Signaling-defective mutants of the B lymphocyte antigen receptor fail to associate with Ig-alpha and Ig-beta/gamma

Deep mutational scanning reveals transmembrane features governing surface expression of the B cell antigen receptor

B cells surveil the body for foreign matter using their surface-expressed B cell antigen receptor (BCR), a tetrameric complex comprising a membrane-tethered antibody (mIg) that binds antigens and a signaling dimer (CD79AB) that conveys this interaction to the B cell. Recent cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of IgM and IgG isotype BCRs provide the first complete views of their architecture, revealing that the largest interaction surfaces between the mIg and CD79AB are in their transmembrane domains (TMDs). These structures support decades of biochemical work interrogating the requirements for assembly of a functional BCR and provide the basis for explaining the effects of mutations. Here we report a focused saturating mutagenesis to comprehensively characterize the nature of the interactions in the mIg TMD that are required for BCR surface expression. We examined the effects of 600 single-amino-acid changes simultaneously in a pooled competition assay and quantified their effects by next-generation sequencing. Our deep mutational scanning results reflect a feature-rich TMD sequence, with some positions completely intolerant to mutation and others requiring specific biochemical properties such as charge, polarity or hydrophobicity, emphasizing the high value of saturating mutagenesis over, for example, alanine scanning. The data agree closely with published mutagenesis and the cryo-EM structures, while also highlighting several positions and surfaces that have not previously been characterized or have effects that are difficult to rationalize purely based on structure. This unbiased and complete mutagenesis dataset serves as a reference and framework for informed hypothesis testing, design of therapeutics to regulate BCR surface expression and to annotate patient mutations.

Proximity-Based Labeling Identifies MHC Class II and CD37 as B Cell Receptor-Proximal Proteins with Immunological Functions

The BCR allows for Ag-driven B cell activation and subsequent Ag endocytosis, processing, and presentation to recruit T cell help. Core drivers of BCR signaling and endocytosis are motifs within the receptor's cytoplasmic tail (primarily CD79). However, BCR function can be tuned by other proximal cellular elements, such as CD20 and membrane lipid microdomains. To identify additional proteins that could modulate BCR function, we used a proximity-based biotinylation technique paired with mass spectrometry to identify molecular neighbors of the murine IgM BCR. Those neighbors include MHC class II molecules, integrins, various transporters, and membrane microdomain proteins. Class II molecules, some of which are invariant chain-associated nascent class II, are a readily detected BCR neighbor. This finding is consistent with reports of BCR-class II association within intracellular compartments. The BCR is also in close proximity to multiple proteins involved in the formation of membrane microdomains, including CD37, raftlin, and Ig superfamily member 8. Known defects in T cell-dependent humoral immunity in CD37 knockout mice suggest a role for CD37 in BCR function. In line with this notion, CRISPR-based knockout of CD37 expression in a B cell line heightens BCR signaling, slows BCR endocytosis, and tempers formation of peptide-class II complexes. These results indicate that BCR molecular neighbors can impact membrane-mediated BCR functions. Overall, a proximity-based labeling technique allowed for identification of multiple previously unknown BCR molecular neighbors, including the tetraspanin protein CD37, which can modulate BCR function.

Combination of High-Resolution Structures for the B Cell Receptor and Co-Receptors Provides an Understanding of Their Interactions with Therapeutic Antibodies

B cells are central to the adaptive immune response, providing long lasting immunity after infection. B cell activation is mediated by a cell surface B cell receptor (BCR) following recognition of an antigen. BCR signaling is modulated by several co-receptors including CD22 and a complex that contains CD19 and CD81. Aberrant signaling through the BCR and co-receptors promotes the pathogenesis of several B cell malignancies and autoimmune diseases. Treatment of these diseases has been revolutionized by the development of monoclonal antibodies that bind to B cell surface antigens, including the BCR and its co-receptors. However, malignant B cells can escape targeting by several mechanisms and until recently, rational design of antibodies has been limited by the lack of high-resolution structures of the BCR and its co-receptors. Herein we review recently determined cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and crystal structures of the BCR, CD22, CD19 and CD81 molecules. These structures provide further understanding of the mechanisms of current antibody therapies and provide scaffolds for development of engineered antibodies for treatment of B cell malignancies and autoimmune diseases.

Cryo-EM structures of two human B cell receptor isotypes

The B cell receptor (BCR) complex plays a critical role in B cell development and immune responses. The assembly mechanisms underlying the BCR complex remain unknown. We determined the cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of human IgG-BCR and IgM-BCR, which consist of membrane-bound immunoglobulin molecules (mIg) and Igα/β subunits at a 1:1 stoichiometry. Assembly of both BCR complexes involves their extracellular domains, membrane-proximal connection peptides, and transmembrane (TM) helices. The TM helices of mIgG and mIgM share a conserved set of hydrophobic and polar interactions with Igα/β TM helices. By contrast, the IgG-Cγ3 and IgM-Cμ4 domains interact with extracellular Ig-like domains of Igα/β through head-to-tail and side-by-side modes, respectively. This work reveals the structural basis for BCR assembly and provides insights into BCR triggering.

Cryo-EM structure of the human IgM B cell receptor

The B cell receptor (BCR) initiates immune responses through antigen recognition. We report a 3.3-angstrom cryo-electron microscopy structure of human immunoglobulin M (IgM)-BCR in the resting state. IgM-BCR comprises two heavy chains, two light chains, and the Igα/Igβ heterodimer. The ectodomains of the heavy chains closely stack against those of Igα/Igβ, with one heavy chain locked between Igα and Igβ in the juxtamembrane region. Extracellular interactions may determine isotype specificity of the BCR. The transmembrane helices of IgM-BCR form a four-helix bundle that appears to be conserved among all BCR isotypes. This structure contains 14 glycosylation sites on the IgM-BCR ectodomains and reveals three potential surface binding sites. Our work reveals the organizational principles of the BCR and may facilitate the design of antibody-based therapeutics.

