Blockade of mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade signaling in interleukin 6-independent multiple myeloma cells

Interleukin 6 (IL-6) is a growth factor for multiple myeloma (MM) cells, yet not all MM cell lines or patient cells require IL-6 for their growth. It is well known that IL-6 activates the signal transducers and activators of transcription (stat) 1-stat3 heterodimer, stat3 homodimer, and Ras-dependent mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades in multiple cell systems. We have shown previously that the MAPK pathway is an important pathway for IL-6-mediated MM cell growth. In this study, we delineate the pattern of upstream MAPK cascade activation in IL-6-responsive B9 cells and in IL-6-nonresponsive U266, OCI-My5, and RPMI8226 MM cells to define sites of blockade of this pathway associated with loss of responsiveness to IL-6. In B9 cells, IL-6 triggered the following in sequence: gp130 phosphorylation, gp130-to-protein tyrosine phosphatase 1D (PTP1D) binding, PTP1D phosphorylation, PTP1D complex formation with Grb2-Son of sevenless 1 (Sos1), and Sos1 phosphorylation. gp130 phosphorylation, gp130-to-PTP1D binding, PTP1D phosphorylation, and PTP1D-to-Grb2 binding are also induced by IL-6 in all IL-6-independent MM cell lines studied. However, Grb2 is not associated with Sos1, and neither Grb2-to-Sos1 binding nor Sos1 phosphorylation is triggered by IL-6 in OCI-My5 MM cells. On the other hand, Grb2 and Sos1 are associated constitutively in U266 and RPMI8226 MM cells, but phosphorylation of Sos1 is not induced by IL-6. These data suggest that lack of Sos1 activation is associated with loss of IL-6 responsiveness in MM cell lines that grow independently of IL-6.

Activation signals regulate heat shock transcription factor 1 in human B lymphocytes

We previously showed that the ability of human B lymphocytes to elicit a cytoprotective heat shock response when confronted by heat or other stresses was dependent upon the state of cell activation. This was unexpected, considering the highly conserved nature of the heat shock response and the widely held belief that all nonmutated mature cells were capable of eliciting a heat shock response when stressed. To elucidate the mechanism by which activation primes B cells to respond to stresses, we examined heat shock transcription factor 1 (hHSF1) in B cells since this factor appears to be solely responsible for stress-induced transcription of heat shock genes in human cells. In the current report, we show that hHSF1-DNA binding complexes are undetectable in extracts of unactivated B cells. In fact, hHSF1 protein is not constitutively expressed in unactivated B cells, nor is its synthesis stress-inducible. However, following activation, hHSF1 can be found in either a transcriptionally active or an inactive state, depending upon whether the cell has been stressed or not. Thus, activation pathways play an important role in enabling B cells to survive and function properly in the context of physiologic stresses by regulating hHSF1.

Interaction of tumor and host cells with adhesion and extracellular matrix molecules in the development of multiple myeloma

Adhesion molecules play an important role in the growth regulation and migration of multiple myeloma (MM) cells. They mediate homing of MM cells to the bone marrow and MM cell to bone marrow stromal cell adhesion, with resultant interleukin-6 related autocrine and paracine growth and antiapoptotic affects. Their pattern of expression on tumor cells correlates with the development of plasma cell leukemia or extramedullary disease. Clinically, expression of adhesion molecules on tumor cells or in the serum has already shown prognostic utility. Finally, since adhesion molecules are involved at multiple steps in the pathogenesis of MM, therapeutic studies may target these molecules.

Transfusion support in acute leukemias

Patients with acute myeloid leukemia and acute lymphocytic leukemia receive significant numbers of blood products for hematologic support during periods of disease and treatment related cytopenias. These patients may be at increased risk for complications associated with transfusion. This article reviews the indications for platelet and red blood cell transfusion, as well as the incidence and strategies for prevention of the immunohematologic and infectious sequelae arising in the setting of multiple blood component transfusions.

Interleukin-6 inhibits Fas-induced apoptosis and stress-activated protein kinase activation in multiple myeloma cells

Fas belongs to the family of type-1 membrane proteins that transduce apoptotic signals. In the present studies, we characterized signaling during Fas-induced apoptosis in RPMI-8226 and IM-9 multiple myeloma (MM) derived cell lines as well as patient plasma cell leukemia cells. Treatment with anti-Fas (7C11) monoclonal antibody (MoAb) induced apoptosis, evidenced by internucleosomal DNA fragmentation and propidium iodide staining, and was associated with increased expression of c-jun early response gene. We also show that anti-Fas MoAb treatment is associated with activation of stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK); however, no detectable increase in extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK1 and ERK2) activity was observed. Because interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a growth factor for MM cells and inhibits apoptosis induced by dexamethasone and serum starvation, we examined whether IL-6 affects anti-Fas MoAb-induced apoptosis and activation of SAPK or p38 MAPK in MM cells. Culture of MM cells with IL-6 before treatment with anti-Fas MoAb significantly reduced both DNA fragmentation and activation of SAPK, without altering induction of p38 MAPK activity. These results therefore suggest that anti-Fas MoAb-induced apoptosis in MM cells is associated with activation of SAPK, and that IL-6 may both inhibit apoptosis and modulate SAPK activity.

High-dose therapy and autologous bone marrow transplantation in patients with follicular lymphoma during first remission

We report the results of a study in previously untreated advanced stage patients with follicular lymphoma (FL) who underwent uniform induction chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone (CHOP) followed by myeloablative therapy and anti-B-cell monoclonal antibody purged autologous bone marrow transplantation (ABMT). Eighty-three patients with previously untreated, low-grade FL were enrolled. After CHOP induction, only 36% achieved complete remission (CR) and 77 patients underwent ABMT. Before BM harvest, 70 patients had a known t(14;18), as determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and all remained PCR positive in the BM at harvest. After ABMT, the disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival are estimated to be 63% and 89% at 3 years, respectively, with a median follow-up of 45 months. Patients whose BM was PCR negative after purging experienced significantly longer freedom from recurrence (FFR) than those whose BM remained PCR positive (P = .0006). Continued PCR negativity in follow-up BM samples was also strongly predictive of continued CR. This study suggests that a subset of patients with advanced FL may experience prolonged clinical and molecular remissions following high-dose ablative therapy, although longer follow-up will be necessary to determine potential impact on overall survival.

