Thymus-leukemia (TL) antigens of the mouse. Analysis of TL mRNA and TL cDNA TL+ and TL- strains

The role of MHC class Ib-restricted T cells during infection

Even though major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class Ia and many Ib molecules have similarities in structure, MHC class Ib molecules tend to have more specialized functions, which include the presentation of non-peptidic antigens to non-classical T cells. Likewise, non-classical T cells also have unique characteristics, including an innate-like phenotype in naïve animals and rapid effector functions. In this review, we discuss the role of MAIT and NKT cells during infection but also the contribution of less studied MHC class Ib-restricted T cells such as Qa-1-, Qa-2-, and M3-restricted T cells. We focus on describing the types of antigens presented to non-classical T cells, their response and cytokine profile following infection, as well as the overall impact of these T cells to the immune system.

TL and CD8αα: Enigmatic partners in mucosal immunity

The intestinal mucosa represents a large surface area that is in contact with an immense antigenic load. The immune system associated with the intestinal mucosa needs to distinguish between innocuous food antigens, commensal microorganisms, and pathogenic microorganisms, without triggering an exaggerated immune response that may lead to excessive inflammation and/or development of inflammatory bowel disease. The thymus leukemia (TL) antigen and CD8αα are interacting surface molecules that are expressed at the frontline of the mucosal immune system: TL is expressed in intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) whereas CD8αα is expressed in lymphocytes, known as intraepithelial lymphocytes, that reside in between the IEC. In this review we discuss the significance of the interaction between TL and CD8αα in mucosal immunity during health and disease.

Non-classical MHC class I molecules on intestinal epithelial cells: mediators of mucosal crosstalk

The mucosal immune environment consists of a complex combination of lymphoid cells, non-lymphoid cells, and lumenal bacteria. Signals from lumenal bacteria are constantly transmitted to the underlying tissues across the intestinal epithelial barrier. Intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) can sense these signals, integrate them, and interpret them for lamina propria lymphoid populations. One mechanism by which these signals are communicated is by the expression of non-classical major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules by IECs. Epithelial cells can express a surprising variety of non-classical MHC class I molecules. In some cases, IECs can act as non-professional antigen-presenting cells utilizing the expression of such non-classical MHC class I molecules to directly present bacterial antigens. In other cases, the expression of non-classical MHC class I molecules may act as a co-stimulatory molecule or adhesion molecule that can modify the mucosal immune response. Finally, the expression of these molecules on IECs can lead to a broad array of responses ranging from tolerance to inflammation. Overall, the IEC, via the expression of non-classical MHC class I molecules, is a central mediator of the constant crosstalk between the intestinal lumen and the mucosal immune system.

Molecular basis for the high affinity interaction between the thymic leukemia antigen and the CD8alphaalpha molecule

The mouse thymic leukemia (TL) Ag is a nonclassical MHC class I molecule that binds with higher affinity to CD8alphaalpha than CD8alphabeta. The interaction of CD8alphaalpha with TL is important for lymphocyte regulation in the intestine. Therefore, we studied the molecular basis for TL Ag binding to CD8alphaalpha. The stronger affinity of the TL Ag for CD8alphaalpha is largely mediated by three amino acids on exposed loops of the conserved alpha3 domain. Mutant classical class I molecules substituted with TL Ag amino acids at these positions mimic the ability to interact with CD8alphaalpha and modulate lymphocyte function. These data indicate that small changes in the alpha3 domain of class I molecules potentially can have profound physiologic consequences.

The crystal structure of a TL/CD8alphaalpha complex at 2.1 A resolution: implications for modulation of T cell activation and memory

TL is a nonclassical MHC class I molecule that modulates T cell activation through relatively high-affinity interaction with CD8alphaalpha. To investigate how the TL/CD8alphaalpha interaction influences TCR signaling, we characterized the structure of the TL/CD8alphaalpha complex using X-ray crystallography. Unlike antigen-presenting molecules, the TL antigen-binding groove is occluded by specific conformational changes. This feature eliminates antigen presentation, severely hampers direct TCR recognition, and prevents TL from participating in the TCR activation complex. At the same time, the TL/CD8alphaalpha interaction is strengthened through subtle structure changes in the TL alpha3 domain. Thus, TL functions to sequester and redirect CD8alphaalpha away from the TCR, modifying lck-dependent signaling.

