Concanavalin A-inducible, interleukin-2-producing T cell hybridoma

BW5147 and Derivatives for the Study of T Cells and their Antigen Receptors

Like B cells, T cells can be immortalized through hybridization with lymphoma cells, a technique that has been particularly useful in the study of the T cell receptors (TCR) for antigen. In T cell hybridizations, the AKR mouse strain-derived thymus lymphoma BW5147 is by far the most popular fusion line. However, the full potential of this technology had to await inactivation of the productively rearranged TCR-α and -β genes in the lymphoma. BWα-β-, the TCR-gene deficient variant of the original lymphoma, which has become the fusion line of choice for αβ T cells, is now available with numerous modifications, enabling the investigation of many aspects of TCR-mediated responses and TCR-structure. Unexpectedly, inactivating BW's functional TCR-α gene also rendered the lymphoma more permissive for the expression of TCR-γδ, facilitating the study of γδ T cells, their TCRs, and their TCR-mediated reactivity.

Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior Isn't Necessarily a Bad Thing

It is difficult to believe that in about 1960 practically nothing was known about the thymus and some of its products, T cells bearing αβ receptors for antigen. Thus I was lucky to join the field of T cell biology almost at its beginning, when knowledge about the cells was just getting off the ground and there was so much to discover. This article describes findings about these cells made by others and myself that led us all from ignorance, via complete confusion, to our current state of knowledge. I believe I was fortunate to practice science in very supportive institutions and with very collaborative colleagues in two countries that both encourage independent research by independent scientists, while simultaneously ignoring or somehow being able to avoid some of the difficulties of being a woman in what was, at the time, a male-dominated profession.

Presentation of the Goodpasture Autoantigen Requires Proteolytic Unlocking Steps That Destroy Prominent T Cell Epitopes

The most abundant autoreactive T cells in patients with Goodpasture's disease are specific for peptides in the autoantigen that have high affinity for the disease-associated HLA class II molecule, DR15. How can such T cells escape self-tolerance mechanisms? This study showed that these peptides are highly susceptible to destruction in the earliest stages of antigen processing, and some must be cleaved for antigen digestion to be possible ("unlocking"). Goodpasture autoantigen [collagen alpha3(IV)NC1; approximately 31 kD] that was incubated with B cell lysosomes was cleaved within a few minutes to form approximately 9- and approximately 22-kD fragments, then increasing quantities of smaller peptides. The processing was completely abrogated by pepstatin A, a specific inhibitor of cathepsin D/E, even though lysosomal extracts contain a rich array of proteases. Purified cathepsin D generated the same major alpha3(IV)NC1 fragments as entire lysosomes, suggesting that cathepsin D cleavages are required to initiate alpha3(IV)NC1 processing. The initial unlocking cleavages destroyed two major self-epitopes, and subsequent preferred cleavages destroyed all of the other T cell epitopes that are recognized by most patients' autoreactive T cells. The responses of T cell clones that are specific for a major disease-associated peptide to antigen-pulsed intact antigen-presenting cells were substantially enhanced by pepstatin A treatment. Therefore, cathepsin D activity significantly diminishes presentation of alpha3(IV)NC1 peptides that are recognized by patients' T cells by destroying the peptides in early processing. These observations can explain why the mature T cell repertoire includes reactivity toward these self-peptides and suggests that a key factor in disease initiation is likely to be a shift in antigen processing.

The determination of draining lymph node cell cytokine mRNA levels in BALB/c mice following dermal sodium lauryl sulfate, dinitrofluorobenzene, and toluene diisocyanate exposure

Differential modulation has been demonstrated in interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-10, and interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) mRNA and protein secretion patterns of cells isolated from the draining lymph nodes of mice following exposure to T cell and respiratory sensitizers. Using a multiprobe ribonuclease protection assay, the following investigation examined the mRNA expression patterns of multiple cytokines associated with respiratory sensitization for modulation following exposure to chemicals known primarily to induce irritation (sodium lauryl sulfate), respiratory sensitization (toluene diisocyanate), or T cell-mediated hypersensitivity (dinitrofluorobenzene) responses. On days 0 and +5 female BALB/c mice were exposed to either test article or vehicle on the shaven dorsal lumbar region; on days +10 through +12 the mice received test article on the dorsal aspect of each ear. On day +13 animals were euthanized, draining lymph nodes were excised, and mRNA was isolated immediately or following 24 or 48 h of culture in the presence or absence of concanavalin (Con) A. Differential expression of cytokine mRNA was most notable following 24 h incubation with Con A. Modulation of IL-4, -10, and IFN-gamma following chemical exposure was consistent with previous studies. In addition, IL-9, -13, and -15 were significantly elevated only following toluene diisocyanate exposure. Further investigations of these cytokines may provide additional insight into the mechanisms of chemically induced respiratory sensitization and provide endpoints for the detection of a chemical's ability to elicit IgE-mediated hypersensitivity responses.

An islet-specific CD8+ T cell hybridoma generated from non-obese diabetic mice recognizes insulin as an autoantigen

Although CD8+ T cells play a major role in beta cell destruction in insulin-dependent diabetes in the non-obese diabetic mouse, the T cell autoantigen(s) recognized by such cells remains to be identified. Therefore, an islet-reactive, CD8+ T cell line was generated from islet-infiltrating cells and hybridized by fusion with a CD8+ alphabeta TCR- BW5147 thymoma. In the presence of islets, none of the 12 CD3+ CD8+ T cell hybridomas isolated secreted IL-2/IL-4 or IFNgamma but three were islet specific, as shown by activation induced cell death. Subclone 4A7.7.15 recognized only islets expressing H-2Kd, demonstrated islet-specific inhibition of proliferation and concomitant partial arrest in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle. Further analysis using a panel of cell lines, expressing H-2Kd, and transfected with the cDNA for various putative autoantigens in type 1 diabetes showed that 4A7.7.15 recognizes insulin as an antigen.

Selective modulation of protein kinase C-theta during T-cell activation

Every cell contains many families of protein kinases, and may express several structurally related yet genetically distinct kinases of each family. The activity of the serine/threonine protein kinase C (PKC) enzymes has long been implicated in T-cell activation, but it is not known which members of the PKC family regulate the T-cell response to foreign antigens. The activation of T cells by antigen-presenting cells (APCs) is spatially restricted to their site of contact, where receptors on the T cells engage their counter-receptors on the APCs. We used this localized engagement to identify, at the single-cell level, intracellular proteins involved in the activation process. By digital immunofluorescence microscopy, we localized six isoforms of PKC in antigen-specific T-cell clones activated by APCs. Surprisingly, only PKC-theta translocated to the site of cell contact. Accordingly, in vitro kinase activity assays of PKC immunoprecipitates from the conjugates of T cells and APCs showed a selective increase in the activity of PKC-theta, indicating that the translocated enzyme is active. Several modes of partial T-cell activation that failed to cause PKC-theta translocation also failed to cause T-cell proliferation, further suggesting the involvement of PKC-theta in T-cell activation.