A novel pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell line with chromosomal translocation between p16(INK4A)/p15(INK4B) tumor suppressor and immunoglobulin heavy chain genes: TGFbeta/IL-7 inhibitory signaling mechanism

p16 INK4A and/or p15 INK4B genes are frequently deleted in leukemias and other cancers. We have established a novel pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cell line (JKB2) with a chromosomal translocation between 9p2l and 14q32, on which p16INK4A/p15INK4B and heavy chain immunoglobulin (Ig) genes, respectively, are located. Homozygous deletions of P16INK4A/p15INK4B genes in JKB2 cells were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction, and their protein products were not detectable by Western blotting. Therefore JKB2 is the first example of an immunoglobulin heavy chain translocation associated with deletions of these genes. In JKB2 cells, cyclin-dependent kinase(CDK)4 and CDK6 formed complexes with cyclin D, due to the lack of p16, triggering phosphorylation of retinoblastoma protein (pRB) and continuous cell proliferation. Moreover, the growth of JKB2 cells was partially inhibited by TGF beta or IL-7, accompanied by decreased CDK4 and CDK6 expression, increased p2l and p27 expression, decreased p27 binding to CDK4/CDK6, and increased binding of p27 to CDK2. In addition, IL-7 both inhibited proliferation and induced differentiation of JKB2 cells. These studies suggest that a t(9;14)(p21;q32) chromosomal translocation can result in deletion of both p16 INK4A and p15 INK4B genes in pre-B ALL, and that the JKB2 cell line therefore provides a model for the study of leukemogenesis related to abnormalities in chromosome 9p2l. Moreover, they suggest that TGF-beta can, suppress JKB2 cell growth in a p15-independent mechanism.

Hypotensive reactions: a previously uncharacterized complication of platelet transfusion?

BACKGROUND

In 1993, the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB) received reports of severe hypotensive reactions associated with platelet transfusions. The question arose as to whether these reports were indicative of a previously uncharacterized platelet transfusion reaction.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

To further characterize these reactions, the AABB Transfusion Practices Committee developed a series of three questionnaires. The initial questionnaire was sent to all AABB institutional members; the two subsequent questionnaires were sent to those institutions reporting severe and/or unusual platelet transfusion reactions. This report focuses on the 24 responses to the third and most detailed questionnaire, which specifically addressed reactions that were characterized by hypotension and/or unexplained respiratory failure.

RESULTS

Of the 24 detailed responses received, 4 were not considered to represent unusual reactions to platelet transfusion, 3 described reactions consistent with a (presumably unrecognized) diagnosis of transfusion-related acute lung injury, and 17 described reactions that were primarily characterized by hypotension. The majority of the hypotensive reactions occurred within 1 hour of the beginning of the transfusion (88%), were associated with respiratory distress (82%), and resolved rapidly after cessation of the transfusion (82%). Eighty-eight percent of implicated components had been white cell reduced by filtration.

CONCLUSION

The hypotensive platelet transfusion reactions that were described appear to represent a previously uncharacterized complication of platelet transfusion. However, the nature of the questionnaires used in this investigation does not allow the drawing of firm conclusions as to the frequency or the cause of these reactions.

Adhesion of multiple myeloma cells to the bone marrow microenvironment: implications for future therapeutic strategies

Multiple myeloma is characterized by excess plasma cells within the bone marrow in association with monoclonal antibody protein in the serum and/or urine. Tumor cells localize within the marrow via an interaction of cell-surface adhesion molecules with their respective ligands on marrow stromal cells and extracellular matrix proteins. Stimulation of myeloma cells via these cell-surface molecules, either directly or via tumor cell adhesion to stromal cells, can induce autocrine or paracrine tumor cell growth mediated by interleukin 6. It might therefore be possible to develop innovative treatment strategies either to inhibit interleukin 6 production or to interrupt interleukin 6 signal transduction in multiple myeloma.

Interleukin-6 promotes multiple myeloma cell growth via phosphorylation of retinoblastoma protein

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) mediates autocrine and paracrine growth of multiple myeloma (MM) cells and inhibits tumor cell apoptosis. Abnormalities of retinoblastoma protein (pRB) and mutations of RB gene have been reported in up to 70% of MM patients and 80% of MM-derived cell lines. Because dephosphorylated (activated) pRB blocks transition from G1 to S phase of the cell cycle whereas phosphorylated (inactivated) pRB releases this growth arrest, we characterized the role of pRB in IL-6-mediated MM cell growth. Both phosphorylated and dephosphorylated pRB were expressed in all serum-starved MM patient cells and MM-derived cell lines, but pRB was predominantly in its phosphorylated form. In MM cells that proliferated in response to IL-6, exogenous IL-6 downregulated dephosphorylated pRB and decreased dephosphorylated pRB-E2F complexes. Importantly, culture of MM cells with RB antisense, but not RB sense, oligonucleotide (ODN) triggered IL-6 secretion and proliferation in MM cells; however, proliferation was only partially inhibited by neutralizing anti-IL-6 monoclonal antibody (MoAb). In contrast to MM cells, normal splenic B cells express dephosphorylated pRB. Although CD40 ligand (CD40L) triggers a shift from dephosphorylated to phosphorylated pRB and proliferation of B cells, the addition of exogenous IL-6 to CD40L-treated B cells does not alter either pRB or proliferation, as observed in MM cells. These results suggest that phosphorylated pRB is constitutively expressed in MM cells and that IL-6 further shifts pRB from its dephosphorylated to its phosphorylated form, thereby promoting MM cell growth via two mechanisms; by decreasing the amount of E2F bound by dephosphorylated pRB due to reduced dephosphorylated pRB, thereby releasing growth arrest; and by upregulating IL-6 secretion by MM cells and related IL-6-mediated autocrine tumor cell growth.

Sources and sequelae of bacterial contamination of hematopoietic stem cell components: implications for the safety of hematotherapy and graft engineering

BACKGROUND

It is important to compare the incidence of bacterial contamination of components collected from the peripheral blood or bone marrow (BM), as well as of components processed with or without cell selection or depletion, and to evaluate the sequelae of such contamination.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Bacterial contamination rates were compared in 1380 untreated autologous peripheral blood progenitor cells (PBPCs), 291 untreated autologous BM samples, 916 monoclonal antibody (MoAb)-treated autologous and allogeneic BM samples, and in 45 autologous PBPC components from which the CD34+ cells were selected. Bacterial cultures were performed at sequential time points during the processing of MoAb-treated BM.

RESULTS

Bacterial contamination was documented in 44 of 2632 components from 1593 patients (1.67% of components, 2.76% of patients) before cryopreservation. Although only 0.65% of untreated PBPCs were contaminated before cryopreservation, each patient was more likely to have given a contaminated PBPC component than a contaminated BM component (2.41% vs. 0%, p < 0.01). Bacterial contamination of MoAb-treated BM was greater during or after manipulation than it was before (2.33% vs. 0.77%, p < 0.05). At thawing, contamination was documented in 42 (1.97%) of 2136 components cultured. Ten (13.7%) of 73 patients who received hematopoietic progenitor cells that were contaminated before cryopreservation or at thawing developed fever or positive blood cultures within 48 hours of transfusion. Fever was associated with bacteremia in two cases, but no irreversible clinical sequelae were noted.

CONCLUSION

These studies suggest that, despite careful attention to sterile procedures, low-level contamination of hematopoietic stem cell components can be introduced before or during manipulation as well as at thawing, and that standards for monitoring of the procedures for collection, processing, cryopreservation, thawing, and transfusion of hematopoietic progenitor cells are necessary.

