Studies on the role of the host immune response in recovery from Friend virus leukemia. I. Antiviral and antileukemia cell antibodies

B-Cell Control of Regulatory T Cells in Friend Virus Infection

B lymphocytes have well-established effector roles during viral infections, including production of antibodies and functioning as antigen-presenting cells for CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. B cells have also been shown to regulate immune responses and induce regulatory T cells (Tregs). In the Friend virus (FV) model, Tregs are known to inhibit effector CD8+ T-cell responses and contribute to virus persistence. Recent work has uncovered a role for B cells in the induction and activation of Tregs during FV infection. In addition to inducing Tregs, B cell antibody production and antigen-presenting cell activity is a target of Treg suppression. This review focuses on the dynamic interactions between B cells and Tregs during FV infection.

Friend retrovirus studies reveal complex interactions between intrinsic, innate and adaptive immunity

Approximately 4.4% of the human genome is comprised of endogenous retroviral sequences, a record of an evolutionary battle between man and retroviruses. Much of what we know about viral immunity comes from studies using mouse models. Experiments using the Friend virus (FV) model have been particularly informative in defining highly complex anti-retroviral mechanisms of the intrinsic, innate and adaptive arms of immunity. FV studies have unraveled fundamental principles about how the immune system controls both acute and chronic viral infections. They led to a more complete understanding of retroviral immunity that begins with cellular sensing, production of type I interferons, and the induction of intrinsic restriction factors. Novel mechanisms have been revealed, which demonstrate that these earliest responses affect not only virus replication, but also subsequent innate and adaptive immunity. This review on FV immunity not only surveys the complex host responses to a retroviral infection from acute infection to chronicity, but also highlights the many feedback mechanisms that regulate and counter-regulate the various arms of the immune system. In addition, the discovery of molecular mechanisms of immunity in this model have led to therapeutic interventions with implications for HIV cure and vaccine development.

New insights into molecular mechanisms of epigenetic regulation in kidney disease

The number of patients with kidney failure has increased in recent years. Different factors contribute to the progression of chronic kidney disease, including glomerular sclerosis, atherosclerosis of the renal arteries and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Tubulointerstitial injury is induced by hypoxia and other inflammatory signals, leading to fibroblast activation. Technological advances using high-throughput sequencing has enabled the determination of the expression profile of almost all genes, revealing that gene expression is intricately regulated by DNA methylation, histone modification, changes in chromosome conformation, long non-coding RNAs and microRNAs. These epigenetic modifications are stored as cellular epigenetic memory. Epigenetic memory leads to adult-onset disease or ageing in the long term and may possibly play an important role in the kidney disease process. Herein we emphasize the importance of clarifying the molecular mechanisms underlying epigenetic modifications because this may lead to the development of new therapeutic targets in kidney disease.

Humoral immunity in the Friend retrovirus infection model

Major conceptual roadblocks impede the development of an HIV-1 vaccine that can stimulate a potent neutralizing antibody response. Animal models that support HIV-1 replication and allow for host genetic manipulation would be an ideal platform for testing various immunological hypotheses, but progress on this research front has been slow and disappointing. In contrast, many valuable concepts emerged from more than 50 years of studying the Friend retrovirus model. This was recently exemplified by the identification of an innate restriction gene, Apobec3, that could promote the retrovirus-specific neutralizing antibody response. Here we review both classical and recent data on humoral immunity against Friend retrovirus infection, and highlight the potential of this model for unraveling novel aspects of the retrovirus-specific antibody response that may guide HIV-1 vaccine development efforts.

Distinct roles of CD4+ T cell subpopulations in retroviral immunity: lessons from the Friend virus mouse model

It is well established that CD4⁺ T cells play an important role in immunity to infections with retroviruses such as HIV. However, in recent years CD4⁺ T cells have been subdivided into several distinct populations that are differentially regulated and perform widely varying functions. Thus, it is important to delineate the separate roles of these subsets, which range from direct antiviral activities to potent immunosuppression. In this review, we discuss contributions from the major CD4⁺ T cell subpopulations to retroviral immunity. Fundamental concepts obtained from studies on numerous viral infections are presented along with a more detailed analysis of studies on murine Friend virus. The relevance of these studies to HIV immunology and immunotherapy is reviewed.

Persistence of viremia and production of neutralizing antibodies differentially regulated by polymorphic APOBEC3 and BAFF-R loci in friend virus-infected mice

Several host genes control retroviral replication and pathogenesis through the regulation of immune responses to viral antigens. The Rfv3 gene influences the persistence of viremia and production of virus-neutralizing antibodies in mice infected with Friend mouse retrovirus complex (FV). This locus has been mapped within a narrow segment of mouse chromosome 15 harboring the APOBEC3 and BAFF-R loci, both of which show functional polymorphisms among different strains of mice. The exon 5-lacking product of the APOBEC3 allele expressed in FV-resistant C57BL/6 (B6) mice directly restricts viral replication, and mice lacking the B6-derived APOBEC3 exhibit exaggerated pathology and reduced production of neutralizing antibodies. However, the mechanisms by which the polymorphisms at the APOBEC3 locus affect the production of neutralizing antibodies remain unclear. Here we show that the APOBEC3 genotypes do not directly affect the B-cell repertoire, and mice lacking B6-derived APOBEC3 still produce FV-neutralizing antibodies in the presence of primed T helper cells. Instead, higher viral loads at a very early stage of FV infection caused by either a lack of the B6-derived APOBEC3 or a lack of the wild-type BAFF-R resulted in slower production of neutralizing antibodies. Indeed, B cells were hyperactivated soon after infection in the APOBEC3- or BAFF-R-deficient mice. In contrast to mice deficient in the B6-derived APOBEC3, which cleared viremia by 4 weeks after FV infection, mice lacking the functional BAFF-R allele exhibited sustained viremia, indicating that the polymorphisms at the BAFF-R locus may better explain the Rfv3-defining phenotype of persistent viremia.

Apobec3 encodes Rfv3, a gene influencing neutralizing antibody control of retrovirus infection

Recovery from Friend virus 3 (Rfv3) is a single autosomal gene encoding a resistance trait that influences retroviral neutralizing antibody responses and viremia. Despite extensive research for 30 years, the molecular identity of Rfv3 has remained elusive. Here, we demonstrate that Rfv3 is encoded by Apobec3. Apobec3 maps to the same chromosome region as Rfv3 and has broad inhibitory activity against retroviruses, including HIV. Not only did genetic inactivation of Apobec3 convert Rfv3-resistant mice to a susceptible phenotype, but Apobec3 was also found to be naturally disabled by aberrant messenger RNA splicing in Rfv3-susceptible strains. The link between Apobec3 and neutralizing antibody responses highlights an Apobec3-dependent mechanism of host protection that might extend to HIV and other human retroviral infections.