Interspecies somatic T cell hybrids as biological tools for studying gene expression during T cell development

Interspecies somatic cell hybrids were generated by fusing the mouse thymic lymphoma cell line, BW5147, with normal human T lymphocytes at different stages of differentiation. Thymocytes, activated peripheral T lymphocytes, or an activated T cell clone were used as human partners, respectively, in three independent fusions. Phenotype and genetic analysis demonstrated that these hybrids preferentially segregated human chromosomes while retaining a complete mouse genetic complement, irrespective of the human partner used for fusion. A large number of T cell differentiation antigens constitutively expressed throughout the T lymphocyte development remained constitutively expressed in the hybrids, irrespective of the maturation stage of human partner used for fusion. In contrast, the expression of other antigens related to a specific stage of T cell development (CD2, CD8), or to an activated state of T lymphocytes (HLA-DR, CD25), was to observed in the hybrids, with no apparent correlation with the segregation of human chromosomes other than, of course, the encoding chromosome. From these results we suggest that the developmental stage of the fusion partners strongly influences the pattern of expression by activating or silencing genes programmed to be expressed in distinct phases of T cell ontogeny.

Gamma delta T-cell lines isolated from intestinal epithelium respond to a B-cell lymphoma

gamma delta T-cell hybrid clones were obtained from intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes (i-IEL) by fusion with the BW5147 thymoma line. Four clones which expressed different V gamma/V delta genes were selected for further study. All of the gamma delta clones secreted interleukin-2 (IL-2) in the presence of the BALB/c-derived B-lymphoma line, A20. No alpha beta T-cell hybrid clones derived from spleen or i-IEL responded to A20. We obtained several pieces of evidence which strongly suggest that these responses are mediated by the gamma delta T-cell receptor (TcR). Class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC), FcR and surface Ig expressed on A20 are not involved in the response. Native i-IEL derived from BALB/c selectively survive in culture in the presence of A20 cells. The ligand may be a superantigen-like molecule because all our gamma delta T-cell clones responded to A20 in spite of their different combinations of V gamma/V delta gene segments.

H-2 I-E molecules isolated from Mls1a stimulatory cells do not activate Mls1a-responsive T cells but do present exogenous staphylococcal enterotoxins

The T cell response to allogeneic murine Mls determinants is not H-2 restricted but is dependent on H-2 class II molecules on the Mls-expressing stimulator cells. We have tested planar membranes containing H-2 class II I-E molecules alone or with I-A molecules for their ability to activate a panel of Mls1a-specific T hybrids. Despite the ability of the planar membranes to activate an alloreactive T hybrid and to present staphylococcal enterotoxins or an antigenic peptide to appropriately responsive T hybrids, they failed to stimulate the Mls1a-specific T hybrids. These findings, in the light of the various controls demonstrating sufficiency of the I-E molecules in the planar membranes, indicate that Mls1a determinants are not covalently bound to I-E molecules; the two molecular species are thus either not physically associated or are linked by a relatively weak interaction. In addition, our experiments show that isolated I-E molecules but not I-A molecules present staphylococcal enterotoxins A and B to two independently derived T hybrids expressing T cell receptor V beta 1, V beta 2 and V beta 6 elements.

Inducible functions in hybrids of a Lyt-2+ BW5147 transfectant and the 2C CTL line

Cytolytic activity and release of interleukin 2 (IL-2) were induced in Lyt-2-positive T-T cell hybrids by incubation with either concanavalin A or irradiated stimulator cells. Since hybrids of Lyt-2-positive class I-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) with the fusable mouse thymoma cell line, BW5147, are invariably Lyt-2-negative, a derivative of BW5147 was produced by transfection which constitutively expresses surface Lyt-2.1. This cell line, 3B2, was fused with the H-2Ld-specific long term CTL line, 2C. Such hybrids expressed the transfected Lyt-2 gene but not the endogenous gene of the 2C fusion partner. That Lyt-2 plays a functional role in hybrids of 3B2 with 2C is shown by the observations that: 1) cytolysis by Lyt-2-positive hybrids was inhibited by Lyt-2-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb); 2) Lyt-2-positive but not Lyt-2-negative subclones of one such line develop specific cytotoxicity when incubated with stimulator cells; 3) Less IL-2 was released from Lyt-2-negative subclones incubated with stimulator cells than from Lyt-2-positive subclones; 4) Lyt-2-specific mAb inhibits release of IL-2 from Lyt-2-positive hybrids incubated with stimulator cells. All Lyt-2-positive hybrids expressed functional surface Lyt-3 encoded by the CTL fusion partner, demonstrating that expression of the Lyt-3 gene is not sensitive to the negative regulation which shuts off the endogenous Lyt-2 gene in hybrids of class I-specific CTLs with the 3B2 or BW5147 cell lines. The existence of inducible T-T cell hybrids expressing functional Lyt-2 and Lyt-3 provides a system for evaluation of the role(s) of Lyt-2 and Lyt-3 in the induction of function independent of cell growth.

T cells expressing variable elements of T-cell receptor beta 8 and beta 2 chain regulate murine IgE production

After sensitization to ovalbumin (Ova) by inhalation of nebulized antigen, BALB/c mice respond with an early rise in IgE but not in IgG anti-Ova antibody production. Our purpose here was to analyze the repertoire of T cells that may contribute to regulating this IgE response. Initial study of Ova-reactive T-cell hybridomas showed that they selectively express the T-cell receptor variable beta-chain (V beta) elements 2, 8.1/8.2, and 14. The frequency of T cells bearing these V beta elements in local draining lymph nodes of the airways and lungs (peribronchial-draining lymph nodes) after Ova inhalation was examined. Local sensitization increased the proportion of V beta 8.1/8.2 T cells in the peribronchial-draining lymph nodes, whereas expression of V beta 2 or V beta 14 was similar in sensitized and nonsensitized animals. In the presence of increased antigen concentrations, V beta 8 and V beta 2 T cells were equally reactive to Ova when cell proliferation was assayed. Coculture of Ova-selected V beta 8 T cells from peribronchial-draining lymph nodes and spleens of sensitized animals with primed splenic B cells increased IgE but not IgG production. The V beta 8 increase in IgE production was related to an increase in numbers of IgE-secreting B cells. In contrast, coculture of Ova-selected V beta 2 T cells with sensitized B cells had no stimulatory effect on either IgE or IgG production. Further, addition of V beta 2 cells to V beta 8 cells inhibited the V beta 8-induced augmentation of IgE production. These data indicate that T cells expressing different T cell receptors or, perhaps, different V beta elements may play different roles in IgE production in sensitized mice.