Characterization of interactions within the Igα/Igβ transmembrane domains of the human B-cell receptor provides insights into receptor assembly

The B-cell receptor (BCR), a complex comprised of a membrane-associated immunoglobulin and the Igα/β heterodimer, is one of the most important immune receptors in humans and controls B-cell development, activity, selection, and death. BCR signaling plays key roles in autoimmune diseases and lymphoproliferative disorders, yet, despite the clinical significance of this protein complex, key regions (i.e., the transmembrane domains) have yet to be structurally characterized. The mechanism for BCR signaling also remains unclear and has been variously described by the mutually exclusive cross-linking and dissociation activation models. Common to these models is the significance of local plasma membrane composition, which implies that interactions between BCR transmembrane domains (TMDs) play a role in receptor functionality. Here we used an in vivo assay of TMD oligomerization called GALLEX alongside spectroscopic and computational methods to characterize the structures and interactions of human Igα and Igβ TMDs in detergent micelles and natural membranes. We observed weak self-association of the Igβ TMD and strong self-association of the Igα TMD, which scanning mutagenesis revealed was entirely stabilized by an E–X₁₀–P motif. We also demonstrated strong heterotypic interactions between the Igα and Igβ TMDs both in vitro and in vivo, which scanning mutagenesis and computational models suggest is multiconfigurational but can accommodate distinct interaction sites for self-interactions and heterotypic interactions of the Igα TMD. Taken together, these results demonstrate that the TMDs of the human BCR are sites of strong protein–protein interactions that may direct BCR assembly, endoplasmic reticulum retention, and immune signaling.

Structural and immunogenomic insights into B-cell receptor activation

B cells express B-cell receptors (BCRs) which recognize antigen to trigger signaling cascades for B-cell activation and subsequent antibody production. BCR activation has a crucial influence on B-cell fate. How BCR is activated upon encountering antigen remains to be solved, although tremendous progresses have been achieved in the past few years. Here, we summarize the models that have been proposed to explain BCR activation, including the cross-linking model, the conformation-induced oligomerization model, the dissociation activation model, and the conformational change model. Especially, we elucidate the partially resolved structures of antibodies and/or BCRs by far and discusse how these current structural and further immunogenomic messages and more importantly the future studies may shed light on the explanation of BCR activation and the relevant diseases in the case of dysregulation.

Modular Activating Receptors in Innate and Adaptive Immunity

Triggering of cell-mediated immunity is largely dependent on the recognition of foreign or abnormal molecules by a myriad of cell surface-bound receptors. Many activating immune receptors do not possess any intrinsic signaling capacity but instead form noncovalent complexes with one or more dimeric signaling modules that communicate with a common set of kinases to initiate intracellular information-transfer pathways. This modular architecture, where the ligand binding and signaling functions are detached from one another, is a common theme that is widely employed throughout the innate and adaptive arms of immune systems. The evolutionary advantages of this highly adaptable platform for molecular recognition are visible in the variety of ligand-receptor interactions that can be linked to common signaling pathways, the diversification of receptor modules in response to pathogen challenges, and the amplification of cellular responses through incorporation of multiple signaling motifs. Here we provide an overview of the major classes of modular activating immune receptors and outline the current state of knowledge regarding how these receptors assemble, recognize their ligands, and ultimately trigger intracellular signal transduction pathways that activate immune cell effector functions.

Grouper (Epinephelus coioides) BCR signaling pathway was involved in response against Cryptocaryon irritans infection

B cell antigen receptor (BCR) plays a crucial role in B cell development and antibody production. It comprises membrane immunoglobulin non-covalently associated with CD79a/CD79b heterodimer. After B cell activation, initial extracellular signals are transduced by BCR complex and amplified by two protein tyrosine kinases, LYN and SYK, which then trigger various pathways. In the present study, we cloned grouper genes for BCR accessory molecules, EcCD79a (669 bp) and EcCD79b (639 bp), as well as two protein tyrosine kinases, EcLYN (1482 bp) and EcSYK (1854 bp). Homology analysis showed that all four molecules had a relatively high amino acid identity compared with those in other animals. Among them, they all shared the highest identity with Takifugu rubripes (EcCD79a 49%, EcCD79b 52%, EcLYN 82% and EcSYK 77%). The conserved features and important functional residues were analyzed. Together with IgM and IgT, tissue distribution analysis showed that all six molecules were mainly expressed in immune organs, particularly systematic immune organs. In groupers infected with Cryptocaryon irritans, up-regulation of EcCD79a and b, EcIgM and EcIgT were not seen in the early stage skin and gill until 14-21 days. Up-regulation of EcCD79a was seen in head kidney at most time points, while EcCD79a and b were only significantly up-regulated in day 14 spleen. Significant up-regulation of EcIgT were seen in day 21 head kidney and day 1, day14 spleen. Significant up-regulation of EcIgM were seen in day 1 head kidney and 12 h spleen. In addition, two protein kinase genes, EcLYN and EcSYK, were up-regulated in the skin at most time points, which suggested that B cells may be activated at the skin local infection site.