Interleukin-6 is required for pristane-induced plasma cell hyperplasia in mice

Intraperitoneal injection of pristane induces production of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and either plasmacytosis or plasmacytoma in mice, depending upon the genetic background. Pristane does not induce plasmacytoma in IL-6 knockout (IL-6-/-) mice, suggesting that IL-6 is required for this process. In the present study we determined whether IL-6 is also required for pristane-induced hyperplasia of normal plasma cells. Pristane was injected intraperitoneally into IL-6-/- and IL-6 wild-type (IL-6+/+) mice. Overall there were more deaths in IL-6+/+ mice (85%) than in IL-6-/- mice (40%), P = 0.024. Hyperplastic lymph node and spleen weight did not differ (P = 0.82 and P = 0.15, respectively) in IL-6-/- versus IL-6+/+ mice. Lymphocytosis with similar patterns of expression of B-cell (B220) and T-cell (Thy-1) antigens was noted in both IL-6-/- and IL-6+/+ mice. However, morphological studies, dual fluorescent staining for Syn-1 and B220 antigens (syn-1+ B220+ cells), and intracytoplasmic Ig staining revealed plasma cell hyperplasia in lymph node and spleen from IL-6+/+, but not IL-6-/-, mice. These plasma cells from IL-6+/+ mice were polyclonal and unable to induce tumour formation in severe combined immunodeficient mice. These data demonstrate that IL-6 is required for pristane-induced hyperplasia of polyclonal plasma cells in mice.

CD40 ligand triggers interleukin-6 mediated B cell differentiation

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is the major cytokine to date mediating antigen (Ag)- or mitogen-driven B cell differentiation. Recently, CD40 ligand (CD40L), with the co-stimulatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-10, has been shown to trigger immunoglobulin (Ig) secretion and class switching. In the present report, we have examined the role of IL-6 in mediating B cell differentiation and Ig secretion triggered with CD40L and/or these cytokines. Culture of splenic B cells with CD40L triggered (1) significant (5.4-fold) increases in IL-6 secretion; (2) differentiation, evidenced by sequential loss of B cell (CD20, CD21) and acquisition of plasma cell (CD38, PCA-1) surface antigens (Ags); and (3) Ig secretion. Interleukin-4 increased both IL-6 and IgG secretion stimulated by CD40L. Interleukin-10+ CD40L triggered 100-fold increments in IgG, IgA and IgM secretion, but IL-10 suppressed IL-6 secretion triggered with CD40L +/- IL-4. Exogenous IL-6 can further increase IgG secretion induced by CD40L + IL-10; moreover, the anti-IL-6 monoclonal antibody partially blocked IgG secretion triggered by CD40L +/- IL-4 or IL-10. Finally, IL-10 suppressed differentiation of B cells induced by CD40L. These studies suggest that CD40L augments Ig secretion in at least two mechanisms: by triggering IL-6 secretion and related differentiation, and by priming B cells for responsiveness to IL-10.

Transforming growth factor-beta1: differential effects on multiple myeloma versus normal B cells

Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a product of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs), is a growth factor for multiple myeloma (MM) cells. Transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) is also produced by BMSCs and can regulate IL-6 secretion by several tissues, including BMSCs. The present study was designed to characterize in vitro tumor growth regulation by TGF-beta1 in MM. Sorted CD38+CD45RA- MM cells secreted significantly more TGF-beta1 (8.2 +/- 2.0 ng/mL) than peripheral blood mononuclear cells (P < .001), splenic B cells (P < .001), and CD40 ligand (CD40L) pretreated B cells (P < .05). TGF-beta1 secretion by MM-BMMCs (3.8 +/- 0.9 ng/mL) was significantly greater than by N-BMMCs (1.2 +/- 0.1 ng/mL, P < .001). MM-BMSCs also secreted significantly more TGF-beta1 (6.6 +/- 2.5 ng/mL, n = 11) than N-BMSCs (4.4 +/- 0.6 ng/mL, P < .02, n = 10) and N-BMSC lines (3.9 +/- 0.2 ng/mL, P < .02, n = 6). TGF-beta1 secretion was correlated with IL-6 secretion in MM-BMSCs. Anti-TGF-beta1 monoclonal antibody both blocked IL-6 secretion by BMSCs and inhibited the increments in IL-6 secretion by BMSCs induced by MM cell adhesion. Moreover, exogenous TGF-beta1 upregulated IL-6 secretion by MM-BMSCs, normal BMSCs, and CD38+ CD45RA- MM cells, as well as tumor cell proliferation. This is in contrast to the inhibitory effect of TGF-beta1 on proliferation and Ig secretion of normal splenic B cells. Finally, retinoblastoma proteins (pRB) are constitutively phosphorylated in MM cells; TGF-beta1 either did not alter or increased pRB phosphorylation. pRB are dephosphorylated in splenic B cells and phosphorylated in CD40L triggered B cells in contrast to its effects on MM cells, TGF-beta1 decreased phosphorylation of pRB in CD40L treated B cells. These results suggest that TGF-beta1 is produced in MM by both tumor cells and BMSCs, with related tumore cell growth. Moreover, MM cell growth may be enhanced by resistance of tumor cells to the inhibitory effects of TGF-beta1 on normal B-cell proliferation and Ig secretion.

Multiple myeloma cell adhesion-induced interleukin-6 expression in bone marrow stromal cells involves activation of NF-kappa B

Adhesion of multiple myeloma (MM) cells to bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) not only localizes MM cells in the marrow microenvironment, but also triggers interleukin-6 (IL-6) secretion by BMSCs and related MM cell proliferation. In the present study, we characterized the regulation of IL-6 gene expression in BMSCs during MM cell adhesion. Adhesion of ARH-77, HS-Sultan, IM-9, and U266 MM cell lines to BMSCs and BMSC lines (LP 101 and AA 101) triggered 5-through 15-fold and 2-through 4-fold increases in IL-6 secretion, respectively. IL-6 mRNA transcripts were undetectable by Northern blotting in IM-9 MM cells or LP 101 BMSCs cultured alone; however, adherence of IM-9 cells to LP 101 cells induced a transient increase in IL-6 transcripts at 6 hours, followed by peak IL-6 secretion at 24 hours. To confirm increased IL-6 transcription and characterize its regulation, LP101 BMSCs were transiently transfected with full length and deletion fragments of the IL-6 promoter linked to the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) reporter gene. Transient transfection of LP101 BMSCs with plasmid containing an intact NF-kappa B site showed a 6.8 +/- 0.4-fold increase in CAT activity triggered by IM-9 MM cell adhesion (n = 3, P < .05). Transfection of LP 101 cells with plasmid containing a single base pair deletion from the NF-kapp B binding motif abolished the MM adhesion-induced increase in CAT activity, whereas transfection with plasmid containing three copies of synthetic NF-kappa B sequence resulted in an 8.1 +/- 0.7-fold increase in CAT activity related to MM adhesion (n = 3, P < .05). These data suggest that the NF-kappa B site is one of the essential regulatory elements for MM cell adhesion-induced IL-6 transcription in BMSCs. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays confirmed the involvement of NF-kappa B activation in regulating MM adhesion-induced IL-6 transcription in BMSCs. Further characterization of the upstream events in the signalling cascade regulating IL-6 may not only delineate mechanisms of IL-6 regulation during paracrine MM cell growth, but also provide new therapeutic strategies based on interruption of IL-6 mediated tumor cell growth.