Peptide-induced immune protection of CD8+ T cell-deficient mice against Friend retrovirus-induced disease

CD8+ CTLs and virus-neutralizing antibodies have been associated with spontaneous and vaccine-induced immune control of retroviral infections. We previously showed that a single immunization with an env gene-encoded CD4+ T cell epitope protected mice against fatal Friend retrovirus infection. Here, we analyzed immune cell components required for the peptide-induced anti-retroviral protection. Mice lacking CD8+ T cells were nevertheless protected against Friend virus infection, while mice lacking B cells were not. Virus-producing cells both in the spleen and bone marrow decreased rapidly in their number and became undetectable by 4 weeks after infection in the majority of the peptide-immunized animals even in the absence of CD8+ T cells. In the vaccinated animals the production and class switching of virus-neutralizing and anti-leukemia cell antibodies were facilitated; however, virus-induced erythroid cell expansion was suppressed before neutralizing antibodies became detectable in the serum. Further, the numbers of virus-producing cells in the spleen and bone marrow in the early stage of the infection were smaller in the peptide-immunized than in unimmunized control mice in the absence of B cells. Thus, peptide immunization facilitates both early cellular and late humoral immune responses that lead to the effective control of the retrovirus-induced disease, but CD8+ T cells are not crucial for the elimination of virus-infected cells in the peptide-primed animals.

Genotypes at chromosome 22q12-13 are associated with HIV-1-exposed but uninfected status in Italians

OBJECTIVE

Despite multiple and repeated exposures to HIV-1, some individuals possess no detectable HIV genome and show T-cell memory responses to the viral antigens. HIV-1-reactive mucosal IgA detected in such uninfected individuals suggests their possible immune resistance against HIV. We tested if the above HIV-1-exposed but uninfected status was associated with genetic markers other than a homozygous deletion of the CCR5 gene.

METHODS

Based on our mapping in chromosome 15 of a gene controlling the production of neutralizing antibodies in a mouse retrovirus infection, we genotyped 42 HIV-1-exposed but uninfected Italians at polymorphic loci in the syntenic segment of human chromosome 22, and compared them with 49 HIV-1-infected and 47 uninfected healthy control individuals by a closed testing procedure.

RESULTS

A significant association was found between chromosome 22q12-13 genotypes and a putative dominant locus conferring anti-HIV-1 immune responses in the exposed but uninfected individuals. Distributions of linkage disequilibrium across chromosome 22 also differed between the exposed but uninfected and two other phenotypic groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The data indicated the presence of a new genetic factor associated with the HIV-1-exposed but uninfected status.

Roles of endogenous retroviruses and platelets in the development of vascular injury in spontaneous mouse models of autoimmune diseases

MRL/MpJ-lpr/lpr (MRL/lpr) mice spontaneously develop immune complex-mediated glomerulonephritis, granulomatous arteritis, and thrombocytopenia. Recent genetic analyses in a few different strains of lupus-prone mice have pointed out a close correlation between autoantibodies reactive with the endogenous retroviral env gene product, gp70, and the development and severity of glomerulonephritis. We have also shown that autoantibodies reactive with endogenous retroviral gp70 are closely correlated with the development of necrotizing polyarteritis in another lupus-prone strain of mice, SL/Ni. However, suggested pathogenicity of anti-gp70 autoantibodies has not yet been directly tested. To examine if anti-gp70 autoantibodies induce glomerular and vascular pathology, we established from unmanipulated MRL/lpr mice hybridoma clones that secrete monoclonal antibodies reactive with endogenous xenotropic viral env gene products. As reported separately, a high proportion of these anti-gp70 antibody-producing hybridoma clones induced in syngeneic non-autoimmune and severe combined immunodeficiency mice proliferative or wire loop-like glomerular lesions with granular deposits of gp70, IgG, and C3 in affected glomeruli. Some mice transplanted with these anti-gp70 autoantibody-producing hybridoma cells also showed massive subendothelial deposition of electron-dense materials in small arterioles in the kidneys. Furthermore, we identified an IgG2a-producing anti-gp70 hybridoma clone that induced microvascular intraluminal platelet aggregation, thrombocytopenia, and amenia upon transplantation into syngeneic non-autoimmune mice. This anti-gp70 autoantibody bound onto the surfaces of mouse platelets, and specifically precipitated a platelet protein with an approximate relative molecular mass of 40000. Attachment of activated platelets to the intimal surfaces of small arteries was also observed by electron microscopy in mice transplanted with the pathogenic anti-gp70 IgG2a-producing hybridoma cells, suggesting an interaction between antibody-bound platelets and endothelial cells.

Major histocompatibility complex class I gene controls the generation of gamma interferon-producing CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells important for recovery from friend retrovirus-induced leukemia

Recovery from leukemia induced by Friend virus complex (FV) requires strong CD4(+) helper, CD8(+) cytotoxic T-lymphocyte, and B-cell responses. The development of these immune responses is dependent on the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) (H-2) genotype of the mouse. In H-2(b/b) mice, which spontaneously recover from FV-induced erythroleukemia, neutralization of gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) in vivo inhibited recovery, which indicated that IFN-gamma was a necessary component of the immune response to FV. Furthermore, in H-2(b/b) mice, high numbers of IFN-gamma-producing cells were detected after FV infection, whereas in H-2(a/b) mice, which have a low-recovery phenotype, only low numbers of IFN-gamma-producing cells were detected. Similarly, H-2(bm14/b) mice, which cannot recover from FV infection due to a point mutation in one allele of the H-2D(b) gene, also had low numbers of IFN-gamma-producing T cells. Surprisingly, this effect was observed for both CD8(+) and CD4(+) T cells. These findings reveal a novel influence of MHC class I genes on CD4(+) T-cell responses to viral infection. Furthermore, the influence of MHC class I genotype on the generation of both IFN-gamma-producing CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells helps explain the major impact of the H-2D gene on recovery from FV disease.