Down-regulation of major histocompatibility complex Q1b gene expression by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin

We analyzed mouse hepatoma cells using differential display to discover new genes that respond to the environmental contaminant 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). We identified a class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) gene, which we designated as MHC Q1b, whose expression decreases in the presence of TCDD. TCDD-induced down-regulation of MHC Q1b requires both the aromatic hydrocarbon receptor and the aromatic hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator, transcription factors that up-regulate other genes in response to TCDD. Down-regulation of MHC Q1b by TCDD appears to involve both transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulatory events; the post-transcriptional destabilization of MHC Q1b mRNA is probably a secondary response to TCDD. Our findings reveal new mechanistic aspects of gene regulation by TCDD. In addition, our observations suggest a mechanism that might account for some of TCDD's immunotoxic effects.

Positive selection of gamma delta CTL by TL antigen expressed in the thymus

To elucidate the funciton of the mouse TL antigen in the thymus, we have derived two TL transgenic mouse strains by introducing Tl alpha 2-3 of A strain origin with its own promoter onto a C3H background with no expression of TL in the thymus. These transgenic mouse strains, both of which express high levels of Tla2-3-TL antigen in their thymus, were analyzed for their T cell function with emphasis on cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) generation. A T cell response against TL was induced in Tg. Tla2-3-1, Tg. Tla2-3-2, and control C3H mice by skin grafts from H-2Kb/T3b transgenic mice, Tg.Con.3-1, expressing T3b-TL ubiquitously. Spleen cells from mice that had rejected the T3b-TL positive skin grafts were restimulated in vitro with Tg. Con.3-1 irradiated spleen cells. In mixed lymphocyte cultures (MLC), approximately 20% and 15% of Thy-1+ T cells derived from Tg.Tla2-3-1 and Tg.Tla2-3-2, respectively, expressed TCR gamma delta, whereas almost all those from C3H expressed TCR alpha beta. The MLC from Tg. Tla2-3-2 and C3H demonstrated high CTL activity against TL, while those from Tg. Tla2-3-1 had little or none. The generation of gamma delta CTL recognizing TL in Tg. Tla2-3-2, but not C3H mice, was confirmed by the establishment of CTL clones. A total of 14 gamma delta CTL clones were established from Tg. Tla2-3-2, whereas none were obtained from C3H. Of the 14 gamma delta CTL clones, 8 were CD8+ and 6 were CD4-CD8- double negative. The CTL activity of all these clones was TL specific and inhibited by anti-TL, but not by anti-H-2 antibodies, demonstrating that they recognize TL directly without antigen presentation by H-2. The CTL activity was blocked by antibodies to TCR gamma delta and CD3, and also by antibodies to CD 8 alpha and CD8 beta in CD8+ clones, showing that the activity was mediated by TCR gamma delta and coreceptors. The thymic origin of these gamma delta CTL clones was indicated by the expression of Thy-1 and Ly-1 (CD5), and also CD8 alpha beta heterodimers in CD8+ clones on their surfaces and by the usage of TCR V gamma 4 chains in 12 of the 14 clones. Taken together, these results suggest that Tla2-3-TL antigen expressed in the thymus engages in positive selection of a sizable population of gamma delta T cells.

The immunodominant major histocompatibility complex class I-restricted antigen of a murine colon tumor derives from an endogenous retroviral gene product

Tumors express peptide antigens capable of being recognized by tumor-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL). Immunization of mice with a carcinogen-induced colorectal tumor, CT26, engineered to secrete granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor, routinely generated both short-term and long-term CTL lines that not only lysed the parental tumor in vitro, but also cured mice of established tumor following adoptive transfer in vivo. When either short-term or long-term CTL lines were used to screen peptides isolated from CT26, one reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography peptide fraction consistently sensitized a surrogate target for specific lysis. The bioactivity remained localized within one fraction following multiple purification procedures, indicating that virtually all of the CT26-specific CTL recognized a single peptide. This result contrasts with other tumor systems, where multiple bioactive peptide fractions have been detected. The bioactive peptide was identified as a nonmutated nonamer derived from the envelope protein (gp70) of an endogenous ecotropic murine leukemia provirus. Adoptive transfer with CTL lines specific for this antigen demonstrated that this epitope represents a potent tumor rejection antigen. The selective expression of this antigen in multiple non-viral-induced tumors provides evidence for a unique class of shared immunodominant tumor associated antigens as targets for antitumor immunity.