Kinetics of peripheral blood mononuclear cell mobilization with chemotherapy and/or granulocyte-colony-stimulating factor: implications for yield of hematopoietic progenitor cell collections

BACKGROUND

Peripheral blood progenitor cells (PBPCs) are commonly collected and used to reconstitute hematopoiesis after high-dose chemotherapy. However, strategies for optimal collection and assessment of leukapheresis components are not standardized.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Hematopoietic progenitor cell assays were performed on 369 leukapheresis components collected from 95 patients who had received doxorubicin-based chemotherapy and/or granulocyte-colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF). Precollection patient hematologic values, leukapheresis collection values, component hematopoietic progenitor cell assays, and patient outcome measures were summarized. The kinetics of mononuclear cell (MNC) and PBPC mobilization were assessed among four patient groups.

RESULTS

Patient group was a significant predictor of the peripheral blood MNC count on the day of collection (p<0.0001), and that value was a significant predictor of granulocyte-macrophage--colony-forming unit (CFU-GM) yield (p<0.0001). This relationship between the peripheral blood MNC count on the day of collection and CFU-GM yield differed according to patient group (p<0.0001). CFU-GM made up a larger fraction of peripheral blood MNCs collected from patients who received chemotherapy plus G-CSF than collected from those who received G-CSF alone. Moreover, the peripheral blood MNC count and the corresponding CFU-GM yield increased significantly on consecutive days of collection in patient groups receiving chemotherapy and G-CSF but were unchanged or decreased in patients receiving G-CSF alone.

CONCLUSION

The relationship between peripheral blood MNC count and leukapheresis component CFU-GM yield differed significantly between patients who received chemotherapy and G-CSF and those who received G-CSF alone for the mobilization of PBPCs. Patient peripheral blood MNC count and component CFU-GM yield are useful for both assessing and suggesting revisions to PBPC mobilization and collection strategies.

Posttransfusion graft-versus-host disease in Japanese newborns

BACKGROUND

Posttransfusion graft-versus-host disease (PT-GVHD) is underdiagnosed and underreported. Risk factors predisposing to PT-GVHD in newborn recipients, the clinical manifestations of the disease in newborns, and its mechanism are not well characterized.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A literature review identified 27 cases of PT-GVHD in newborns in Japan. Detailed information on volume of blood transfused, donor(s), and clinical course was analyzed. Infants with known immunodeficiency were excluded.

RESULTS

Of 27 newborns, 20 were premature and 7 were full-term. Thirteen premature neonates were transfused frequently because of anemia; in 10 cases, exchange transfusion was performed. Fresh blood (<or=72 hours after donation) and blood from family member(s) were transfused to 25 and 22 neonates, respectively. The clinical manifestations of PT-GVHD developed later after transfusion than is reported in adults; the median intervals were: fever, 28 days; erythematous rash, 30 days; leukopenia, 43 days; and death, 51 days. Thymic damage was a striking feature among newborns. Two thirds of the cases of PT-GVHD were associated with overwhelming infections, and all patients died in spite of various treatments.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that cellular blood components, especially those from family members, should be irradiated before transfusion to premature and full-term neonates. Extrathymic and/or thymic semitolerance for allogeneic-donor cytotoxic T-lymphocytes may explain the longer period of latency before the onset of clinical manifestations and the longer course of disease before death in newborns than are noted in adults, as well as the fewer than expected reported cases of PT-GVHD in neonates.

Characterization of reactions after transfusion of cellular blood components that are white cell reduced before storage

BACKGROUND

During the storage of cellular components before transfusion, cytokines that may mediate transfusion reactions are released from white cells (WBCs). Adverse effects of transfused cellular blood components therefore depend not only on the number of residual WBCs in blood components, but also on the timing of WBC reduction.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Febrile nonhemolytic transfusion reactions (FNHTRs), allergic reactions, and other reactions were characterized in recipients of 4728 units of red cells (RBCs) and 3405 bags of single-donor apheresis platelets (SDAPs), all of which underwent prestorage WBC reduction. To delineate the impact of prestorage versus poststorage WBC reduction of RBCs on transfusion reactions, these results were compared with reactions occurring after the transfusion to similar recipients of 6447 bags of RBCs that underwent poststorage WBC reduction by bedside filtration and 5197 units of SDAPs that underwent prestorage WBC reduction. The levels of interleukin (IL) 1 beta, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) were measured in a subset of 20 implicated cellular blood components at the time of transfusion reactions and correlated with the duration of storage before transfusion.

RESULTS

The incidence of reactions was greater after transfusions of SDAPs (5.49%) than of RBCs (1.63%). The incidence of FNHTRs after transfusion of RBCs that were WBC reduced before storage (1.1%) was significantly lower (p = 0.0045) than that after transfusion of RBCs that were WBC reduced after storage (2.15%). Although allergic reactions to RBCs that were WBC reduced before storage were also less common (0.41%) than those to RBCs that were WBC reduced after storage (0.51%), the difference was not significant (p = 0.067). At the time of reactions to RBCs and SDAPs that were reduced before storage, the level of IL-6 was negatively correlated (r = -0.54, p = 0.014) with the duration of storage before transfusion, and there was no correlation between the level of either IL-1 beta or IL-8 and the interval before transfusion. TNF-alpha was not detectable in any implicated component.

CONCLUSION

FNHTRs, but not allergic reactions, were less common after transfusion of RBCs that were WBC reduced before storage than after the transfusion of those WBC reduced after storage at the bedside by filtration. The level of IL-6 in implicated cellular blood components that were WBC reduced before storage was inversely correlated with the length of storage before transfusion. Further studies are needed to determine whether the transfusion of cellular blood components that were WBC reduced before storage can both diminish the incidence of adverse reactions and improve outcome.

Oncostatin M induces association of Grb2 with Janus kinase JAK2 in multiple myeloma cells

Oncostatin M (OSM) is a 28-kD glycoprotein recently identified as a growth factor for human multiple myeloma cells. It belongs to a family of distantly related cytokines that includes interleukin 6, ciliary neurotrophic factor, leukemia-inhibitory factor, and interleukin 11. These cytokines initiate signaling by inducing either homodimerization of gp130 or heterodimerization of gp130 with leukemia-inhibitory factor receptor beta components. Such dimerization in turn activates receptor-associated tyrosine kinases. In the present study using U266B1 human multiple myeloma cells, we show that OSM induces tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of JAK2, but not JAK1 or Tyk2, kinases. The results also demonstrate that OSM induces direct interaction of JAK2 kinase with Grb2, an SH2/SH3 domain containing adaptor protein. The SH2 domain of Grb2 is directly associated with tyrosine-phosphorylated JAK2. Furthermore, the presence of Sos in the JAK2-Grb2 complex suggests a role for Ras in OSM-transduced signaling.