Anti-CD3-induced cell death in T cell hybridomas: mitochondrial failure and DNA fragmentation are distinct events

Triggering of the T cell receptor of T cell hybridomas leads to interleukin (IL) 2 secretion, inhibition of spontaneous growth, degradation of genomic DNA and cell death. We have investigated the relationship between the ability of mitochondria to convert 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), DNA fragmentation and growth arrest in hybridomas stimulated with anti-CD3/T cell receptor antibodies. We describe a variant T hybridoma whose mitochondrial function remains unaffected upon stimulation with anti-CD3 antibody, although it does undergo DNA fragmentation. By contrast, treatment of another anti-CD3-stimulated T hybridoma with endonuclease inhibitor completely inhibits the DNA fragmentation response but not mitochondrial failure induced by anti-CD3 antibody. Thus, we have been able to dissociate anti-CD3-induced mitochondrial failure and DNA fragmentation, suggesting that they are separate events. Although both undoubtedly contribute to cell death induced by activation the primary cause of death may be mitochondrial failure rather than DNA fragmentation.

The Ly-10 antigen is a marker of mouse-activated T lymphocytes

Ly-10.1 is a lymphocyte surface antigen controlled by a gene linked to the Ly-1.1 locus and expressed on activated T helper, T suppressor (Ts), and cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL). In this report, we describe the following: 1) Ly-10 is a heterodimeric glycoprotein consisting of a 80,000 heavy and a 34,000 light chain. 2) Although mature CTL are Ly-10+ by negative selection with anti-Ly-10.1 and complement (C), CTL precursors reactive to allogeneic cells are Ly-10-. 3) Similarly, IL-2-producing effector T cells induced by Mls-incompatible cells and semiallogeneic stimulation are eliminated by anti-Ly-10.1 and C after activation but are not eliminated as precursors before activation. 4) In mixed lymphocyte culture with semiallogeneic cells, the frequency of Ly-10.1+ cells was highest on the 2nd to 5th day after stimulation, decreased by the 12th day, and increased after restimulation with fresh antigen as demonstrated by immunofluorescence, C-mediated lysis, and IL-2 production. 5) When spleen cells were treated with anti-Ly-10 and C before concanavalin A (Con A) activation, the suppressive activity in the Con A T blasts was reduced, suggesting that in normal mice, some Ts preexist in a Ly-10+ activated state. These results indicate that Ly-10 is a marker of activation of T cells, not expressed on precursor T cells and whose expression is both transient and dependent on the presence of antigen. The similarities in biochemical and cellular characteristics suggest that Ly-10 is a mouse homologue of the human lymphocyte activation marker 4F2.

The effects of pertussis toxin and cholera toxin on mitogen-induced interleukin-2 production: evidence for G protein involvement in signal transduction

GTP-binding proteins, known as G proteins, play important roles in transducing signals generated by the binding of specific ligands to cell surface receptors. We examined the possibility that a G protein is involved in transducing the concanavalin A (Con A) signal for IL-2 production using a T-cell hybridoma, FS6-14.13, and the bacterial toxins, pertussis toxin (PTX) and cholera toxin (CTX). These toxins are known to interact with and modify the functions of G proteins. High concentrations of PTX (25-50 micrograms/ml) stimulated IL-2 production in the FS-6 cells in the absence of Con A, presumably due to the ability of its B subunit to crosslink membrane proteins. However, in the presence of Con A, PTX inhibited IL-2 production at concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 50 micrograms/ml. It is unlikely that this inhibition was due to a competitive interaction between Con A and PTX for binding sites at the cell surface, since high concentrations of PTX only minimally reduced Con A-FITC binding, evaluated by FACS analysis. In addition, concentrations of PTX which were not able to stimulate IL-2 production in the absence of Con A, retained their ability to inhibit IL-2 production in the presence of Con A. These data suggest the involvement of the PTX A subunit in this activity. In support of this possibility, PTX catalyzed ADP-ribosylation of a Mr = 41,000-Da protein in FS-6 membranes. This strongly suggests that a PTX substrate is involved in transducing the Con A signal for IL-2 production in FS-6 cells. CTX also inhibited Con A-induced IL-2 production, an effect mimicked by the addition of dibutyryl-cAMP. This suggests that a CTX substrate linked to the adenylyl cyclase-cAMP pathway is probably not involved in transducing the stimulatory Con A signal, but may play a role in downregulating T-cell activation.

Supernatant from an activated human CD4+ T-cell clone modulates the proliferation and collagen synthesis of human dental pulp fibroblasts

Several studies indicate a relationship between immunocompetent cells and fibroblast functions such as proliferation and collagen synthesis, which may be of importance in understanding the process of fibrosis. We demonstrate here the activity of supernatant from an activated human CD4+ proliferative T-cell clone (2F1) in stimulating the proliferation of human dental pulp fibroblasts, while inhibiting their soluble type I collagen secretion in either growing or confluent cultures. Taken together, our results indicate that T-cell derived lymphokines may be of importance in regulating normal dental pulp fibroblast functions.

Clonal analysis of antigen-specific interactions between T cells and genetically engineered B cells

In order to investigate T cell-B cell interactions we constructed monoclonal, antigen-specific T- and B-cell populations. The Ia+ B-cell lymphoma A20-2J was transfected with trinitrophenyl (TNP)-specific heavy (mu) and light (kappa) chain Ig genes. A hapten-carrier complex (TNP-keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH)) bound to the surface Ig expressed on the transfectant and was presented to carrier-specific T-cell hybridoma clones at markedly low doses of antigen (0.01 microgram/ml) and in an Ia-restricted fashion. Two responses were elicited in the responding T-cell clones: (i) high levels of IL-2 secretion (320 units/ml), and (ii) cytotoxicity directed against the antigen-presenting B cell. This cytotoxicity was inhibited by D-mannose and was directed against innocent bystander cells, unlike cytotoxicity mediated by NK cells or alloreactive cytotoxic T lymphocyte. Helper and cytotoxic functions were often present in different T-cell hybridomas but some clones exhibited both activities. One representative T-cell hybridoma exhibited strong helper function for TNP-primed splenic B cells as detected in a plaque-forming cell assay, but was cytotoxic toward antigen-presenting B cells. Such monoclonal assay systems for studying cognate interactions of heterogeneous T cells and specific antigen-presenting cells will provide us with valuable new approaches for the study of antigen-specific T-cell regulation of B-cell activation in immune responses.

Mitogen-activated Xenopus laevis lymphocytes produce a T-cell growth factor

Mitogen-free and serum-free supernatants (SNs) from cultures of phytohaemagglutinin (PHA)-stimulated Xenopus splenocytes, co-stimulated thymocytes, induced proliferation of splenic and thymic lymphoblast and supported growth of alloreactive T-cell lines. These SNs had no effect on 'resting' splenocytes, as measured by uptake of tritiated thymidine ([3H]TdR). Growth-promoting activity was also detected in SNs of cultures containing alloreactive T-cell lines and either PHA or irradiated stimulator cells that expressed the original priming alloantigens. Thus, T lymphocytes appear to be involved in producing, as well as responding to, a Xenopus T-cell growth factor (TCGF). TCGF activity could be absorbed from these active SNs with PHA-activated splenic blasts. No functional cross-reactivity among different mammalian interleukin-2 (IL-2) and Xenopus TCGF preparations was detected.

