151
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Repertoire development and the control of cytotoxic/effector function in human gammadelta T cells. Clin Dev Immunol 2010; 2010:732893. [PMID: 20396597 PMCID: PMC2854522 DOI: 10.1155/2010/732893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2009] [Accepted: 02/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
T cells develop into two major populations distinguished by their T cell receptor (TCR) chains. Cells with the alphabeta TCR generally express CD4 or CD8 lineage markers and mostly fall into helper or cytotoxic/effector subsets. Cells expressing the alternate gammadelta TCR in humans generally do not express lineage markers, do not require MHC for antigen presentation, and recognize nonpeptidic antigens. We are interested in the dominant Vgamma2Vdelta2+ T cell subset in human peripheral blood and the control of effector function in this population. We review the literature on gammadelta T cell generation and repertoire selection, along with recent work on CD56 expression and defining a cytotoxic/effector lineage within the phosphoantigen-reactive Vgamma2Vdelta2 cells. A unique mechanism for MHC-independent repertoire selection is linked to the control of effector function that is vital to the role for gammadelta T cells in tumor surveillance. Better understanding of these mechanisms will improve our ability to exploit this population for tumor immunotherapy.
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152
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Hu T, Simmons A, Yuan J, Bender TP, Alberola-Ila J. The transcription factor c-Myb primes CD4+CD8+ immature thymocytes for selection into the iNKT lineage. Nat Immunol 2010; 11:435-41. [PMID: 20383148 PMCID: PMC2857587 DOI: 10.1038/ni.1865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2010] [Accepted: 03/09/2010] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Type I invariant NKT cells (iNKT cells) are a subset of alphabeta T cells characterized by the expression of an invariant alpha-chain variable region 14-alpha-chain joining region 18 (V(alpha)14J(alpha)18) T cell antigen receptor (TCR) alpha-chain. The iNKT cells derive from CD4(+)CD8(+) double-positive (DP) thymocytes, and their generation requires a long half-life of DP thymocytes to allow V(alpha)14-J(alpha)18 rearrangements, expression of glycolipid-loaded CD1d on DP thymocytes, and signaling through the signaling-activation molecule SLAM-adaptor SAP pathway. Here we show that the transcription factor c-Myb has a central role in priming DP thymocytes to enter the iNKT lineage by simultaneously regulating CD1d expression, the half-life of DP cells and expression of SLAMF1, SLAMF6 and SAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taishan Hu
- Immunobiology and Cancer Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
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153
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Braun NA, Covarrubias R, Major AS. Natural killer T cells and atherosclerosis: form and function meet pathogenesis. J Innate Immun 2010; 2:316-24. [PMID: 20375560 DOI: 10.1159/000296915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2010] [Accepted: 01/20/2010] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by dyslipidemia and accumulation of lipids in the arterial intima, with activation of both innate and adaptive immunity. Reciprocally, dyslipidemia associated with atherosclerosis can perturb normal immune function. Natural killer T (NKT) cells are a specialized group of immune cells that share characteristics with both conventional T cells and natural killer cells. However, unlike these cells, NKT cells recognize glycolipid antigens and produce both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines upon activation. Because of these unique characteristics, NKT cells have recently been ascribed a role in the regulation of immunity and inflammation, including cardiovascular disease. In addition, NKT cells represent a bridge between dyslipidemia and immune regulation. This review summarizes the current knowledge of NKT cells and discusses the interplay between dyslipidemia and the normal functions of NKT cells and how this might modulate inflammation and atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole A Braun
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232-6300, USA
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154
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Lee AJ, Zhou X, Chang M, Hunzeker J, Bonneau RH, Zhou D, Sun SC. Regulation of natural killer T-cell development by deubiquitinase CYLD. EMBO J 2010; 29:1600-12. [PMID: 20224552 DOI: 10.1038/emboj.2010.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2009] [Accepted: 02/16/2010] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer T (NKT) cells modulate immune responses against pathogens and tumours, as well as immunological tolerance. We show here that CYLD, a tumour suppressor with deubiquitinase function, has a pivotal and cell-intrinsic function in NKT cell development. Unlike other known NKT regulators, CYLD is dispensable for intrathymic NKT cell maturation but is obligatory for the survival of immature NKT cells. Interestingly, CYLD deficiency impairs the expression of ICOS, a costimulatory molecule required for the survival and homeostasis of NKT cells, and this molecular defect is associated with attenuated response to an NKT-survival cytokine, IL-7, due to reduced expression of IL-7 receptor. We show, for the first time, that IL-7 induces the expression of ICOS in NKT cells, which is largely dependent on CYLD. Interestingly, loss of CYLD causes constitutive NF-kappaB activation in developing NKT cells, which contributes to their defective IL-7 response and attenuated ICOS expression. These findings establish CYLD as a critical regulator of NKT cell development and provide molecular insights into this novel function of CYLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Lee
- Department of Immunology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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155
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D'Cruz LM, Yang CY, Goldrath AW. Transcriptional regulation of NKT cell development and homeostasis. Curr Opin Immunol 2010; 22:199-205. [PMID: 20171073 PMCID: PMC2854242 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2010.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2010] [Accepted: 01/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
NKT cells comprise a distinct T cell subset that acquires effector function during development and prior to antigen exposure. NKT cells are of limited antigen specificity but possess the ability to be recruited into an immune response without the need for further differentiation or proliferation and thus may be considered to function as memory cells or as part of the innate immune system. Although the development and maturation of NKT cells share some similarities with conventional T cell populations, many transcriptional regulators and signaling molecules are known to be uniquely required for NKT cell development. Recently, new transcription factors that specify NKT lineage and effector function and novel roles for previously identified transcriptional regulators in the differentiation of the NKT cell population have been discovered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise M D'Cruz
- University of California San Diego, Division of Biology, La Jolla, CA 92093-0377, USA
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156
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An essential role for the transcription factor HEB in thymocyte survival, Tcra rearrangement and the development of natural killer T cells. Nat Immunol 2010; 11:240-9. [PMID: 20154672 PMCID: PMC2993240 DOI: 10.1038/ni.1845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2009] [Accepted: 01/15/2010] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
E proteins are basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors that regulate many key aspects of lymphocyte development. Thymocytes express multiple E proteins that are thought to provide cooperative and compensatory functions crucial for T cell differentiation. Contrary to that, we report here that the E protein HEB was uniquely required at the CD4(+)CD8(+) double-positive (DP) stage of T cell development. Thymocytes lacking HEB showed impaired survival, failed to make rearrangements of variable-alpha (V(alpha)) segments to distal joining-alpha (J(alpha)) segments in the gene encoding the T cell antigen receptor alpha-chain (Tcra) and had a profound, intrinsic block in the development of invariant natural killer T cells (iNKT cells) at their earliest progenitor stage. Thus, our results show that HEB is a specific and essential factor in T cell development and in the generation of the iNKT cell lineage, defining a unique role for HEB in the regulation of lymphocyte maturation.