Platelet transfusion and alternatives to transfusion in patients with malignancy

Platelet transfusions have long had an important role in the treatment of patients with thrombocytopenia due to disease or myelotoxic treatment or in patients with reduced platelet function. However, platelet transfusions are associated with numerous risks, both immunologic (e.g., transfusion reactions, alloimmunization, immunosuppression) and infectious (e.g., viral, bacterial). In addition, several laboratory and clinical factors can influence post-transfusion platelet recovery. Recent technological advances have introduced the potential for using alternatives to platelet transfusions, such as cytokines or platelet substitutes, which may avoid the risks of transfusion. Platelet development from megakaryocytes is a process that is highly regulated by cytokines and animal research suggests that selected cytokines involved in this process may be useful in the treatment of thrombocytopenia. Newer developments, including the utilization of recombinant cytokines with relatively selective stimulation of platelet production (e.g., interleukin 6 [IL-6]) and the recent discovery of a megakaryocyte colony stimulating factor (thrombopoietin), represent major therapeutic opportunities in the treatment of thrombocytopenia. Platelet substitutes, e.g., thromboerythrocytes, also show promise in the management of platelet deficiencies.

Regulation of interleukin 6 in multiple myeloma and bone marrow stromal cells

We and others have shown that some freshly isolated multiple myeloma (MM) cells and derived cell lines express interleukin 6 (IL-6) receptors and proliferate in vitro in response to IL-6; a subset of MM cells also expresses IL-6 mRNA, is intracytoplasmic IL-6 positive and secretes IL-6. We have shown that MM cells express the cell surface adhesion molecules CD29/CDw49d(VLA-4), CD18/CD11a(LFA-1) and CD44, and may localize to marrow via specific adherence to both extracellular matrix proteins and to bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs). MM cell adhesion triggers IL-6 secretion by normal and MM BMSCs and related IL-6-mediated tumor cell growth. Our attempts to block MM cell adhesion to BMSC-induced IL-6 secretion by using antibodies to CD29/CDw49d, CD18/11a, and/or CD44 demonstrated minimal effects, suggesting that another ligand-receptor interaction triggers IL-6 secretion when MM cells and BMSCs are juxtaposed. Both MM cells and BMSCs express CD40. Triggering of MM cells and BMSCs via CD40 upregulates IL-6 secretion in both MM cells and MM-derived cell lines, as well as BMSCs and BMSC lines, suggesting the possibility of both autocrine and paracrine MM cell growth triggered via CD40. Finally, experiments using the LP 101 BMSC line transiently transfected with IL-6 promoter fragments linked to chloramphenicol acetyltransferase reporter gene demonstrate that adhesion of MM cells induces IL-6 gene transcription in BMSCs, which is conferred via the NF-kappa B binding motif.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Transfusion practices in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients

BACKGROUND

The reported immunomodulatory effects of transfusion raise concern about the potential for virus activation and tumor growth in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients. In the absence of "standards" of transfusion practice for such patients, a survey of transfusion policies among institutions specializing in the care of HIV-infected patients was performed to delineate current practices.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A survey developed by the Transfusion Practices Committee of the American Association of Blood Banks was sent to 47 AIDS clinical trial units and 14 regional hemophilia centers in North America.

RESULTS

Forty-three percent of centers completed the survey. Most centers observed more than 200 HIV-infected patients each. The key findings were that 1) 81 percent of centers used identical red cell transfusion criteria for HIV-infected and noninfected patients; 2) 52 percent used recombinant human erythropoietin as initial treatment for zidovudine-induced anemia, while 46 percent used recombinant human erythropoietin for anemia not associated with zidovudine; 3) 35 percent of centers used white cell-reduced blood components in lieu of cytomegalovirus (CMV)-seronegative components when administering transfusion(s) to CMV-seronegative patients; 4) 27 percent gamma-radiated cellular components, but no case of graft-versus-host disease had been observed; 5) > 85 percent of centers used monoclonal factor VIII for pediatric and adult hemophiliacs infected with HIV; 6) approximately one-third of centers routinely white cell-reduced cellular components; and 7) the most common reasons for white cell reduction included reduction of febrile reactions and CMV risk, reduction of platelet alloimmunization, and delay of immunomodulatory consequences of transfusion.

CONCLUSION

There is marked heterogeneity in transfusion practice for HIV-infected patients. Modification of cellular components to achieve different objectives is routine in many centers.

Activation of pp90rsk and early growth response-1 gene expression by pokeweed mitogen in human B cells

The present studies have examined the effects of pokeweed mitogen (PWM) on the induction of early growth response-1 gene (EGR-1) in normal human B cells. PWM regulates EGR-1 gene expression by both transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms. Transient transfection assays with EGR-1 promoter fragments linked to the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) gene demonstrated that PWM induced EGR-1 transcription is conferred by the CArG motif (C C[AT]6GG) in the EGR-1 promoter. The results further demonstrated the activation of S6 kinase (pp90rsk), evidenced by phosphorylation of S6 and serum response factor (SRF) peptides, in PWM treated B cells. Taken together, these findings suggest that PWM is able to initiate an intracytoplasmic signalling cascade and EGR-1 induction in normal human B cells.

CD40 ligand triggered interleukin-6 secretion in multiple myeloma

Previous studies have suggested that interleukin-6 (IL-6) may mediate growth of multiple myeloma (MM) in either an autocrine or paracrine growth mechanism. However, those molecules which can trigger IL-6 secretion either by tumor cells or non-MM marrow cells are not well characterized. In the present study, we have examined the expression and functional significance of CD40 on MM and plasma cell leukemia (PCL) cells and derived cell lines, as well as long-term bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) and derived cell lines. CD40 was expressed on the majority of MM cells (> 90%) and BMSCs (> 70%). Triggering via CD40 using NIH3T3 CD40 ligand transfectant (CD40LT) cells increased (> 30%) cell surface CD80, CD18, CD11a, CD11b, and CD11c expression on MM cell lines. Culture with either fresh or paraformaldehyde fixed NIH3T3 CD40LT cells upregulates IL-6 secretion in MM cells and MM-derived cell lines, as well as normal and MM bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs), BMSCs, and BMSC lines; this effect can be specifically blocked by anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody (MoAb). BMMCs and BMSCs from patients with MM secreted significantly more IL-6 than those from healthy donors (n = 3, P < .001); moreover, after stimulation using CD40L, IL-6 secretion was fourfold greater (n = 3, P < .001) from MM BMMCs and BMSCs than from normal BMMCs and BMSCs. Myeloma (CD38+CD45RA-) cells and non-MM (CD38+CD45RA+, CD38-CD45RA+, and CD38-CD45RA-) BMMCs were separated by dual fluorescence cell sorting. The latter secreted fourfold more IL-6 than the former (n = 2, P < .001). Increased IL-6 secretion (up to 28-fold) and proliferation (Stimulation index 10) by CD38+CD45RA-MM cells was triggered by culture with NIH3T3 CD40LT cells. Finally, anti-CD40MoAb partially (30%) blocked tumor cell to BMSC adhesion-induced IL-6 secretion. These studies support the view that CD40L may trigger IL-6 secretion by both MM cells and BMSCs and that IL-6-mediated autocrine and paracrine growth mechanisms may be possible in MM.