Analysis of T cell-replacing factor-like activity: potent induction of T helper activity for human B cells by residual concanavalin A and interleukin 2

At least two factors with the capacity to induce IgM synthesis in human B cells were found to be present in the 15-20-kDa fraction of the supernatant of mononuclear cells activated with concanavalin A (Con A) and phorbol ester. Previously, it has been shown (Sauerwein, R. W. et al., Eur. J. Immunol. 1985. 15: 611) that interleukin 2 (IL2) in this material is able to induce T cell-dependent IgM secretion in normal B cells. Evidence was obtained for the presence of another factor distinct from IL2 that could replace T cells in the induction of B cell differentiation. We have analyzed this factor with the use of a neoplastic B cell population of prolymphocytic origin that was functionally nonresponsive to IL2. T cell-replacing factor (TRF)-like activity and IL2 could be separated by ion-exchange chromatography, although a small amount of IL2 was recovered in the TRF fractions. This small amount of IL2 was found to be crucial for the observed TRF activity. Moreover, a substantial amount of monomeric Con A was detected in the TRF preparation. Our studies show that Con A in the presence of IL2 can act as a potent inducer of helper function in lower numbers of T cells for normal and neoplastic B cells. Functional assays for T cell contamination in B cell suspensions are therefore of limited value because they are determined by the efficiency of the stimulating signal. Particularly in those B cell factor preparations, obtained from mitogen-activated T cells with an obligatory or unidentified role of IL2, the possible effect of a contaminating mitogen must be considered.

Characterization of murine cytolytic-helper hybrid T cell clones

L3T4, Lyt-2 and the T-cell receptor for antigen are cell-surface molecules involved in antigen specific T cell activation. We have constructed functional murine cytolytic-helper T-cell hybrid clones to study the link between expression of cell-surface molecules and specific cell function. Three of the clones express two antigen receptors and both Lyt-2 and L3T4, normally expressed on mutually exclusive subsets of mature T lymphocytes. The pattern of lymphokines produced by the hybrid cells in response to antigen was not controlled by the specific antigen receptor; both T-cell growth factor, produced only by the helper T-cell partner, and gamma-interferon, produced only by the cytolytic T-cell partner, were secreted when either antigen receptor was stimulated. However, cytolytic activity appeared to be restricted to the recognition of antigen by the T-cell receptor of the cytolytic partner. Thus cytolysis appears to be rightly linked to the antigen receptor of the cytolytic parent but lymphokine release is not tightly linked.

Cell growth cycle block of T cell hybridomas upon activation with antigen

Stimulation of antigen-specific T cell hybridomas with the appropriate antigen/MHC combination, at concentrations that resulted in the secretion of the lymphokine interleukin 2, resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in both [3H]thymidine incorporation and cell growth. Flow cytometric studies demonstrated that stimulation with antigen resulted in a cell cycle block that was most evident at the G1/S border, and mixing studies revealed that bystander T cells of different antigen specificities were not affected. For at least the large majority of T cells, the G1/S cell cycle block appeared to be irreversible after 24 h of exposure to antigen. This cell cycle block may be useful as a rapid and quantitative measure of T cell hybridoma activation, as a means of selecting T cell hybridomas that have functional alterations in the reception of stimulatory signals, and may serve as a model of the induction of tolerance in immature T cells.

Monoclonal antibody NIM-R3 substitutes for B-cell growth factor

A rat monoclonal antibody (NIM-R3) was found to be reactive with activated mouse B cells but neither activated T cells nor small resting lymphocytes, T or B. The antibody stains antibody-forming cell precursors within 48 hr of primary or secondary immunization in vivo, but not at longer times (greater than 14 days) immunization. When added to cultures of spleen cells responding in vitro to dinitrophenylated bovine, IgG, the number of antibody-forming cells was increased. NIM-R3 also maintained the proliferation of purified B blasts in the absence of lipopolysaccharide, but did not activate small resting B cells in the presence of anti-Ig. NIM-R3 could replace B-cell growth factor (BCGF II) in cultures of the murine B-cell lymphoma BCL1 inducing proliferation but not differentiation. Finally, competition was demonstrated for binding sites on BCL1 cells between BCGF II and NIM-R3, but not between NIM-R3 and T-cell replacing factor (B15-TRF). We suggest that NIM-R3 may represent a novel specificity and may be directed against the cell surface receptor for BCGF II, and in turn this receptor may be independent of the B15-TRF and BSF1 receptors.

Antigen presentation by a B-cell line transfected with cloned immunoglobulin heavy- and light-chain genes specific for a defined hapten

The rearranged genes encoding immunoglobulin heavy (mu) and light (kappa) chains specific for the hapten 2,4,6-trinitrophenyl (Tnp) were introduced into a B-lymphoma line that bears surface IgG with an unknown specificity and expresses surface Ia molecules. A transformant expressing surface IgM specific for Tnp was obtained. The transformant was found to present Tnp-proteins to antigen (protein)-specific T cells far more efficiently than the parenteral B-lymphoma line. This artificial system, utilizing recombinant DNA technology and gene transfer, provides several approaches for the study of T-cell-B-cell interactions.

Recognition of exon-shuffled class II molecules by T helper cells

Exon shuffled I-A beta genes transfected into the B lymphoma cell line A20-2J were used to localize the epitope recognized by the monoclonal antibody 10.2.16 to the carboxy terminal portion of the beta 1 domain. In addition, several T helper cell hybrids were tested against these novel I-A molecules and the following observations were made: the beta 1 domain of A beta plays a dominant role in the restricted recognition by T helper cells; there appear to be multiple restriction epitopes on the I-A molecule; these epitopes can consist of conformational epitopes created by specific alpha and beta chains or consist of the polymorphic determinants encoded on the beta chain alone, and these novel I-A molecules serve as restriction elements in the antigen-specific recognition by T cells and in one case stimulate an alloreaction in the absence of antigen.

Production and characterization of cloned T-cell hybridomas that are responsive to Rickettsia conorii antigens

T-cell hybridomas produced by the fusion of Rickettsia conorii immune T cells to the AKR thymoma BW 5147 produced interleukin-2 when stimulated with the antigens of three different R. conorii strains. One cloned hybridoma responded only to R. conorii antigens, whereas a second and third cloned hybridoma also responded to the antigens of Rickettsia rickettsii Sheila Smith and Rickettsia sibirica 246, respectively. Antigen responses required antigen-presenting cells, and this interaction was major histocompatibility complex restricted. Fluorescence-activated cell-sorter analysis demonstrated that all three hybridomas were of the Thy-1.2+, Lyt-2- phenotype and that two of the three were L3T4+. These data demonstrated the presence of an antigenic epitope that is R. conorii species specific and other epitopes that are common to various members of the spotted fever group which can stimulate interleukin-2 production by T-cell hybridomas.