Surface expression of beta 2-microglobulin-associated thymus-leukemia antigen is independent of TAP2

Mouse thymus-leukemia antigen (TL), like other major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I-b antigens, displays signs of a specialized function. It is normally expressed at high levels on immature thymocytes and at moderate levels on gut epithelium and activated mature T cells. A promoter/enhancer region unique among class I genes accounts for this narrow range of tissue distribution. Like most other class I molecules, TL is dependent upon endogenous beta 2-microglobulin (beta 2m) for transport to the surface. However, here we show that unlike most other MHC class I molecules, TL is expressed efficiently in the absence of functional transporter associated with antigen processing subunit 2 (TAP2). A putative fourth TLa gene cloned from A.SL1 cells was expressed in RMA and RMA-S cells. In bulk transformants, TL expression is higher in TAP2-RMA-S cells than in wild-type RMA cells, and is not elevated by incubation at reduced temperatures or exposure to exogenous beta 2m. Analysis of immunoprecipitated molecules by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate indicates that TL is processed normally in RMA-S cells and is associated with beta 2m both intracellularly and at the cell surface. However, TL heavy chains expressed on the cell surface in the absence of TAP2 are cleaved to a predominant 38 kDa fragment, presumably the result of an altered conformation that renders TL more susceptible to proteolysis. These results suggest that while TL may normally acquire TAP2-dependent peptides, this class I-b molecule does not require them for efficient export to, and stable expression at the cell surface.

Structure, function, and evolution of mouse TL genes, nonclassical class I genes of the major histocompatibility complex

In contrast to well-studied "classical" class I genes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), the biology of nonclassical class I genes remains largely unexamined. The mouse TL genes constitute one of the best defined systems among nonclassical class I genes in the T region of the MHC. To elucidate the function and the evolution of TL genes and their relationship to classical class I genes, seven TL DNA sequences, including one from a Japanese wild mouse, were examined and compared with those of several mouse and human classical class I genes. The TL genes differ from either classical class I genes or pseudogenes in the extent and pattern of nucleotide substitutions. Natural selection appears to have operated so as to preserve the function of TL, which might have been acquired in an early stage of its evolution. In a putative peptide-binding region encoded by TL genes, the rate of nonsynonymous (amino acid replacing) substitution is considerably lower than that of synonymous substitution. This conservation is completely opposite that in classical class I genes, in which the peptide-binding region has evolved to diversify amino acid sequences so as to recognize a variety of antigens. Thus, it is suggested that the function of TL antigens is distinct from that of classical class I antigens and is related to the recognition of a relatively restricted repertoire of antigens and their presentation to T-cell receptors.

Identification of functional sites on bovine leukemia virus envelope glycoproteins using structural and immunological data

Sequence analysis using the sensitive hydrophobic cluster analysis method shows that the bovine leukemia virus envelope glycoproteins conserve the general organization of the influenza hemagglutinin into a 'stem', containing the external part of the transmembrane glycoprotein and the N-terminal and C-terminal parts of the external glycoprotein, and a 'head', containing only external glycoprotein residues. However, our analysis suggests, for the first time, that the bovine leukemia virus envelope head will not adopt the typical 'jelly-roll' fold of the influenza A hemagglutinin head, but most likely folds into another type of 'Greek-key' structure corresponding to the overall topology of constant immunoglobulin domains. We constructed a three-dimensional model for the bovine leukemia virus envelope head by homology modeling using the crystal structure of the human histocompatibility antigen HLA-A2 alpha 3 domain. Furthermore, we propose a general model for the oligomeric organization of this head, based on the hemagglutinin trimer. The proposed structural organization of bovine leukemia virus external glycoprotein is further supported by antipeptide and monoclonal antibody reactivities. Our modeling study suggests that the loops of the two neutralizing peptides located in the head are adjacent at the top of the domain and define a potential interaction site of the external glycoprotein with its cellular receptor. This site is topologically similar to the binding site of hemagglutinin with its cellular receptor, sialic acid. The other neutralizing peptides are located within a small domain linking the head to the stem. These data are of interest for defining other oncoviral glycoproteins heads and receptor-binding sites.

TL antigen as a transplantation antigen recognized by TL-restricted cytotoxic T cells

In contrast to broadly expressed classical class I antigens of the major histocompatibility complex, structurally closely related TL antigens are expressed in a highly restricted fashion. Unlike classical class I antigens, TL antigens are not known to be targets of cytotoxic T cells or to mediate graft rejection. Whereas classical class I antigens function as antigen-presenting molecules to T cell receptors (TCR), the role of TL is yet to be defined. To elucidate the function of TL, we have derived transgenic mice expressing TL in most tissues including skin by introducing a TL gene, T3b of C57BL/6 mouse origin, driven by the H-2Kb promoter. By grafting the skin of transgenic mice, we demonstrate that TL can serve as a transplantation antigen and mediate a TCR-alpha/beta+ CD8+ cytotoxic T cell response. This T cell recognition of TL does not require antigen presentation by H-2 molecules. Furthermore, we show that C57BL/6 F1 mice develop CD8+ T cells that are cytotoxic for C57BL/6 TL+ leukemia cells, providing further support for the concept that aberrantly expressed nonmutated proteins such as TL can be recognized as tumor antigens.