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157
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Abstract
Natural killer T cells (NKT cells) are CD1d-restricted, lipid antigen-reactive, immunoregulatory T lymphocytes that can promote cell-mediated immunity to tumors and infectious organisms, including bacteria and viruses, yet paradoxically they can also suppress the cell-mediated immunity associated with autoimmune disease and allograft rejection. Furthermore, in some diseases, such as atherosclerosis and allergy, NKT cell activity can be deleterious to the host. Although the precise means by which these cells carry out such contrasting functions is unclear, recent studies have highlighted the existence of many functionally distinct NKT cell subsets. Because their frequency and number vary widely between individuals, it is important to understand the mechanisms that regulate the development and maintenance of NKT cells and subsets thereof, which is the subject of this review.
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158
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de Jong E, Suddason T, Lord GM. Translational mini-review series on Th17 cells: development of mouse and human T helper 17 cells. Clin Exp Immunol 2010; 159:148-58. [PMID: 19912248 PMCID: PMC2810383 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2009.04041.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2009] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
There has been a considerable amount of interest in the immunological community about new phenotypic subsets of CD4(+) T cells, particularly cells that produce the cytokine interleukin (IL)-17 [named T helper type 17 (Th17) cells]. While the initial discovery of Th17 cells and the pathways that controlled their development was in the mouse, recent attention has shifted to the existence of these cells and the relevant upstream cytokine signals in humans. While it is clear that CD4(+) T cells producing IL-17 exist in vivo, their relevance to disease pathogenesis is only just being understood. In this paper, we review the data regarding the generation of human Th17 cells in vitro and the evidence that this effector population is important in human disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- E de Jong
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef, AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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159
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160
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Generation of functional NKT cells in vitro from embryonic stem cells bearing rearranged invariant Vα14-Jα18 TCRα gene. Blood 2010; 115:230-7. [DOI: 10.1182/blood-2009-04-217729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Establishment of a system with efficient generation of natural killer T (NKT) cells from embryonic stem (ES) cells would enable us to identify the cells with NKT-cell potential and obtain NKT cells with desired function. Here, using cloned ES (NKT-ES) cells generated by the transfer of nuclei from mature NKT cells, we have established a culture system that preferentially developed functional NKT cells and also identified early NKT progenitors, which first appeared on day 11 as a c-kit+ population in the cocultures on OP9 cells with expression of Notch ligand, delta-like1 (OP9/Dll-1) and became c-kitlo/− on day 14. Interestingly, in the presence of Notch signals, NKT-ES cells differentiated only to thymic CD44lo CD24hi NKT cells producing mainly interleukin-4 (IL-4), whereas NKT cells resembling CD44hi CD24lo liver NKT cells producing mainly interferon γ (IFN-γ) and exhibiting strong adjuvant activity in vivo were developed in the switch culture starting at day 14 in the absence of Notch. The cloned ES culture system offers a new opportunity for the elucidation of the molecular events on NKT-cell development and for the establishment of NKT-cell therapy.
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161
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Bellone M, Ceccon M, Grioni M, Jachetti E, Calcinotto A, Napolitano A, Freschi M, Casorati G, Dellabona P. iNKT cells control mouse spontaneous carcinoma independently of tumor-specific cytotoxic T cells. PLoS One 2010; 5:e8646. [PMID: 20072624 PMCID: PMC2800182 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0008646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2009] [Accepted: 12/21/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND CD1d-restricted invariant NKT (iNKT) cells are a subset of T lymphocytes endowed with innate effector functions that aid in the establishment of adaptive T and B cell immune responses. iNKT cells have been shown to play a spontaneous protective role against experimental tumors. Yet, the interplay between iNKT and tumor-specific T cells in cancer immune surveillance/editing has never been addressed. The transgenic adenocarcinoma of the mouse prostate (TRAMP) is a realistic model of spontaneous oncogenesis, in which the tumor-specific cytotoxic T cell (CTL) response undergoes full tolerance upon disease progression. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We report here that lack of iNKT cells in TRAMP mice resulted in the appearance of more precocious and aggressive tumors that significantly reduced animal survival. TRAMP mice bearing or lacking iNKT cells responded similarly to a tumor-specific vaccination and developed tolerance to a tumor-associated antigen at comparable rate. CONCLUSIONS Hence, our data argue for a critical role of iNKT cells in the immune surveillance of carcinoma that is independent of tumor-specific CTL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Bellone
- Cellular Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, Istituto Scientifico San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Ceccon
- Cellular Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, Istituto Scientifico San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Grioni
- Cellular Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, Istituto Scientifico San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Jachetti
- Cellular Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, Istituto Scientifico San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Università Vita Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Arianna Calcinotto
- Cellular Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, Istituto Scientifico San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Napolitano
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, Istituto Scientifico San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Università Vita Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Freschi
- Unità Operativa Anatomia Patologica, Istituto Scientifico San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Casorati
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, Istituto Scientifico San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Dellabona
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, Istituto Scientifico San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
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162
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Nozaki H, Itonori S, Sugita M, Nakamura K, Ohba K, Ohnishi M, Imai K, Igarashi Y, Suzuki A, Kushi Y. Invariant V.ALPHA.14 Natural Killer T Cell Activation by Edible Mushroom Acidic Glycosphingolipids. Biol Pharm Bull 2010; 33:580-4. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.33.580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hirofumi Nozaki
- Department of Food Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
| | - Saki Itonori
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Liberal Arts and Education, Shiga University
| | - Mutsumi Sugita
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Liberal Arts and Education, Shiga University