Induction of the plateau phase and rescue of MOPC 104E by nonspecific immunization

The enhancement of MOPC 104E myeloma growth by nonspecific immunostimulation with C. parvum or immunization with sheep red blood cells and levan mixture was evaluated in BALB/c mice. We observed increased levels of serum MOPC 104E IgM and early mortality in the tumor-bearing mice following treatment with C. parvum or antigenic stimulation. The enhancement of tumor growth observed was due to the production of lymphokine mitogenic factors produced in response to the nonspecific immunostimulation.

Induction of concanavalin A dose-dependent T-cell growth factor production by insertion of T-cell membrane components into the AKR thymic lymphoma BW 5147

Sendai virus vesicles were used as vehicles for the insertion of various cell membranes into different cell lines. The transplantation efficiency was measured by using FITC-labelled concanavalin A (Con A) or monoclonal antibodies against the T-cell marker Lyt 2 and the major histocompatibility complex product H-2Db in a fluorescence-activated cell sorter. Results indicate that it is possible to transplant mitogen responsiveness to certain cell types. Con A stimulation of T-cell membrane transplanted BW 5147 showed that it is possible to induce a mitogen dose-dependent T-cell growth factor production. Consequently this method appears to be an attractive model for further study of the properties of the membrane structures involved in mitogen triggering of cells.

Immune regulation of in vitro murine megakaryocyte development. Role of T lymphocytes and Ia antigen expression

Mitogen-activated murine T lymphocytes or T cell hybridomas produce an activity (megakaryocyte [Mk] potentiator activity) that enhances the in vitro growth and development of Mk colonies. This activity was found in optimal concentrations (2.5%) in T cell hybridoma-conditioned medium, and was also produced by feeder layers of concanavalin A-activated T cells. A subpopulation of murine Mk progenitor cells (colony-forming units; CFU-Mk) bears the Ia antigen. Separate experiments indicated that T cell products stimulate CFU-Mk by increasing their basal levels of Ia expression as well as the frequency of cells actively synthesizing DNA. The hypothesis that the expression of this antigen was related to the cell cycle status of these progenitor cells was confirmed in studies that indicated that ablation of actively cycling cells in vivo abrogated the cytotoxic effects of anti-Ia monoclonal antibodies. The interdependence of T cell lymphokine regulation of both Ia expression and cell cycle status was also seen in in vitro experiments in which Ia+ progenitor cells were eliminated by complement-dependent cytotoxicity. The removal of Ia+ cells prevented 5-hydroxyurea-mediated inhibition of cells in S phase. We hypothesize that immune modulation of megakaryocytopoiesis occurs via soluble T cell products that augment Mk differentiation. Further, the mechanism of immune recognition/modulation may occur via Ia antigens present on the surface of these progenitor cells.

Three functionally distinct helper T-cell clones: the roles for antigen non-specific helper factors in B-cell activation through two different pathways

We established three functionally distinct purified protein derivative (PPD)-reactive T-cell clones (B11.15, B12.F and D-2). Clone B11.15 could co-operate with DNP-primed B cells to induce anti-DNP IgG plaque-forming cell (PFC) responses only when high amounts of PPD were added to the culture, whereas stimulation of a low amount of DNP-PPD was ineffective (factor-mediated interaction). On the other hand, clone D-2 activated those B cells in a MHC-restricted manner only when DNP-PPD was added to the culture (cognate interaction). B12.F could stimulate B cells with either PPD or DNP-PPD. Antigen non-specific helper factors (lymphokines) responsible for B-cell activation produced by cloned T cells upon stimulation with PPD and antigen-presenting cells were then investigated. Lymphokine activities determined in the present study were IL-2, BCGF I, BCGF II and TRF. BCGF I activity was determined by proliferation-inducing activity on purified B cells in the presence of anti-IgM antibody. BCGF II activity was measured by proliferation-inducing activity on purified B cells in the presence of dextran sulphate. TRF activity was determined on DNP-primed B cells for inducing further differentiation into anti-DNP IgG PFC. BCGF I active molecules were eluted in the fraction at apparent MW of 50,000-70,000 and 8,000-10,000 in gel-permeation column chromatography.

Enhancement of cytotoxic activity of natural killer cells by interleukin 2, and antagonism between interleukin 2 and adenosine cyclic monophosphate

Two cytokines, interferon (IFN) and interleukin 2 (IL-2), activate murine natural killer (NK) cells in vitro. Together both factors synergize considerably. Antibody against IFN eliminates the response of NK cells to IFN as well as to IL-2, whereas antibody against IL-2 blocks the effect of IL-2 but not of IFN. These findings as well as previous observations imply that both factors act on the same cell but have different roles. We suggest that IFN induces NK cell activation and IL-2 enhances this effect. Further studies revealed that besides inducing cytotoxicity in NK cells IFN induces the production of prostaglandin E (PGE) which inhibits NK cell activation. We propose therefore that IFN has a dual effect on NK cells: it induces NK cells to become cytotoxic and initiates a negative feedback by increasing the production of PGE. IL-2, which synergizes with IFN in the activation of NK cells, ceases to do so when the negative feedback (PGE-mediated) is blocked with indomethacin. We infer that IL-2 enhances NK cell activity by interfering with the negative feedback rather than by aiding NK cell activation.

Insulin-specific T cell hybridomas derived from (H-2b x H-2k)F1 mice preferably employ F1-unique restriction elements for antigen recognition

T cell hybridomas of (B10 X B10.BR)F1 genotype with reactivity to bovine insulin (BI) were established to analyze the restriction and antigen fine specificity of (H-2b X H-2k)F1 T cells towards BI. Our data indicate a focusing of the response on two epitopes on the insulin molecule, the A chain loop determinant comprising amino acids A8 and A10, as well as the glutamic acid residue in position 4 of the A chain. Both were recognized either separately or in conjunction. Unexpectedly, the T cell hybridomas exhibited a marked preference for recognizing insulin in the context of F1-unique restriction elements of Ab alpha Ak beta type rather than parental high-responder I-Ab molecules. Analysis of the response of primed lymph node T cells of (B10 X B10.BR)F1 mice towards BI corroborated the finding of a preponderant corecognition of F1-unique I-A molecules.