Establishment of monoclonal anti-retroviral gp70 autoantibodies from MRL/lpr lupus mice and induction of glomerular gp70 deposition and pathology by transfer into non-autoimmune mice

Several strains of mice, including MRL/MpJ mice homozygous for the Fas mutant lpr gene (MRL/lpr mice), F(1) hybrids of New Zealand Black and New Zealand White mice, and BXSB/MpJ mice carrying a Y-linked autoimmune acceleration gene, spontaneously develop immune complex-mediated glomerulonephritis. The involvement of the envelope glycoprotein gp70 of an endogenous xenotropic virus in the formation of circulating immune complexes and their deposition in the glomerular lesions have been demonstrated, as has the pathogenicity of various antinuclear, antiphospholipid, and rheumatoid factor autoantibodies. In recent genetic linkage studies as well as in a study of cytokine-induced protection against nephritis development, the strongest association of serum levels of gp70-anti-gp70 immune complexes, rather than the levels of antinuclear autoantibodies, with the development and severity of glomerulonephritis has been demonstrated, suggesting a major pathogenic role of anti-gp70 autoantibodies in the lupus-prone mice. However, the pathogenicity of anti-gp70 autoantibodies has not yet been directly tested. To examine if anti-gp70 autoantibodies induce glomerular pathology, we established from unmanipulated MRL/lpr mice hybridoma clones that secrete monoclonal antibodies reactive with endogenous xenotropic viral env gene products. Upon transplantation, a high proportion of these anti-gp70 antibody-producing hybridoma clones induced in syngeneic non-autoimmune and severe combined immunodeficiency mice proliferative or wire loop-like glomerular lesions. Furthermore, deposition of gp70 in glomeruli and pathological changes were observed after intravenous injection of representative clones of purified anti-gp70 immunoglobulin G, demonstrating pathogenicity of at least some anti-gp70 autoantibodies.

Induction of microthrombotic thrombocytopenia in normal mice by transferring a platelet-reactive, monoclonal anti-gp70 autoantibody established from MRL/lpr mice: an autoimmune model of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura

MRL/MpJ-lpr/lpr (MRL/lpr) mice spontaneously develop immune complex-mediated glomerulonephritis and thrombocytopenia. Although the presence of cross-reactive anti-phospholipid antibodies in sera of MRL/lpr mice has been demonstrated, possible relationships between detected autoantibodies and the development of thrombocytopenia have not been elucidated. Recent genetic analyses in a few different strains of lupus-prone mice have pointed out a close correlation between autoantibodies reactive with endogenous retroviral env gene product, gp70, and the development and severity of glomerulonephritis. In the process of establishing possibly nephritogenic anti-gp70 autoantibody-producing hybridoma cells from MRL/lpr mice, we identified an IgG2a-producing anti-gp70 hybridoma clone that induced microvascular intraluminal platelet aggregation, thrombocytopenia, and amenia upon transplantation into syngeneic non-autoimmune mice. This and two other anti-gp70 antibodies bound onto the surface of mouse platelets, and purified IgG2a of the anti-gp70 autoantibody induced glomerular lesions with characteristics of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura when injected into non-autoimmune mice. The pathogenic anti-gp70 autoantibody specifically precipitated a platelet protein with an approximate relative molecular mass of 40 000.

Genetic regulation of long-term nonprogression in E-55+ murine leukemia virus infection in mice

Certain inbred mouse strains display progression to lymphoma development after infection with E-55+ murine leukemia virus (E-55+ MuLV), while others demonstrate long-term nonprogression. This difference in disease progression occurs despite the fact that E-55+ MuLV causes persistent infection in both immunocompetent BALB/c-H-2(k) (BALB.K) progressor (P) and C57BL/10-H-2(k) (B10.BR) long-term nonprogressor (LTNP) mice. In contrast to immunocompetent mice, immunosuppressed mice from both P and LTNP strains develop lymphomas about 2 months after infection, indicating that the LTNP phenotype is determined by the immune response of the infected mouse. In this study, we used bone marrow chimeras to demonstrate that the LTNP phenotype is associated with the genotype of donor bone marrow and not the recipient microenvironment. In addition, we have mapped a genetic locus that may be responsible for the LTNP trait. Microsatellite-based linkage analysis demonstrated that a non-major histocompatibility complex gene on chromosome 15 regulates long-term survival and is located in the same region as the Rfv3 gene. Rfv3 is involved in recovery from Friend virus-induced leukemia and has been demonstrated to regulate neutralizing virus antibody titers. In our studies, however, both P and LTNP strains produce similar titers of neutralizing and cytotoxic anti-E-55+ MuLV. Therefore, while it is possible that Rfv3 influences the course of E-55+ MuLV infection, it is more likely that the LTNP phenotype in E-55+ MuLV-infected mice is regulated by a different, closely linked gene.

Differing T-cell requirements for recombinant retrovirus vaccines

Friend murine leukemia virus is a retrovirus complex that induces rapid erythroleukemia and immunosuppression in susceptible strains of adult mice. Using this model, we directly examined the T-cell subsets required for a protective retrovirus vaccine. Paradoxically, recovery in mice immunized with a chimeric envelope containing only T-helper (TH) and B-cell epitopes was dependent on CD8+ T cells as well as CD4+ T cells despite the fact that the vaccine contained no CD8+ cytolytic T-lymphocyte (CTL) epitopes. However, the requirement for CD8+ T cells was overcome by inclusion of additional TH and B-cell epitopes in the immunizing protein. These additional epitopes primed for more rapid production of virus-neutralizing antibody which appeared to limit virus spread sufficiently to protect even in the absence of CD8+ T cells. Inclusion of an immunodominant CTL epitope in the vaccine was not sufficient to overcome dependence on CD4+ T cells. These data suggest that TH priming is more critical for retrovirus immunity than CTL priming.

Passive immunotherapy for retroviral disease: influence of major histocompatibility complex type and T-cell responsiveness

Administration of virus-specific antibodies is known to be an effective early treatment for some viral infections. Such immunotherapy probably acts by antibody-mediated neutralization of viral infectivity and is often thought to function independently of T-cell-mediated immune responses. In the present experiments, we studied passive antibody therapy using Friend murine leukemia virus complex as a model for an immunosuppressive retroviral disease in adult mice. The results showed that antibody therapy could induce recovery from a well-established retroviral infection. However, the success of therapy was dependent on the presence of both CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes. Thus, cell-mediated responses were required for recovery from infection even in the presence of therapeutic levels of antibody. The major histocompatibility type of the mice was also an important factor determining the relative success of antibody therapy in this system, but it was less critical for low-dose than for high-dose infections. Our results imply that limited T-cell responsiveness as dictated by major histocompatibility genes and/or stage of disease may have contributed to previous immunotherapy failures in AIDS patients. Possible strategies to improve the efficacy of future therapies are discussed.

A sulfated chitin, SCM-chitin III, inhibits the clearance of human erythrocytes from the blood circulation in erythrocyte-transfused SCID mice

Recently, we have developed a SCID mouse model in which circulating red blood cells (RBC) are entirely substituted with RBCs from other animals like bovine (Bo) or human (Hu). The relatively short life time, especially of Hu-RBCs, in the SCID mouse, however, is a major obstacle in this model. The present study was performed to examine whether a low-toxic sulfated chitin, carboxymethyl chitin III (SCM-chitin III), which has heparin-like structures in the molecule (heparinoid), could inhibit the Hu-RBC clearance in RBC-transfused SCID mice. When Hu-RBCs were transfused simultaneously with SCM-chitin III, their life time in the blood circulation was prolonged significantly. Sulfated chitosan (S-chitosan) showed only a weak decelerating activity on the clearance of Hu-RBCs. Carboxymethyl chitin (CM-chitin), which was used as an unsulfated control compound, had no effect on the Hu-RBC clearance. Another sulfated polysaccharide, dextran sulfate, though this showed some adverse effects, such as anti-coagulant and anti-platelet aggregation, also exhibited a potent decelerating activity on Hu-RBC clearance. Clearance deceleration by these sulfated polysaccharides was primarily attributable to the inhibition of RBC uptake by cultured macrophages.

