Association of DAP12 with activating CD94/NKG2C NK cell receptors

The role of CD94/NKG2 in innate and adaptive immunity

CD94/NKG2 is a heterodimer expressed on natural killer (NK) and a small subset of T cells. This receptor varies in function as an inhibitor or activator depending on which isoform of NKG2 is expressed. The ligand for CD94/NKG2 is HLA-E in human and its homolog, Qa1 in mouse, which are both nonclassical class I molecules that bind leader peptides from other class I molecules. Although <5% of CD8 T cells express the receptor in a naïve mouse, its expression is upregulated upon specific recognition of antigen. Similar to NK cells, most CD8 T cells that express high levels of CD94 co-express NKG2A, the inhibitory isoform. The engagement of this receptor can lead to a blocking of cytotoxicity. However, these receptors have also been implicated in the cell survival of both NK and CD8 T cells. The level of CD94 expression is inversely correlated with the level of apoptosis in culture. Thus, CD94/NKG2 receptors may regulate effector functions and cell survival of NK cells and CD8 T cells, thereby playing a crucial role in the innate and adaptive immune response to a pathogen.

Molecular cloning of KLRI1 and KLRI2, a novel pair of lectin-like natural killer-cell receptors with opposing signalling motifs

We here report the molecular cloning of a novel family of killer-cell lectin-like (KLR) receptors in the rat and the mouse, termed KLRI. In both species, there are two members, KLRI1 and KLRI2. While the extracellular lectin-like domains of KLRI1 and KLRI2 are similar [74% (rat) and 83% (mouse) amino acid identity], they differ intracellularly. KLRI1 has two immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motifs (ITIMs) in the cytoplasmic domain, suggesting an inhibitory function. KLRI2 has no ITIM, but a positively charged lysine residue in the transmembrane region, suggesting association with activating adapter molecules. Klri1 and Klri2 are localized within the natural killer (NK) cell gene complex on rat chromosome 4 and mouse chromosome 6. By RT-PCR and Northern blot analysis KLRI1 and KLRI2 were selectively expressed by NK cells in both rat and mouse. Epitope-tagged expression constructs of rat KLRI1 and rat KLRI2 induced surface expression of a nondisulphide-linked protein of M(r) 36,000/39,000 and M(r) 34,000, respectively.

Successful adoptive transfer and in vivo expansion of human haploidentical NK cells in patients with cancer

We previously demonstrated that autologous natural killer (NK)-cell therapy after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is safe but does not provide an antitumor effect. We hypothesize that this is due to a lack of NK-cell inhibitory receptor mismatching with autologous tumor cells, which may be overcome by allogeneic NK-cell infusions. Here, we test haploidentical, related-donor NK-cell infusions in a nontransplantation setting to determine safety and in vivo NK-cell expansion. Two lower intensity outpatient immune suppressive regimens were tested: (1) low-dose cyclophosphamide and methylprednisolone and (2) fludarabine. A higher intensity inpatient regimen of high-dose cyclophosphamide and fludarabine (Hi-Cy/Flu) was tested in patients with poor-prognosis acute myeloid leukemia (AML). All patients received subcutaneous interleukin 2 (IL-2) after infusions. Patients who received lower intensity regimens showed transient persistence but no in vivo expansion of donor cells. In contrast, infusions after the more intense Hi-Cy/Flu resulted in a marked rise in endogenous IL-15, expansion of donor NK cells, and induction of complete hematologic remission in 5 of 19 poor-prognosis patients with AML. These findings suggest that haploidentical NK cells can persist and expand in vivo and may have a role in the treatment of selected malignancies used alone or as an adjunct to HCT.

Treatment of colon and lung cancer patients with ex vivo heat shock protein 70-peptide-activated, autologous natural killer cells: a clinical phase i trial

PURPOSE

The 14 amino acid sequence (aa(450-463)) TKDNNLLGRFELSG (TKD) of heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) was identified as a tumor-selective recognition structure for natural killer (NK) cells. Incubation of peripheral blood lymphocyte cells with TKD plus low-dose interleukin 2 (IL-2) enhances the cytolytic activity of NK cells against Hsp70 membrane-positive tumors, in vitro and in vivo. These data encouraged us to test tolerability, feasibility, and safety of TKD-activated NK cells in a clinical Phase I trial.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (n = 11) and non-small cell lung cancer (n = 1) who had failed standard therapies were enrolled. After ex vivo stimulation of autologous peripheral blood lymphocytes with Hsp70-peptide TKD (2 microg/ml) plus low-dose IL-2 (100 units/ml), TKD was removed by extensive washing, and activated cells were reinfused i.v. The procedure was repeated for up to six cycles, applying a dose escalation schedule in 4 patients.

RESULTS

The percentage of activated NK cells in the reinfused leukapheresis products ranged between 8 and 20% of total lymphocytes, corresponding to total NK cell counts of 0.1 up to 1.5 x 10(9). Apart from restless feeling in 1 patient and itching in 2 patients, no negative side effects were observed. Concomitant with an enhanced CD94 cell surface density, the cytolytic activity of NK cells against Hsp70 membrane-positive colon carcinoma cells was enhanced after TKD/IL-2 stimulation in 10 of 12 patients. Concerning tumor response, 1 patient was in stable disease during therapy by formal staging criteria and another patient showed stable disease in one metastases and progression in another.

CONCLUSIONS

Reinfusion of Hsp70-activated autologous NK cells is safe. Immunological results warrant additional studies in patients with lower tumor burden.

Variable NKG2 expression in the peripheral blood lymphocytes of rhesus monkeys

To provide a basis for beginning to explore the CD94/NKG2 family of molecules in rhesus monkeys, we sought to characterize the expression of these inhibitory and activating cell signalling molecules in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healthy rhesus monkeys. We developed and employed a semiquantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based assay to evaluate mRNA expression levels of nine NKG2 molecules in PBMCs from the monkeys. In addition to quantitating NKG2A, NKG2B, NKG2C2, NKG2C and NKG2D expression, mRNA expression of transmembrane-deleted forms of these molecules was also evaluated. Significant variability in NKG2 mRNA expression in the PBMCs was detected, with 15 unique NKG2 expression level profiles detected in a study of 15 monkeys. We also found that the ratio of the expressed levels of mRNA of the four NKG2 splice variants, NKG2A, NKG2B, NKG2ADeltatm, and NKG2BDeltatm, was variable between the monkeys as well as in an individual monkey over a period of 1.5 years. These findings indicate the dynamic nature of NKG2 mRNA expression in the rhesus monkey.

Imprint of human cytomegalovirus infection on the NK cell receptor repertoire

Expression of the activating CD94/NKG2C killer lectin-like receptor (KLR) specific for HLA-E was analyzed in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) from healthy adult blood donors; the expression of other natural killer (NK) cell receptors (ie, CD94/NKG2A, KIR, CD85j, CD161, NKp46, NKp30, and NKG2D) was also studied. Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection as well as the HLA-E and killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) genotypes were considered as potentially relevant variables associated with CD94/NKG2C expression. The proportion of NKG2C(+) lymphocytes varied within a wide range (<0.1% to 22.1%), and a significant correlation (r = 0.83; P < .001) between NKG2C(+) NK and T cells was noticed. The HLA-E genotype and the number of activating KIR genes of the donors were not significantly related to the percentage of NKG2C(+) lymphocytes. By contrast, a positive serology for HCMV, but not for other herpesviruses (ie, Epstein-Barr and herpes simplex), turned out to be strongly associated (P < .001) with increased proportions of NKG2C(+) NK and T cells. Remarkably, the CD94/NKG2C(+) population expressed lower levels of natural cytotoxicity receptors (NCRs) (ie, NKp30, NKp46) and included higher proportions of KIR(+) and CD85j(+) cells than CD94/NKG2A(+) cells. Altogether, these data support that HCMV infection selectively shapes the natural killer cell receptor (NKR) repertoire of NK and T cells from healthy carrier individuals.