Monoclonal antibodies against human Ia antigens stimulate monocytes to secrete interleukin 1

The monoclonal antibodies (mAb) DA6.147, DA6.164, and HIG.48 against human Ia antigens, but not the W6/32 mAb against human class I major histocompatibility complex antigens or the anti-monocyte OKM1 and 63D3 mAb, stimulated monocytes to secrete interleukin 1 (IL-1). IL-1 was measured by its property of promoting the production of interleukin 2 (IL-2) by phytohemagglutinin-treated LBRM-33 clone 1A5 cells. IL-1 activity induced by anti-Ia antibodies could be detected 24 hr after initiation of the cultures and reached its highest levels at days 3-4 of culture. Concentrations of 1 microgram/ml or higher of the anti-Ia antibodies induced monocytes to secrete significant levels of IL-1 activity. The anti-Ia mAb induced Ia-bearing but not Ia-negative monocytes to secrete IL-1. Both Ia-positive and Ia-negative monocytes produced IL-1 activity under the stimulus of lipopolysaccharide. It is concluded that the DA6.147, DA6.164, and HIG.48 mAb stimulate secretion of IL-1 by interacting Ia antigens on monocytes. The data support the view that besides serving as restricting elements for recognition of foreign antigens by T cells, Ia antigens may also function as transducer elements.

Activation of an interleukin-1-responsive T-cell lymphoma by fixed P388D1 macrophages and an antibody against the Ag:MHC T-cell receptor

We have characterized the activation of the interleukin 1 (IL-1)-responsive T-cell lymphoma LBRM33-1A5-47 to interleukin 2 (IL-2) production by phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and IL-1. The signal provided by soluble IL-1 could be replaced by fixed P388D1 cells and the signal provided by PHA by a monoclonal antibody directed against an allotypic determinant of the Ag/MHC T-cell receptor (KJ16-133). The signal provided by fixed P388D1 does not appear to be due to alloreactivity. Instead, it appears to be due to a membrane-bound IL-1. The implications of these observations are discussed.

Cyclosporin A inhibits a discrete step in T-lymphocyte stimulation

Cyclosporin A (CyA) interferes with immune responses and prevents growth factor release by stimulated T cells. However, it is not known whether this is due to an effect on the accessory cells, required for T-cell responses, whether antigen recognition cannot occur, or whether later steps, leading to lymphokine production, are blocked. For this reason, the effect of CyA on homogeneous populations of T tumour cells was investigated. The immunosuppressive compound efficiently prevented T-cell growth factor (TCGF) (interleukin 2) release by stimulated tumour cells. Still, the cells retained the surface antigen T3, known to be involved in T-cell stimulation, after treatment with CyA. Furthermore, CyA failed to affect the inhibition of proliferation, observed in a T-cell tumour in response to stimulation, indicating that the cells had received the stimulatory impetus, TCGF release, induced by treatment with a phorbol ester, was only partly sensitive to inhibition by CyA, demonstrating that CyA will interfere with discrete aspects of the stimulation of a T-cell.

T cell triggering by lectins. I. Requirements for interleukin 2 production; lectin concentration determines the accessory cell dependency

The requirements for lectin-induced interleukin 2 (IL2) production by human T cells have been investigated. With two different types of T cells, the Jurkat T cell lymphoma and highly purified HLA class II- peripheral T cells, the amount of IL2 produced was strongly dependent on the lectin concentration used. Addition of accessory cells caused a shift in the dose-response curve, resulting in strongly enhanced IL2 production at low concentrations. Thus, the (absolute) accessory cell dependency for T cells to produce IL2 is defined by experimental conditions. Only at lectin concentrations that were found to be optimal in the presence of accessory cells, removal of these cells abrogates IL2 production. Furthermore, after depletion of monocytes IL 2 production by peripheral T cells became almost completely dependent on the presence of thiols in the culture medium. In contrast, the IL2 production by the Jurkat line was not influenced by addition of thiols. The Jurkat model was used to study the nature of accessory cell because this cell line does not show any reactivity to allogeneic cells. Various myeloid and B lymphoid cell lines were tested as accessory cells. The capacity to function as accessory cell was not related to the monocytic origin of the cell. B cell lines were far more effective than monocytes, as two HLA class II- monocytic cell lines were not active. Even after HLA class II determinants were induced on these cells by incubation with an interferon-gamma-containing conditioned medium, they failed to act as as accessory cells. These experiments question the importance of HLA class II molecules and monokines, such as IL1, for lectin-induced IL2 production.

T cell triggering by lectins. II. Stimuli for induction of interleukin 2 responsiveness and interleukin 2 production differ only in quantitative aspects

We have investigated the requirements for lectin-induced proliferation of highly purified human T cells. To study activation, independent of growth factor production, we cultured the cells in the presence of an excess of interleukin 2 (IL2), which was a product of cDNA cloned in E. coli. In the presence of IL2, the same cooperative effect of lectin and accessory cells was found that we have previously described for IL2 production. Thus, analogous to induction of IL2 production, the acquisition of responsiveness to IL2 can be completely monocyte dependent, but a 10-fold increase in lectin concentration completely abolishes the requirement for accessory cells. Furthermore, two stimuli (IL 1 and phorbol myristate acetate), which are able to replace monocytes at the level of IL2 production, also induce responsiveness to IL2 under accessory cell-dependent conditions. Thus, very similar conditions are required for proliferation and for the induction of IL2 production. There is only a quantitative difference: proliferation of cells in the presence of exogenous IL2 occurs already at low lectin concentrations, whereas IL2 production and consequently proliferation in the absence of exogenous IL2 requires higher lectin concentrations. At high lectin concentrations, when IL2 production has become the only limiting factor, purified T cells cannot be induced to proliferate in the absence of exogenous IL2 because the lectin concentration that induces IL2 production independent of accessory cells inhibits mitogenesis. However, after addition of thiols to the medium, which enhances the IL2 production, a very narrow range of lectin concentration can be found which is just below toxic values and still high enough to induce IL2 production in the absence of accessory cells. Under these conditions, accessory cells are no longer a prerequisite for lectin-induced T cell proliferation.

Selection of BW 5147 subclones devoid of non-specific suppressive activity for use in cell hybridization

Culture supernatants of BW 5147 cells widely used for T-cell hybridization often manifest non-MHC-restricted, non-antigen-specific regulatory activities on the mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) of mouse cells. This report demonstrates that, whereas supernatants of BW 5147 cells grown at low concentrations (2 X 10(5)/ml) enhanced MLR, high cell concentration (2 X 10(6)/ml) supernatants markedly inhibited this reaction. BW 5147 cell-free extracts significantly inhibited MLR and in vitro antibody production (PFC), as well as the mitogenic response to lipopolysaccharide E. coli (LPS) of mouse spleen cells, but did not affect the response to an optimal dose of phytohaemagglutinin (PHA). Both supernatant and cell-free extract inhibitory activities were located in 60,000 MW fraction. Inhibitory material of low MW (less than 12,000) was also found in high cell concentration supernatants. A similar suppressive activity was exerted by cell-free extracts of P3 X 63 NS cells used for B-cell hybridization. The suppressive activity seemed to stem from some kind of interaction between BW 5147 cells and the fetal calf serum (FCS) of the culture medium. Supernatants from subclones of BW 5147 cells obtained in selected batches of FCS and maintained in the same serum, even at high cell concentrations, did not affect MLR, whereas the supernatants from the same subclones maintained in other batches definitely suppressed this reaction. Thus, provided that culture conditions are chosen carefully, subclones of BW 5147 devoid of effect on in vitro immune reactions can be obtained.