Actin-mediated feedback loops in B-cell receptor signaling

Upon recognizing cognate antigen, B cells mobilize multiple cellular apparatuses to propagate an optimal response. Antigen binding is transduced into cytoplasmic signaling events through B-cell antigen receptor (BCR)-based signalosomes at the B-cell surface. BCR signalosomes are dynamic and transient and are subsequently endocytosed for antigen processing. The function of BCR signalosomes is one of the determining factors for the fate of B cells: clonal expansion, anergy, or apoptosis. Accumulating evidence underscores the importance of the actin cytoskeleton in B-cell activation. We have begun to appreciate the role of actin dynamics in regulating BCR-mediated tonic signaling and the formation of BCR signalosomes. Our recent studies reveal an additional function of the actin cytoskeleton in the downregulation of BCR signaling, consequently contributing to the generation and maintenance of B-cell self-tolerance. In this review, we discuss how actin remodels its organization and dynamics in close coordination with BCR signaling and how actin remodeling in turn amplifies the activation and subsequent downregulation process of BCR signaling, providing vital feedback for optimal BCR activation.

Monophosphorylation of CD79a and CD79b ITAM motifs initiates a SHIP-1 phosphatase-mediated inhibitory signaling cascade required for B cell anergy

Anergic B cells are characterized by impaired signaling and activation after aggregation of their antigen receptors (BCR). The molecular basis of this impairment is not understood. In studies reported here, Src homology-2 (SH2)-containing inositol 5-phosphatase SHIP-1 and its adaptor Dok-1 were found to be constitutively phosphorylated in anergic B cells, and activation of this inhibitory circuit was dependent on Src-family kinase activity and consequent to biased BCR immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif (ITAM) monophosphorylation. B cell-targeted deletion of SHIP-1 caused severe lupus-like disease. Moreover, absence of SHIP-1 in B cells led to loss of anergy as indicated by restoration of BCR signaling, loss of anergic surface phenotype, and production of autoantibodies. Thus, chronic BCR signals maintain anergy in part via ITAM monophosphorylation-directed activation of an inhibitory signaling circuit involving SHIP-1 and Dok-1.

Structural and functional studies of Igalphabeta and its assembly with the B cell antigen receptor

The B cell antigen receptor (BCR) plays an essential role in all phases of B cell development. Here we show that the extracellular domains of murine and human Igbeta form an I-set immunoglobulin-like structure with an interchain disulfide between cysteines on their G strands. Structural and sequence analysis suggests that Igalpha displays a similar fold as Igbeta. An Igalphabeta heterodimer model was generated based on the unique disulfide-bonded Igbeta dimer. Solution binding studies showed that the extracellular domains of Igalphabeta preferentially recognize the constant region of BCR with mu chain specificity, suggesting a role for Igalphabeta to enhance BCRmu chain signaling. Cluster mutations on Igalpha, Igbeta, and a membrane-bound form of immunoglobulin (mIgM) based on the structural model identified distinct areas of potential contacts involving charged residues on both subunits of the coreceptor and the Cmu4 domain of mIgM. These studies provide the first structural model for understanding BCR function.

B-cell receptor

The subunit structure of the B-cell antigen receptor (BCR) and its associated compartmentalization of function confer enormous flexibility for generating signals and directing these toward specific and divergent cell fate decisions. Like all the multichain immune recognition receptors discussed in this volume, assembly of these multi-unit complexes sets these receptors apart from almost all other cell surface signal transduction proteins and affords them the ability to participate in almost all of the diverse aspects of, in this case, B-cell biology. We discuss here the structural aspects of the BCR and its associated coreceptors and relate these mechanistically to how BCR signaling can be directed towards specific fate decisions. By doing so, the BCR plays a pivotal role in ensuring the effective and appropriate B-cell response to antigen.

Protein-protein interactions in the membrane: sequence, structural, and biological motifs

Single-span transmembrane (TM) helices have structural and functional roles well beyond serving as mere anchors to tether water-soluble domains in the vicinity of the membrane. They frequently direct the assembly of protein complexes and mediate signal transduction in ways analogous to small modular domains in water-soluble proteins. This review highlights different sequence and structural motifs that direct TM assembly and discusses their roles in diverse biological processes. We believe that TM interactions are potential therapeutic targets, as evidenced by natural proteins that modulate other TM interactions and recent developments in the design of TM-targeting peptides.

The transmembrane tyrosine of micro-heavy chain is required for BCR destabilization and entry of antigen into clathrin-coated vesicles

The B cell antigen receptor (BCR) delivers antigen to the endocytic compartment and transduces signals that regulate the stability of the receptor complex. Previous studies showed that BCR-mediated signal transduction dissociates micro-heavy chain (microm) from Ig-alpha/Ig-beta, facilitating the delivery of antigen to clathrin-coated vesicles (CCVs). Herein, we demonstrate that the dissociation of Ig-alpha/Ig-beta from microm requires tyrosine-587 of the microm transmembrane domain. Receptors expressing a mutation at tyrosine-587 (Y587F) transduced signals that were comparable to wild type, yet they failed to dissociate microm from Ig-alpha/Ig-beta. Further, receptors harboring the Y587F mutation failed to associate with CCVs, resulting in diminished antigen in the lysosome-associated membrane protein-1 (LAMP-1(+)) compartment and severely impaired antigen presentation, indicating that endocytosis through CCVs is required for antigen presentation. Thus, the transmembrane tyrosine of mum mediates destabilization of the BCR complex, facilitating antigen processing by promoting the association of antigen with CCVs.