KLRL1, a novel killer cell lectinlike receptor, inhibits natural killer cell cytotoxicity

Natural killer (NK) cell inhibitory receptors play important roles in the regulation of target susceptibility to natural killing. Here, we report the molecular cloning and functional characterization of a novel NK cell receptor, KLRL1, from human and mouse dendritic cells. KLRL1 is a type II transmembrane protein with an immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif and a C-type lectinlike domain. The KLRL1 gene is located in the central region of the NK gene complex in both humans and mice, on human chromosome 12p13 and mouse chromosome 6F3, adjacent to the other KLR genes. KLRL1 is preferentially expressed in lymphoid tissues and immune cells, including NK cells, T cells, dendritic cells, and monocytes or macrophages. Western blot and fluorescence confocal microscopy analyses indicated that KLRL1 is a membrane-associated glycoprotein, which forms a heterodimer with an as yet unidentified partner. Human and mouse KLRL1 are both predicted to contain putative immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs (ITIMs), and immunoprecipitation experiments demonstrated that KLRL1 associates with the tyrosine phosphatases SHP-1 (SH2-domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 1) and SHP-2. Consistent with its potential inhibitory function, pretreatment of target cells with human KLRL1-Fc fusion protein enhances NK-mediated cytotoxicity. Taken together, our results demonstrate that KLRL1 belongs to the KLR family and is a novel inhibitory NK cell receptor.

Coordinated induction by IL15 of a TCR-independent NKG2D signaling pathway converts CTL into lymphokine-activated killer cells in celiac disease

A major function of NKG2D linking innate and adaptive immunity is to upregulate antigen-specific CTL-mediated cytotoxicity in tissues expressing stress-induced NKG2D ligands, such as MIC, by coactivating TCR signaling. Here, we show that, under conditions of dysregulated IL15 expression in vivo in patients with celiac disease and in vitro in healthy individuals, multiple steps of the NKG2D/DAP10 signaling pathway leading to ERK and JNK activation are coordinately primed to activate direct cytolytic function independent of TCR specificity in effector CD8 T cells. These findings may not only explain previous reports of transformation of CTL into NK-like "lymphokine-activated killers" (LAK cells) under high doses of IL2 (a substitute for IL15) but may also have significant implications for understanding and treating immunopathological diseases.

Systematic identification of immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs in the human proteome

Immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs (ITIMs) are short sequences of the consensus (ILV)-x-x-Y-x-(LV) in the cytoplasmic tail of immune receptors. The phosphorylation of tyrosines in ITIMs is known to be an important signalling mechanism regulating the activation of immune cells. The shortness of the motif makes it difficult to predict ITIMs in large protein databases. Simple pattern searches find ITIMs in approximately 30% of the protein sequences in the RefSeq database. The majority are false positive predictions. We propose a new database search strategy for ITIM-bearing transmembrane receptors based on the use of sequence context, i.e. the predictions of signal peptides, transmembrane helices (TMs) and protein domains. Our new protocol allowed us to narrow down the number of potential human ITIM receptors to 109 proteins (0.7% of RefPep). Of these, 36 have been described as ITIM receptors in the literature before. Many ITIMs are conserved between orthologous human and mouse proteins which represent novel ITIM receptor candidates. Publicly available DNA array expression data revealed that ITIM receptors are not exclusively expressed in blood cells. We hypothesise that ITIM signalling is not restricted to immune cells, but also functions in diverse solid organs of mouse and man.

Activation of natural killer cells and dendritic cells upon recognition of a novel CD99-like ligand by paired immunoglobulin-like type 2 receptor

Paired receptors that consist of highly related activating and inhibitory receptors are widely involved in the regulation of the immune system. Here, we report a mouse orthologue of the human activating paired immunoglobulin-like type 2 receptor (PILR) β, which was cloned from a cDNA library of natural killer (NK) cells based on its ability to associate with the DAP12 signaling adaptor protein. The activating PILRβ was expressed not only on NK cells but also on dendritic cells and macrophages. Furthermore, we have identified a novel CD99-like molecule as a ligand for the activating PILRβ and inhibitory PILRα receptors. Transcripts of PILR ligand are present in many tissues, including some T cell lines. Cells expressing the PILR ligand specifically activated NK cells and dendritic cells that express the activating PILRβ. Our findings reveal a new regulatory mechanism of innate immunity by PILR and its CD99-like ligand.

Molecular determinants regulating the pairing of NKG2 molecules with CD94 for cell surface heterodimer expression

The lytic capacity of a NK cell is regulated, in part, by the balance in cell surface expression between inhibitory CD94/NKG2A and activating CD94/NKG2C heterodimers. We demonstrate that, in the absence of DAP12, rhesus monkey NKG2A is preferentially expressed at the cell surface with CD94 due to a single amino acid difference in the transmembrane of NKG2A and NKG2C. Furthermore, in the context of an NKG2A transmembrane, the stalk domain of NKG2C was found to enhance heterodimer formation with CD94 compared with the stalk domain of NKG2A. In the presence of DAP12, the ability of NKG2C to compete for cell surface CD94 heterodimerization is enhanced and approaches that of NKG2A. Finally, allelic differences that affect the ability of rhesus NKG2A to reach the cell surface with CD94 could also be mapped to the transmembrane. These differences in the ability of inhibitory and activating NKG2 molecules to reach the cell surface provide a mechanism for the regulation of NK cell activity.

Positive Regulation of Phagocytosis by SIRPβ and Its Signaling Mechanism in Macrophages

SIRPbeta (signal-regulatory protein beta) is a transmembrane protein that is expressed in hematopoietic cells but whose functions are unknown. We have now cloned mouse SIRPbeta cDNA and have shown that the gene is expressed in various tissues in addition to cells of the macrophage lineage. Engagement of SIRPbeta by specific monoclonal antibodies promoted Fcgamma receptor-dependent or -independent phagocytosis in mouse peritoneal macrophages. It also induced marked activation of MAPK and the upstream kinase MEK but weak activation of Akt. MEK inhibitors markedly blocked the promotion of phagocytosis by SIRPbeta, whereas an inhibitor of phosphoinositide 3-kinase partly blocked such response. In addition, inhibitors of myosin light chain kinase or of myosin ATPase blocked the promotion of phagocytosis by SIRPbeta. Furthermore, SIRPbeta induced the formation of filopodia and lamellipodia in macrophages as well as the translocation of activated MAPK to these structures. It also elicited tyrosine phosphorylation of DAP12, Syk, and SLP-76, and a Syk inhibitor blocked the promotion of phagocytosis and activation of MAPK by SIRPbeta. Our results suggest that engagement of SIRPbeta promotes phagocytosis in macrophages by inducing the tyrosine phosphorylation of DAP12, Syk, and SLP-76 and the subsequent activation of a MEK-MAPK-myosin light chain kinase cascade.