| | - Kimihide Nakamura
- Health Care Administration Center, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
| | - Kiyoshi Ohba
- Hokkaido Tokachi Area Regional Food Processing Technology Center
| | - Masao Ohnishi
- Department of Food Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
| | - Kunitoshi Imai
- Research Center for Animal Hygiene and Food Safety, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
| | - Yasuyuki Igarashi
- Laboratory of Biomembrane and Biofunctional Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University
| | | | - Yasunori Kushi
- Department of Food Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
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163
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Jang GC. Natural killer T cell and pathophysiology of asthma. KOREAN JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS 2010. [DOI: 10.3345/kjp.2010.53.2.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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164
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Ruffell B, DeNardo DG, Affara NI, Coussens LM. Lymphocytes in cancer development: polarization towards pro-tumor immunity. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2009; 21:3-10. [PMID: 20005150 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2009.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The classic view that the role of immune cells in cancer is primarily one of tumor rejection has been supplanted by a more complex view of leukocytes having both pro- and anti-tumor properties. This shift is due to the now well recognized capabilities of several myeloid cell types that foster pro-tumor programming of premalignant tissue, as well as the discovery that subsets of leukocytes also suppress development and effector functions of lymphocytes important for mediating anti-tumor immunity. In this review, we focus on the underappreciated role that T lymphocytes play in promoting tumor development. This includes, in addition to the role of T regulatory cells, a role for natural killer T cells and CD4(+) T helper cells in suppressing anti-tumor immunity and promoting cancer growth and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Ruffell
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
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165
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A double-edged sword: the role of NKT cells in malaria and HIV infection and immunity. Semin Immunol 2009; 22:87-96. [PMID: 19962909 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2009.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2009] [Revised: 11/02/2009] [Accepted: 11/09/2009] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
NKT cells are known to play a role against certain microbial infections, including malaria and HIV, two major global infectious diseases. NKT cells exhibit either protective or pathogenic role against malaria. They are depleted by HIV infection and have a direct pathogenic role against many opportunistic infections common in end-stage AIDS. This review discusses the various features of the interaction between NKT cells and malaria parasites and HIV, and the potential to harness this interaction for therapeutic and vaccine strategies.
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166
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Antigen recognition by CD1d-restricted NKT T cell receptors. Semin Immunol 2009; 22:61-7. [PMID: 19945889 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2009.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2009] [Accepted: 10/26/2009] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
alphabeta T cell receptors (TCRs) have traditionally been viewed as receptors for peptide antigens presented by either Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I (for CD8 T cells) or MHC class II (for CD4 T cells) antigen-presenting molecules. However, it is now clear that some T cell lineages express TCRs that are specialized for recognition of lipid-based antigens presented by the MHC class I-like CD1 family. Recently, the molecular basis for the TCR recognition of glycolipid antigens presented by CD1d has revealed an evolutionarily conserved-docking mode that is distinct from that of peptide-based recognition. T cells carrying these receptors follow a unique developmental pathway that results not only in unconventional antigen specificity, but also seemingly exaggerated functional capabilities, which makes these cells and their antigens highly attractive targets for immunotherapeutic manipulation.
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167
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Plati T, Visigalli I, Capotondo A, Buono M, Naldini L, Cosma MP, Biffi A. Development and maturation of invariant NKT cells in the presence of lysosomal engulfment. Eur J Immunol 2009; 39:2748-54. [PMID: 19637231 DOI: 10.1002/eji.200939639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A defect in invariant NKT (iNKT) cell selection was hypothesized in lysosomal storage disorders (LSD). Accumulation of glycosphingolipids (GSL) in LSD could influence lipid loading and/or presentation causing entrapment of endogenous ligand(s) within storage bodies or competition of the selecting ligand(s) by stored lipids for CD1d binding. However, when we analyzed the iNKT cell compartment in newly tested LSD animal models that accumulate GSL, glycoaminoglycans or both, we observed a defective iNKT cell selection only in animals affected by multiple sulfatase deficiency, in which a generalized aberrant T-cell development, rather than a pure iNKT defect, was present. Mice with single lysosomal enzyme deficiencies had normal iNKT cell development. Thus, GSL/glycoaminoglycans storage and lysosomal engulfment are not sufficient for affecting iNKT cell development. Rather, lipid ligand(s) or storage compounds, which are affected in those LSD lacking mature iNKT cells, might indeed be relevant for iNKT cell selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Plati
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
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168
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Transcriptional regulator Id2 controls survival of hepatic NKT cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2009; 106:19461-6. [PMID: 19884494 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0908249106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer T cells expressing an invariant T-cell receptor (iNKT) regulate activation of both innate and adaptive immunity in many contexts. iNKT cells accumulate in the liver and rapidly produce prodigious amounts of numerous cytokines upon activation, impacting the immune response to viral infection, immunosurveillance for malignant cells, and liver regeneration. However, little is known about the factors controlling iNKT homeostasis, survival and hepatic localization. Here, we report that the absence of the transcriptional regulator Id2 resulted in a severe, intrinsic defect in the accumulation of hepatic iNKT cells. Id2-deficient iNKT cells showed increased cell death in the liver, although migration and functional activity were not impaired in comparison to Id2-expressing iNKT cells. Id2-deficient iNKT cells exhibited diminished expression of CXCR6, a critical determinant of iNKT cell accumulation in the liver, and of the anti-apoptotic molecules bcl-2 and bcl-X(L), compared to Id2-sufficient iNKT cells. Furthermore, survival and accumulation of iNKT cells lacking Id2 expression was rescued by deficiency in bim, a key pro-apoptotic molecule. Thus, Id2 was necessary to establish a hepatic iNKT cell population, defining a role for Id2 and implicating the Id targets, E protein transcription factors, in the regulation of iNKT cell homeostasis.
