alpha mAbs blocked the HC-induced enhancement. Purified surface (s)IgE+ and sIgG4+ B cells spontaneously produced IgE and IgG, respectively, whereas sIgE- and sIgG4- B cells failed to do so. HC enhanced IgE and IgG4 production in sIgE+ and sIgG4+ B cells, respectively, without affecting proliferation, whereas HC failed to induce IgE and IgG4 production in sIgE- and sIgG4- B cells, respectively. These results indicate that HC may selectively stimulate sIgE+ and sIgG4+ B cells.

Effect of hydrocortisone on spontaneous IgE and IgG4 production in atopic patients

The effect of hydrocortisone on spontaneous human IgE and IgG4 production in atopic patients was studied. In cultures of mononuclear cells, hydrocortisone (HC) enhanced IgE and IgG4 production without affecting the production of IgM, IgA1, IgA2, IgG1, IgG2, or IgG3. In contrast, testosterone, beta-estradiol, progesterone, aldosterone, gonadotropin, and prolactin were without effect. HC had to be added at the initiation of culture to achieve this enhancing effect. IL-4 and IL-13 also enhanced spontaneous IgE and IgG4 production in mononuclear cells. However, the enhancement of IgE and IgG4 production by HC was not mediated by IL-4 or IL-13, as the addition of anti-IL-4 or anti-IL-13 Ab did not block the HC-induced enhancement. HC also enhanced IgE and IgG4 production in purified B cells, whereas neither IL-4 nor IL-13 did so. IL-5, IL-6, and TNF-alpha also enhanced IgE and IgG4 production in purified B cells; however, neither anti-IL-5, anti-IL-6, nor anti-TNF-alpha mAbs blocked the HC-induced enhancement. Purified surface (s)IgE+ and sIgG4+ B cells spontaneously produced IgE and IgG, respectively, whereas sIgE- and sIgG4- B cells failed to do so. HC enhanced IgE and IgG4 production in sIgE+ and sIgG4+ B cells, respectively, without affecting proliferation, whereas HC failed to induce IgE and IgG4 production in sIgE- and sIgG4- B cells, respectively. These results indicate that HC may selectively stimulate sIgE+ and sIgG4+ B cells.

High-dose intravenous gamma-globulin treatment for hyperimmunoglobulinemia E syndrome

BACKGROUND

Hyperimmunoglobulinemia syndrome (HIES) is an inflammatory skin disease, and management of it is not satisfactory. However, high-dose intravenous gamma-globulin (IVGG) is a safe and effective treatment for Kawasaki disease.

METHODS

I initially treated two patients with Kawasaki disease, both of whom also had HIES, with IVGG. Subsequently, I treated patients with HIES alone, atopic dermatitis, Kawasaki disease, or idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura with IVGG and measured serum IgE levels and in vitro spontaneous IgE production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients. Direct effects of IgG on in vitro IgE production were also studied.

RESULTS

IVGG treatment remarkably improved severe eczema in patients with HIES with or without Kawasaki disease and in patients with atopic dermatitis. Moreover, serum IgE levels and in vitro spontaneous IgE production were decreased in these patients but not in patients with Kawasaki disease or idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. The addition of high concentrations of IgG to cultures of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with HIES or atopic dermatitis decreased in vitro spontaneous IgE production. Moreover, IgG also decreased IgE production by normal B cells stimulated with interleukin-4 plus anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody.

CONCLUSION

IVGG is effective in the treatment of severe eczema in patients with HIES and atopic dermatitis. IVGG also decreased enhanced IgE production both in vivo and in vitro.

Interleukin 8 (IL-8) inhibits the interleukin 4 (IL-4)-induced but not the spontaneous growth of human B cells via mechanisms that may involve protein kinase C

IL-8 inhibited the IL-4-induced but not the spontaneous growth of both a human B cell line, CBL, and in vivo activated B cells. This inhibition was specific to IL-8, since anti-IL-8 mAb, but not control IgG1, blocked inhibition. Phorbol 12, 13 dibutyrate did not affect the IL-4-induced B cell growth; however, it reversed the IL-8-mediated inhibition, and this reversal was blocked by H7 (a protein kinase C inhibitor), but not by H8 (a protein kinase A inhibitor). These results indicate that IL-8 inhibits IL-4-induced B cell growth via specific mechanisms that may involve protein kinase C.