The extracellular membrane-proximal domain of human membrane IgE controls apoptotic signaling of the B cell receptor in the mature B cell line A20

Ag engagement of BCR in mature B cells can deliver specific signals, which decide cell survival or cell death. Circulating membrane IgE+ (mIgE+) cells are found in extremely low numbers. We hypothesized that engagement of an epsilonBCR in a mature isotype-switched B cell could induce apoptosis. We studied the role of the extracellular membrane-proximal domain (EMPD) of human mIgE upon BCR engagement with anti-Id Abs. Using mutants lacking the EMPD, we show that this domain is involved in controlling Ca2+ mobilization in immunoreceptors of both gamma and epsilon isotypes, as well as apoptosis in signaling originated only from the epsilonBCR. We mapped to the epsilonCH4 ectodomain the region responsible for apoptosis in EMPD-deleted receptors. Ca2+ mobilization was not related to apoptotic signaling. This apoptotic pathway was caspase independent, involved ERK1/2 phosphorylation and was partially rescued by CD40 costimulation. We therefore conclude that the EMPD of human mIgE is a key control element of apoptotic signaling delivered through engagement of epsilonBCR within the context of a mature B cell.

Fc Receptor γ Chain Residues at the Interface of the Cytoplasmic and Transmembrane Domains Affect Association with FcαRI, Surface Expression, and Function

The assembly of multiple subunit immunoreceptors is dependent on transmembrane interactions. The Fc receptor gamma (FcR-gamma) chain is a ubiquitous immune receptor tyrosine-based activation motif-containing dimeric subunit, gamma(2), which in humans associates with both the activating members of the leukocyte receptor cluster, including the IgA receptor FcalphaRI, and the classical Fc receptors, including the IgE receptor FcepsilonRI. This study identifies a new site in the transmembrane region of FcR-gamma that affects receptor assembly and surface expression with FcalphaRI but not with FcepsilonRI. The wild type complex, FcalphaRI-gamma(2)WT, remains robustly associated in both Brij-96 and Thesit detergent conditions. However, mutation of either Tyr(25) or Cys(26) of FcR-gamma, near the interface of the transmembrane and cytoplasmic regions, resulted in impaired FcR-gamma association with FcalphaRI. This association was disrupted in the presence of the detergent Brij-96 but was preserved in milder conditions using the detergent Thesit. Ligand-mediated cross-linking of the FcalphaRI-gamma(2)Y25F mutant receptor resulted in diminished signal transduction, including an abnormal calcium response, compared with the FcalphaRI-gamma(2)WT receptor. Furthermore, the FcalphaRI-gamma(2)Y25F mutant receptor was expressed at the cell surface at approximately 10% of that of the wild type, whereas the surface expression of FcepsilonRI-gamma(2)Y25F was not significantly different from the wild type. In contrast, although the FcalphaRI-gamma(2)C26S mutant was also less stably associated, it was not reduced in surface expression or function. Thus, these TM residues of FcR-gamma are important for association with FcalphaRI and probably other activating LRC members but not with the classical FcR, FcepsilonRI.

The avian B-cell receptor complex: distinct roles of Igalpha and Igbeta in B-cell development

The bursa of Fabricius has evolved in birds as a gut-associated site of B-cell lymphopoiesis that is segregated from the development of other hematopoietic lineages. Despite differences in the developmental progression of chicken as compared to murine B-cell lymphopoiesis, cell-surface immunoglobulin (sIg) expression has been conserved in birds as an essential checkpoint in B-cell development. B-cell precursors that express an sIg complex that includes the evolutionarily conserved Igalpha/beta heterodimer colonize lymphoid follicles in the bursa, whereas B-cell precursors that fail to express sIg due to non-productive V(D)J recombination are eliminated. Productive retroviral gene transfer has allowed us to introduce chimeric receptor constructs into developing B-cell precursors in vivo. Chimeric proteins comprising the extracellular and transmembrane regions of murine CD8alpha fused to the cytoplasmic domain of chicken Igalpha efficiently supported B-cell development in precursors that lacked endogenous sIg expression. By contrast, expression of an equivalent chimeric receptor containing the cytoplasmic domain of Igbeta actively inhibited B-cell development. Consequently, the cytoplasmic domains of Igalpha and Igbeta play functionally distinct roles in chicken B-cell development.

B-cell antigen-receptor signalling in lymphocyte development

Signalling through the B-cell antigen receptor (BCR) is required throughout B-cell development and peripheral maturation. Targeted disruption of BCR components or downstream effectors indicates that specific signalling mechanisms are preferentially required for central B-cell development, peripheral maturation and repertoire selection. Additionally, the avidity and the context in which antigen is encountered determine both cell fate and differentiation in the periphery. Although the signalling and receptor components required at each stage have been largely elucidated, the molecular mechanisms through which specific signalling are evoked at each stage are still obscure. In particular, it is not known how the pre-BCR initiates the signals required for normal development or how immature B cells regulate the signalling pathways that determine cell fate. In this review, we will summarize the recent studies that have defined the molecules required for B-cell development and maturation as well as the theories on how signals may be regulated at each stage.

A high-molecular-weight complex of membrane proteins BAP29/BAP31 is involved in the retention of membrane-bound IgD in the endoplasmic reticulum

B cell antigen receptors (BCRs) are multimeric transmembrane protein complexes comprising membrane-bound immunoglobulins (mIgs) and Ig-alpha/Ig-beta heterodimers. In most cases, transport of mIgs from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the cell surface requires assembly with the Ig-alpha/Ig-beta subunits. In addition to Ig-alpha/Ig-beta, mIg molecules also bind two ER-resident membrane proteins, BAP29 and BAP31, and the chaperone heavy chain binding protein (BiP). In this article, we show that neither Ig-alpha/Ig-beta nor BAP29/BAP31 nor BiP bind simultaneously to the same mIgD molecule. Blue native PAGE revealed that only a minor fraction of intracellular mIgD is associated with high-molecular-weight BAP29/BAP31 complexes. BAP-binding to mIgs was found to correlate with ER retention of chimeric mIgD molecules. On high-level expression in Drosophila melanogaster S2 cells, mIgD molecules were detected on the cell surface in the absence of Ig-alpha/Ig-beta. This aberrant transport was prevented by coexpression of BAP29 and BAP31. Thus, BAP complexes contribute to ER retention of mIg complexes that are not bound to Ig-alpha/Ig-beta. Furthermore, the mechanism of ER retention of both BAP31 and mIgD is not through retrieval from a post-ER compartment, but true ER retention. In conclusion, BAP29 and BAP31 might be the long sought after retention proteins and/or chaperones that act on transmembrane regions of various proteins.