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169
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Ilan Y. Alpha versus beta: are we on the way to resolve the mystery as to which is the endogenous ligand for natural killer T cells? Clin Exp Immunol 2009; 158:300-7. [PMID: 19793337 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2009.04030.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer T (NKT) lymphocytes are a unique subset of cells that play a role in regulating the immune system. For the past decade, studies have focused upon attempts to define these cells and to determine the ligand(s) that are required for their development and peripheral activation. Many research groups have focused upon determining the mechanisms for activating or inhibiting NKT cells in an attempt to control immune-mediated disorders as well as infectious and malignant conditions by using different ligand structures. Alpha-anomeric glycolipids and phospholipids derived from mammalian, bacterial, protozoan and plant species have been suggested as potential ligands for these lymphocytes. Some of these ligands were structured in forms that can bind to CD1d molecules. The lack of alpha-anomeric glycosphingolipids in mammals and the modest effect of these ligands in human studies, along with recent data from animal models and humans on the NKT-dependent immunomodulatory effect of beta-glycosphingolipids, suggest that the beta-anomeric ligands have the potential to be the endogenous NKT ligand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Ilan
- Department of Medicine, Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
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170
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Urban EM, Li H, Armstrong C, Focaccetti C, Cairo C, Pauza CD. Control of CD56 expression and tumor cell cytotoxicity in human Vgamma2Vdelta2 T cells. BMC Immunol 2009; 10:50. [PMID: 19772585 PMCID: PMC2761874 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2172-10-50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2009] [Accepted: 09/21/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In lymphocyte subsets, expression of CD56 (neural cell adhesion molecule-1) correlates with cytotoxic effector activity. For cells bearing the Vgamma2Vdelta2 T cell receptor, isoprenoid pyrophosphate stimulation leads to uniform activation and proliferation, but only a fraction of cells express CD56 and display potent cytotoxic activity against tumor cells. Our goal was to show whether CD56 expression was regulated stochastically, similar to conventional activation antigens, or whether CD56 defined a lineage of cells committed to the cytotoxic phenotype. RESULTS Tracking individual cell clones defined by their Vgamma2 chain CDR3 region sequences, we found that CD56 was expressed on precursor cytotoxic T cells already present in the population irrespective of their capacity to proliferate after antigen stimulation. Public T cell receptor sequences found in the CD56+ subset from one individual might appear in the CD56- subset of another donor. The commitment of individual clones to CD56+ or CD56- lineages was stable for each donor over a 1 year interval. CONCLUSION The ability to express CD56 was not predicted by TCR sequence or by the strength of signal received by the TCR. For gammadelta T cells, cytotoxic effector function is acquired when cytotoxic precursors within the population are stimulated to proliferate and express CD56. Expression of CD56 defines a committed lineage to the cytotoxic phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Urban
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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171
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Abstract
CD1d-restricted natural killer (NKT) cells are important contributors to antigen-specific antibody responses. There is, therefore, considerable interest in the design and implementation of strategies to appropriately activate NKT cells and boost vaccine-induced protective antibody responses. In order to achieve these goals, investigators are examining the mechanisms by which NKT cells enhance antibody responses. Although information is limited, it is now appreciated that both cognate and noncognate interactions between CD1d-expressing B cells and NKT cells drive enhanced antibody responses. NKT cells may provide B-cell help in the form of direct receptor-mediated interactions as well as by secretion of soluble effectors, including cytokines. In this article, we review the evidence in support of these mechanisms and discuss how they likely take place in the context of interactions of NKT cells with other cell types, such as dendritic cells and helper T cells. We also discuss the evidence that NKT cells affect discrete differentiation events in the multistep process by which a naive B cell experiences antigen and develops into a memory B cell or an antibody-secreting plasma cell. Since most information on NKT cells and humoral immunity has been derived from murine studies, we discuss what is known about human NKT cells and humoral immunity. We offer thoughts on whether the findings in murine systems will translate to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark L Lang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
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172
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Abstract
The gastrointestinal tract allows the residence of an almost enumerable number of bacteria. To maintain homeostasis, the mucosal immune system must remain tolerant to the commensal microbiota and eradicate pathogenic bacteria. Aberrant interactions between the mucosal immune cells and the microbiota have been implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In this review, we discuss the role of natural killer T cells (NKT cells) in intestinal immunology. NKT cells are a subset of non-conventional T cells recognizing endogenous and/or exogenous glycolipid antigens when presented by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I-like antigen-presenting molecules CD1d and MR1. Upon T-cell receptor (TCR) engagement, NKT cells can rapidly produce various cytokines that have important roles in mucosal immunity. Our understanding of NKT-cell-mediated pathways including the identification of specific antigens is expanding. This knowledge will facilitate the development of NKT cell-based interventions and immune therapies for human intestinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Middendorp
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Laboratory of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC Sophia Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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173
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Fedeli M, Napolitano A, Wong MPM, Marcais A, de Lalla C, Colucci F, Merkenschlager M, Dellabona P, Casorati G. Dicer-dependent microRNA pathway controls invariant NKT cell development. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2009; 183:2506-12. [PMID: 19625646 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.0901361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Invariant NK T (iNKT) cells are a separate lineage of T lymphocytes with innate effector functions. They express an invariant TCR specific for lipids presented by CD1d and their development and effector differentiation rely on a unique gene expression program. We asked whether this program includes microRNAs, small noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression posttranscriptionally and play a key role in the control of cellular differentiation programs. To this aim, we investigated iNKT cell development in mice in which Dicer, the RNase III enzyme that generates functional microRNAs, is deleted in cortical thymocytes. We find that Dicer deletion results in a substantial reduction of iNKT cells in thymus and their disappearance from the periphery, unlike mainstream T cells. Without Dicer, iNKT cells do not complete their innate effector differentiation and display a defective homeostasis due to increased cell death. Differentiation and homeostasis of iNKT cells require Dicer in a cell-autonomous fashion. Furthermore, we identify a miRNA profile specific for iNKT cells, which exhibits features of activated/effector T lymphocytes, consistent with the idea that iNKT cells undergo agonist thymic selection. Together, these results define a critical role of the Dicer-dependent miRNA pathway in the physiology of iNKT cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Fedeli
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, H San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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174
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Lawson VJ, Maurice D, Silk JD, Cerundolo V, Weston K. Aberrant Selection and Function of Invariant NKT Cells in the Absence of AP-1 Transcription Factor Fra-2. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2009; 183:2575-84. [DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.0803577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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175
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Tie2cre-induced inactivation of the miRNA-processing enzyme Dicer disrupts invariant NKT cell development. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2009; 106:10266-71. [PMID: 19509335 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0811119106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of evolutionarily conserved small noncoding RNAs that are increasingly being recognized as important regulators of gene expression. The ribonuclease III enzyme Dicer is essential for the processing of miRNAs. CD1d-restricted invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are potent regulators of diverse immune responses. The role of Dicer-generated miRNAs in the development and function of immune regulatory iNKT cells is unknown. Here, we generated a mouse strain with a tissue-specific disruption of Dicer, and showed that lack of miRNAs after the deletion of Dicer by Tie2-Cre (expressed in hematopoietic cells and endothelial cells) interrupted the development and maturation of iNKT cells in the thymus and significantly decreased the number of iNKT cells in different immune organs. Thymic and peripheral iNKT cell compartments were changed in miRNA-deficient mice, with a significantly increased frequency of CD4(+)CD8(+) iNKT cells in the thymus and a significantly decreased frequency of CD4(+) iNKT cells in the spleen. MiRNA-deficient iNKT cells display profound defects in alpha-GalCer-induced activation and cytokine production. Bone marrow (BM) from miRNA-deficient mice poorly reconstituted iNKT cells compared to BM from WT mice. Also, using a thymic iNKT cell transfer model, we found that iNKT cell homeostasis was impaired in miRNA-deficient recipient mice. Our data indicate that miRNAs expressed in hematopoietic cells and endothelial cells are potent regulators of iNKT cell development, function, and homeostasis.