Structural analysis of an extremely long 5'-noncoding region of rat brain argininosuccinate lyase mRNA: presence of multiple B1 repeats and multiple upstream AUG codons, and a possibility of translational control

The present detailed analysis of the sequence of the extremely long (967 bp) 5'-noncoding region of a rat brain argininosuccinate lyase cDNA clone, reveals several features of interest. Multiple copies of partial and inverted (antisense) B1 repeats and multiple upstream ATG codons are present in the region, which suggests a possibility of translational control of the argininosuccinate lyase gene expression in rat brain.

Expression of mouse Tla region class I genes in tissues enriched for gamma delta cells

The Tla region of the BALB/c mouse major histocompatibility complex contains at least 20 class I genes. The function of the products of these genes is unknown, but recent evidence demonstrates that some Tla region gene products could be involved in presentation of antigens to gamma delta T cells. We have generated a set of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) oligonucleotide primers and hybridization probes that permit us to specifically amplify and detect expression of 11 of the 20 BALB/c Tla region genes. cDNA prepared from 12 adult and fetal tissues and from seven cell lines was analyzed. In some cases, northern blot analysis or staining with monoclonal antibodies specific for the Tla-encoded thymus leukemia (TL) antigen were used to confirm the expression pattern of several of the genes as determined by PCR. Some Tla region genes, such as T24d and the members of the T10d/T22d gene pair, are expressed in a wide variety of tissues in a manner similar to the class I transplantation antigens. The members of the TL antigen encoding gene pair, T3d/T18d, are expressed in only a limited number of organs, including several sites enriched for gamma delta T cells. Other Tla region genes, including T1d, T2d, T16d, and T17d, are transcriptionally silent and transcripts from the T8d/T20d gene pair do not undergo proper splicing. In general, sites that contain gamma delta T lymphocytes have Tla region transcripts. The newly identified pattern of expression of the genes analyzed in sites containing gamma delta T cells further extends the list of potential candidates for antigen presentation to gamma delta T cells.

Genomic DNA sequence and organization of a TL-like gene in the grc-G/C region of the rat

Genes in the grc-G/C region, which is linked to the rat major histocompatibility complex, influence the control of growth, development, and susceptibility to chemical carcinogens. As an initial approach to analyzing the structure and organization of these genes, a class I hybridizing fragment designated RT(5.8) was isolated from an R21 genomic DNA library and sequenced from overlapping restriction enzyme fragments. The RT(5.8) clone has 5788 base pairs and contains the eight exons characteristic of a class I gene. There are CAAT and TATA boxes upstream of the signal peptide, and the recognition sequence that precedes the site of polyadenylation is located downstream from the third cytoplasmic domain. Comparison of the RT(5.8) gene with representative class I genes from the rat and other species shows that the nucleotide sequences of RT(5.8) have a high level of similarity to those of TL region genes of several strains of mice. The peptide sequence deduced from the RT(5.8) clone is distinct from all previously published class I gene sequences, and at many positions there are amino acid residues that are unique to the RT(5.8) sequence. Probes have been isolated from the third exon and from the 5' and 3' flanking regions of the RT(5.8) clone, and Southern blot analysis with genomic DNA of various rat strains shows that these probes are specific for the RT(5.8) fragment. Northern blot analysis shows that the gene is transcribed in the thymus but not in the liver or spleen. The RT(5.8) sequence is more similar to some mouse TL genes (especially in the alpha 2 and cytoplasmic domains and in the 5' and 3' untranslated regions) than it is to other rat class I genes. Hence, TL-like genes are not restricted to the mouse.

Abnormal thymic development, impaired immune function and gamma delta T cell lymphomas in a TL transgenic mouse strain