Transgenic Fv-4 mice resistant to Friend virus

Fv-4 is a mouse gene that confers resistance to infection with ecotropic retroviruses. A candidate Fv-4 gene was cloned previously and found to resemble the 3' half of a murine leukemia virus (MuLV). To study the effect of this gene in vivo, we generated two transgenic mouse strains carrying the Fv-4 env gene under control of its presumed natural promoter, a cellular sequence unrelated to retroviruses. Transgenic progeny expressed a 3-kb Fv-4 env RNA in all of the organs and tissues examined, as well as an Fv-4 envelope antigen on the surface of thymocytes and spleen cells, similar to mice carrying the natural Fv-4 gene. One of the two transgenic strains (designated Fv4-2) expressed three to nine times as much transgene RNA and protein as the other strain (Fv4-11). When challenged with a Friend virus complex containing up to 10(4) XC PFU of Friend MuLV, Fv4-2 mice were completely resistant to development of splenomegaly and had no detectable ecotropic virus in the spleen or blood, confirming that the cloned Fv-4 gene is responsible for resistance to ecotropic MuLV in vivo. In contrast, Fv4-11 mice were only partially resistant, developing viremia and splenomegaly at the highest inoculum dose but recovering from viremia several weeks after inoculation with 10-fold less virus. The phenotype of recovery from viremia in Fv4-11 mice was unexpected and suggests that low levels of expression of the Fv-4 gene enhance the effectiveness of the immune response.

Immunomodulator effects on the Friend virus infection in genetically defined mice

The disease induced by the Friend virus complex (FV) in F1 hybrid mice containing the Rfv-3r/s genotype in the presence of H-2a/a was used to evaluate a variety of immunomodulating substances. In these genetically defined mice, the FV disease results in splenomegaly, early production of high titers of cell-associated and plasma virus, high levels of splenic viral RNA, increased hematocrit, and eventual death. As the disease progresses, reduced levels of infectious virus correlate with development of specific antibody; reduction in T cell populations, increase in B cells, and decrease in T-cell function also occur. The following immunomodulators were evaluated, listed in the order of their ability to inhibit the FV disease: imexon > MVE-2 > human recombinant IFN-alpha A/D > AS101 > ampligen > AM-3 = oxamisole > ImuVert > bropirimine. In fact, bropirimine, used with certain treatment regimens, appeared to enhance the FV disease. These data suggest that certain immunomodulators may have potential value in the treatment of HIV disease, but also indicate that caution should be exercised in their clinical use.

Approach to a retrovirus vaccine: immunization of mice against Friend virus disease with a replication-defective Friend murine leukemia virus

In an initial attempt to test the ability of replication-defective retroviruses to immunize against immunologically related pathogenic viruses, we have worked with the erythroleukemogenic Friend retrovirus complex (FV), which consists of a replication-competent helper component, Friend murine leukemia virus (FMuLV), and a related defective pathogenic component, spleen focus-forming virus (SFFV). An 81-base-pair deletion was introduced into the p15E-encoding region of the env gene of an otherwise replication-competent molecular clone of the FMuLV provirus. After transfection of this clone into cells that package the viral RNA in MuLV coats, infectious virus was released into the culture medium. Mouse fibroblasts infected with this virus, here called delta FMuLV, expressed the truncated viral env gene products in their cytoplasm but not on cell surfaces, and culture fluids from these cells did not transmit the infection to fresh mouse fibroblasts. In preliminary experiments, immunization of mice of H-2-congenic BALB/c strains with delta FMuLV conferred levels of immunity to FV disease ranging from weak to relatively strong. Immunized mice developed anti-FV IgM and IgG antibodies and cytotoxic T cells. Mice observed for 15 weeks after the first of two immunizations showed no detectable pathology, but delta FMuLV DNA was detectable in livers of some immunized mice for at least 3-6 weeks. These results suggest that our approach to development of retrovirus vaccines may be a useful one.

Interference established in mice by infection with Friend murine leukemia virus

Retroviral interference is manifested in chronically infected cells as a decrease in susceptibility to superinfection by virions using the same cellular receptor. The pattern of interference reflects the cellular receptor specificity of the chronically infecting retrovirus and is mediated by the viral envelope glycoprotein, which is postulated to bind competitively all cellular receptors available for viral attachment. We established retroviral interference in mice by infecting them with Friend murine leukemia virus and them measured susceptibility to superinfection by challenging the mice with the erythroproliferative spleen focus-forming virus. Infection of approximately 10% of nucleated splenocytes rendered mice 1% as susceptible to superinfection as untreated controls. The magnitude of this effect was the same in mice incapable of producing neutralizing antibodies or genetically deficient for T cells. The results indicated that retroviral interference in vivo was established rapidly with infection of a fraction of the host cell population and that the decrease in susceptibility to superinfection occurred without a detectable contribution by immunologic factors.

Direct determination of the point mutation rate of a murine retrovirus

The point mutation rate of a murine leukemia virus (MuLV) genome (AKV) was determined under conditions in which the number of replicative cycles was carefully controlled and the point mutation rate was determined by direct examination of the RNA genomes of progeny viruses. A clonal cell line infected at a low multiplicity of infection (2 x 10(-3)) was derived to provide a source of virus with high genetic homogeneity. Virus stocks from this cell line were used to infect cells at a low multiplicity of infection, and the cells were seeded soon after infection to obtain secondary clonal cell lines. RNase T1-oligonucleotide fingerprinting analyses of virion RNAs from 93 secondary lines revealed only 3 base changes in nearly 130,000 bases analyzed. To obtain an independent assessment of the mutation rate, we directly sequenced virion RNAs by using a series of DNA oligonucleotide primers distributed across the genome. RNA sequencing detected no mutations in over 21,000 bases analyzed. The combined fingerprinting and sequencing analyses yielded a mutation rate for infectious progeny viruses of one base change per 50,000 (2 x 10(-5)) bases per replication cycle. Our results suggest that over 80% of infectious progeny MuLVs may be replicated with complete fidelity and that only a low percentage undergo more than one point mutation during a replication cycle. Previous estimates of retroviral mutation rates suggest that the majority of infectious progeny viruses have undergone one or more point mutations. Recent studies of the mutation rates of marker genes in spleen necrosis virus-based vectors estimate a base substitution rate lower than estimates for infectious avian retroviruses and nearly identical to our determinations with AKV. The differences between mutation rates observed in studies of retroviruses may reflect the imposition of different selective conditions.