Transcriptional profiling of estrogen-regulated gene expression via estrogen receptor (ER) alpha or ERbeta in human osteosarcoma cells: distinct and common target genes for these receptors

Estrogens exert many important effects in bone, a tissue that contains both estrogen receptors alpha and beta (ERalpha and ERbeta). To compare the actions of these receptors, we generated U2OS human osteosarcoma cells stably expressing ERalpha or ERbeta, at levels comparable with those in osteoblasts, and we characterized their response to 17beta-estradiol (E2) over time using Affymetrix GeneChip microarrays to determine the expression of approximately 12,000 genes, followed by quantitative PCR verification of the regulation of selected genes. Of the approximately 100 regulated genes we identified, some were stimulated by E2 equally through ERalpha and ERbeta, whereas others were selectively stimulated via ERalpha or ERbeta. The E2-regulated genes showed three distinct temporal patterns of expression over the 48-h time course studied. Of the functional categories of the E2-regulated genes, most numerous were those encoding cytokines and factors associated with immune response, signal transduction, and cell migration and cytoskeleton regulation, indicating that E2 can exert effects on multiple pathways in these osteoblast-like cell lines. Of note, E2 up-regulated several genes associated with cell motility selectively via ERbeta, in keeping with the selective E2 enhancement of the motility of ERbeta-containing cells. On genes regulated equally by E2 via ERalpha or ERbeta, the phytoestrogen genistein preferentially stimulated gene expression via ERbeta. These studies indicate both common as well as distinct target genes for these two ERs, and identify many novel genes not previously known to be under estrogen regulation.

Specific recognition of virus-infected cells by paired NK receptors

NK cells show cytotoxicity and cytokine production upon recognition of virus-infected cells and play an important role in conferring protective immunity against virus infection. Patients who lack functional NK cells are susceptible to severe infectious diseases such as herpesvirus infection. In addition, when NK cells are removed from cytomegalovirus-resistant mice, the virus titre after infection is markedly increased and the mice are likely to die due to infection. However, the exact mechanism of how NK cells recognise virus-infected cells has remained unclear for a long time. Recent findings of the presence of virus-specific NK cell receptors and their ligands on virus-infected cells have provided a new vision of a protective role of NK cells in virus infection. Furthermore, the recognition of virus-infected cells by paired receptors consisting of activating and inhibitory receptors was found to correlate with the degree of host susceptibility to virus infection. Current topics on the role of NK cells in anti-virus immunity are reviewed.

Dysregulated NK receptor expression in patients with lymphoproliferative disease of granular lymphocytes

The natural killer (NK) type of lymphoproliferative disease of granular lymphocytes (LDGL) is associated with the expansion of CD3-, CD16+, and/or CD56+ lymphocytes. We have examined the repertoire of NK receptors expressed on these cells and delineated the functional activity. We found skewed NK receptor expression on patient NK cells. Reactivity to a single anti-killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (anti-KIR) antibody was noted in 7 of 13 patients. LDGL patients variably expressed NKp30, NKp44, and NKp46 RNA. In contrast, CD94 and its inhibitory heterodimerization partner NKG2A were homogenously expressed at high levels on these NK cells. Interestingly, these patients expressed a large number of activating KIR receptors by genotype analysis. Semiquantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) demonstrated that lower than normal levels of RNA of the inhibitory KIR was present in some patients in contrast to normal NK cells. Consistent with a high level of activating receptors, we found the NK-LDGL cells have potent cytolytic function in both direct and redirected cytotoxicity assays. These results demonstrate that patients with NK-LDGL have an increased activating-to-inhibitory KIR ratio. This altered ratio might induce inappropriate lysis or cytokine production and impact the disease pathogenesis. (Blood. 2004;103:3431-3439)

Interaction Between Natural Killer and Dendritic Cells: the Role of CD40, CD80 and Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I Molecules in Cytotoxicity Induction and Interferon-gamma Production

This study focuses on the differential role of CD40 and CD80 costimulatory molecules and major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) antigens in the regulation of the interplay between dendritic cells (DCs) and interleukin (IL)-2-activated human natural killer (NK) lymphocytes. Our data indicate that CD40 and CD80 molecules might play a preferential role in the induction of cytotoxic function but not in the interferon-gamma(IFN-gamma) production by human IL-2-activated NK effectors in the presence of autologous and allogeneic DCs. In addition, a critical role of CD94-dependent MHC-I recognition in the regulation of both IFN-gamma production and target cell lysis was shown in the functional interaction between NK and DCs.

Architectural Changes in the TCR:CD3 Complex Induced by MHC:Peptide Ligation

A hallmark of T cell activation is the ligation-induced down-modulation of the TCR:CD3 complex. However, little is known about the molecular events that drive this process. The CD3 zeta-chain has been shown to play a unique role in regulating the assembly, transport, and cell surface expression of the TCR:CD3 complex. In this study we have investigated the relationship between CD3zeta and the TCRalphabetaCD3epsilondeltagamma complex after ligation by MHC:peptide complexes. Our results show that there is a significant increase in free surface CD3zeta, which is not associated with the TCR:CD3 complex, after T cell stimulation. This may reflect dissociation of CD3zeta from the TCRalphabetaCD3epsilondeltagamma complex or transport of intracellular CD3zeta directly to the cell surface. We also show that MHC:peptide ligation also results in exposure of the TCR-associated CD3zeta NH2 terminus, which is ordinarily buried in the complex. These observations appears to be dependent on Src family protein tyrosine kinases, which are known to be critical for efficient T cell activation. These data suggest a mechanism by which ligated TCR may be differentiated from unligated TCR and selectively down-modulated.

Natural killer cells and cancer

Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes that were first identified for their ability to kill tumor cells without deliberate immunization or activation. Subsequently, they were also found to be able to kill cells that are infected with certain viruses and to attack preferentially cells that lack expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I antigens. The recent discovery of novel NK receptors and their ligands has uncovered the molecular mechanisms that regulate NK activation and function. Several activating NK cell receptors and costimulatory molecules have been identified that permit these cells to recognize tumors and virus-infected cells. These are modulated by inhibitory receptors that sense the levels of MHC class I on prospective target cells to prevent unwanted destruction of healthy tissues. In vitro and in vivo, their cytotoxic ability can be enhanced by cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-2, IL-12, IL-15 and interferon alpha/beta (IFN-alpha/beta). In animal studies, they have been shown to play a critical role in the control of tumor growth and metastasis and to provide innate immunity against infection with certain viruses. Following activation, NK cells release cytokines and chemokines that induce inflammatory responses; modulate monocyte, dendritic cells, and granulocyte growth and differentiation; and influence subsequent adaptive immune responses. The underlining mechanism of discriminating tumor cells and normal cells by NK cells has provided new insights into tumor immunosurveillance and has suggested new strategies for the treatment of human cancer.

Nasu-Hakola disease (polycystic lipomembranous osteodysplasia with sclerosing leukoencephalopathy--PLOSL): a dementia associated with bone cystic lesions. From clinical to genetic and molecular aspects

The authors review the clinical, radiological, electrophysiological, pathological, and molecular aspects of Nasu-Hakola disease (polycystic lipomembranous osteodysplasia with sclerosing leukoencephalopathy or PLOSL). Nasu-Hakola disease is a unique disease characterized by multiple bone cysts associated with a peculiar form of neurodegeneration that leads to dementia and precocious death usually during the fifth decade of life. The diagnosis can be established on the basis of clinical and radiological findings. Recently, molecular analysis of affected families revealed mutations in the DAP12 (TYROBP) or TREM2 genes, providing an interesting example how mutations in two different subunits of a multi-subunit receptor complex result in an identical human disease phenotype. The association of PLOSL with mutations in the DAP12 or TREM2 genes has led to improved diagnosis of affected individuals. Also, the possible roles of the DAP12/TREM2 signaling pathway in microglia and osteoclasts in humans are just beginning to be elucidated. Some aspects of this peculiar signaling pathway are discussed here.