During derivation of transgenic mouse strains with various TL and TL/H-2 chimeric genes, one strain, Tg.Tlaa-3-1, introduced with a TL gene (Tlaa-3), was found to have an abnormal thymic T cell population and to develop a high incidence of T cell lymphomas. To investigate the etiology of the thymic abnormalities and of the lymphomas, the development of lymphoid organs in transgenic mice was studied. The thymus of these mice goes through three unusual successive events: perturbation of thymic development during embryogenesis, disappearance of thymocytes between day 14 and day 21 after birth, and subsequent proliferation of large blast-like cells. These events are associated with the abolishment of T cell receptor (TCR) alpha beta lineage of the T cell differentiation, leading to preponderance of cells belonging to the TCR gamma delta L3T4-Lyt-2- double negative (DN) lineage. Bone marrow transplantation and thymic graft experiments demonstrate that the abnormality resides in the bone marrow stem cells rather than in the thymic environment. The expression of TL antigen in the transgenic mice is greatly increased and TL is expressed in a wide range of T cells, including normally TL- DN cells and L3T4+ Lyt-2- and L3T4-Lyt-2+ single positive cells. These quantitative and qualitative abnormalities in TL expression most likely cause the abnormal T cell differentiation. The gamma delta DN cells migrate into peripheral lymphoid organs and constitute nearly 50% of peripheral T cells. Immune function of the transgenic mice is severely impaired, as T cell function is defective in antibody production to sheep red blood cells, in mixed lymphocyte culture reaction to allogenic spleen cells and also in stimulation with concanavalin A. These results indicate that the gamma delta cells are incapable of participating in these reactions. Molecular and serological analysis of T cell lymphomas reveal that they belong to the gamma delta lineage, suggesting that the gamma delta DN cells in this strain are susceptible to leukemic transformation. Based on cell surface phenotype and TCR expression of the DN thymocytes and T cell lymphomas, a map of the sequential steps involved in the differentiation of gamma delta DN cells is proposed.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Recognition of MHC TL gene products by gamma delta T cells

We have studied the ligand specificity of a gamma delta T-cell receptor (TCR) derived from a mouse T-cell hybridoma (KN6). KN6 cells reacted with syngeneic (C57BL/6) cells from various origins (splenocytes, thymocytes, peritoneal exudate cells, etc.) and cells from many different mouse strains. KN6 reactivity against cells from a panel of congenic and recombinant mouse strains demonstrated that the ligand recognized by KN6 is controlled by an MHC-linked gene that most probably maps in the TL region. We cloned this gene and formally proved that it does map in the TL region. This gene turned out to be a novel class I gene (designated T22b) belonging to a hitherto unidentified cluster of TL region genes in strain C57BL/6. This gene was expressed in many different tissues and cell types. We also examined the tissue expression of several other TL genes. One of these, the structural gene (T3b) encoding the thymus leukemia (TL) antigen from C57BL/6 mice, was specifically expressed in the epithelium of the small intestine. Since the intestinal epithelium of the mouse is known to be the homing site for a subset of gamma delta T cells (i-IEL) bearing diverse TCR with V7 rearranged gamma chains, we propose that the T3b gene product is part of the ligand recognized by some of the i-IEL. Our data support the idea that gamma delta T cells might be specific for non-classical class I or class I-like molecules and suggest that gamma delta TCR and non-classical MHC co-evolved for the recognition of a conserved set of endogenous or foreign peptides.

Regulation of expression of TL genes of the mouse Mhc

The expression of thymus leukemia (TL) antigens and genes in thymocytes and activated T cells was examined by immunoprecipitation, flow cytometric, northern, and nuclear run-off transcription analyses. Cell surface forms of TL were detectable by immunoprecipitation on activated peripheral T cells from Tla haplotypes except Tla(b), in agreement with expression observed on thymocytes. Approximately 40%-50% of concanavalin A (Con A) or anti-CD3-activated T cells were TL+, with expression detected on both the CD4 and CD8 subsets by dual-color analysis. Activated T cells expressed detectable levels of TL mRNA 48 h after stimulation, but no TL transcripts were detectable in unstimulated splenocytes. However, TL mRNA expression in mature activated T cells did not precisely mimic thymocyte expression: the level of expression was considerably lower in activated T cells, and in most haplotypes the transcripts produced in activated T cells appeared to represent a subset of the transcripts produced in thymocytes. By run-off transcription assays in isolated nuclei, TL gene expression was detected in activated but not resting T cells indicating that lack of expression of TL in resting T cells is not due to message instability. These data demonstrate that TL genes are inducible and transcriptionally regulated.

Transcription analysis, physical mapping, and molecular characterization of a nonclassical human leukocyte antigen class I gene