Elucidation of mode of retroviral-inhibitory effects of imexon through use of immune competent and severe combined immune deficiency (SCID) mice

Mice infected with various tumor retroviruses have been used as models for evaluating therapeutic substances for the treatment of some cancers, and more recently, for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, the causative agent of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Consequently, there is a need to determine the ability of biological response modifiers (BRMs) to specifically reduce virus-infected cells, as compared to their non-specific anti-proliferative effects. To address this need, a BRM, imexon, was evaluated in this study using three strains of mice having different Friend virus (FV)-specific immunological capabilities. The first strain, (B10.A x A/WySn)F1, was genetically capable of producing FV-specific neutralization and cytotoxic antibodies, the second, Balb/c, was not, and the third, SCID mice, lacked functional T and B cell immunity. Imexon treatment reduced virally-induced splenomegaly in all 3 strains; however, the concentration of splenic viral infectious centers (IC) were not affected. Since imexon was efficacious in reducing splenomegaly in SCID mice, the mode of action was concluded to not require functional T or B cell immunity. The observation that imexon did not affect splenic IC titers also suggested that imexon did not specifically eliminate virally infected cells, but may have functioned by other mechanisms. This study also demonstrated the use of various mouse strains as a strategy for delineating the modes of action of BRMs against murine retroviral infections.

Friend virus replication in normal and immunosuppressed C57BL/6 mice

Young adult C57BL/6 mice are resistant to the replication of Friend virus. We show here that this resistance is not absolute. In 7-week old C57BL/6 mice injected with NB-tropic Friend virus iv, high titers of SFFV could be recovered from the spleen at 8 days after infection but by 21 days, no virus was detectable. A single dose of anti-Thy 1.2 monoclonal antibody iv before FV infection permitted continued replication of SFFV in these animals. This finding strongly supports the hypothesis that SFFV replication in C57BL/6 mice is restricted by a T cell-mediated immune response.

In vivo generation of antigenic variants of murine retroviruses

Inoculation of adult BALB/c-H-2k (BALB.K) mice with both Gross murine leukemia virus (GV) and a biological clone derived from this virus resulted in the recovery of variant viruses which differ from GV with respect to the expression of specific epitopes associated with the env gene product, gp70. The loss of these epitopes correlated with the failure of antiserum raised in BALB.K mice against GV to neutralize variant virus although this antiserum neutralized GV. In contrast, BALB/c-H-2b (BALB.B) mice, immunized with GV, produced antibodies which neutralized both GV and the variant virus, indicating that BALB.B mice respond to epitopes distinct from those recognized by BALB.K mice. These results suggest that the selection of variant viruses resulting from in vivo passage may be related to the immunoselective pressures exerted in mice which express particular alleles of certain major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-linked genes.

Genetic control of T cell responsiveness to the Friend murine leukemia virus envelope antigen. Identification of class II loci of the H-2 as immune response genes

T cells primed specifically for the envelope glycoprotein of Friend murine leukemia helper virus (F-MuLV) were prepared by immunizing mice with a recombinant vaccinia virus that expressed the entire env gene of F-MuLV. Significant proliferative responses of F-MuLV envelope-specific, H-2a/b T cells were observed when the T cells were stimulated with antigen-pulsed peritoneal exudate cells (PEC) having the b allele at the K, A beta, A alpha, and E beta loci of the H-2. On the other hand, PEC having only the kappa allele at these loci did not induce the envelope-specific T cell proliferation, even when the PEC had the b allele at the E alpha, S, or D loci. F-MuLV envelope-specific proliferation of H-2a/b T cells under the stimulation of antigen-pulsed, H-2a/b PEC was specifically blocked with anti-I-Ab and anti-I-Ek mAbs but not with anti-Kb, anti-Kk, or anti-I-Ak mAbs. Moreover, (B10.MBR x A/WySn)F1 mice that have the b allele only at the K locus but not in I-A subregion were nonresponders to the envelope glycoprotein, and the bm12 mutation at the A beta locus completely abolished the T cell responsiveness to this antigen. These results indicate that proliferative T cells recognize a limited number of epitopes on F-MuLV envelope protein in the context of I-Ab, hybrid I-Ak/b, and/or hybrid I-Ek/b class II MHC molecules but fail to recognize the same envelope protein in the context of I-Ak or I-Ek molecules. This influence of the H-2I region on T cell recognition of the envelope glycoprotein appeared to control in vivo induction of protective immunity against Friend virus complex after immunization with the vaccinia-F-MuLV env vaccine. Thus, these results provide, for the first time, direct evidence for Ir gene-controlled responder/nonresponder phenotypes influencing the immune response to a pathogenic virus of mice.

Different H-2 subregions influence immunization against retrovirus and immunosuppression

Friend murine leukaemia virus complex (FV) causes an immunosuppressive retrovirus-induced disease. In certain mouse strains, FV shows striking similarities to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in man in that infected mice have severe T-cell immunosuppression but also develop virus-neutralizing antibodies incapable of eliminating infected cells. Previously we noted the influence of mouse major histocompatibility complex (H-2) genes on both FV-induced immunosuppression and on ability to protect mice against FV by immunizing with a vaccinia-Friend murine leukaemia helper virus (F-MuLV) envelope (env) recombinant virus. Here we show that different subregions of H-2 are involved in susceptibility to virus-induced immunosuppression (H-2D subregion) and protective immunization with a recombinant vaccinia virus (H-2K or I-A subregions). Thus, susceptibility to virus-induced immunosuppression does not preclude protection by vaccinia-Friend immunization. The mechanism of protection seems to involve priming of immune T cells, and not initial induction of neutralizing antibodies or cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) (ref.2). Subsequent virus challenge generates a secondary response, resulting in appearance of IgG antibodies and CTL. In human HIV infection there could also be host genetic influences on elements of disease pathogenesis, such as immunosuppression, and on the success of T-cell priming by potential protective vaccines.

T-lymphocyte priming and protection against Friend leukemia by vaccinia-retrovirus env gene recombinant

The current prevalence of the acquired immune deficiency syndrome in humans has provoked renewed interest in methods of protective immunization against retrovirus-induced diseases. In this study, a vaccinia-retrovirus recombinant vector was constructed to study mechanisms of immune protection against Friend virus leukemia in mice. The envelope (env) gene from Friend murine leukemia virus (F-MuLV) was inserted into the genome of a vaccinia virus expression vector. Infected cells synthesized gp85, the glycosylated primary product of the env gene. Processing to gp70 and p15E, and cell surface localization, were similar to that occurring in cells infected with F-MuLV. Mice inoculated with live recombinant vaccinia virus had an envelope-specific T-cell proliferative response and, after challenge with Friend virus complex, developed neutralizing antibody and cytotoxic T cells (CTL) and were protected against leukemia. In contrast, unimmunized and control groups developed a delayed neutralizing antibody response, but no detectable CTL, and succumbed to leukemia. Genes of the major histocompatibility complex influenced protection induced by the vaccinia recombinant but not that induced by attenuated N-tropic Friend virus.