NKG2D and Related Immunoreceptors

NK cells are crucial components of the innate immune system, capable of directly eliminating infected or tumorigenic cells and regulating down-stream adaptive immune responses. Unlike T cells, where the key recognition event driving activation is mediated by the unique T cell receptor (TCR) expressed on a given cell, NK cells express multiple activating and inhibitory cell-surface receptors (NKRs), often with overlapping ligand specificities. NKRs display two ectodomain structural homologies, either immunoglobulin- or C-type lectin-like (CTLD). The CTLD immunoreceptor NKG2D is found on NK cells but is also widely expressed on T cells and other immune system cells, providing stimulatory or co-stimulatory signals. NKG2D drives target cell killing following engagement of diverse, conditionally expressed MHC class I-like protein ligands whose expression can signal cellular distress due to infection or transformation. The symmetric, homodimeric receptor interacts with its asymmetric, monomeric ligands in similar 2:1 complexes, with an equivalent surface on each NKG2D monomer binding extensively and intimately to distinct, structurally divergent surfaces on the ligands. Thus, NKG2D ligand-binding site recognition is highly degenerate, further demonstrated by NKG2D's ability to simultaneously accommodate multiple non-conservative allelic or isoform substitutions in the ligands. In TCRs, "induced-fit" recognition explains cross-reactivity, but structural, computational, thermodynamic and kinetic analyses of multiple NKG2D-ligand pairs show that rather than classical "induced-fit" binding, NKG2D degeneracy is achieved using distinct interaction mechanisms at each rigid interface: recognition degeneracy by "rigid adaptation." While likely forming similar complexes with their ligand (HLA-E), other NKG2x NKR family members do not require such recognition degeneracy.

The inhibitory NK cell receptor CD94/NKG2A and the activating receptor CD94/NKG2C bind the top of HLA-E through mostly shared but partly distinct sets of HLA-E residues

The human non-classical MHC class I molecule HLA-E is a ligand for both an inhibitory NK cell receptor (CD94/NKG2A) and an activating receptor (CD94/NKG2C). To identify HLA-E surface recognized by both receptors, especially to determine if both receptors recognize the same epitope, we made a series of individually Ala-substituted HLA-E proteins and analyzed their binding to CD94/NKG2A orCD94/NKG2C. Eight HLA-E mutations that significantly impaired HLA-E binding to CD94/NKG2A are all found in the top of alpha1/alpha2 domain of HLA-E. These results suggest that CD94/NKG2A binds a HLA-E surface equivalent to a NKG2D binding site on MICA. Of the eight mutations that impaired HLA-E binding to CD94/NKG2A, six significantly impaired HLA-E binding to CD94/NKG2C suggesting that CD94/NKG2C also binds a similar surface of HLA-E. Unexpectedly, the two HLA-E mutations (D69A and H155A) selectively abrogated HLA-E binding to CD94/NKG2A, not largely affected CD94/NKG2C. These results indicate that a mostly shared, but partly distinct set of HLA-E residues is discriminated by the two receptors.

Qa-1, a nonclassical class I histocompatibility molecule with roles in innate and adaptive immunity

Qa-1, a nonclassical class I histocompatibility molecule expressed in mice, predominantly assembles with a single nonameric peptide, Qdm, derived from the signal sequence of certain class Ia molecules. The Qa-1/Qdm complex is the primary ligand for CD94/NKG2A inhibitory receptors expressed on a major fraction of natural killer (NK) cells. Cells become susceptible to killing by NK cells under conditions where surface expression of the Qa-1/Qdm inhibitory ligand is reduced. The CD94/NKG2 "missing-self" recognition system serves as mechanism for removing cells that have abnormalities in the intracellular machinery required for assembly and expression of class I-peptides complexes, as a consequence of viral infection, for example. Despite its highly focused peptide-binding specificity, Qa-1 also has a capacity to act as an antigen-presentation molecule for CD8+ T cells. It appears that a small subpopulation of these T cells undergoes positive selection by interaction with Qa-1 in the thymus, and they maintain their specificity for Qa-1 after maturation. The role of these unusual T cells in adaptive immune responses remains to be defined.

Human decidual natural killer cells are a unique NK cell subset with immunomodulatory potential

Natural killer cells constitute 50–90% of lymphocytes in human uterine decidua in early pregnancy. Here, CD56^bright uterine decidual NK (dNK) cells were compared with the CD56^bright and CD56^dim peripheral NK cell subsets by microarray analysis, with verification of results by flow cytometry and RT-PCR. Among the ∼10,000 genes studied, 278 genes showed at least a threefold change with P ≤ 0.001 when comparing the dNK and peripheral NK cell subsets, most displaying increased expression in dNK cells. The largest number of these encoded surface proteins, including the unusual lectinlike receptors NKG2E and Ly-49L, several killer cell Ig-like receptors, the integrin subunits α^D, α^X, β1, and β5, and multiple tetraspanins (CD9, CD151, CD53, CD63, and TSPAN-5). Additionally, two secreted proteins, galectin-1 and progestagen-associated protein 14, known to have immunomodulatory functions, were selectively expressed in dNK cells.

Characterization of the CD200 receptor family in mice and humans and their interactions with CD200

CD200 (OX2) is a broadly distributed cell surface glycoprotein that interacts with a structurally related receptor (CD200R) expressed on rodent myeloid cells and is involved in regulation of macrophage function. We report the first characterization of human CD200R (hCD200R) and define its binding characteristics to hCD200. We also report the identification of a closely related gene to hCD200R, designated hCD200RLa, and four mouse CD200R-related genes (termed mCD200RLa-d). CD200, CD200R, and CD200R-related genes were closely linked in humans and mice, suggesting that these genes arose by gene duplication. The distributions of the receptor genes were determined by quantitative RT-PCR, and protein expression was confirmed by a set of novel mAbs. The distribution of mouse and human CD200R was similar, with strongest labeling of macrophages and neutrophils, but also other leukocytes, including monocytes, mast cells, and T lymphocytes. Two mCD200 receptor-like family members, designated mCD200RLa and mCD200RLb, were shown to pair with the activatory adaptor protein, DAP12, suggesting that these receptors would transmit strong activating signals in contrast to the apparent inhibitory signal delivered by triggering the CD200R. Despite substantial sequence homology with mCD200R, mCD200RLa and mCD200RLb did not bind mCD200, and presently have unknown ligands. The CD200 receptor gene family resembles the signal regulatory proteins and killer Ig-related receptors in having receptor family members with potential activatory and inhibitory functions that may play important roles in immune regulation and balance. Because manipulation of the CD200-CD200R interaction affects the outcome of rodent disease models, targeting of this pathway may have therapeutic utility.

Membrane proteins with immunoglobulin-like domains—a master superfamily of interaction molecules

Recent genomic analysis has shown that proteins with immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF) domains are extremely abundant and their number has increased markedly in evolution correlating with the development of the adaptive immune system. The IgSF domain is particularly good at being recognised and is involved in many different kinds of interactions. Thus, analysis of the properties of these domains can act as a paradigm for thinking about the roles of newly identified gene products. This review summarises the identification, function and properties of IgSF domains including, their size, variety of interactions, their strength of binding, role of glycosylation and organisation with other proteins.