A comparison of peripheral blood stem cell apheresis using the Fenwal CS3000 Plus and COBE Spectra

We have compared the leukapheresis products collected on the Fenwal CS3000 Plus and COBE Spectra in a well-controlled patient population. While statistically significant differences were found, i.e. in product hematocrit, volume, number of granulocytes and platelets collected, these are not felt to be physiologically important. Similar efficiency in collecting mononuclear cells and colony forming unit assay results indicate that each instrument is capable of harvesting hematopoietic progenitor cells from peripheral blood.

Recombinant growth factors

Recombinant human growth factors are expected to have a significant impact on the use of allogeneic blood components. For example, subsequent to the approval of recombinant human erythropoietin, blood transfusions in renal dialysis patients declined substantially. Likewise, myeloid growth factors have reduced infections and hospital stay by promoting hematologic recovery after high dose ablative chemotherapy. The high costs of these agents mandate that their use be limited to settings where they are clinically indicated. The use of growth factors may be monitored at medical centers by hospital transfusion committees. This chapter reviews the emerging clinical guidelines for the use of hematopoietic growth factors.

Progressive ideomotor apraxia: evidence for a selective impairment of the action production system

We report a patient with slowly progressive bilateral limb apraxia associated with an asymmetrical focal degenerative process of the parietal lobes. Clinical assessment of praxis production suggested a striking deficit in controlling the spatiotemporal attributes of purposeful skilled limb movements, consistent with ideomotor apraxia. The precise nature of the action production impairment was further defined by objective three-dimensional computergraphic analysis of transitive movements which demonstrated significant kinematic deficits in spatial accuracy, timing, spatiotemporal coupling, and joint coordination. Gesture comprehension and discrimination were spared. Furthermore, detailed evaluation of the conceptual praxis system revealed that despite an almost complete inability to perform transitive movements accurately, abstract knowledge of tool function and action was remarkably well preserved. The critical dissociation between intact conceptual knowledge of action and impaired movement execution documented in this case points to a fundamental competence/performance dichotomy in apraxia and provides empirical support for cognitive models of praxis that divide the action system into distinct conceptual and production subcomponents. Within this theoretical framework, our patient's severe ideomotor apraxia is interpreted to represent a selective disruption of the action production system.

Autologous peripheral blood progenitor cell transplantation

Harvesting of autologous peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) has been facilitated by using currently available, efficient apheresis technology at the time of rebound from chemotherapy while patients are receiving recombinant growth factors, i.e., granulocyte (G) or granulocyte-macrophage (GM) colony stimulating factor (CSF). Ideally pheresis should be done before patients have had extensive stem cell toxins, i.e., alkylating agents or nitrosoureas. This strategy has facilitated the use of high dose chemoradiotherapy given as a single regimen or in a divided dose for patients with solid tumors or hematologic malignancies and results in more rapid engraftment than bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Although there are no assays which measure repopulating stem cells, enumeration of CD34+ cells within PBSCs is a direct and rapid assay which provides an index of both early and late long-term reconstitutive capacity, since it correlates with colony-forming unit (CFU)-GMs, as well as pre-progenitor or delta assays and long-term culture-initiating cells (LTC-IC). A threshold of > or = 2 x 10(6) CD34+ cells/kg recipient body weight has been reported to be required for engraftment, but may vary depending upon the clinical setting. Strategies for mobilization of normal PBSCs also increase tumor cell contamination within PB in the setting of both hematologic malignancies and solid tumors, but the significance of these tumor cells in terms of patient outcome is unclear. Recently isolation of CD34+ cells from PBSCs has been done using magnetic beads or immunoabsorption on columns or rigid plates in order to enrich for normal hematopoietic progenitors and potentially decrease tumor cell contamination. As for other cellular blood components, standards have been developed to assure efficient collection and processing, thawing, and reinfusion, and to maintain optimal PBPC viability. Finally, future directions of clinical research include expansion of hematopoietic progenitor cells ex vivo; use of umbilical cord or placenta as rich sources of progenitor cells; syngeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation; related and unrelated allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation; treatment of infections, i.e., Epstein Barr virus, or tumor relapse after allogeneic BMT using donor PBSC infusions; and gene therapy approaches.

Characterization of reactions after exclusive transfusion of white cell-reduced cellular blood components

BACKGROUND

Potential adverse effects of white cells (WBCs) within transfused cellular blood components include febrile nonhemolytic transfusion reactions (FNHTRs), alloimmunization, transmission of infectious diseases, transfusion-related acute lung injury, and immunomodulation. Although exclusive use of WBC-reduced components to prevent alloimmunization and cytomegalovirus transmission has been studied, the use of these components to avert FNHTR has not been examined.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Transfusion reactions (FNHTRs, allergic reactions, and others) were characterized in recipients of 12,277 WBC-reduced single-donor apheresis platelets (SDAPs) and/or red cells (RBCs). Medical and laboratory evaluations for possible infectious and immunologic (alloimmunization) causes of each reaction were undertaken, and the benefit of further modification of components for the prevention of subsequent reactions was also evaluated.

RESULTS

Transfusion reactions occurred after 481 (3.92%) of 12,277 transfusions. Allergic reactions occurred more commonly after transfusion of SDAPs (3.69%) than of RBCs (0.51%). Conversely, FNHTRs occurred more commonly after transfusion of RBCs (2.15%) than of SDAPs (1.58%). HLA antibodies were present in a posttransfusion sample from 27 (10.6%) of 255 patients; bacterial contamination was a possible cause of only 2 (0.42%) of 481 reactions. In patients with recurrent FNHTRs, further WBC reduction in components did not wholly prevent further FNHTRs.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of FNHTRs and alloimmunization after exclusive transfusion of WBC-reduced RBCs and SDAPs was low. Further WBC reduction in components transfused to patients with a history of recurrent FNHTRs does not completely prevent subsequent reactions.

Anti-CD38-blocked ricin: an immunotoxin for the treatment of multiple myeloma

We report the development of a potent anti-CD38 immunotoxin capable of killing human myeloma and lymphoma cell lines. The immunotoxin is composed of an anti-CD38 antibody HB7 conjugated to a chemically modified ricin molecule wherein the binding sites of the B chain have been blocked by covalent attachment of affinity ligands (blocked ricin). Conjugation of blocked ricin to the HB7 antibody has minimal effect on the apparent affinity of the antibody and no effect on the ribosome-inactivating activity of the ricin A-chain moiety. Four to six logs of CD38+ tumor cell line kill was achieved at concentrations of HB7-blocked ricin in the range of 0.1 to 3 nmol/L. Low level of toxicity for normal bone marrow (BM) granulocyte-macrophage colony-forming units (CFU-GM), burst-forming units-erythroid (BFU-E), colony-forming units-granulocyte/erythroid/monocyte/macrophage (CFU-GEMM) cells was observed. Greater than two logs of CD38+ multiple myeloma cells were depleted from a 10-fold excess of normal BM mononuclear cells (BMMCs) after an exposure to HB7-blocked ricin under conditions (0.3 nmol/L) that were not very toxic for the normal BM precursors. HB7-blocked ricin was tested for its ability to inhibit protein synthesis in fresh patients' multiple myeloma cells and in normal BMMCs isolated from two healthy volunteers; tumor cells from four of five patients were 100-fold to 500-fold more sensitive to the inhibitory effect of HB7-blocked ricin than the normal BM cells. HB7 antibody does not activate normal resting peripheral blood lymphocytes, and HB7-blocked ricin is not cytotoxic toward these cells at concentrations of up to 1 nmol/L. The potent killing of antigen-bearing tumor cells coupled with a lack of effects on peripheral blood T cells or on hematopoietic progenitor cells suggests that HB7-blocked ricin may have clinical utility for the in vivo or in vitro purging of human multiple myeloma cells.