Influence of the murine MHC (H-2) on Friend leukemia virus-induced immunosuppression

Friend murine leukemia virus complex (FV)-induced immunosuppression was studied by assaying splenic anti-SRBC PFC responses and plasma antibody titers in mice at various times after FV inoculation. Genes located within the H-2 complex were found to influence resistance to FV-induced immunosuppression. Near normal responses were observed in mice having the H-2a/b or H-2b/b genotype, whereas mice having the H-2a/a genotype were suppressed. This H-2 effect was observed not only in mice having heterozygous C57BL/10 X A background genes, including Rfv-3r/s, but also was apparent in mice having homozygous A-strain background genes, including Rfv-3s/s. Therefore, the Rfv-3 gene did not appear to convey resistance to FV-induced immunosuppression. The suppression in susceptible H-2a/a mice was characterized by a partial suppression of the IgM response and a profound suppression of both the primary and secondary IgG responses. Neither splenomegaly nor viremia alone appeared to be sufficient for the induction or maintenance of the immunosuppression. The mechanism of suppression was unclear, but both B lymphocyte and T lymphocyte functions appeared to be altered.

A simple and inexpensive method for assessing in vitro candidacidal activity of leukocytes

Candidacidal activity of mouse neutrophils and macrophages was determined directly in microtiter plates. After a suitable period of interaction between phagocytic cells and C. albicans in the wells, the mouse cells were lysed with distilled water and corn meal agar was added to each well. Following incubation at 37 degrees C, viability was assessed using an inverted microscope and counting the number of germ tubes or microcolonies which developed. This method does not use radioisotopes or vital stains and should be applicable to other genera of yeasts.

Genetic control of immune responses to Moloney sarcomas in rats: role of non-RT-1 background genes

Bone marrow chimeras, athymic nude rats and a congeneic strain were utilized to verify and further examine non-RT-1 linked background genes that influence immune responses of BN and LEW rats to Moloney sarcomas. In transplants that did not involve RT-1 incompatibility, infusion of high-responder bone marrow into a lethally irradiated low-responder recipient, or low-responder bone marrow into a high-responder recipient, would restore a high antibody response to the gp70 antigen of MuLV. Such transplants did not restore a high response to the p30 antigen. Athymic nude rats did not exhibit a significant response to either p30 or gp70 while euthymic littermates exhibited a significant response to both antigens. Growth of Moloney sarcomas as well as antibody and cellular responses to antigens expressed by such tumors were measured in LEW-IN rats which carry the RT-1 of BN and the background of LEW. For each of these parameters, LEW-IN resembled LEW more closely than BN.

An immunological focus assay for murine leukemia viruses on viable attached cell lines

An assay is described for the detection and isolation of murine leukemia virus (MuLV)-infected cells in viable monolayers. The procedure utilizes antisera or monoclonal antibodies which specifically bind cell surface viral antigens of infected cells. Bound antibodies are subsequently detected by binding with 125I-labeled Staphylococcus aureus protein A followed by autoradiography of the tissue culture vessel. Focal areas of infection can be identified from the autoradiograph and infected cells can subsequently be isolated and subcultured as MuLV-producing cell lines. With appropriate antibodies the procedure should be useful for the direct isolation of minor components, including mutants, in complex virus mixtures.

A new gene that controls the type of leukemia induced by Friend murine leukemia virus

NB tropic Friend murine leukemia virus (F-MuLV) replicates equally well in BALB/c and C57BL mice inoculated as neonates but causes almost exclusively erythroblastosis in BALB/c mice and nonerythroid (lymphoid and myelogenous) leukemias in C57BL mice. The C57BL resistance to erythroblastosis appears to be controlled by a single dominant gene in first and second backcrosses to BALB/c. This resistance to erythroblastosis is distinct from other genes known to affect susceptibility to Friend virus including Fv-1, Fv-2, H-2, Rfv-3, Fv-4, and Rmcf. We suggest the name Fhe for the new gene controlling susceptibility to Friend helper virus erythroblastosis.

Effect of murine host genotype on MCF virus expression, latency, and leukemia cell type of leukemias induced by Friend murine leukemia helper virus

Leukemias induced by neonatal inoculations of several mouse strains with different strains of Friend murine leukemia helper virus (F-MuLV) were followed for time of disease onset, cytochemical analysis of predominant cell types in leukemic organs, and expression of infectious mink cell focus-inducing (MCF) viruses detected by mink cell foci or MCF-specific monoclonal antibodies. Most BALB.B and IRW mice had a rapidly appearing, severe anemia and hepatosplenomegaly consisting of erythroid cells. MCF viruses were usually isolated from enlarged spleens of IRW mice. In contrast, C57BL/10 mice had a lower incidence of disease and much slower course. Splenomegaly and lymphadenopathy with mild anemia were seen, and the predominant cell types were either myeloid (chloroleukemia) or lymphoid. MCF viruses were never isolated from this mouse strain. (C57BL/10 X IRW)F1 mice were intermediate in latency, but all mice had disease by 8 months. Myeloid, lymphoid, and some mixed leukemias with an erythroid component were observed, but in no case did we see the severe anemia or pure erythroid involvement typical of IRW and BALB.B mice. MCF viruses were, however, isolated from 22% of these mice regardless of leukemia cell type. DBA/2 mice had a disease pattern similar to the (C57BL/10 X IRW)F1 mice, and MCF viruses were isolated from three of six mice tested. Inoculation of IRW mice with the low virulence B3 strain of F-MuLV produced disease with a longer latency than F-MuLV 57, but similar cell types were transformed by both viruses. In vitro cell lines were derived from 14 mice, and most were tumorigenic in vivo. Three lines released infectious MCF virus, and three others expressed MCF-specific cell surface antigens but did not release virus. Eight lines expressed no MCF infectious virus or viral antigens. Several lines released infectious xenotropic viruses and/or expressed xenotropic MuLV cell surface antigens recognized by monoclonal antibodies reactive with xenotropic viruses. The lack of MCF expression in many primary leukemic tissues as well as in in vitro derived leukemia cell lines of C57BL/10 and (B10 X IRW)F1 mice suggested that MCF virus generation and expression may not be required for leukemogenesis in some mouse strains or in some hemopoietic lineages.