Membrane immunoglobulins are stabilized by interchain disulfide bonds occurring within the extracellular membrane-proximal domain

Membrane-bound immunoglobulins have, in addition to the transmembrane and cytoplasmic portions, an extracellular membrane-proximal domain (EMPD), absent in the secretory forms. EMPDs of immunoglobulin isotypes alpha, gamma, and epsilon contain cysteines whose role has so far not been elucidated. Using a genetic strategy, we investigated the ability of these cysteines to form disulfide bridges. Shortened versions of human membrane immunoglobulins, depleted of cysteines known to form intermolecular disulfide bonds, were constructed and expressed on the surface of a B-cell line. The resulting membrane proteins contain a single chain fragment of variable regions (scFv) linked to the dimerizing domain from the immunoglobulin heavy chains (CH3 for alpha and gamma or CH4 for epsilon isotypes), followed by the corresponding EMPD and the transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains. The two functional membrane versions of the epsilon chain, containing the short and long EMPD, were analyzed. Our results show that the single cysteine within alpha1L and gamma1 EMPD and the short version of epsilon EMPD form an interchain disulfide bond. Conversely, the cysteine resident in the epsilon transmembrane domain remains unreacted. epsilon-long EMPD contains four cysteines; two are involved in interchain bonds while the remaining two are likely forming an intrachain bridge. Expression of a full-length membrane epsilon heavy chain mutant, in which Cys(121) and Cys(209) within domain CH2 (involved in interchain bridges) were mutated to alanines, confirmed that, within the complete IgE, EMPD cysteines form interchain disulfide bonds. In conclusion, we unveil evidence for additional covalent stabilization of membrane-bound immunoglobulins.

New views of BCR structure and organization

Recent work has provided new insights into the stoichiometry of BCR subunits, as well as the organization of the BCR before and after engagement by antigen. On resting cells, the BCR may be pre-assembled into oligomeric receptor complexes that generate a basal level of signaling. After antigen binding, the BCR may be organized into larger receptor arrays that reside in lipid rafts - sites where signaling enzymes are concentrated. The critical role of BCR assembly and organization in B cell function is underscored by the recent findings that this process is altered in many B cell tumors.

Unexpected signals in a system subject to kinetic proofreading

When multivalent ligands attach to IgEs bound to the receptors with high affinity for IgE on mast cells, the receptors aggregate, tyrosines on the receptors become phosphorylated, and a variety of cellular responses are stimulated. Prior studies, confirmed here, demonstrated that the efficiency with which later events are generated from earlier ones is inversely related to the dissociation rate of the aggregating ligand. This finding suggests that the cellular responses are constrained by a "kinetic proofreading" regimen. We have now observed an apparent exception to this rule. Doses of the rapidly or slowly dissociating ligands that generated equivalent levels of tyrosine-phosphorylated receptors comparably stimulated a putatively distal event: transcription of the gene for monocyte chemoattractant protein 1. Possible explanations of this apparent anomaly were explored.

Conserved transmembrane tyrosine residues of the TCR beta chain are required for TCR expression and function in primary T cells and hybridomas

The T cell receptor (TCR) beta chain transmembrane domain contains two evolutionarily conserved tyrosines (Y). In this study, the functional basis for the evolutionary conservation is addressed by mutation of the residues, expression of the mutants in hybridoma and primary T cells, and examination of TCR signaling function. We find that the phenotype of the mutants, both surface expression and ability to signal for IL-2 production, is highly variable in different mouse T hybridoma lines. Although we have not been able to determine the basis for these differences in the hybridomas, expression of the mutants in primary T cells provides a definitive assessment of mutant phenotype. We show that mutation of the N-terminal Y to either leucine (L) or alanine (A) results in low surface expression in primary T cells, while mutation of both N- and C-terminal Y to A or L abrogates surface expression. However, the more conservative mutation of both transmembrane Y to phenylalanine maintained receptor surface expression and assembly while severely disrupting signaling in primary T cells. Our data demonstrate that TCR beta chain transmembrane Y are essential for TCR signal transduction as well as complex assembly. These findings suggest that protein-protein interactions involving membrane-spanning domains are likely relevant for TCR signal transduction mechanisms.

Epstein-Barr virus coopts lipid rafts to block the signaling and antigen transport functions of the BCR

The B cell antigen receptor (BCR) functions to initiate signaling and to internalize antigen for processing from within Lyn kinase-enriched membrane lipid rafts. The signaling function of the BCR is blocked by Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) latent membrane protein 2A (LMP2A), which is constitutively phosphorylated by Lyn. Here, we show that LMP2A resides in lipid rafts and excludes the BCR from entering rafts by Lyndependent mechanisms, thus blocking both BCR signaling and antigen transport. Mutant LMP2A that permits BCR signaling and raft translocation still blocks antigen trafficking, indicating independent control of these BCR functions. Thus, EBV coopts the lipid rafts to disarm both the signaling and antigen-processing functions of the BCR by independent mechanisms.