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176
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Wu L, Gabriel CL, Parekh VV, Van Kaer L. Invariant natural killer T cells: innate-like T cells with potent immunomodulatory activities. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 73:535-45. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0039.2009.01256.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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177
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Mocchegiani E, Giacconi R, Cipriano C, Malavolta M. NK and NKT cells in aging and longevity: role of zinc and metallothioneins. J Clin Immunol 2009; 29:416-25. [PMID: 19408107 DOI: 10.1007/s10875-009-9298-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2009] [Accepted: 04/20/2009] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION During aging, dysregulated immune functions occur contributing to increased susceptibility to morbidity and mortality. However, these dysregulations are normally counterbalanced by continuous adaptation of the body to the deteriorative changes occurring over time. These adaptive changes well occur in healthy centenarians. DISCUSSION Both innate (natural) and adaptive (acquired) immune responses decline with advancing age. Natural killer (NK) and natural killer T (NKT) cell cytotoxicity, representing one of best models of innate immune response, decreases in aging as well as interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) production by both activated types of cells. Both NK and NKT cell cytotoxicity and IFN-gamma production increase in very old age with respect to normal aging, especially by NKT cells bearing TCRgammadelta. The role played by zinc and metallothioneins (MT) is crucial because this affects NK and NKT cell development, maturation, and functions. In particular, some MT polymorphisms are involved in maintaining innate immune response and intracellular zinc ion availability in aging with thus a role of MT genetic background to escape some age-related diseases with subsequent healthy aging and longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Mocchegiani
- Nutrigenomic and Immunosenescence Laboratory, Istituto Nazionale Riposo e Cura per Anziani (INRCA), Ancona, Italy.
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178
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Rajan R, Mathew T, Buffa R, Bornancin F, Cavallari M, Nussbaumer P, De Libero G, Vasella A. Synthesis and Evaluation ofN-Acetyl-2-amino-2-deoxy-α-D-galactosyl 1-Thio-7-oxaceramide, a New Analogue ofα-D-Galactosyl Ceramide. Helv Chim Acta 2009. [DOI: 10.1002/hlca.200800454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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179
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Mycko MP, Ferrero I, Wilson A, Jiang W, Bianchi T, Trumpp A, MacDonald HR. Selective requirement for c-Myc at an early stage of V(alpha)14i NKT cell development. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2009; 182:4641-8. [PMID: 19342639 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.0803394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Valpha14 invariant (Valpha14i) NKT cells are a subset of regulatory T cells that utilize a semi-invariant TCR to recognize glycolipids associated with monomorphic CD1d molecules. During development in the thymus, CD4(+)CD8(+) Valpha14i NKT precursors recognizing endogenous CD1d-associated glycolipids on other CD4(+)CD8(+) thymocytes are selected to undergo a maturation program involving sequential expression of CD44 and NK-related markers such as NK1.1. The molecular requirements for Valpha14i NKT cell maturation, particularly at early developmental stages, remain poorly understood. In this study, we show that CD4-Cre-mediated T cell-specific inactivation of c-Myc, a broadly expressed transcription factor with a wide range of biological activities, selectively impairs Valpha14i NKT cell development without perturbing the development of conventional T cells. In the absence of c-Myc, Valpha14i NKT cell precursors are blocked at an immature CD44(low)NK1.1(-) stage in a cell autonomous fashion. Residual c-Myc-deficient immature Valpha14i NKT cells appear to proliferate normally, cannot be rescued by transgenic expression of BCL-2, and exhibit characteristic features of immature Valpha14i NKT cells such as high levels of preformed IL-4 mRNA and the transcription factor promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger. Collectively our data identify c-Myc as a critical transcription factor that selectively acts early in Valpha14i NKT cell development to promote progression beyond the CD44(low)NK1.1(-) precursor stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin P Mycko
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne Branch, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
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180
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Annunziato F, Cosmi L, Liotta F, Maggi E, Romagnani S. Human Th17 cells: are they different from murine Th17 cells? Eur J Immunol 2009; 39:637-40. [PMID: 19283714 DOI: 10.1002/eji.200839050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Type 17 Th (Th17) cells have been identified as a distinct population of CD4(+) effector T cells different from Th1 and Th2 cells. While the pre-eminent cytokine of Th1 cells is IFN-gamma and that of Th2 cells is IL-4, the distinctive cytokine of Th17 cells is IL-17A. However, although murine and human Th1 and Th2 cells exhibit strong similarities, human and murine Th17 cells seem to differ in several aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Annunziato
- Center of Excellence for Research, Transfer of Research and High Education for the Development of Novel therapies, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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181
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GATA3 and the T-cell lineage: essential functions before and after T-helper-2-cell differentiation. Nat Rev Immunol 2009; 9:125-35. [PMID: 19151747 DOI: 10.1038/nri2476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 313] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Many advances in our understanding of the molecules that regulate the development, differentiation and function of T cells have been made over the past few years. One important regulator of T-cell differentiation is the transcription factor GATA-binding protein 3 (GATA3). Although the main function of GATA3 is to act as a master transcription factor for the differentiation of T helper 2 (T(H)2) cells, new research has helped to uncover crucial functions of GATA3 in T cells that go beyond T(H)2-cell differentiation and that are important at earlier stages of haematopoietic and lymphoid-cell development. This Review focuses on the functions of GATA3 from early thymocyte development to effector T-cell differentiation. In addition, we discuss the interactions between GATA3 and other transcription factors and signalling pathways, and highlight the functional significance of the GATA3 protein structure.