The human major histocompatibility complex contains approximately 20 class I genes, pseudogenes, and gene fragments. These include the genes for the three major transplantation antigens, HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C, as well as a number of other genes or pseudogenes of unknown biological significance. Most of the latter have C + G-rich sequences in their 5' ends that are unmethylated in the B-lymphoblastoid cell line 3.1.0. We investigated one of these genes, HLA-H, in more detail. The gene is, overall, strongly homologous in sequence to HLA-A but differs in several potentially significant ways, including changes in conserved promoter sequences, a single-base deletion producing a translation termination codon in exon 4, and a region of sequence divergence downstream of the transcribed portion of the gene. Nevertheless, mouse L cells transfected with the gene accumulated small amounts of apparently full-length polyadenylated RNA. A portion of this RNA begins at the transcription site predicted by analogy to certain class I cDNA clones, while another portion appears to begin shortly upstream. L cells transfected with a hybrid gene containing the first three exons of HLA-H and the last five exons of HLA-B27 accumulated full-length HLA transcripts at the same level as cells transfected with an HLA-B27 gene; both levels are at least 15- to 20-fold higher than that directed by HLA-H alone. In addition, we isolated a cDNA clone for HLA-H that contains a portion of intron 3 attached to a normally spliced sequence comprising exons 4 through 8. These results suggest that low levels of translatable mRNA for the truncated class I heavy chain encoded by HLA-H are produced under physiologic circumstances and that sequences 3' of intron 3 decrease the levels of stable transcripts.

Transcription analysis, physical mapping, and molecular characterization of a nonclassical human leukocyte antigen class I gene

The human major histocompatibility complex contains approximately 20 class I genes, pseudogenes, and gene fragments. These include the genes for the three major transplantation antigens, HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C, as well as a number of other genes or pseudogenes of unknown biological significance. Most of the latter have C + G-rich sequences in their 5' ends that are unmethylated in the B-lymphoblastoid cell line 3.1.0. We investigated one of these genes, HLA-H, in more detail. The gene is, overall, strongly homologous in sequence to HLA-A but differs in several potentially significant ways, including changes in conserved promoter sequences, a single-base deletion producing a translation termination codon in exon 4, and a region of sequence divergence downstream of the transcribed portion of the gene. Nevertheless, mouse L cells transfected with the gene accumulated small amounts of apparently full-length polyadenylated RNA. A portion of this RNA begins at the transcription site predicted by analogy to certain class I cDNA clones, while another portion appears to begin shortly upstream. L cells transfected with a hybrid gene containing the first three exons of HLA-H and the last five exons of HLA-B27 accumulated full-length HLA transcripts at the same level as cells transfected with an HLA-B27 gene; both levels are at least 15- to 20-fold higher than that directed by HLA-H alone. In addition, we isolated a cDNA clone for HLA-H that contains a portion of intron 3 attached to a normally spliced sequence comprising exons 4 through 8. These results suggest that low levels of translatable mRNA for the truncated class I heavy chain encoded by HLA-H are produced under physiologic circumstances and that sequences 3' of intron 3 decrease the levels of stable transcripts.

Comparison of exon 5 sequences from 35 class I genes of the BALB/c mouse

DNA sequences of the fifth exon, which encodes the transmembrane domain, were determined for the BALB/c mouse class I MHC genes and used to study the relationships between them. Based on nucleotide sequence similarity, the exon 5 sequences can be divided into seven groups. Although most members within each group are at least 80% similar to each other, comparison between groups reveals that the groups share little similarity. However, in spite of the extensive variation of the fifth exon sequences, analysis of their predicted amino acid translations reveals that only four class I gene fifth exons have frameshifts or stop codons that terminate their translation and prevent them from encoding a domain that is both hydrophobic and long enough to span a lipid bilayer. Exactly 27 of the remaining fifth exons could encode a domain that is similar to those of the transplantation antigens in that it consists of a proline-rich connecting peptide, a transmembrane segment, and a cytoplasmic portion with membrane-anchoring basic residues. The conservation of this motif in the majority of the fifth exon translations in spite of extensive variation suggests that selective pressure exists for these exons to maintain their ability to encode a functional transmembrane domain, raising the possibility that many of the nonclassical class I genes encode functionally important products.

Expression of TL, H-2, and chimeric H-2/TL genes in transgenic mice: abnormal thymic differentiation and T-cell lymphomas in a TL transgenic strain