Differential effects of gangliosides on human IgE and IgG4 production

The effects of gangliosides on human IgE and IgG4 production were studied. Of the various gangliosides tested, only GM2 and GM3 inhibited the IgE and IgG4 production induced by interleukin (IL)-4 plus hydrocortisone (HC), or that induced by IL-13 plus HC, in human surface IgE- and IgG4-negative (sIgE-, sIgG4-) B cells without affecting the production of IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgM, IgA1 or IgA2. In contrast, GM1, GD1a, GD1b, GD3, GT1b and GQ1b were without effects. The GM2- and GM3-mediated inhibition was specific, since each was blocked by a corresponding antibody. Of the various factors tested. IL-6, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha enhanced the IgE and IgG4 production induced by IL-4 plus HC or by IL-13 plus HC, while IL-8 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta inhibited these responses. However, only TNF-alpha counteracted the GM2- and GM3-mediated inhibition of IgE and IgG4 production, while IL-6, IL-10, anti-IL-8 monoclonal antibody and anti-TGF-beta antibody failed to do so. Anti-TNF-alpha monoclonal antibody, but not control IgG1, not only inhibited IgE and IgG4 production in the absence of TNF-alpha but also blocked the counteraction of inhibition by TNF-alpha. In cultures containing IL-4 plus HC or IL-13 plus HC. GM2 and GM3 specifically inhibited TNF-alpha production without affecting TNF-alpha receptors, IL-6 production or IL-6 receptors. These results indicate that GM2 and GM3 inhibit IgE and IgG4 production by inhibiting endogenous TNF-alpha production.

A case of common variable immunodeficiency associated with cyclic thrombocytopenia

A 12 year old boy was found to be deficient in immunoglobulins (Ig) A, G2 and G4, and common variable immunodeficiency was diagnosed. He also had cyclic thrombocytopenia at intervals of approximately 28-30 days. His bone marrow revealed normocellular with slightly decreased megakaryocytes. In vitro colony assays showed markedly imparied megakaryocytopoiesis, erythropoiesis and granulopoiesis. Platelet-associated IgG was elevated at his thrombocytopenic phase. Direct Coombs' test was repeatedly positive. Although not defined at present, we suggest the autoimmune nature of the disease.

Interleukin-8 differentially modulates interleukin-4- and interleukin-2-induced human B cell growth

The effect of interleukin-8 (IL)-8 on human B cell growth, as determined by thymidine uptake and viable cell numbers was studied. IL-8 inhibited IL-4-induced growth of B cells costimulated with anti-mu antibodies (Ab) or Staphylococcus aureus Cowan strain I (SAC) in a dose-dependent fashion. In contrast, IL-8 did not inhibit IL-2-induced growth of B cells. The IL-8-mediated inhibition was specific, since it was blocked by anti-IL-8 mAb but not by control IgG1. Moreover, anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (anti-TNF-alpha) Ab blocked IL-8-mediated inhibition. On the other hand, TNF-alpha, but not other cytokines including IL-1 beta, IL-3, IL-5, IL-6, interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) or IFN-gamma, inhibited IL-4-mediated growth, and inhibition by TNF-alpha was blocked by anti-TNF-alpha Ab but not by control IgG. IL-4 had no effect on TNF-alpha binding by B cells while it decreased TNF-alpha production by B cells. IL-8 had no effect in binding of IL-4, IL-2 or TNF-alpha by B cells, however, it enhanced TNF-alpha production by B cells. These results indicate that IL-8 inhibited IL-4-induced human B cell growth by enhancement of endogenous TNF-alpha production.