Monomeric and oligomeric complexes of the B cell antigen receptor

The current structural model of the B cell antigen receptor (BCR) describes it as a symmetric protein complex in which one membrane-bound immunoglobulin molecule (mIg) is noncovalently bound on each side by an Ig-alpha/Ig-beta heterodimer. Using peptide-tagged Ig-alpha proteins, blue native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (BN-PAGE), and biosynthetical labeling of B cells, we find that the mIg:Ig-alpha/Ig-beta complex has a stoichiometry of 1:1 and not 1:2. An anti-Flag stimulation of B cells coexpressing Flag-tagged and wild-type Ig-alpha proteins results in the phosphorylation of both Ig-alpha proteins, suggesting that on the surface of living B cells, several BCR monomers are in contact with each other. A BN-PAGE analysis after limited detergent lysis provides further evidence for an oligomeric BCR structure.

Stability of the B cell antigen receptor complex

The B cell antigen receptor (BCR) comprises the membrane-bound immunoglobulin (mIg) molecule and the Ig-alpha/Ig-beta heterodimer. By comparing the stability of the IgD-BCR and IgM-BCR in different detergent lysates, we find that the IgD-BCR is more stable than the IgM-BCR. Analysis of chimeric mIgD molecules suggests that the deltam transmembrane region is responsible for the more stable association of mIgD with the Ig-alpha/Ig-beta heterodimer. Further, the differential glycosylation of Ig-alpha molecules, in the two different BCR complexes, is determined solely by the ectodomains of the mIg molecules. The implications of these findings for the intracellular transport and the signalling capacity of the BCRs are discussed.

A role for lipid rafts in B cell antigen receptor signaling and antigen targeting

The B cell antigen receptor (BCR) serves both to initiate signal transduction cascades and to target antigen for processing and presentation by MHC class II molecules. How these two BCR functions are coordinated is not known. Recently, sphingolipid- and cholesterol-rich plasma membrane lipid microdomains, termed lipid rafts, have been identified and proposed to function as platforms for both receptor signaling and membrane trafficking. Here we show that upon cross-linking, the BCR rapidly translocates into ganglioside G(M1)-enriched lipid rafts that contain the Src family kinase Lyn and exclude the phosphatase CD45R. Both Igalpha and Lyn in the lipid rafts become phosphorylated, and subsequently the BCR and a portion of G(M1) are targeted to the class II peptide loading compartment. Entry into lipid rafts, however, is not sufficient for targeting to the antigen processing compartments, as a mutant surface Ig containing a deletion of the cytoplasmic domain is constitutively present in rafts but when cross-linked does not internalize to the antigen processing compartment. Taken together, these results provide evidence for a role for lipid rafts in the initial steps of BCR signaling and antigen targeting.

Role of transmembrane domains in the functions of B- and T-cell receptors

The antigen receptors on the surface of B- and T-lymphocytes are complexes of several integral membrane proteins, essential for their proper expression and function. Recent studies demonstrated that transmembrane (TM) domains of the components of these receptors play a critical role in their association and function. It was specifically demonstrated that in many cases point mutations in the TM domains can partially or completely disrupt the receptor surface expression and function. Here we review studies of the TM domains of B- and T-cell receptors. Furthermore, we use a novel method, PHDtopology, to provide estimates of the exact locations and lengths of the TM domains of the subunit components of these receptors. Most previous studies used single residue hydrophobicity as a criterion for determining the position and length of the TM domains. In contrast, PHDtopology utilizes a system of neural networks and the evolutionary information contained in multiple alignments of related sequences to predict the location, length, and orientation of transmembrane helices. Present results significantly differ from most published estimates of the TM domains of the B- and T-cell receptor components, primarily in the length of the TM domains. These results may lead to modification of putative TM motifs and re-interpretation of the results of studies using mutated TM domains. The availability of PHDtopology on the Internet would make it a valuable tool in the future studies of the TM domains of integral membrane proteins.

Role of μ Heavy Chain in B Cell Development. I. Blocked B Cell Maturation But Complete Allelic Exclusion in the Absence of Igα/β

There is good evidence for a signaling role played by Ig heavy chain in the developmental transition through the pre-B cell stage. We have previously described signal-capable or signal-incapable mutants of μ heavy chain in which a signaling defect is caused by failure to associate with the Igα/β heterodimer. To further characterize the role of Ig heavy chain-mediated signaling in vivo, as well as in B cell development and allelic exclusion, we have created transgenic mice in which the B cells express these signal-capable and signal-incapable mutant μ chains. Failure of μ to signal via Igα/β results in a block in B cell development in mice expressing the signal-incapable μ. A small number of B cells in these animals do escape the developmental block and are expressed in the spleen and the periphery as B220+ transgenic IgM+ cells. These cells respond to LPS by proliferating but show no response to T-independent-specific Ag. In contrast, B cells expressing the signal-capable B cell receptor show a strong signaling response to Ag-specific stimulus. There is no Igα seen in association with signal-deficient IgM. Thus, the B cell receptor complex is not assembled, and no signal can be delivered. Despite the block in developmental signaling, allelic exclusion is complete. There is no detectable coexpression of transgenic IgM and endogenous murine IgM, nor is there rearrangement of the endogenous heavy chain genes. This suggests that differing signaling mechanisms are responsible for the developmental transition and allelic exclusion and thus allows for separate examination of these signaling mechanisms.