Characterization of monoclonal antibodies reactive with murine leukemia viruses: use in analysis of strains of friend MCF and Friend ecotropic murine leukemia virus

Sixteen mouse and rat monoclonal antibodies reactive with gag or env proteins of Friend murine leukemia virus (F-MuLV) or recombinant MCF viruses related to F-MuLV were derived. Specificity of these was determined by immunofluorescence, immunoprecipitation, and reactivity with viral proteins blotted onto nitrocellulose paper. Seven antibodies reacted with envelope protein antigens of certain nonecotropic viruses only. Nine antibodies reacted with both ecotropic and nonecotropic viruses. Of this latter group, three were antienvelope, four were anti-p15, one was anti-p12, and one was anti-p30 in specificity. When tested as a panel against 10 strains of F-MuLV, these antibodies could distinguish seven different antigenic patterns. However, all 10 strains retained reactivity for three anti-gp70 antibodies uniquely specific for Friend and Rauscher MuLVs. Our antibody panel could also identify MCF viruses isolated from mice neonatally inoculated with F-MuLV as recombinants related to a particular F-MuLV strain based on identity of p15 gag antigenic profiles. However, recombinant viruses lacked several envelope antigens always associated with F-MuLV and instead had new envelope reactivities. These anti-MCF monoclonal antibodies detected no shared envelope antigens between MCF and xenotropic viruses isolated from mice inoculated with F-MuLV, however many of them did react with MCF viruses derived from AKR mice and NFS mice congenic for endogenous ecotropic virus loci.

Shut-down of virus synthesis during progression of erythroleukemia induced by Friend virus in mice

Infection of (C57BL/6 X DBA/2)F1 (BDF1) mice with 2,500 FFU of Friend virus complex (FV) resulted in erythroleukemia followed by recovery, at which time virus could not be detected in the spleens of mice, and with splenomegaly (progressor mice) or without splenomegaly (regressor mice). Progressor and regressor mice developed equally high amounts of FV-neutralizing activity in their sera. Progressor mice contained cells capable of producing virus, despite the lack of viral envelope antigen(s) in their spleens. The tropism of FV recoverable from the spleens of secondary recipients, injected with spleen cells from progressor mice, did not show any change, although the viral genome was present in Fv-I-restrictive host for at least 7 weeks. When the number of spleen colony-generating cells was enumerated, by the spleen colony assay, the frequency in normal syngeneic and in allogeneic hosts was approximately the same at the early stage of erythroleukemia but was about 1,000 times higher in the syngeneic recipients during leukemia progression. These spleen colony-generating cells were considered to be FV-transformed cells capable of self-renewal and capable of generating infectious centers (IC), respectively. Most of these transformed cells might be non-producer leukemia cells.

Immunotherapy of murine leukemia VI. Development of immunologic memory in mice protected against Friend leukemia virus-induced disease by passive serum therapy

The resistance of DBA/2 mice to infection with a leukemogenic dose of Friend leukemia virus (FLV) as a result of the passive administration of chimpanzee anti-FLV serum is maintained for at least six months after infection and is accompanied by the continued synthesis of mouse anti-viral antibodies analogous to that previously found to be associated with short-term protection (approx. 30 days). Furthermore, the induction of immunologic memory in serum-protected mice is demonstrated by their long-term resistance to rechallenge with FLV of FLV-infected leukemic spleen cells, although cells of an established transplantable syngeneic FLV-erythroleukemia (FLC-745) are not rejected. In the course of these studies, a serum prophylaxis effect was defined in DBA/2 mice treated with the chimpanzee anti-FLV serum before, rather than after FLV infection. The prophylaxis effect is highly dependent on the time period between the last serum inoculation and virus challenge. The results indicate that the long-term resistance of therapeutically protected mice to subsequent virus or leukemic cell challenge is not due to the short-term prophylactic effect of serum treatment alone.

Complementing MHC- and non-MHC-linked genes and resistance to avian sarcoma virus-induced tumours in inbred lines of chickens

Schmidt-Ruppin Rous sarcoma virus, subgroup B (SR-RSV-B), was inoculated into the wingwebs of chickens from three partially congenic inbred lines, G-B1, G-B2 and G-B3, homozygous for different MHC (B region) haplotypes (genotypes = B1/B1, B2/B2 and B3/B3 respectively). All birds developed tumours but only the G-B2 line resisted progressive tumour growth. Birds from lines G-B1 and G-B3 approached 100% susceptibility to progressive tumour growth, whereas most (G-B1 X G-B3) F1 hybrids were resistant to tumours induced by SR-RSV-B. The association of the resistance trait in F1 hybrids with genes of the B region was investigated by testing progeny of (G-B1 X G-B3) X B-B1 F1 and (G-B1 X G-B2) X G-B3 F1 backcross matings. Approximately 27% of the backcross population was resistant to SR-RSV-B-induced tumours and these resistant offspring were predominantly of the B1/B3 phenotype. We interpret these results to mean that resistance to progressive tumour growth involves complementation between genes (allelic or at separate loci) linked to or within the B region and that resistance is effective only when the complementing B region genes act in concert with complementing genes which assort independently of the MHC. We suggest that complementing B region-linked genes are homologues of complementing murine H-2-linked Ir genes. The function of the B region in determining growth of sarcomas may therefore be analogous to that of Ir genes.

Spontaneous regression of Friend-virus-induced erythroleukemia. VII. The genetic control of regression

The genetic control of spontaneous regression of erythroleukemia was studied in parental and hybrid mice in which leukemia was induced by the regressing strain of Friend virus (RFV). Because in previous studies parental regressor mouse strains tested (N/PLCR, SIM, NIH Swiss) all had the FV-1n/n genotype and the progressor mouse strains (SIM.R, BALB/c) had the Fv-1b/b genotype, we detemined the influence of Fv-1 alleles on regression. Genes which influence regression were dominant and had partial penetrance in (progressor x regressor) F1 mice. Regression occurred in hybrid mice which inherited the Fv-1b/b genes of each of the progressor mouse strains. Regression and Fv-1 alleles also segregated independently in (N/PLCR x BALB/c) F2 mice, in random-bred Swiss mice heterozygous for the Fv-1 gene, in partially inbred Swiss recombinant progressor and regressor mouse lines, and in hybrid mice carrying the Fv-1b/b gene of SIM.R mice. Regressor SIM and progressor SIM.R mice, which were bred to be congeneic at the Fv-1 locus, also differ with respect to recovery from viremia, suggesting that their Rfv-3 genes differ and influence regression. Crosses of SIM and SIM.R mice with the A.BY (Rfv-3s/s) mouse strain confirmed that SIM and SIM.R carry Rfv-3r/r and Rfv-3s/s, respectively. We conclude that Fv-1b/b is not inhibitory to regression nor is the Fv-1 gene a genetic deteminant in the process. The data suggest that regression is influenced by several genes, including those (Rfv-1, Rfv-2, Rfv-3) shown to affect recovery from leukemia in other systems.