Identification of upstream signals regulating interleukin-6 gene expression during in vitro treatment of human B cells with pokeweed mitogen

The present studies have characterized the regulation of interleukin-6 (IL-6) gene expression during pokeweed mitogen (PWM)-driven human B-cell differentiation. PWM induced an early and transient increase in the expression of immediate-early response genes of the jun/fos leucine zipper family (c-jun, jun B, c-fos, and fos-B). The induction of c-jun mRNA by PWM was concentration dependent. Nuclear run-on assays showed that PWM treatment is associated with an increased rate of c-jun gene transcription. The induction of c-jun mRNA precedes the induction of IL-6 gene expression and IL-6 secretion by the B cells. c-Jun antisense, but not sense, oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) significantly decreases PWM-related B-cell (1) proliferation; (2) IL-6 mRNA induction; (3) IL-6 secretion; and (4) nuclear extract binding to AP-1 in electrophoretic mobility shift assay. In contrast, c-Fos anti-sense ODN did not effect either IL-6 mRNA induction or IL-6 secretion triggered in B cells by PWM. The results further show activation of c-Raf-1 kinase in PWM-treated B cells. Raf-1 acts upstream to mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase; therefore, studies were performed to assay for MAP kinase activation in these cells. The results show an increase in phosphorylation of myelin basic protein (MBP) and c-Jun "Y" peptide in PWM-treated B cells. Taken together, these findings suggest that PWM is able to initiate an intracytoplasmic signaling cascade in normal human splenic B cells, which, at least in part, involves serine/threonine protein kinases. These results show transient induction of immediate-early response genes in B cells and support a potential role for the c-jun gene product in regulation of IL-6 transcription and secretion.

HLA homozygosity and shared HLA haplotypes in the development of transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease

We review the pathogenesis, epidemiology and patient cases of transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease (TA-GVHD) in the context of host inability to eliminate viable donor T-lymphocytes. This review is based on the published English-language literature pertaining to TA-GVHD, including case reports with HLA data on transfusion recipients as well as blood donors. The role of shared histocompatibility antigens between the donor and the recipient in promoting TA-GVHD is discussed critically. Since TA-GVHD is usually a fatal disease for which effective therapy is lacking, prevention is of utmost importance and guidelines for gamma-irradiation of cellular blood products are presented. TA-GVHD has been described in immunodeficient as well as in immunocompetent hosts, and following blood product transfusions from related as well as from unrelated donors. This review includes analysis of patient data in each of these settings and probability estimates based on principles of population genetics. We emphasize that transfusion of blood products from individuals who are homozygous at the HLA loci to heterozygous recipients who share that HLA haplotype occurs at a frequency proportional to the genetic homogeneity of the population and that the process mediating TA-GVHD in such instances appears to be independent of the host's immune status.

Cell surface expression and functional significance of adhesion molecules on human myeloma-derived cell lines

Multiple myeloma is characterized by the presence of malignant plasma cells predominantly localized in bone marrow. Our prior studies have suggested that human myeloma derived-cell lines adhere specifically to fibronectin and to bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) via beta 1 and beta 2 integrins as well as RGD peptide, and that tumour cell to BMSC contact triggers interleukin-6 (IL-6) secretion from BMSCs. Since IL-6 is a growth factor for myeloma, adhesion may be important in paracrine IL-6 mediated tumour cell growth. We therefore examined phenotypic expression of adhesion molecules on the U266 and IM-9 human myeloma-derived cell lines using the panel of monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) directed at adhesion molecules submitted to the Vth International Conference on Human Leukocyte Differentiation Antigens. U266 and IM-9 myeloma cell lines express mainly CD29, CD49d, VLA-1, CD18, CD54, ICAM-2 and ICAM-3. In contrast, CD49b, VLA-3, CD49f, CD11b, VCAM-1, selectins and selectin-ligands were not expressed on these cell lines. Specific adherence of IM-9 cells to BMSC line LP101 was demonstrated which could be partially blocked by pre-incubation and culture of tumour cells with anti-beta 1 integrin, anti-beta 2 integrin, anti-CD49d, anti-VLA-5, anti-CD11a, anti-CD44 and anti-CD54 MoAbs. The combination of these MoAbs (anti-CD29, CD18, CD11a, CD49d, VLA-5, CD44, CD54, ICAM-2, ICAM-3 MoAbs) decreased but did not completely abrogate binding of IM-9 to BMSCs. Moreover, increases in IL-6 secretion from BMSCs after adherence of IM-9 cells were also partially blocked by these MoAbs. These findings suggest that multiple adhesion pathways may mediate adherence of myeloma cell lines to BMSCs, localizing tumour cells in the marrow microenvironment and triggering IL-6 secretion by BMSCs which may augment tumour cell growth.

Guidelines for blood utilization review

Hospitals are required by accrediting agencies to perform blood utilization review. Specific areas that must be addressed are the ordering, distribution, handling, dispensing, and administration of blood components. Monitoring the effects of transfusion on patients is also required. The format of the review process and the criteria for appropriate blood utilization must be developed by each institution. This article provides examples of areas that can be reviewed and procedures that may be used. However, the suggested laboratory values must not be interpreted as defining indications or criteria for transfusion. Each transfusion committee, or its equivalent, is responsible for developing its own institutional blood utilization procedures and audit criteria. Review and approval by the medical staff prior to implementation are essential. The procedures must also be reviewed and revised on a regular basis.

Involvement of serum response element in okadaic acid-induced EGR-1 transcription in human T-cells

The present work has examined the effects of okadaic acid, an inhibitor of serine/threonine protein phosphatase, PP-1 and PP-2A, on the regulation of EGR-1 gene expression in normal peripheral blood T- and Jurkat cells. The results demonstrate that okadaic acid treatment is associated with a transient induction of EGR-1 gene expression which was detectable by 30 min to 1 h and peaked at 3-6 h. EGR-1 mRNA was superinduced in cells treated with both okadaic acid and the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide. The half-life of EGR-1 mRNA was similar in both control and okadaic acid-treated cells. In contrast, treatment with both okadaic acid and cycloheximide prolonged the half-life of EGR-1 transcripts. Nuclear run-on assays demonstrated that induction of EGR-1 gene expression by okadaic acid is controlled at least in part by a transcriptional mechanism. Transient expression assays with EGR-1 promotor fragments linked to the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase gene demonstrate that okadaic acid-induced EGR-1 transcription is conferred by the 5' most distal CArG box, CC (AT)6GG, in the EGR-1 promoter. Moreover, chloramphenicol acetyltransferase activity was induced by okadaic acid when the 5' most distal CArG element was linked to the heterologous herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase promoter, and not induced with a similar heterologous construct containing a mutated CArG sequence. These studies demonstrate that okadaic acid regulates EGR-1 gene expression at the transcriptional level via the CArG element and suggest that PP-1 and PP-2A play a role in T-cell activation.