The lectin-like receptor KLRE1 inhibits natural killer cell cytotoxicity

We report the cloning and functional characterization in the mouse and the rat of a novel natural killer (NK) cell receptor termed KLRE1. The receptor is a type II transmembrane protein with a COOH-terminal lectin-like domain, and constitutes a novel KLR family. Rat Klre1 was mapped to the NK gene complex. By Northern blot and flow cytometry using newly generated monoclonal antibodies, KLRE1 was shown to be expressed by NK cells and a subpopulation of CD3+ cells, with pronounced interstrain variation. Western blot analysis indicated that KLRE1 can be expressed on the NK cell surface as a disulphide-linked dimer. The predicted proteins do not contain immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs (ITIMs) or a positively charged amino acid in the transmembrane domain. However, in a redirected lysis assay, the presence of whole IgG, but not of F(ab')2 fragments of a monoclonal anti-KLRE1 antibody inhibited lysis of Fc-receptor bearing tumor target cells. Moreover, the tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1 was coimmunoprecipitated with KLRE1 from pervanadate-treated interleukin 2-activated NK cells. Together, our results indicate that KLRE1 may form a functional heterodimer with an as yet unidentified ITIM-bearing partner that recruits SHP-1 to generate an inhibitory receptor complex.

Src-mediated RGS16 tyrosine phosphorylation promotes RGS16 stability

The amplitude of signaling evoked by stimulation of G protein-coupled receptors may be controlled in part by the GTPase accelerating activity of the regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins. In turn, subcellular targeting, protein-protein interactions, or post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation may shape RGS activity and specificity. We found previously that RGS16 undergoes tyrosine phosphorylation on conserved tyrosine residues in the RGS box. Phosphorylation on Tyr(168) was mediated by the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). We show here that endogenous RGS16 is phosphorylated after epidermal growth factor stimulation of MCF-7 cells. In addition, p60-Src or Lyn kinase phosphorylated recombinant RGS16 in vitro, and RGS16 underwent phosphorylation in the presence of constitutively active Src (Y529F) in EGFR(-) CHO-K1 cells. Blockade of endogenous Src activity by selective inhibitors attenuated RGS16 phosphorylation induced by pervanadate or receptor stimulation. Furthermore, the rate of RGS16 degradation was reduced in cells expressing active Src or treated with pervanadate or a G protein-coupled receptor ligand (CXCL12). Induction of RGS16 tyrosine phosphorylation was associated with increased RGS16 protein levels and enhanced GAP activity in cell membranes. These results suggest that Src mediates RGS16 tyrosine phosphorylation, which may promote RGS16 stability.

Modulation of hepatic granulomatous responses by transgene expression of DAP12 or TREM-1-Ig molecules

DAP12 (also known as KARAP) is a novel ITAM-bearing transmembrane adapter molecule that is expressed on the cell surface of natural killer cells, monocytes, dendritic cells, and macrophages. Several myeloid cell-specific DAP12-associating receptors, such as TREM receptor family, SIRP-beta1, and MDL-1 have been identified. The in vivo function of DAP12 and its associating molecules in inflammation has remained primarily unknown. To investigate DAP12 signaling during chronic inflammation, we constructed two adenoviral gene transfer vectors to express FLAG/DAP12 (Ad-FDAP12) and the extracellular domain of mouse TREM-1 and the Fc portion of human IgG1 (Ad-TREM-1 Ig), respectively, and observed their modulatory activities in a mouse model of hepatic granulomatous inflammation elicited by zymosan A. Mice were injected with zymosan A intravenously and 24 hours after zymosan A, they were injected with Ad-FDAP12 or Ad-TREM-1 Ig. Zymosan A-induced hepatic granuloma formation peaked at day 7 and markedly declined by day 10. Although adenoviral-mediated DAP12 gene transfer did not enhance granuloma formation by day 7, it sustained and enhanced granuloma formation beyond day 7. However, an anti-FLAG monoclonal antibody used to potentiate the signaling of adenoviral-derived DAP12, enhanced granuloma formation at day 7. In sharp contrast to the effect by Ad-FDAP12, transgene expression in the liver of soluble form of extracellular domain of TREM-1 as an antagonist of DAP12 signaling, remarkably inhibited zymosan A-induced granuloma formation at all time points examined. Our findings thus suggest that both DAP12 and TREM-1 are involved in the development of granulomatous responses in the liver.

Selective activation of the c-Jun NH2-terminal protein kinase signaling pathway by stimulatory KIR in the absence of KARAP/DAP12 in CD4+ T cells

Activation of CD4(+) T cells is governed by interplay between stimulatory and inhibitory receptors; predominance of stimulatory signals favors autoimmune reactions. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, expression of the critical costimulatory molecule, CD28, is frequently lost. Instead, CD4(+)CD28(null) T cells express killer immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) with a preferential expression of the stimulatory receptor, CD158j. The frequency of CD4(+)CD28(null) T cells in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) correlates with the risk for more severe disease. Moreover, the KIR2DS2 gene, which encodes for CD158j, is a genetic risk factor for rheumatoid vasculitis. CD158j signals through the adaptor molecule, KARAP/DAP12, to positively regulate cytotoxic activity in NK cells. However, the majority of CD4(+)CD28(null) T cell clones lacked the expression of KARAP/DAP12. Despite the absence of KARAP/DAP12, CD158j was functional and augmented interferon-gamma production after T cell receptor stimulation. Cross-linking of CD158j resulted in selective phosphorylation of c-Jun NH(2)-terminal protein kinase (JNK) and its upstream kinase, MKK4 that led to the expression of ATF-2 and c-Jun, all in the absence of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 phosphorylation. Mutation of the lysine residue within the transmembrane domain of CD158j abolished JNK activation, suggesting that an alternate adaptor molecule was being used. CD4(+)CD28(null) T cells expressed DAP10 and inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, which acts downstream of DAP10, inhibited JNK activation; however, no interaction of DAP10 with CD158j could be detected. Our data suggest that CD158j in T cells functions as a costimulatory molecule through the JNK pathway independent of KARAP/DAP12 and DAP10. Costimulation by CD158j may contribute to the autoreactivity of CD4(+)CD28(null) T cells in RA.

Preferential survival of CD8 T and NK cells expressing high levels of CD94

The Qa-1(b)/Qdm tetramer binds to CD94/NKG2 receptors expressed at high levels on approximately 50% of murine NK cells. Although very few CD8 T cells from naive mice express CD94/NKG2 receptors, approximately 50% of CD8 T cells taken from mice undergoing a secondary response against Listeria monocytogenes (LM) are CD94(high) and bind the tetramer. Although CD94(int) NK cells do not bind the tetramer, CD94(int) CD8 T cells do, and this binding is dependent on the CD8 coreceptor. We found that the extent of apoptosis in CD8 T and NK cells was inversely related to the expression of CD94, with lower levels of apoptosis seen in CD94(high) cells after 1-3 days of culture. The difference in CD8 T cell survival was evident as early as 6 h after culture and persisted until nearly all the CD94(neg/int) cells were apoptotic by 48 h. In contrast, expression of inhibitory Ly-49A,G2,C/I molecules was associated with higher levels of apoptosis. Cross-linking CD94/NKG2 receptors on CD8 T cells from a mouse undergoing an LM infection further reduced the percentage of apoptotic cells on the CD94-expressing populations, while cross-linking Ly-49I had no effect on CD8 T cells expressing Ly-49I. Cross-linking CD3 on CD8 T cells from a mouse undergoing a secondary LM infection increases the extent of apoptosis, but this is prevented by cross-linking CD94/NKG2 receptors at the same time. Similar results were observed with NK cells in that the CD94(high) population displayed less apoptosis than CD94(int) cells after 1-3 days in culture. Therefore, the expression of CD94/NKG2 is correlated with a lower level of apoptosis and may play an important role in the maintenance of CD8 T and NK cells.