Replication-defective Friend murine leukemia virus particles containing uncleaved gag polyproteins and decreased levels of envelope glycoprotein

An erythroleukemia cell clone, 7C, which failed to produce reverse transcriptase-containing virions or infectious virus, was found to produce noninfectious virus particles by gradient banding of [3H]leucine- and [3H]uridine-labeled virions. The RNA from the 7C virus was shown to consist of the normal 70S size component, which converted to 35S upon heat denaturation. In contrast, the 7C virion proteins showed multiple defects. Analysis of the virion proteins by gel electrophoresis demonstrated that the pr65 gag precursor was incorporated into the 7C virus and that the processing of this precursor was severely diminished. Polymerase proteins pr180gag-pol and pr120pol were also detected in virions, and a third possible polymerase protein, p70, was reduced in size compared to its normal counterpart, p80. Incorporation of the viral gp70 glycoprotein into particles was also reduced 10-fold, despite synthesis and incorporation of gp70 into the 7C cell membrane in normal amounts. Pulse-chase analysis of the synthesis of the viral gag and env proteins in 7C cells showed greatly reduced amounts of pr180gag-pol, pr65gag, p80gag, and p42gag, whereas pr90env, gp70, and spleen focus-forming virus-specific gp55 were synthesized and processed normally. These results suggested that at least one defect in 7C virus was impaired cleavage of gag or pol proteins or both, most likely due to a lack of the appropriate viral protease, and that this lack of cleavage might affect incorporation of gp70 into virus particles.

H-2D (Rfv-1) gene influence on recovery from Friend virus leukemia is mediated by nonleukemic cells of the spleen and bone marrow

H-2D (Rfv-1)-associated control of recovery from FV leukemia was studied in congenic mice. In irradiation chimeras, the high recovery phenotype was transferred by cells of the spleen, bone marrow, and fetal liver. Furthermore, in cell transfers using unirradiated recipients, spleen and bone marrow cells of the high-recovery genotype were able to mediate recovery from leukemia in mice of the low-recovery genotype. Thus, the H-2D (Rfv-1) influence on recovery appeared to operate via nonleukemic cells of the spleen and bone marrow rather than via leukemic cells. The specific nonleukemic cell type(s) involved in recovery remains unknown. However, the mechanism appears to be complex and probably involves both anti-FV antibody and FV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes.

Genetic control of sensitivity to Moloney leukemia virus in mice. III. The three H-2 linked Rmv genes are immune response genes controlling the antiviral antibody response

It has been shown previously that three different H-2-associated genes control the resistance to viremia and leukemia in Moloney virus-infected mice: Rmv. 1, mapping to the I-A or less probably K regions; Rmv. 2, mapping to the I-C, S or G regions and Rmv. 3, mapping to the D or T regions. Experiments have been performed to determine the role of these genes in the control of the antibody responses directed against Moloney murine leukemia virus (M. MuLV) virions and/or leukemic cells. The inoculation of infectious M.MuLV failed to provide conclusive responses due to unequal replication of the virus in different inbred strains resulting in variable antigenic stimulations and/or in vivo antibody absorptions. The use of inactivated M.MuLV as antigen allowed to avoid these problems. It showed that (2) the IgG-specific antiM.MuLV response is controlled by H-2 linked genes, (b) a clear correlation exists between high or low-responder phenotypes and the resistance or susceptibility to M.MuLV infection and (c) all three Rmv genes behave like immune response genes. These results were not surprising for Rmv. 1 and Rmv. 2 which map in the I region of the major histocompatibility complex. It was more puzzling for Rmv. 3. Further experiments are necessary to determine the exact mechanism by which this gene controls the immune response.

Persistence of infectious Friend virus in spleens of mice after spontaneous recovery from virus-induced erythroleukemia

Persistent infectious virus was detected in the majority of spleens of (C57BL/10 X A.BY)F1 mice after spontaneous recovery from Friend virus-induced erythroleukeima. The Friend murine leukemia helper virus (F-MuLV) was detected in titers up to 3 X 10(5) PFU/g of spleen. The defective spleen focus-forming virus (SFFV) was present in much lower titers and could be detected in cell-free spleen homogenates only after amplification of virus titer by growth of virus in vitro on SC1 cells. The incidence of cells producing F-MuLV alone in spleens after recovery from leukemia was 0.003 to 0.3%, and the incidence of cells producing both F-MuLV and SFFV was less than 0.0001 to 0.01%. In most recovered mouse spleens there appeared to be a selective reduction of SFFV relative to F-MuLV.

Antibody-induced modulation of Friend virus cell surface antigens decreases virus production by persistent erythroleukemia cells: influence of the Rfv-3 gene

The Rfv-3 gene was found to influence the level of Friend leukemia virus production in spleens of leukemic mice later than 30 days after virus inoculation. Rfv-3r/s mice [(B10.A X A)F1 and (B10.A X A.BY)F1] had decreased spleen virus levels 30-90 days after virus inoculation compared to Rfv-3s/s mice [A.BY, A, BALB.B, and (BALB/c X A)F1)]. In (B10.A X A)F1 X A backcross mice the spleen virus titer segregated with the level of viremia. The Rfv-3 gene appeared to act by controlling anti-Friend virus antibody production. The interaction of antiviral antibody with infected cells led to a decrease in release of infectious virus by late leukemic spleen cells in Rfv-3r/s mice to 1/300th that in Rfv-3s/s mice. This decrease in virus release appeared to be due to interference with the virus budding process due to antibody-mediated modulation of virus-induced cell surface antigens.

Anti-Friend virus antibody is associated with recovery from viremia and loss of viral leukemia cell-surface antigens in leukemic mice. Identification of Rfv-3 as a gene locus influencing antibody production

A single genetic locus, Rfv-3, influenced Friend virus (FV) viremia, loss of FV-induced cell-surface antigens from leukemia cells, and generation of anti-FV antibodies. 30--90 d after FV infection leukemic spleen cells from (B10.A X A)F1 and (B10.A X A.BY)F1 mice (Rfv-3r/s) were found to have low FV-induced cell-surface antigen expression compared to leukemic spleen cells from A and A.BY mice (Rfv-3s/s). In addition, these F1 mice recovered from viremia and generated cytotoxic anti-FV antibodies. A and A.BY mice did not recover from viremia and failed to generate anti-FV antibodies. Anti-FV leukemia cell antibody appeared to mediate FV-antigen loss because decrease of FV cell-surface antigens occurred at the same time as anti-FV antibody appeared in the plasma of F1 mice, and passive transfer of anti-FV antisera induced modulation of FV cell-surface antigens. Rfv-3 did not influence an intrinsic ability of FV antigens to be modulated from Rfv-3s/s leukemia cells because FV antigen loss from Rfv-3s/s spleen cells occurred after transfer of cells to an immune environment.