Glycosylated extracellular domains of membrane immunoglobulin M contribute to its association with mb-1/B29 gene products and the B cell receptor complex

It has recently become clear that the B cell antigen receptor, membrane immunoglobulin (mIg) is part of a complex composed of a number of different polypeptides. In a manner analogous to the T cell receptor, mIg has been found to be associated with several tyrosine kinases, and other proteins, which although not kinases themselves become targets of kinase activity upon binding of mIg to antigen. Thus the B cell receptor complex appears to be a structure whose function during signal transduction is to facilitate the interaction of tyrosine kinases with their proper substrates, and to coordinate the phosphorylation of these proteins with the binding of antigen to mIg. In an effort to understand the nature of the interactions which mediate the organization of the B cell receptor complex, we have explored binding of components of the complex including Ig-alpha and Ig-beta to IgM. Previous results have indicated that binding was mediated by transmembrane domains. Our results indicate that extracellular domains of IgM may also contribute to its association with Ig alpha and beta and other members of the B cell receptor complex.

Control of immunoglobulin gene rearrangements in developing B cells

The antigen receptor on B lymphocytes is the product of a series of gene rearrangements which ends when a functional receptor gene is assembled. Recent work has shown that the receptor-associated molecules Ig alpha and Ig beta provide the signals that lead to inhibition of further recombination. Furthermore, Ig beta has been implicated in initiating the last step of the recombination reaction.

Capture and processing of exogenous antigens for presentation on MHC molecules

Class I and class II MHC molecules bind peptides during their biosynthetic maturation and provide a continuously updated display of intracellular and environmental protein composition, respectively, for scrutiny by T cells. Receptor-mediated endocytosis, phagocytosis, and macropinocytosis all contribute to antigen uptake by class II MHC-positive antigen-presenting cells. Capture of antigenic peptides by class II MHC molecules is facilitated because antigen catabolism and class II MHC maturation take place in the same compartments or in communicating compartments of the endosome/lysosome system. These class II MHC-rich, multivesicular endosomes receive incoming antigen and can support not only antigen processing and class II MHC peptide loading but also the export of peptide/class II MHC complexes to the cell surface. A balance between production and destruction of antigenic peptides is achieved by the activity of local proteases and may be influenced by binding of antigen to other proteins both prior to the onset of processing (e.g. antibodies) and during antigen unfolding (e.g. MHC molecules). T cell determinants that can be released for MHC binding without a substantial processing requirement may be able to utilize a distinct minor population of cell surface class II MHC molecules that become available during peripheral recycling. Although peptides derived from exogenous protein sources are usually excluded from presentation on class I MHC molecules, recent evidence shows that this embargo may be lifted in certain professional antigen-presenting cells to increase the spectrum of antigens that may be displayed on class I MHC.

Membrane immunoglobulin-associated molecules on channel catfish B lymphocytes

Membrane immunoglobulin (mIgM) on the surface of channel catfish B lymphocytes is non-covalently associated with 64 and 70 kDa molecules which are composed of covalent 32 kDa dimers and covalent 45/25 kDa subunits, respectively. Cross-linking of mIgM on catfish B cells leads to rapid phosphorylation of tyrosine residues in these presumed accessory as well as numerous other cytoplasmic molecules. These data indicate that fish likely use a signal transduction system containing elements similar to those of mammalian B cells.

Aberrant B cell development and immune response in mice with a compromised BCR complex

The immunoglobulin alpha (Ig-alpha)-Ig-beta heterodimer is the signaling component of the antigen receptor complex on B cells (BCR) and B cell progenitors (pre-BCR). A mouse mutant that lacks most of the Ig-alpha cytoplasmic tail exhibits only a small impairment in early B cell development but a severe block in the generation of the peripheral B cell pool, revealing a checkpoint in B cell maturation that ensures the expression of a functional BCR on mature B cells. B cells that do develop demonstrate a differential dependence on Ig-alpha signaling in antibody responses such that a signaling-competent Ig-alpha appears to be critical for the response to T-independent, but not T-dependent, antigens.

Identification of the sites of interaction between lymphocyte phosphatase-associated phosphoprotein (LPAP) and CD45

Human lymphocyte phosphatase-associated phospho-protein (LPAP) is a phosphoprotein of unknown function that noncovalently associates with CD45 in lymphocytes. In CD45-deficient human T cells, LPAP protein is synthesized at normal levels but is more rapidly degraded than in wild-type cells. Expression of CD45 cDNA rescues LPAP protein expression. This strongly suggests that LPAP is protected from degradation through its interaction with CD45. We have mapped the sites of interaction between LPAP and CD45 employing chimeric CD45 molecules and LPAP deletion mutants. Our data demonstrate that the interaction between LPAP and CD45 is mediated via the transmembrane regions of both molecules. In addition, the intracytoplasmic amino acids adjacent to the transmembrane region of LPAP may influence its binding to CD45.

Association of activated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase with p120cbl in antigen receptor-ligated B cells

A 120-kDa protein that is tyrosine-phosphorylated upon antigen receptor ligation in B lymphocytes has been identified as the product of the c-cbl protooncogene. Tyrosine phosphorylation of Cbl depends on the efficient association of membrane immunoglobulin heavy chains with the Ig alpha/beta heterodimer but is unimpaired in splenic B cells from the Xid mouse. Cross-linking of membrane IgM and membrane IgG, but not of CD40, leads to the tyrosine phosphorylation of Cbl. In receptor-ligated B lymphocytes, p120cbl associates with an 85-kDa protein that has been identified as the 85-kDa subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase.