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182
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NKT cells: from totipotency to regenerative medicine. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2009; 57:117-28. [PMID: 19333728 DOI: 10.1007/s00005-009-0009-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2008] [Accepted: 01/05/2009] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The recent discovery that natural killer T (NKT) cell nuclei are totipotent opens a novel avenue for further understanding NKT cell function in normal and diseased states. The progeny of a cloned mouse harboring the in-frame rearranged Valpha14-Jalpha18 T cell receptor in one allele showed a significant increase in NKT cell number compared with wild-type or littermate control mice that possessed a different TCR. Importantly, NKT cells from such progeny produced both interferon-gamma and interleukin-4, a hallmark of NKT cells. In these progeny, NKT cell development appeared to be instructively, rather than permissively, determined. Using embryonic stem cells prepared via the somatic cell nuclear transfer of NKT nuclei, relatively mature NKT cells were induced under conditions permissible for T cell induction. Furthermore, these NKT cells matured autonomously upon injection into mice, resulting in an antigen-specific adjuvant effect.
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183
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Locci M, Draghici E, Marangoni F, Bosticardo M, Catucci M, Aiuti A, Cancrini C, Marodi L, Espanol T, Bredius RGM, Thrasher AJ, Schulz A, Litzman J, Roncarolo MG, Casorati G, Dellabona P, Villa A. The Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein is required for iNKT cell maturation and function. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 206:735-42. [PMID: 19307326 PMCID: PMC2715111 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20081773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS) protein (WASp) is a regulator of actin cytoskeleton in hematopoietic cells. Mutations of the WASp gene cause WAS. Although WASp is involved in various immune cell functions, its role in invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells has never been investigated. Defects of iNKT cells could indeed contribute to several WAS features, such as recurrent infections and high tumor incidence. We found a profound reduction of circulating iNKT cells in WAS patients, directly correlating with the severity of clinical phenotype. To better characterize iNKT cell defect in the absence of WASp, we analyzed was(-/-) mice. iNKT cell numbers were significantly reduced in the thymus and periphery of was(-/-) mice as compared with wild-type controls. Moreover analysis of was(-/-) iNKT cell maturation revealed a complete arrest at the CD44(+) NK1.1(-) intermediate stage. Notably, generation of BM chimeras demonstrated a was(-/-) iNKT cell-autonomous developmental defect. was(-/-) iNKT cells were also functionally impaired, as suggested by the reduced secretion of interleukin 4 and interferon gamma upon in vivo activation. Altogether, these results demonstrate the relevance of WASp in integrating signals critical for development and functional differentiation of iNKT cells and suggest that defects in these cells may play a role in WAS pathology.
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184
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Godfrey DI, Stankovic S, Baxter AG. Developing NKT cells need their calcium. Nat Immunol 2009; 10:231-3. [DOI: 10.1038/ni0309-231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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185
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Vallabhapurapu S, Powolny-Budnicka I, Riemann M, Schmid RM, Paxian S, Pfeffer K, Körner H, Weih F. Rel/NF-kappaB family member RelA regulates NK1.1- to NK1.1+ transition as well as IL-15-induced expansion of NKT cells. Eur J Immunol 2009; 38:3508-19. [PMID: 19003818 DOI: 10.1002/eji.200737830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Development of NKT cells was shown to depend on lymphotoxin (LT) and IL-15 signaling pathways as well as on cytokine receptor common gamma chain. After positive selection, NKT-cell precursors transit through progressive maturation stages including proliferative expansion within the NK1.1(-) window. The transcription factors that integrate different signaling pathways into different stages of NKT-cell development are not well characterized. Here, we show that the Rel/NF-kappaB family member RelA regulates the NK1.1(-) to NK1.1(+) transition during NKT-cell development. RelA is also required for both IL-15- and IL-7-induced proliferation of CD44(hi)NK1.1(-) NKT-cell precursors. Activation of the invariant NKT-cell receptor induces both IL-15 receptor alpha and gamma chains' expression in an NF-kappaB-dependent manner, suggesting a molecular mechanism by which NF-kappaB regulates NKT-cell development. NF-kappaB also regulates TCR-induced expression of LT-alpha and LT-beta within NKT cells. In contrast to previous reports, however, we show that LT signaling is dispensable for thymic NKT-cell development but is essential for their colonization of peripheral organs such as liver.