GM1, a ganglioside that specifically enhances immunoglobulin production and proliferation in human plasma cells

The effects of gangliosides on human plasma cell responses were studied. Among the various gangliosides tested, only GM1 enhanced immunoglobulin (Ig) production and proliferation in the human plasma cell lines, IM-9 and AF-10, while other gangliosides (GM2, GM3, GD1a, GD1b, GD3, GT1b, and GQ1b) had no effect. Among the various cytokines tested, including interleukin (IL)-1 beta, IL-2, IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-9, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13, interferon (IFN)-alpha and IFN-gamma, only IL-6 enhanced Ig production and proliferation in IM-9 and AF-10 cells. However, the enhancement of plasma cell responses by GM1 was specific and was not mediated by IL-6, since GM1 activity was blocked by anti-GM1 monoclonal antibody (mAb), but not by control IgM, anti-IL-6 Ab or the anti-IL-6 receptor mAb, PM1. Conversely, the enhancement by IL-6 was blocked by anti-IL-6 Ab and PM1, but not by anti-GM1 mAb. GM1, but not other gangliosides, also enhanced Ig production and proliferation in freshly separated plasma cells from patients with plasma cell leukemia and in plasma cells generated in vitro. These actions of GM1 were specifically blocked by anti-GM1 mAb, but not by anti-IL-6 Ab or PM1. These results indicate that GM1 may be an important regulator of plasma cell responses.

Histamine inhibits immunoglobulin production via histamine H2 receptors without affecting cell growth in human B cells

The effect of histamine upon immunoglobulin (Ig) production and proliferation in human B cells was studied. Histamine inhibited Ig production by the human B cell lines IM-9 and CBL in a dose-dependent fashion during 4 days of culture. As little as 10(-5) M was inhibitory. In contrast, proliferation was not affected. Inhibition by histamine was blocked by histamine H2 antagonist, cimetidine, but not by histamine H1 antagonist, diphenhydramine. Moreover, histamine H2 agonist dimaprit inhibited Ig production from B cell lines in a dose-dependent manner, and as little as 10(-8) M was inhibitory. Histamine also inhibited IgM and IgG production by peripheral and tonsillar B cells stimulated with Staphylococcus aureus Cowan strain I and IL-2 without affecting proliferation. This inhibition was also blocked by cimetidine. These results indicate that histamine has a direct inhibitory effect on B cells via histamine H2 receptors, and acts as an immunoregulatory factor.

Vasoactive intestinal peptide specifically induces human IgA1 and IgA2 production

The effects of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) on human IgA1 and IgA2 production were studied. In unfractionated small resting B cells stimulated with anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody (mAb), VIP induced IgA1 and IgA2 production without affecting the production of IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4, IgM, or IgE. When small B cells were separated into sIgA1+, sIgA2+, sIgA1- and sIgA2- B cells, anti-CD40 mAb plus VIP induced IgA1 and IgA2 production by surface IgA1- (sIgA1-) and sIgA2- B cells, respectively, while having no effect on sIgA1+ and sIgA2+ B cells. This induction by VIP was specific, since anti-CD40 mAb plus other neuropeptides, i.e., somatostatin or substance P, had no effect, and moreover, the induction was specifically blocked by a VIP antagonist. Further, anti-CD40 mAb plus various cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-1 beta, IL-2, IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, transforming growth factor-beta, low molecular weight B cell growth factor, and interferon-gamma, did not induce IgA1 and IgA2 production by sIgA1- and sIgA2- B cells, respectively. These results indicate that in the presence of anti-CD40 mAb, VIP induces IgA1 and IgA2 production by isotype switching.

Differential effects of gangliosides on Ig production and proliferation by human B cells