Interaction of heat shock protein 70 peptide with NK cells involves the NK receptor CD94

Full-length Hsp70 protein (Hsp70) and the C-terminal domain of Hsp70 (Hsp70C) both stimulate the cytolytic activity of naive natural killer (NK) cells against Hsp70-positive tumor target cells. Here, we describe the characterization of Hsp70-NK cell interaction with binding studies using the human NK cell line YT. Binding of recombinant Hsp70 protein (Hsp70) and the C-terminal domain of Hsp70 (Hsp70C) to YT cells is demonstrated by immunofluorescence studies. A phenotypic characterization revealed that none of the recently described HSP-receptors (alpha2-macroglobulin receptor CD91, Toll-like receptors 2, 4, 9, CD14) are expressed on YT cells. Only the C-type lectin receptor CD94 is commonly expressed by YT cells and Hsp70 reactive NK cells. A correlation of the cell density-dependent, variable CD94 expression and the binding capacity of Hsp70 was detected. Furthermore, Hsp70 binding could be completely abrogated by preincubation of YT cells with a CD94-specific antibody. Competition assays using either unlabeled Hsp70 protein or an unrelated protein (GST) in 20-fold excess and binding studies with escalating doses of Hsp70 protein provide evidence for a specific and concentration-dependent interaction of Hsp70 with YT cells. In addition to Hsp70 and Hsp70C, a 14-mer Hsp70 peptide termed TKD is known to exhibit comparable stimulatory properties on NK cells. Similar to full-length Hsp70 protein (10 microg/ml-50 microg/ml), a specific binding of this peptide to YT cells was observed at 4 degrees C, at equivalent concentrations (2.0 microg/ml-8.0 microg/ml). Following a 30 min incubation period at 37 degrees C, membrane-bound Hsp70 protein and Hsp70 peptide TKD were completely taken up into the cytoplasm.

A signal peptide derived from hsp60 binds HLA-E and interferes with CD94/NKG2A recognition

Human histocompatibility leukocyte antigen (HLA)-E is a nonclassical major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecule which presents a restricted set of nonameric peptides, derived mainly from the signal sequence of other MHC class I molecules. It interacts with CD94/NKG2 receptors expressed on the surface of natural killer (NK) cells and T cell subsets. Here we demonstrate that HLA-E also presents a peptide derived from the leader sequence of human heat shock protein 60 (hsp60). This peptide gains access to HLA-E intracellularly, resulting in up-regulated HLA-E/hsp60 signal peptide cell-surface levels on stressed cells. Notably, HLA-E molecules in complex with the hsp60 signal peptide are no longer recognized by CD94/NKG2A inhibitory receptors. Thus, during cellular stress an increased proportion of HLA-E molecules may bind the nonprotective hsp60 signal peptide, leading to a reduced capacity to inhibit a major NK cell population. Such stress induced peptide interference would gradually uncouple CD94/NKG2A inhibitory recognition and provide a mechanism for NK cells to detect stressed cells in a peptide-dependent manner.

Virus-driven evolution of natural killer cell receptors

Natural killer (NK) cells can mount an immediate response against viral infection, secreting cytokines and killing virus-infected cells. However, viruses have devised strategies to avoid immune detection. Here, we discuss NK cell recognition of viruses and propose that viruses may provide the evolutionary pressure causing the diversification of the NK cell receptors.

NK cell CD94/NKG2A inhibitory receptors are internalized and recycle independently of inhibitory signaling processes

Human CD94/NKG2A is an inhibitory receptor that recognizes HLA-E and is expressed by NK cells and a subset of T cells. We have analyzed the cellular trafficking of the CD94/NKG2A receptor using the NKL cell line and peripheral blood NK cells. Flow cytometric, confocal microscopic, and biochemical analyses show that CD94/NKG2A continuously recycles in an active process that requires the cytoskeleton between the cell surface and intracellular compartments that are distinguishable from recycling compartments used by well-characterized receptors, such as transferrin receptor (CD71). CD94/NKG2A, an inhibitory receptor, traffics differently from the closely related CD94/NKG2C molecule, an activating receptor. Using transfection/expression analyses of wild-type and mutant CD94/NKG2A molecules in the HLA-E negative rat basophilic cell line RBL-2H3, we demonstrate that CD94/NKG2A internalization is independent of ligand cross-linking or the presence of functional immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motifs. Thus, the mechanisms that control cell surface homeostasis of CD94/NKG2A are independent of functional signaling.

Natural killer cell activation receptors in innate immunity to infection

Natural killer (NK) cells are best known for their capacity to kill tumors but they are also critical in early innate responses to infection, especially herpesviruses. Recent studies indicate that NK cell receptors involved in tumor target specificity are also involved in responses to viral infections.

Cutting edge: CD94/NKG2 is expressed on Th1 but not Th2 cells and costimulates Th1 effector functions

Th1 and Th2 cells can be phenotypically distinguished by very few cell surface markers. To identify cell surface molecules that are specifically expressed on Th1 cells, we have generated a panel of mAbs that specifically bind the surfaces of murine Th1 but not Th2 cells. One of these Abs identified the NK cell receptor CD94 as a molecule also specifically expressed on the surface of Th1 cells. As in NK cells, CD94 is expressed on Th1 cells together with members of the NKG2 family of molecules, including NKG2A, C, and E. Cross-linking these receptors on differentiated Th1 cells in vitro costimulates proliferation and cytokine production with a potency similar to that obtained by cross-linking CD28. We propose that CD94/NKG2 heterodimers may costimulate effector functions of differentiated Th1 cells.

Dendritic cell-associated lectin-1: a novel dendritic cell-associated, C-type lectin-like molecule enhances T cell secretion of IL-4

We have characterized dendritic cell (DC)-associated lectin-1 (DCAL-1), a novel, type II, transmembrane, C-type lectin-like protein. DCAL-1 has restricted expression in hemopoietic cells, in particular, DCs and B cells, but T cells and monocytes do not express it. The DCAL-1 locus is within a cluster of C-type lectin-like loci on human chromosome 12p12-13 just 3' to the CD69 locus. The consensus sequence of the DCAL-1 gene was confirmed by RACE-PCR; however, based on sequence alignment with genomic DNA and with various human expressed sequence tags, we predict that DCAL-1 has two splice variants. C-type lectins share a common sequence motif of 14 invariable and 18 highly conserved aa residues known as the carbohydrate recognition domain. DCAL-1, however, is missing three of the cysteine residues required to form the standard carbohydrate recognition domain. DCAL-1 mRNA and protein expression are increased upon the differentiation of monocytes to CD1a(+) DCs. B cells also express high levels of DCAL-1 on their cell surface. Using a DCAL-1 fusion protein we identified a population of CD4(+) CD45RA(+) T cells that express DCAL-1 ligand. Coincubation with soluble DCAL-1 enhanced the proliferation of CD4(+) T cells in response to CD3 ligation and significantly increased IL-4 secretion. In contrast, coincubation with soluble DC-specific ICAM-3-grabbing nonintegrin (CD209) fusion protein as a control had no effect on CD4(+) T cell proliferation or IL-4 and IFN-gamma secretion. Therefore, the function of DCAL-1 on DCs and B cells may act as a T cell costimulatory molecule, which skews CD4(+) T cells toward a Th2 response by enhancing their secretion of IL-4.