Signal transduction by the B-cell antigen receptor

The antigen receptor of B lymphocytes (BCR) plays important roles in recognition of foreign antigens and self-components to allow the immune system to make appropriate antibody responses. The BCR is a complex between membrane immunoglobulin and the Ig-alpha and Ig-beta heterodimer. Site-directed mutagenesis experiments have shown that the mu heavy chain transmembrane domain plays a key role in the association of mIgM with Ig-alpha/Ig-beta. In the absence of complex formation, mIgM is retained in the endoplasmic reticulum, and this function is also specified by the mu chain transmembrane domain. The ability of various mutant mIgM molecules to associate with Ig-alpha/Ig-beta correlates well with their ability to induce signal transduction reactions such as protein tyrosine phosphorylation and phosphoinositide breakdown. Thus, the signaling ability of the BCR appears to reside in the Ig-alpha/Ig-beta heterodimer. The cytoplasmic domains of Ig-alpha and Ig-beta each contain an ITAM sequence, which is defined by its limited homology with subunits of the T-cell antigen receptor and of Fc receptors. Moreover, chimeric proteins containing these ITAMs and surrounding sequences from the cytoplasmic domains of Ig-alpha or Ig-beta exhibit signaling function characteristics of the intact BCR. The Ig-alpha and Ig-beta chimeras are each capable of inducing all of the BCR signaling events tested and thus represent redundant functions. Cross-linking these chimeras leads to their phosphorylation and to binding of the intracellular tyrosine kinases Lyn and Syk. The BCR expressed in the nonlymphoid AtT20 cells, which express the Src-family tyrosine kinase Fyn but not Syk, was not able to trigger vigorous signaling reactions. Introduction of the active form of Syk into these cells restored some signaling events. These results are consistent with a model in which the ITAMs act to initiate the BCR signaling reactions by binding and activating tyrosine kinases.

The role of Ig beta in precursor B cell transition and allelic exclusion

Lymphocytes express multicomponent receptor complexes that mediate diverse antigen-dependent and antigen-independent responses. Despite the central role of antigen-independent events in B cell development, little is known about the mechanisms by which they are initiated. The association between the membrane immunoglobulin (Ig) M heavy chair (micron) and the Ig alpha-Ig beta heterodimer is now shown to be essential in inducing both the transition from progenitor to precursor B cells and subsequent allelic exclusion in transgenic mice. The cytoplasmic domain of Ig beta is sufficient to induce these early antigen-independent events by a mechanism that requires conserved tyrosine residues in this protein.

Transmembrane signalling by the B-cell antigen receptor

Crosslinking the B-cell antigen receptor is sufficient to generate intracellular signals. Recent work has shown that this signalling capability can be ascribed to the presence of the alpha and beta sheath proteins within the antigen receptor that couple it to signal transduction pathways. However, a variety of other transmembrane proteins, including CD19, CD21, CD22, CD32 and CD45, can also associate with the receptor and we are beginning to understand how they may act in concert with it to efficiently regulate B lymphocyte activity in response to antigen.

Mechanism of B cell antigen receptor function: transmembrane signaling and triggering of apoptosis

The antigen receptor of B lymphocytes (BCR) plays important roles in virtually every stage in the development, inactivation, or activation of B cells. The BCR is a complex of membrane immunoglobulin (mIg) and a heterodimer of two transmembrane polypeptides called Ig-alpha and Ig-beta. Site directed mutation of the mu immunoglobulin heavy chain has demonstrated that the mu transmembrane domain plays a key role in the assembly of mIgM with Ig-alpha/Ig-beta. In addition, there is a strong correlation between the ability of various mutant mIgM molecules to associate with Ig-alpha/Ig-beta and their ability to induce signal transduction reactions such as protein tyrosine phosphorylation and phosphoinositide breakdown. The cytoplasmic domains of Ig-alpha and Ig-beta share a region of limited homology with each other and with components of the T cell antigen receptor and of the Fc receptor. The presence of regions of the cytoplasmic domains of Ig-alpha or Ig-beta including this conserved amino acid sequence motif is sufficient to confer signaling function on chimeric transmembrane proteins. Both Ig-alpha and Ig-beta chimeras are capable of inducing all of the BCR signaling events tested. Based on these and related observations, we propose that the motifs act to initiate the BCR signaling reactions by binding and activating tyrosine kinases. Among the important events mediated by BCR signaling is induced expression of a series of genes referred to as early response genes. In B cells these include transcription factors and at least one component that regulates signaling events. One of these genes, c-myc, appears to play an important role in mediating apoptosis in B cells stimulated via the BCR complex.

B-cell activation by wild type and mutant Ig-beta cytoplasmic domains

In B lymphocytes, the cytoplasmic domains of the membrane immunoglobulin-associated heterodimeric Ig-alpha and Ig-beta proteins link membrane immunoglobulin to intracellular signalling molecules. We constructed chimeric genes encoding the extracellular and transmembrane domain of human CD8 alpha and the cytoplasmic domain of Ig-alpha or Ig-beta and examined the ability of the chimeric proteins to induce signalling in the murine B-cell lymphoma A20. Crosslinking of CD8/Ig-alpha or CD8/Ig-beta induced both calcium mobilization and protein tyrosine phosphorylation, although induction by CD8/Ig-alpha was somewhat stronger. We also carried out mutagenesis of residues within the "Reth" motif of the CD8/Ig-beta cytoplasmic domain and determined the effects of these mutations on signalling in the murine B-cell hybridoma LK 35.2. Mutants in which alanine was substituted for glutamine 202, threonine 205, and isoleucine 209 retained the ability to induce protein tyrosine phosphorylation and calcium mobilization. In contrast, substitution of alanine for leucine 198 abrogated these responses, suggesting a critical role for this residue in interaction with cytoplasmic signalling proteins.