To investigate the genetic regulation of TL expression, 12 transgenic mouse strains on a C3H (TL-nonexpressing) background have been derived: two Tg.Tlaa-3 strains with Tlaa-3 isolated from A-strain TL+ thymocytes, four Tg.T3b strains with T3b from a TL+ leukemia arising in a C57BL/6 (TL-) mouse, three Tg.Con.3 strains with an H-2Kb/T3b chimeric gene (construct 3,5'flanking region and exon 1 of H-2Kb and exons 2-6 of T3b), one Tg.Con.4 strain with a T3b/H-2Kb chimeric gene (construct 4, 5' flanking region and exon 1 of T3b and exons 2-8 of H-2Kb), and two Tg.H-2Kb strains with H-2Kb. Expression of the transgenes was determined by the presence of TL or H-2Kb products or transcripts. Both Tg.Tlaa-3 strains expressed high levels of TL antigen in thymus, indicating that (i) the 9.6-kilobase Tlaa-3 DNA fragment contains sufficient information for correct tissue-specific expression in thymocytes and (ii) TL- thymocytes of C3H provide conditions for the transcriptional activation of Tlaa-3. In contrast, neither the four Tg.T3b strains nor the Tg.Con.4 strain expressed transgenes, indicating that (i) T3b lacks elements necessary for TL expression in normal thymocytes and (ii) the corresponding endogenous TL genes of C3H mice also lack these elements. The pattern of TL expression in two of the three Tg.Con.3 strains was similar to that of H-2Kb expression, indicating that transcription of this H-2Kb/T3b chimeric gene was driven by the regulatory sequences of H-2Kb. The thymuses of mice derived from the Tg.Tlaa-3-1 strain were smaller than C3H thymuses, and the surface phenotype of Tg.Tlaa-3-1 thymocytes resembled thymocyte precursors (TL+L3T4-Lyt-2-Thy-1+H-2+). These mice developed a high incidence of lymphomas with the same thymocyte precursor phenotype. The study of TL transgenic strains should prove useful in defining the role of TL in normal and abnormal T-cell differentiation.

Expression of the Q8/9d gene by T cells of the mouse

The Q genes, specifying Qa antigens and situated in the extended part of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) of the mouse, comprise a subgroup of MHC class I genes whose significance and function are still largely unknown. In screening a cDNA library made from the BALB/c inducer T-cell line Cl.Ly1-T1, we isolated 11 clones representing Q8/9, but none representing Q6 or Q7. Confirmatory evidence is given that the Q8/9 gene originated from fusion of the 5' region of the Q8 gene with the 3' region of the Q9 gene at a recombination site or hot spot in the vicinity of intron 4. Contrary to previous impressions that Q8/9 is an inert pseudogene, we find that the Q8/9 gene can be functional and encode a Qa-2, 3 antigen. One variety of the 11 Q8/9 clones isolated lacked exon 5, which encodes the transmembrane domain of class I glycoproteins, and thus may account for secretion of a soluble form of Qa-2, 3 antigen thought to be released by activated T cells.

Qa-1 restricted recognition of foreign antigen by a gamma delta T-cell hybridoma

Distinct T-lymphocyte subsets recognize antigens in conjunction with different classes of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) glycoproteins using the T-cell receptor (TCR), a disulphide-linked heterodimer associated with the CD3 complex on the cell surface. In general, class I and class II MHC products provide a context for the recognition of foreign antigens by CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, respectively. This recognition seems to be largely dependent on alpha beta TCR heterodimers, whereas the function of the second gamma delta TCR, present on a minor subpopulation of cells, is still unknown. In the mouse, the existence of six cell-surface MHC class I products (K, D, L, Qa-1, Qa-2 and Tla) has been firmly established by serological, biochemical and genetic evidence. So far, only the most polymorphic of them, K, D and L ('classical' class I) have been reported as restriction elements for T-cell recognition of foreign antigens. The function of the relatively invariant Qa and Tla molecules remains unknown. We have made a T-helper cell hybridoma clone (DGT3) that recognizes synthetic copolymer poly(Glu50Tyr50) in the context of Qa-1 cell surface product, and has a CD4-CD8- phenotype. Our studies indicate that DGT3 cells express the gamma delta TCR on the cell surface, implicating its role in Qa-1-restricted antigen recognition. This is the first evidence that T cells can recognize foreign antigen in association with self Qa product, confirming that Qa molecules not only topologically, but also functionally, belong to the MHC.

The tumor-rejection antigens of the 1591 ultraviolet fibrosarcoma. Potential origin and evolutionary implications

Previously, we cloned and sequenced the three novel MHC class I genes expressed by the C3H UV fibrosarcoma, 1591. We have extended the analysis of the polymorphic nature of these genes relative to the C3H strain. Scattered nucleotide differences among the tumor genes as compared with the C3H H-2 and Qa sequences make it highly unlikely that the novel tumor genes were generated by recombination between endogenous C3H sequences. Given that two of the tumor clones, A149 and A166, are remarkably similar in amino acid and DNA sequence to H-2Lq and H-2Dq, respectively, we also examined the 1591 RP2 and GUS loci for evidence of polymorphism. Compared with C3H and B10.AKM, 1591 appears to be heterozygous at each of these loci, consistent with an H-2q origin for the two novel 1591 class I genes. Interestingly, the third tumor gene, designated A216, shares certain characteristics with the H-2Ks antigen, reminiscent of the naturally occurring combination of H-2Ks, H-2Dq, and H-2Lq antigens found in some Swiss mouse strains. As a result, we propose that the non-C3H/HeN characteristics displayed by the 1591 tumor point to a non-C3H origin for the novel tumor class I genes of 1591.