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186
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Lazarevic V, Zullo AJ, Schweitzer MN, Staton TL, Gallo EM, Crabtree GR, Glimcher LH. The gene encoding early growth response 2, a target of the transcription factor NFAT, is required for the development and maturation of natural killer T cells. Nat Immunol 2009; 10:306-13. [PMID: 19169262 DOI: 10.1038/ni.1696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2008] [Accepted: 12/04/2008] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The influence of signals transmitted by the phosphatase calcineurin and the transcription factor NFAT on the development and function of natural killer T (NKT) cells is unclear. In this report, we demonstrate that the transcription factor early growth response 2 (Egr2), a target gene of NFAT, was specifically required for the ontogeny of NKT cells but not that of conventional CD4(+) or CD8(+) T cells. NKT cells developed normally in the absence of Egr1 or Egr3, which suggests that Egr2 is a specific regulator of NKT cell differentiation. We found that Egr2 was important in the selection, survival and maturation of NKT cells. Our findings emphasize the importance of the calcineurin-NFAT-Egr2 pathway in the development of the NKT lymphocyte lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanja Lazarevic
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
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187
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Kinjo Y, Kronenberg M. Detection of microbes by natural killer T cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2009; 633:17-26. [PMID: 19209678 DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-79311-5_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Kinjo
- La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, CA 92037, USA
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188
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Cerundolo V, Silk JD, Masri SH, Salio M. Harnessing invariant NKT cells in vaccination strategies. Nat Rev Immunol 2009; 9:28-38. [DOI: 10.1038/nri2451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 272] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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189
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NKT cells prevent chronic joint inflammation after infection with Borrelia burgdorferi. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2008; 105:19863-8. [PMID: 19060201 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0810519105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Borrelia burgdorferi is the etiologic agent of Lyme disease, a multisystem inflammatory disorder that principally targets the skin, joints, heart, and nervous system. The role of T lymphocytes in the development of chronic inflammation resulting from B. burgdorferi infection has been controversial. We previously showed that natural killer T (NKT) cells with an invariant (i) TCR alpha chain (iNKT cells) recognize glycolipids from B. burgdorferi, but did not establish an in vivo role for iNKT cells in Lyme disease pathogenesis. Here, we evaluate the importance of iNKT cells for host defense against these pathogenic spirochetes by using Valpha14i NKT cell-deficient (Jalpha18(-/-)) BALB/c mice. On tick inoculation with B. burgdorferi, Jalpha18(-/-) mice exhibited more severe and prolonged arthritis as well as a reduced ability to clear spirochetes from infected tissues. Valpha14i NKT cell deficiency also resulted in increased production of antibodies directed against both B. burgdorferi protein antigens and borrelial diacylglycerols; the latter finding demonstrates that anti-glycolipid antibody production does not require cognate help from Valpha14i NKT cells. Valpha14i NKT cells in infected wild-type mice expressed surface activation markers and produced IFNgamma in vivo after infection, suggesting a participatory role for this unique population in cellular immunity. Our data are consistent with the hypothesis that the antigen-specific activation of Valpha14i NKT cells is important for the prevention of persistent joint inflammation and spirochete clearance, and they counter the long-standing notion that humoral rather than cellular immunity is sufficient to facilitate Lyme disease resolution.
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190
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Critical role of ROR-γt in a new thymic pathway leading to IL-17-producing invariant NKT cell differentiation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2008; 105:19845-50. [PMID: 19057011 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0806472105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 192] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells constitute a subpopulation of T cells that recognize glycolipids presented by CD1d molecules. They are characterized by their prompt production of interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), which enables them to modulate diverse immune responses. Recently, we enlarged this concept by identifying a distinct IL-17-producing iNKT cell subset, named iNKT17 cells. The mechanisms leading to the acquisition of this new iNKT cell activity are unknown. Herein we show that IL-17-producing iNKT cells are already present in the thymus, predominantly among a subset regarded so far as an immature stage of thymic iNKT cell development, the CD1d tetramer(pos)CD44(pos)NK1.1(neg)CD4(neg) cells. Using EGFP reporter mice, we demonstrate that the transcription factor ROR-gammat is critical for the thymic differentiation of this subset because only ROR-gammat(pos) iNKT cells are capable of massively secreting IL-17. Moreover, IL-17-producing CD1d tetramer(pos)CD44(pos)NK1.1(neg)CD4(neg) thymic iNKT cells have reached a mature differentiation stage because they fail to generate other cell subsets in fetal thymic organ culture. Conversely, thymic ROR-gammat(neg) iNKT cell precursors give rise to progeny, but acquire neither ROR-gammat expression nor the ability to secrete IL-17. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate an alternative thymic pathway leading to the development of iNKT17 cells that requires ROR-gammat expression.
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191
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Abstract
NKT cells are a specialized population of T lymphocytes that have an increasingly recognized role in immunoregulation, including controlling the response to viral infections. The characteristics of NKT cells in the peripheral blood of macaques during simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) or chimeric simian/human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (SHIV) infection were assessed. NKT cells comprised a mean of 0.19% of peripheral blood lymphocytes across the 64 uninfected macaques studied. Although the range in the percentages of NKT cells was large (0 to 2.2%), levels were stable over time within individual macaques without SIV/SHIV infection. The majority of NKT cells in macaques were CD4(+) (on average 67%) with smaller populations being CD8(+) (21%) and CD4/CD8 double positive (13%). A precipitous decline in CD4(+) NKT cells occurred in all six macaques infected with CXCR4-tropic SHIV(mn229) early after infection, with a concomitant rise in CD8(+) NKT cells in some animals. The depletion of CD4(+) NKT cells was tightly correlated with the depletion of total CD4(+) T cells. R5-tropic SIV(mac251) infection of macaques resulted in a slower and more variable decline in CD4(+) NKT cells, with animals that were able to control SIV virus levels maintaining higher levels of CD4(+) NKT cells. An inverse correlation between the depletion of total and CD4(+) NKT cells and SIV viral load during chronic infection was observed. Our results demonstrate the infection-driven depletion of peripheral CD4(+) NKT cells during both SHIV and SIV infection of macaques. Further studies of the implications of the loss of NKT cell subsets in the pathogenesis of HIV disease are needed.