Mutations in two genes encoding different subunits of a receptor signaling complex result in an identical disease phenotype

Polycystic lipomembranous osteodysplasia with sclerosing leukoencephalopathy (PLOSL), also known as "Nasu-Hakola disease," is a globally distributed recessively inherited disease leading to death during the 5th decade of life and is characterized by early-onset progressive dementia and bone cysts. Elsewhere, we have identified PLOSL mutations in TYROBP (DAP12), which codes for a membrane receptor component in natural-killer and myeloid cells, and also have identified genetic heterogeneity in PLOSL, with some patients carrying no mutations in TYROBP. Here we complete the molecular pathology of PLOSL by identifying TREM2 as the second PLOSL gene. TREM2 forms a receptor signaling complex with TYROBP and triggers activation of the immune responses in macrophages and dendritic cells. Patients with PLOSL have no defects in cell-mediated immunity, suggesting a remarkable capacity of the human immune system to compensate for the inactive TYROBP-mediated activation pathway. Our data imply that the TYROBP-mediated signaling pathway plays a significant role in human brain and bone tissue and provide an interesting example of how mutations in two different subunits of a multisubunit receptor complex result in an identical human disease phenotype.

Aberrant DAP12 signaling in the 129 strain of mice: implications for the analysis of gene-targeted mice

NK cells are implicated in antiviral responses, bone marrow transplantation and tumor immunosurveillance. Their function is controlled, in part, through the Ly49 family of class I binding receptors. Inhibitory Ly49s suppress signaling, while activating Ly49s (i.e., Ly49D) activate NK cells via the DAP12 signaling chain. Activating Ly49 signaling has been studied primarily in C57BL/6 mice, however, 129 substrains are commonly used in gene-targeting experiments. In this study, we show that in contrast to C57BL/6 NK cells, cross-linking of DAP12-coupled receptors in 129/J mice induces phosphorylation of DAP12 but not calcium mobilization or cytokine production. Consistent with poor-activating Ly49 function, 129/J mice reject bone marrow less efficiently than C57BL/6 mice. Sequence analysis of receptors and DAP12 suggests no structural basis for inactivity, and both the 129/J and C57BL/6 receptors demonstrate normal function in a reconstituted receptor system. Most importantly, reconstitution of Ly49D in 129/J NK cells demonstrated that the signaling deficit is within the NK cells themselves. These unexpected findings bring into question any NK analysis of 129/J, 129Sv, or gene-targeted mice derived from these strains before complete backcrossing, and provide a possible explanation for the differences observed in the immune response of 129 mice in a variety of models.

Natural killer cells and their receptors

Natural killer (NK) cells have been known for a long time to be a very important component of the innate immune system. However, it is only during the last 10 years that knowledge of their receptors has emerged. Described in the present review are those receptor families killer inhibitory receptor (KIR) (belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily), and killer lectin like receptor (KLR) CD94/NKG2, that both use HLA as a ligand and have inhibiting and activating types of receptors, and natural cytotoxic receptors (NCR) which do not associate with HLA. Association of the receptor gives rise to either an inhibiting or activating signal leading to either failure or success in lysing a target cell. The KIR receptors are very polymorphic both in the number of genes expressed in an individual and the alleles present for a gene. They would appear to have had a rapid evolution compared to the CD94/NKG2 receptors. The roles that NK cells and their receptors have with various facets of transplantation, disease, pregnancy and control of virus infection in humans are described.

CD94/NKG2 expression does not inhibit cytotoxic function of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus-specific CD8+ T cells

Murine Ag-specific CD8(+) T cells express various NK markers and NK inhibitory receptors that have been proposed to modulate immune responses. Following acute infection of C57BL/6 and BALB/cJ mice with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), we observed that Ag-specific CD8(+) T cells expressed CD94/NKG2. Only slight expression of Ly49A and Ly49C receptors was observed on NP396-specific T cells, while all NP396-specific T cells expressed the NKT cell marker U5A2-13 Ag. Expression of CD94/NKG2 was maintained for at least 1 year following LCMV infection, as was the NKT cell marker. By means of cell sorting and quantitative PCR, we found that NP118-specific CD8(+) T cells primarily express transcripts for inhibitory NKG2 receptor isoforms. CD94/NKG2 expression was also observed on Ag-specific CD8(+) T cells following infection with polyoma virus, influenza virus, and Listeria monocytogenes, suggesting that it may be a common characteristic of Ag-specific CD8(+) T cells following infection with viral or bacterial pathogens. Expression of CD94/NKG2 on memory-specific CD8(+) T cells did not change following secondary challenge with LCMV clone 13 and did not inhibit viral clearance. Furthermore, we found no evidence that CD94/NKG2 inhibits either the lytic function of LCMV-specific T cells or their capacity to produce effector cytokines upon peptide stimulation. Finally, down-regulation of CD94/NKG2 was found to occur only during chronic LCMV infection. Altogether, this study suggests that CD94/NKG2 expression is not necessarily correlated with inhibition of T cell function.

Complex expression of natural killer receptor genes in single natural killer cells

Human natural killer (NK) cells express several inhibitory and non-inhibitory NK receptors per cell. Understanding the expression patterns of these receptor genes in individual cells is important to understanding their function. Using a single-cell reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method, we analysed the expression of nine NK receptor genes in 38 resting CD56+ NK cells from peripheral blood of normal donors. We observed highly diverse patterns of receptor expression in these cells. No NK receptor is expressed universally in every CD56+ NK cell. The expressed receptor types per cell varied from two to eight. We specifically analysed the distribution of inhibitory (DL) and non-inhibitory (DS) killer immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR). The frequency of individual receptor expression varied from 26% for 2DS2 to 68% for both 2DL1 and 2DL4. A comparison of the coexpression of DL and DS receptors showed a significant association in the expression of 2DL2 and 2DS2 (chi2=16.6; P<0.001) genes but no association between 2DL1 and 2DS1 or between 3DL1 and 3DS1 genes. Coexpression analysis of the 2DL1 and 2DL2 genes in 2DL4+ and 2DL4- cells showed a strong association in 2DL4+ but not in 2DL4- cells, suggesting a differential effect of the 2DL4 gene on the expression of 2DL1 and 2DL2 genes. Single-cell RT-PCR is a powerful tool to study multiple receptor gene expression ex vivo in individual NK cells and provides information about the expression pattern of KIR receptors that may suggest mechanisms of gene expression responsible for generation of the KIR repertoire.

Biology of natural killer cells in cancer and infection

NK cells are the important cells of the immune system derived from stem cells in the marrow. Their physiology is tightly regulated to control proliferation, cytotoxicity and cytokine production. In cancer, NK cells may be abnormal due to the cancer itself or possibly related to its therapy. The finding of class I recognizing inhibitory receptors may play a role in stem cell transplant rejection, immune surveillance and cancer immunotherapy. NK cells should no longer be thought of as direct cytotoxic killers alone, as they clearly play a critical role in cytokine production which may be important to control cancer and infection. Understanding NK cell function and homing may lead to novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of human disease.