Generation of human hybridomas producing migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and of murine hybridomas secreting monoclonal antibodies to human MIF

Human T-cell hybridomas were established by hybridization of concanavalin A (Con A)-stimulated human peripheral blood T lymphocytes with cells from a 6-thioguanine-resistant, aminopterin-sensitive mutant line designated CEM-WH4, derived from the continuously growing human T cell line, CEM. High levels of MIF activity were demonstrated in the supernatants of two hybridoma lines, T-CEMA and T-CEMB but not of CEM-WH4 when stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate and phytohemagglutinin. In comparison, MIF derived from Con A-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells showed 100 times less activity. Upon isoelectrofocusing, MIF activity of T-CEMB was found exclusively between pH 4.6 and 5.3 whereas MIF derived from T-CEMA showed heterogeneity with a major peak of MIF recovered at pH 4.6-5.3 and a minor peak at pH 2.4-3.3. These molecules, however, were all found to have an apparent MW of 68,000 and were resistant to trypsin. Most of these characteristics are in accordance with second day pH 3- and pH 5-MIF derived from peripheral blood mononuclear cells. When spleen cells from BALB/c mice immunized with T-CEMB-MIF were used to fuse with NS-1 mouse myeloma cells, nine hybridomas secreting antibodies to human MIF were obtained. Clone D112 which demonstrated the highest MIF-neutralizing activity was found to neutralize MIF derived from T-CEMA, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and a T cell line, Mo.

The generation of stable human T-cell hybridomas which constitutively produce interleukin-2 and chemotactic factor

We report the successful generation of human T-cell hybridomas that constitutively secrete lymphokines. An acute lymphoblastic leukemia T-cell line, CCRF-H-SB2, free of reverse transcriptase and mycoplasma, was sensitized to hypoxanthine, aminopterin, and thymidine (HAT) by selecting out a mutant deficient in hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyl transferase (HGPRT) in 8-azaguanine. Peripheral blood T lymphocytes from normal donors were incubated in vitro with 10 micrograms/ml of concanavalin A for 48 h and subsequently fused with the CCRF-H-SB2 HAT-sensitive cell line. Following 5 weeks in culture, 38 of 440 wells (8.6%) demonstrated hybridoma growth. Supernatants of these cultures were screened for interleukin-2 (IL-2), chemotactic factor, interferon, migration inhibition factor, and macrophage-activating factor activities. Twelve (of 38) hybrids exhibited IL-2 activity, and eight of these were successfully cloned. The highest secreting clone was demonstrated to have mRNA to IL-2 while the parent CCRF-H-SB2 had no detectable mRNA to IL-2. Three hybrid cultures produced chemotactic factor; one was successfully cloned and grown in serum-free medium, where it continued to constitutively produce chemotactic factor as well as IL-2 activity. The chemotactic factor was determined to have the same molecular weight (12,500 daltons) as leukocyte-derived chemotactic factor. Constitutive IL-2 production remained stable for over 12 months. None of the hybridomas tested produced detectable levels of gamma interferon, migration inhibition factor, or macrophage activation factor. Because these T-cell hybridomas produce lymphokines constitutively and this phenotype is stable, they can be an important source of highly purified human lymphokines for clinical and laboratory investigations.

Regulation of B-lymphocyte proliferative responses by arachidonate metabolites: effects on membrane-directed versus intracellular activators

Immunoregulatory effects of the oxidative metabolites of arachidonic acid (AA) on proliferation of B-lymphocytes were assessed in a serum-free culture system. Activation of B cells by membrane-directed ligands and intracellular activators was regulated by AA metabolites in very distinct fashions. Thus exogenous cyclooxygenase products (particularly prostaglandins E1 and E2) amplified the response to anti-immunoglobulin antibodies, whereas lipoxygenase products damped this response. In contrast, B cell activation with 8-mercaptoguanosine (an intracellular activator) was inhibited by cyclooxygenase products and remained relatively unaffected by several lipoxygenase products tested. This pattern of results was confirmed in studies with pathway inhibitors. Moreover, when liberation of endogenous AA was induced by stimulation of phospholipase A2 activity with melittin, inhibition of the response to each class of activator was counteracted with the appropriate pathway inhibitor. Results suggest that the two major groups of AA oxidation products function as a system of counterbalancing regulatory influences, serving to modulate B cell activation at the plasma membrane and to downregulate B cell activation at the intracellular level.

Interleukin-induced increase in Ia expression by normal mouse B cells

The constitutive culture supernatant (SN) of the macrophage tumor line P388D1 (P388 SN) and the concanavalin A (Con A)-induced culture supernatant of the T cell hybridoma FS6-14.13 (FS6 Con A SN) were shown to contain nonspecific factors capable of inducing increased Ia expression by normal resting B cells in a dose-dependent manner. In six consecutive experiments the relative increase in Ia expression induced by P388 SN was 4.9 +/- 0.9, with FS6 Con A SN 10.7 +/- 1.5, and with a combination of both preparations 13.0 +/- 1.7. This increase in Ia expression was observed to occur in virtually all the B cells, reaching maximum levels within 24 h of culture. The interleukin-induced increase in B cell Ia expression occurred in the absence of ancillary signals provided by ligand-receptor Ig cross-linking and despite the fact that virtually all the control B cells, cultured in the absence of factors, remained in G0. These results suggest that functional receptors for at least some interleukins are expressed on normal resting B cells and their effects can be manifest in the absence of additional activating signals. The increased Ia expression induced by the nonspecific factor preparations was shown to be correlated with enhanced antigen-presenting capacity by the B cells to T cell hybridomas. The nature of the interleukins responsible for these effects remains to be definitively determined, however, the activity of FS6 Con A SN was shown to correlate with B cell growth factor activity and increased B cell Ia expression was not observed using interleukin 2 (IL-2) or interferon-gamma, prepared by recombinant DNA technology.