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192
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Role of the Cytokine Profiles Produced by Invariant Natural Killer T Cells in the Initial Phase of Cyclophosphamide-Induced Tolerance. Transplantation 2008; 86:1301-10. [DOI: 10.1097/tp.0b013e318187265e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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193
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Gollob KJ, Antonelli LRV, Faria DR, Keesen TSL, Dutra WO. Immunoregulatory mechanisms and CD4-CD8- (double negative) T cell subpopulations in human cutaneous leishmaniasis: a balancing act between protection and pathology. Int Immunopharmacol 2008; 8:1338-43. [PMID: 18687296 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2008.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2007] [Revised: 03/14/2008] [Accepted: 03/17/2008] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Cellular immune responses directed against protozoan parasites are key for controlling pathogen replication and disease resolution. However, an uncontrolled, or improperly controlled, response can be deleterious to the host in terms of both allowing for the establishment of pathology, as well as less effective establishment of memory responses. Human cutaneous leishmaniasis is a disease caused by the infection with Leishmania spp. following a bite from the sandfly, the natural vector of this disease. Tens of millions worldwide are currently infected with Leishmania and no effective vaccines have been developed to date. In the face of the complexity presented by the interaction between a host (humans) with the parasite, Leishmania, and the fact that this parasite is inoculated by another complex, biologically active, vector, the sandfly, it is clearly important to study the immunoregulatory mechanisms that are induced in humans naturally infected by this parasite if we hope to develop effective vaccines and immunotherapeutic treatments in the future. Our laboratory has focused over the years on the study of the local and systemic T cell response during the first episode of cutaneous leishmaniasis suffered by individuals before they undergo antimony treatment. The goal of this review is to briefly outline our findings with hopes of putting our most recent studies concerning the dichotomy between alpha/beta TCR and gamma/delta TCR expressing, CD4-CD8- (double negative-DN) T cells in the context of a balanced immune response against Leishmania and to discuss the implications of these findings toward our understanding of human leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth J Gollob
- Department of Biochemistry-Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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194
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Dashtsoodol N, Watarai H, Sakata S, Taniguchi M. Identification of CD4(-)CD8(-) double-negative natural killer T cell precursors in the thymus. PLoS One 2008; 3:e3688. [PMID: 18997862 PMCID: PMC2577011 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0003688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2008] [Accepted: 10/23/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It is well known that CD1d-restricted Vα14 invariant natural killer T (NKT) cells are derived from cells in the CD4+CD8+ double-positive (DP) population in the thymus. However, the developmental progression of NKT cells in the earlier stages remains unclear, and the possible existence of NKT cell presursors in the earlier stages than DP stage remains to be tested. Principal Findings Here, we demonstrate that NKT cell precursors that express invariant Vα14-Jα18 transcripts but devoid of surface expression of the invariant Vα14 receptor are present in the late CD4−CD8− double-negative (DN)4 stage and have the potential to generate mature NKT cells in both in vivo and in vitro experimental conditions. Moreover, the DN4 population in CD1d knock-out (CD1dKO) mice was similar to those with an NKT cell potential in wild-type (WT) C57BL/6 (B6) mice, but failed to develop into NKT cells in vitro. However, these precursors could develop into NKT cells when co-cultured with normal thymocytes or in an in vivo experimental setting, indicating that functional NKT cell precursors are present in CD1dKO mice. Conclusions Together, these results demonstrate that thymic DN4 fraction contains NKT cell precursors. Our findings provide new insights into the early development of NKT cells prior to surface expression of the invariant Vα14 antigen receptor and suggest the possible alternative developmental pathway of NKT cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nyambayar Dashtsoodol
- Laboratory for Immune Regulation, RIKEN Research Center for Allergy and Immunology, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
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195
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Li W, Sofi MH, Wei DG, Du W, Gervay-Hague J, Renukaradhya GJ, Brutkiewicz RR, Chang CH. MHC class II-expressing thymocytes suppress invariant NKT cell development. Immunol Cell Biol 2008; 87:186-9. [PMID: 18982019 DOI: 10.1038/icb.2008.78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer T (NKT) cells are positively selected on cortical thymocytes expressing the non-classical major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I CD1d molecules. However, it is less clear how NKT cells are negatively selected in the thymus. In this study, we investigated the role of MHC class II expression in NKT cell development. Transgenic mice expressing MHC class II on thymocytes and peripheral T cells had a marked reduction in invariant NKT (iNKT) cells. Reduced numbers of iNKT cells correlated with the absence of in vivo production of cytokines in response to the iNKT cell agonist alpha-galactosylceramide. Using mixed bone marrow chimeras, we found that MHC class II-expressing thymocytes suppressed the development of iNKT cells in trans in a CD4-dependent manner. Our observations have significant implications for human iNKT cell development as human thymocytes express MHC class II, which can lead to an inefficient selection of iNKT cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Ueno A, Wang J, Cheng L, Im JS, Shi Y, Porcelli SA, Yang Y. Enhanced Early Expansion and Maturation of Semi-Invariant NK T Cells Inhibited Autoimmune Pathogenesis in Congenic Nonobese Diabetic Mice. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2008; 181:6789-96. [DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.181.10.6789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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197
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Morahan G, Peeva V, Mehta M, Williams R. Systems genetics can provide new insights in to immune regulation and autoimmunity. J Autoimmun 2008; 31:233-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2008.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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198
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199
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Dufour FD, Baxter AG, Silveira PA. Interactions between B-Lymphocytes and Type 1 NKT Cells in Autoimmune Diabetes. J Immunotoxicol 2008; 5:249-57. [DOI: 10.1080/15476910802131543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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200
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Nunez-Cruz S, Yeo WCJ, Rothman J, Ojha P, Bassiri H, Juntilla M, Davidson D, Veillette A, Koretzky GA, Nichols KE. Differential requirement for the SAP-Fyn interaction during NK T cell development and function. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2008; 181:2311-20. [PMID: 18684920 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.181.4.2311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The adaptor molecule SAP (signaling lymphocytic activation molecule-associated protein) plays a critical role during NK T (NKT) cell development in humans and mice. In CD4(+) T cells, SAP interacts with the tyrosine kinase Fyn to deliver signals required for TCR-induced Th2-type cytokine production. To determine whether the SAP-dependent signals controlling NKT cell ontogeny rely on its binding to Fyn, we used the OP9-DL1 system to initiate structure function studies of SAP in murine NKT cell development. In cultures containing wild-type (WT) hematopoietic progenitors, we noted the transient emergence of cells that reacted with the NKT cell-specific agonist alpha-galactosyl ceramide and its analog PBS57. Sap(-/-) cells failed to give rise to NKT cells in vitro; however, their development could be rescued by re-expression of WT SAP. Emergence of NKT cells was also restored by a mutant version of SAP (SAP R78A) that cannot bind to Fyn, but with less efficiency than WT SAP. This finding was accentuated in vivo in Sap(R78A) knock-in mice as well as Sap(R78A) competitive bone marrow chimeras, which retained NKT cells but at significantly reduced numbers compared with controls. Unlike Sap(R78A) CD4(+) T cells, which produce reduced levels of IL-4 following TCR ligation, alpha-galactosyl ceramide-stimulated NKT cells from the livers and spleens of Sap(R78A) mice produced Th2 cytokines and activated NK cells in a manner mimicking WT cells. Thus, SAP appears to use differential signaling mechanisms in NKT cells, with optimal ontogeny requiring Fyn binding, while functional responses occur independently of this interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selene Nunez-Cruz
- Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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