The effects of gangliosides on human B-cell responses were studied. Of various gangliosides tested, only GM2 and GM3 inhibited production of IgG subclasses and IgM, but not IgA subclasses, and thymidine uptake by human B cells stimulated with SAC plus interleukin-2 (IL-2). In contrast, GM1, GD1a, GD1b, GD3, GT1b, and GQ1b were without effects. GM2- and GM3-induced inhibition were specific, because each was blocked by a corresponding antibody. Of various cytokines tested, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) alone counteracted GM2- and GM3-induced inhibitions of Ig production and thymidine uptake, whereas other cytokines including IL-1 beta, IL-3, IL-5, IL-6, and interferon-gamma each failed to do so. Moreover, anti-TNF-alpha antibody, but not control IgG, blocked the counteraction of inhibition by TNF-alpha. GM2 and GM3 each inhibited Ig production, thymidine uptake, and TNF-alpha production by surface IgG1+ (slG1+), sIgG2+, sIgG3+, sIgG4+, and sIgM+ B cells without affecting IL-2 binding or TNF-alpha binding to B cells, but had no such inhibitory effects on sIgA1+ or sIgA2+ B cells. These findings indicate that GM2 and GM3 inhibit Ig production and thymidine uptake by human sIgG1+, sIgG2+, sIgG3+, sIgG4+, and sIgM+ B cells by inhibiting endogenous TNF-alpha production.

Growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor I induce immunoglobulin (Ig)E and IgG4 production by human B cells

We studied the effects of growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), IGF-II, and insulin on human immunoglobulin E (IgE) and IgG4 production. GH and IGF-I induced IgE and IgG4 production by normal donors' mononuclear cells (MNC) depleted of sIgE+ and sIgG4+ B cells without affecting IgM, IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgA1, or IgA2 production, whereas IGF-II and insulin failed to do so. GH-induced IgE and IgG4 production was specific, and was not mediated by IGF-I, interleukin 4 (IL-4), or IL-13, since it was blocked by anti-GH antibody (Ab), but not by anti-IGF-I Ab, anti-IL-4 Ab, or anti-IL-13 Ab. Conversely, IGF-I-induced IgE and IgG4 production was blocked by anti-IGF-I Ab, but not by anti-GH Ab, anti-IL-4 Ab, or anti-IL-13 Ab. Moreover, interferon alpha (IFN-alpha) or IFN-gamma, which counteracted IL-4-and IL-13-induced IgE and IgG4 production, had no effect on induction by GH or IGF-I. In contrast to MNC, GH or IGF-I failed to induce IgE and IgG4 production by purified sIgE-, sIgG4- B cells. However, in the presence of anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody (mAb), GH or IGF-I induced IgE and IgG4 production by these cells. Purified sIgE+, but not sIgE-, B cells from atopic patients spontaneously produced IgE. GH or IGF-I with anti-CD40 mAb failed to enhance IgE production by sIgE+ B cells, whereas they induced IgE production by sIgE- B cells. Similarly, whereas GH or IGF-I with anti-CD40 mAb failed to enhance IgG4 production by sIgG4+ B cells from atopic patients, they induced IgG4 production by sIgG4- B cells. Again, neither IgE nor IgG4 induction was blocked by anti-IL-4 Ab or anti-IL-13 Ab. These results indicate that GH and IGF-I induce IgE and IgG4 production by class switching in an IL-4- and IL-13-independent mechanism.

High dose gammaglobulin treatment for atopic dermatitis

Patients with both severe atopic dermatitis and Kawasaki disease or idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura were treated with high dose intravenous gammaglobulin. There was a marked improvement in the dermatitis.

Differential effect of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-I, insulin-like growth factor-II, and insulin on Ig production and growth in human plasma cells

The effect of human growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), IGF-II, and insulin on human plasma cell responses was studied. GH enhanced Ig production and thymidine uptake in the human plasma cell lines, IM-9 and AF-10. IGF-I, but not IGF-II or insulin, also enhanced Ig production and proliferation in them. However, enhancement by GH was not mediated by IGF-I, because enhancement was blocked by anti-GH antibody (Ab), but not by Ab to IGF-I or IGF-I receptor. Conversely, the enhancement by IGF-I was blocked by either Ab to IGF-I or IGF-I receptor, but not by anti-GH Ab. GH and IGF-I also enhanced production of IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4, IgA1, IgA2, and IgM and thymidine uptake in PCA-1+ plasma cells generated in vitro. Again, enhancement by GH was specifically blocked by anti-GH Ab, whereas enhancement by IGF-I was specifically blocked by either Ab to IGF-I or IGF-I receptor. These results indicate that GH and IGF-I may play important roles in plasma cell responses.