Multiple myeloma

The mortality associated with multiple myeloma is due to the progressive accumulation of a clonal population of plasma cells in the bone marrow. Tumor cells may also be found in the blood and other extramedullary sites, especially in the terminal stages of the disease. During disease progression, numerous effects lead to significant morbidity, including immunosuppression, increased bone turnover, anemia, and renal deterioration. For more than two decades it has been realized that chemotherapy and radiotherapy could provide effective temporary relief from the pain and suffering associated with this malignancy. Unfortunately, these benefits are usually short lived, and essentially all patients experience recurrent disease that is usually refractory to additional therapy.

Adhesion of human myeloma-derived cell lines to bone marrow stromal cells stimulates interleukin-6 secretion

Previous studies show that human myeloma-derived cell lines specifically adhere to fibronectin (FN) through very late antigen-4 (VLA-4; alpha 4 beta 1 integrin complex) and RGD-peptide mechanisms, which may contribute to the localization of tumor cells in bone marrow (BM). In these studies, we characterized the adhesion of myeloma-derived cell lines to both normal and myeloma BM stromal cells (BMSCs) and the effect of adhesion on DNA synthesis. Because interleukin-6 (IL-6) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma, we also examined the effects of tumor cell adhesion on IL-6 secretion by BMSCs. In 51chromium binding assays, the U266, ARH-77, and IM-9 cell lines showed 52% +/- 12%, 55% +/- 6%, and 47% +/- 7% specific adherence, respectively, to normal BMSCs and 74% +/- 4%, 60% +/- 3%, and 61% +/- 6% specific adherence, respectively, to myeloma BMSCs. In contrast, only 12% to 13% specific binding of HS-Sultan cells to BMSCs was noted. The binding of myeloma cells to BMSCs was partially blocked with anti-beta 1 monoclonal antibody (MoAb), anti-beta 2 integrin MoAb, and excess RGD peptide, suggesting multiple mechanisms for the adhesion of myeloma cell lines to BMSCs. Binding of cell lines to FN or myeloma BMSCs did not affect cell line proliferation; however, adhesion of myeloma cell lines to normal BMSCs decreased DNA synthesis, ie, stimulation indices are 0.1 +/- 0.04, 0.2 +/- 0.1, 0.2 +/- 0.07, and 0.1 +/- 0.06 for the adherent non-IL-6-dependent U266, ARH-77, HS-Sultan, and IM-9 cells, respectively (n = 5, P < .01). In contrast, adherence of IL-6-dependent B9 cells increased their proliferation (stimulation index, 3.2 +/- 0.7). Significant (twofold to eightfold) increases in IL-6 secretion were evident in cell line-adherent (> or = 12 hours) normal and myeloma BMSC cultures. Paraformaldehyde fixation of BMSCs before adhesion completely abrogated IL-6 secretion, suggesting that IL-6 secretion was triggered in BMSCs rather than in cell lines. Partial blocking of cell line adhesion to BMSCs, using anti-beta 1 integrin and anti-beta 2 integrin MoAbs and RGD peptide, also partially blocked the triggering of IL-6 secretion by BMSCs. When cell lines were placed in Transwell inserts and then cultured with either normal or myeloma BMSCs, permitting juxtaposition without cell to cell contact between myeloma cell lines and BMSCs, no increase in IL-6 secretion was observed.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Interleukin-6 functions as an intracellular growth factor in hairy cell leukemia in vitro

The role of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the growth of B cell derived hairy cell leukemia (HCL) was characterized. Purified hairy cells (HCs) did not increase DNA synthesis in vitro in response to exogenous IL-6; however, they expressed IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) mRNA and bound directly fluorochrome labeled IL-6. IL-6 mRNA was not detectable in tumor cells by Northern blotting, but was evident using PCR amplification. Although intracytoplasmic IL-6 protein was not demonstrable, HCs did secrete low levels of IL-6. Neutralizing antibody to IL-6 did not inhibit HC DNA synthesis. Since tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a growth factor for HCL, we determined whether the TNF effect could be IL-6-mediated. TNF markedly augmented in vitro DNA synthesis by HCs. TNF did not alter IL-6R expression or IL-6 binding; however, IL-6 mRNA and IL-6 protein were detectable after 3-d culture of HCs with TNF. In addition, IL-6 secretion by HCs was markedly augmented by TNF. Finally, although neither IL-6 nor anti-IL-6 antibody altered TNF-induced DNA synthesis by HCs, IL-6 antisense oligonucleotide inhibited TNF-induced DNA synthesis and IL-6 secretion by HCs. Therefore, IL-6 does not directly affect the growth of HCL, but rather mediates TNF-induced DNA synthesis via an intracytoplasmic mechanism.

Monoclonal antibody-purged bone marrow transplantation therapy for multiple myeloma

Forty patients with plasma cell dyscrasias underwent high-dose chemoradiotherapy and either anti-B-cell monoclonal antibody (MoAb)-treated autologous, anti-T-cell MoAb-treated HLA-matched sibling allogeneic or syngeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT). The majority of patients had advanced Durie-Salmon stage myeloma at diagnosis, all were pretreated with chemotherapy, and 17 had received prior radiotherapy. At the time of BMT, all patients demonstrated good performance status with Karnofsky score of 80% or greater and had less than 10% marrow tumor cells; 34 patients had residual monoclonal marrow plasma cells and 38 patients had paraprotein. Following high-dose chemoradiotherapy, there were 18 complete responses (CR), 18 partial responses, one non-responder, and three toxic deaths. Granulocytes greater than 500/microL and untransfused platelets greater than 20,000/microL were noted at a median of 23 (range, 12 to 46) and 25 (range, 10 to 175) days posttransplant (PT), respectively, in 24 of the 26 patients who underwent autografting. In the 14 patients who received allogeneic or syngeneic grafts, granulocytes greater than 500/microL and untransfused platelets greater than 20,000/microL were noted at a median of 19 (range, 12 to 24) and 16 (range, 5 to 32) days PT, respectively. With 24 months median follow-up for survival after autologous BMT, 16 of 26 patients are alive free from progression at 2+ to 55+ months PT; of these, 5 patients remain in CR at 6+ to 55+ months PT. With 24 months median follow-up for survival after allogeneic and syngeneic BMT, 8 of 14 patients are alive free from progression at 8+ to 34+ months PT; of these, 5 patients remain in CR at 8+ to 34+ months PT. This therapy has achieved high response rates and prolonged progression-free survival in some patients and proven to have acceptable toxicity. However, relapses post-BMT, coupled with slow engraftment post-BMT in heavily pretreated patients, suggest that such treatment strategies should be used earlier in the disease course. To define the role of BMT in the treatment of myeloma, its efficacy should be compared with that of conventional chemotherapy in a randomized trial.