Role of gamma-interferon in antibody-producing responses

Interferon preparations, especially those containing gamma-interferon (IFN-gamma), have long been known to modulate immune responses. However, because many studies used only partially purified interferons, it has been difficult to separate the immunoregulatory effects of the interferons from those of other biologically active molecules contaminating the preparations. Recently, with the cloning of the interferon genes in mouse and man, it has become possible to use these cloned interferons directly to test their effects in assays other than those involving the protection of cells from viruses. For example, cloned IFN-gamma has been shown to be a potent inducer of Ia antigen expression on macrophages. Similarly, cloned IFN-gamma has been reported to act as a macrophage activation factors, as judged by the ability of activated macrophages to kill tumour cells in vitro. We demonstrate here that cloned murine IFN-gamma can also substitute for a late-acting helper factor which acts synergistically with other helper factors in the stimulation of B-cell antibody responses in vitro.

Isolation and partial characterization of concanavalin A receptors on cloned cytotoxic T lymphocytes

A small set of concanavalin A (Con A)-binding glycoproteins was isolated from the surface membrane of cloned cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) and partly identified using monoclonal antibodies. The binding of Con A by these glycoproteins on the CTL surface results in the secretion of gamma-interferon and in blocking the effector functions of the cells-namely, antigen-specific and lectin-dependent cytotoxicity. The Con A is evidently bound tightly to some surface structures ("Con A-receptors") that are required for the activation and cytotoxic activity of CTL. To isolate and identify these receptors, antibodies to Con A were used. After Con A was allowed to bind to radiolabeled cloned CTL (labeled with 125I or [35S]methionine or 3H-labeled amino acids), the cells were washed thoroughly, lysed in detergents and anti-Con A antibodies were added to bind to the Con A-receptor complexes. The resulting aggregates were adsorbed with protein A-bearing Staphylococci and the receptors were then specifically released from the pelleted bacteria by alpha-methyl-D-mannoside and analyzed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis under reducing conditions. Eight to nine labeled components were seen by autoradiography and with the aid of monoclonal antibodies to known T-cell surface molecules, four were identified as T200, lymphocyte function-associated antigen (LFA)-1, alpha- and beta-chains, and (on some clones) Lyt-2. Other components with Mr congruent to 160,000, 120,000, 46,000, 42,000, and 23,000 have not been identified. The procedures described here may have general application in the studies of the functional properties of other cell surface molecules.

Monoclonal antibodies specific for a murine cytotoxic T-lymphocyte clone

Two antibody-secreting murine hybridomas, F1G3.1 and F2A11.5, have been established from B10.D2 mice immunized with cells from the murine cytotoxic T-lymphocyte clone G4. The two clones used, G4 and B10, were derived from BALB.B (H-2b) mice and the target antigen specificity of both maps to the Dd region of the murine H-2 complex. However, B10 has a lower affinity for the target cells, as shown by its lower specific killing of blasts and its higher susceptibility to blocking by anti-Lyt-2 monoclonal antibody 53-6.75. The monoclonal antibodies, F1G3.1 and F2A11.5, react only with cells from clone G4. Similarly, they block only the specific cytolysis mediated by G4; no effect on cytotoxicity mediated by B10 or by heterogeneous populations of cytotoxic T lymphocytes was found. F1G3.1, especially, is very active in stimulating G4 to secrete immune interferon; B10 in contrast did not show any induction on treatment with these monoclonal antibodies. The structure of the surface antigen on G4 cells recognized by these monoclonal antibodies was revealed by immunoprecipitation studies of radioiodinated cell surface proteins. A protein dimer could be identified with an apparent molecular size of 80,000 daltons consisting of monomers migrating as 42,000-dalton proteins on reduction. So far, electrophoresis in the presence of NaDodSO4 does not indicate any heterogeneity in the size of the monomers. This molecule can be distinguished from the Lyt-2 complex.

Construction of human T-cell hybrids with helper function

Human T-cell hybrids with helper activity were obtained after fusion of phytohemagglutinin-activated normal human T cells with a 6-thioguanine-resistant, aminopterin-sensitive human T-cell line. This mutant line, designated CEM-T15, was derived from the human T-cell line CEM after mutagenesis with ethyl methanesulfonate. The polyethylene glycol induced fusion and the selection in hypoxanthine- aminopeterin -thymidine medium were performed by modification of standard somatic cell hybridization techniques. After fusion, the strategy for selecting hybrids consisted in screening growing cultures for the presence of cells expressing the OKT3 cell surface differentiation antigen. OKT3 was chosen because it is present in 85-95% of normal human T cells but absent from CEM-T15 cells. Thus, OKT3+ cells growing 5-7 weeks after fusion most likely represented hybrids between normal T cells (OKT3+) and continuously growing CEM-T15 cells (OKT3-). Several of the hybrids were tested for their capacity to promote pokeweed mitogen-induced antibody production by B cells. These experiments demonstrated that many of the hybrids had helper activity. Periodical testing of these uncloned hybrids for helper activity revealed functional instability, with most of the hybrids losing helper activity after 20 weeks of continuous culture. However, early and repeated cloning of the same hybrids resulted in a series of hybrid clones with helper activity still present more than 8 months after fusion. In more recent fusions, we have demonstrated that human helper hybrids producing helper factor(s) can also be obtained. These and similar hybrids with different functions will be of considerable importance in further studies of the immunobiology of human T lymphocytes.

Alloreactive T cell clones

T cell clones are useful models for studying lymphocyte function both at the level of the individual cell and in interacting systems. Murine cytolytic and non- cytolyic T cell clones have been obtained with relative ease, and the particular procedure used to derive and maintain T cell clones may influence profoundly the characteristics of the resulting cells. The method of choice depends on the specific question to be asked. Although some clones have characteristics that would have been expected on the basis of results observed with bulk cell populations, other clones have rather unexpected properties. Although most T cell clones appear to be either cytolytic or non-cytolytic, this distinction is not always absolute. A high proportion of both cytolytic and non-cytolytic T cell clones have dual reactivity. This is true for cells which by other criteria appear to be true clones. The frequency of such cells is high enough to suggest that most if not all T cells may have reactivity for more than one antigenic determinant or that antigenic determinants recognized by T cells are shared widely and unexpectedly. It is not clear whether one or two different antigen receptors account for such dual reactivity. The nature of the T cell receptor for antigen remains obscure. T cell clones, because of their homogeneous nature, should make it easier to answer these important immunological questions. Although it remains to be determined how many distinct molecules account for the numerous biological activities found in the culture supernatants from antigen-stimulated T cell clones, it is clear that these factors influence several different types of cells that are involved directly and indirectly in immune responses. IL-2 stimulates both cytolytic and non-cytolytic T cells to proliferate. BCSF causes polyclonal activation of B cells, and there may be other factors which influence B cell responses to antigenic stimulation. IL-3 apparently stimulates maturation of immature T cells. CSF stimulates production of macrophages from precursor cells found in the bone marrow. Supernatants also stimulate expression of Ia antigens by macrophages, and antigen-presenting cells have been found to bear Ia antigens. Interferon augments natural killer cell activity. Thus, regardless of how many molecules are involved in these effects, activated non-cytolytic T cells appear to be involved in a variety of ways in the modulation of immune responses.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)