Structure and function of natural killer cell receptors: multiple molecular solutions to self, nonself discrimination

In contrast to T cell receptors, signal transducing cell surface membrane molecules involved in the regulation of responses by cells of the innate immune system employ structures that are encoded in the genome rather than generated by somatic recombination and that recognize either classical MHC-I molecules or their structural relatives (such as MICA, RAE-1, or H-60). Considerable progress has recently been made in our understanding of molecular recognition by such molecules based on the determination of their three-dimensional structure, either in isolation or in complex with their MHC-I ligands. Those best studied are the receptors that are expressed on natural killer (NK) cells, but others are found on populations of T cells and other hematopoietic cells. These molecules fall into two major structural classes, those of the immunoglobulin superfamily (KIRs and LIRs) and of the C-type lectin-like family (Ly49, NKG2D, and CD94/NKG2). Here we summarize, in a functional context, the structures of the murine and human molecules that have recently been determined, with emphasis on how they bind different regions of their MHC-I ligands, and how this allows the discrimination of tumor or virus-infected cells from normal cells of the host.

Differential expression of inhibitory and activating CD94/NKG2 receptors on NK cell clones

Natural killer cells are known to express a variety of surface receptors involved in HLA class I monitoring. It is thus of interest to investigate the clonal distribution and relative expression levels of activating versus inhibitory NK receptors. We have developed a quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay designed to determine specific and absolute mRNA levels for NKG2-A/B, -C, -E, -F, -H and NKG2-D. When analyzing NK cell clones derived from a single donor we found differential expression of inhibitory (NKG2-A/B) versus triggering (NKG2-C and potentially -E, -F, -H) NK receptor chains. The generation of the splice variants NKG2-E and -H seemed to occur at a constant ratio. We further compared NKG2 transcript levels to surface receptor expression as monitored by flow cytometric analysis and to NK cell cytotoxicity as detected by reverse ADCC: a clear correlation was observed. Thus, the data obtained reveal a substantial variability in the NKG2 repertoire among NK cell subpopulations, which is likely to affect the sensitivity and reactivity towards the ligand HLA-E.

Modulation of the leader peptide sequence of the HLA-E gene up-regulates its expression and down-regulates natural killer cell-mediated swine endothelial cell lysis

BACKGROUND

The inhibitory function of HLA class I molecules, HLA-G1 and HLA-E, on natural killer (NK) cell-mediated cytolysis has previously been reported. In this study, we report on a study of the effects of the co-expression of these molecules on the inhibition of NK cell-mediated cytolysis, using a newly constructed gene.

METHODS

Complementary DNA (cDNA) of HLA-G (G1 and G3), HLA-E, and human beta2-microglobulin (hbeta2m) were prepared and transfected into swine endothelial cell (SEC) and Chinese hamster ovarian tumor (CHO) cell. The leader peptide sequences of HLA-G1 and HLA -E genes were changed to VMAPRTLFL or VMAPRTLVL, which corresponds to the original HLA-G1 and HLA-A2. The cell surface expression of the modified genes was evaluated by flow cytometry, and NK cell-mediated cytolysis by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) was assessed.

RESULTS

The transfectant with the hbeta2m and HLA-G1 genes showed a clear expression of the HLA-G1 molecule and had an inhibitory effect on NK cell-mediated SEC lysis. Whereas neither the transfectant with the hbeta2m and HLA-E genes, nor that with the hbeta2m and HLA-G3 genes, expressed the HLA molecule on SEC, the transfectant with triple genes, hbeta2m, HLA-E, and HLA-G3, expressed the HLA-E molecule and also inhibited NK-mediated SEC lysis. Conversely, the modification of the leader sequence of the HLA-E gene successfully induced the expression of the HLA-E molecule on the SEC surface. Furthermore, the transfectant expressed both HLA-G1 and HLA-E molecules, thus efficiently enhancing the inhibition of NK-mediated SEC lysis.

CONCLUSION

The co-expression of HLA-G1 and HLA-E molecules with the modified genes has potential for use in preventing xenograft rejection, as mediated by human NK cells.

Orderly and nonstochastic acquisition of CD94/NKG2 receptors by developing NK cells derived from embryonic stem cells in vitro

In mice there are two families of MHC class I-specific receptors, namely the Ly49 and CD94/NKG2 receptors. The latter receptors recognize the nonclassical MHC class I Qa-1(b) and are thought to be responsible for the recognition of missing-self and the maintenance of self-tolerance of fetal and neonatal NK cells that do not express Ly49. Currently, how NK cells acquire individual CD94/NKG2 receptors during their development is not known. In this study, we have established a multistep culture method to induce differentiation of embryonic stem (ES) cells into the NK cell lineage and examined the acquisition of CD94/NKG2 by NK cells as they differentiate from ES cells in vitro. ES-derived NK (ES-NK) cells express NK cell-associated proteins and they kill certain tumor cell lines as well as MHC class I-deficient lymphoblasts. They express CD94/NKG2 heterodimers, but not Ly49 molecules, and their cytotoxicity is inhibited by Qa-1(b) on target cells. Using RT-PCR analysis, we also report that the acquisition of these individual receptor gene expressions during different stages of differentiation from ES cells to NK cells follows a predetermined order, with their order of acquisition being first CD94; subsequently NKG2D, NKG2A, and NKG2E; and finally, NKG2C. Single-cell RT-PCR showed coexpression of CD94 and NKG2 genes in most ES-NK cells, and flow cytometric analysis also detected CD94/NKG2 on most ES-NK cells, suggesting that the acquisition of these receptors by ES-NK cells in vitro is nonstochastic, orderly, and cumulative.

Inhibition of CTLA-4 function by the regulatory subunit of serine/threonine phosphatase 2A

The catalytic subunit of the serine/threonine phosphatase 2A (PP2A) can interact with the cytoplasmic tail of CTLA-4. However, the molecular basis and the biological significance of this interaction are unknown. In this study, we report that the regulatory subunit of PP2A (PP2AA) also interacts with the cytoplasmic tail of CTLA-4. Interestingly, TCR ligation induces tyrosine phosphorylation of PP2AA and its dissociation from CTLA-4 when coligated. The association between PP2AA and CTLA-4 involves a conserved three-lysine motif in the juxtamembrane portion of the cytoplasmic tail of CTLA-4. Mutations of these lysine residues prevent the binding of PP2AA and enhance the inhibition of IL-2 gene transcription by CTLA-4, indicating that PP2A represses CTLA-4 function. Our data imply that the lysine-rich motif in CTLA-4 may be used to identify small molecules that block its binding to PP2A and act as agonists for CTLA-4 function.

Expression of CD94/NKG2-A on human T lymphocytes is induced by IL-12: implications for adoptive immunotherapy

NK cell receptors (NKRs) are expressed on a subset of human T cells, predominantly CD8(+), within which they can modulate TCR-mediated functions. In an attempt to identify the mechanisms leading to NKR expression, we analyzed the capacity of IL-12 to modulate the expression by T cells of the components of the CD94/NKG2-A inhibitory receptor, a member of the C-type lectin-like family of NKR. We show that IL-12 induces the expression of NKG2-A and/or CD94 by CD8(+) T cells in culture, and that this induction was mediated neither by IFN-gamma nor by IL-15. We also show, using the redirected killing assay, that IL-12-induced expression of both CD94 and NKG2-A led to the acquisition by T cells of a functional inhibitory receptor. Expression of the CD94/NKG2-A inhibitory receptor was also induced by IL-12 during T cell Ag stimulation so that in the presence of this cytokine a high proportion of melanoma-reactive CTL induced from PBL by melanoma peptide stimulation expressed this receptor. This study emphasizes the implication of IL-12 in the modulation of immune responses through NKR induction.