Genomic organization of the mouse Tla locus: study of an endogenous retroviruslike locus reveals polymorphisms related to different Tla haplotypes

A retrovirus element (TLev1) is located within the Thymus leukemia antigen (Tla) locus of the C57BL/10 mouse major histocompatibility complex. Low-copy probes have been isolated from sequences flanking the TLev1 integration site to examine the distribution of TLev1 among inbred mouse strains having genotypically determined variations in TL-antigen expression. It was found that the low-copy probes cross-hybridize to regions within the Tla locus in a genotype-specific manner. Although a strong association was found between TL mouse strains and TLev1, the presence or absence of the TLev1 locus did not exclusively correlate with expression or nonexpression of TL antigens. Analysis of different Mus subspecies indicates that TLev1 integrated into a common ancestor of the species Mus musculus. It is suggested that the loss of the TLev1 locus from certain mouse genomes reflects evolutionary rearrangements in the TL region; the resulting diversity may relate to the differential expression of TL antigens among mouse strains. The probes described here provide a useful tool for examining the genomic expansions and contractions which have occurred during the evolution of the Tla locus.

Influence of 5' flanking sequences on TL and H-2 expression in transfected L cells

TL (thymus leukemia) antigens are encoded by genes in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) of the mouse. Although similar in overall structure to other class I MHC antigens (H-2, Qa), TL expression is regulated in a highly distinctive fashion. In contrast to the broad distribution of H-2 and the intermediate distribution of Qa, TL expression is restricted to cells of T-cell derivation during development in the thymus and is lost when T cells migrate to the periphery. Some mouse strains do not express TL antigens on thymocytes (TL- strains), but leukemias occurring in these mice can have a TL+ phenotype, indicating activation of normally silent TL genes. In transfection studies with H-2 or TL genes in L cells (mouse fibroblasts), H-2 is expressed at high levels, whereas TL is poorly expressed. To identify genetic elements that regulate expression in transfected L cells, chimeric genes were constructed by transposing the 5' and 3' regions of TL and H-2 genes. Antigen expression was not influenced by transposing the cytoplasmic domain and 3' untranslated region. In contrast, interchanging the 5' flanking sequences and exon 1 had a marked influence on antigen expression, with 5' sequences from the H-2 gene increasing TL expression 10- to 50-fold, and 5' sequences from the TL gene markedly decreasing H-2 expression. With both the parental TL gene (p20-TL) and the highly expressed chimeric TL gene (construct 3), levels of TL mRNA and TL antigen correlated with the number of transfected gene copies. However, in cells transfected with equal copy numbers, much higher levels of TL mRNA and TL antigen were found in construct-3 transfectants than in p20-TL transfectants. In addition, there was marked heterogeneity in TL mRNA size in L cells transfected with p20-TL, in contrast to a more homogeneous transcript size in construct-3 transfectants. These results point to regulatory sequences in the 5' flanking region of class I genes that control proper initiation and processing of TL transcripts.

A low polymorphic mouse H-2 class I gene from the Tla complex is expressed in a broad variety of cell types

We have previously described the isolation of pH-2d-37, a cDNA clone that encodes a so far unknown, poorly polymorphic, class I surface molecule. We report here the isolation of the corresponding gene, its nucleotide sequence, and its localization in the Tla region of the murine MHC. Using a RNase mapping assay, we have confirmed that the second domain coding region of the 37 gene displays very limited polymorphism, and that the gene is transcribed in a broad variety of cell types, in contrast to the genes encoding the known Qa and TL antigens. Possible functions are discussed.

Cloning of a brain protein identified by autoantibodies from a patient with paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration

Autoantibodies directed against neuronal proteins have been identified in some patients with paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration. To identify the molecular targets for these autoantibodies, we constructed a lambda gt11 cDNA expression library from human cerebellum and screened the library with IgG from a patient with paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration. A single clone, pCDR2, produced a fusion protein that reacted strongly with the patient's IgG. The isolated pCDR2 clone was used to identify six overlapping cDNA clones. Sequencing of the pCDR clones revealed a distinctive pattern consisting of a unit of 18 nucleotides (6 amino acids) repeated in tandem along the entire cDNA sequence. This sequence is unlike any previously described eukaryotic gene. Southern blot analysis was consistent with single-copy representation of the CDR (cerebellar degeneration-related) gene in the human and mouse genome. RNA blotting studies with normal tissues showed expression of the CDR gene to be largely restricted to brain. Expression of the CDR message was also noted in cell lines derived from cancers of neuroectodermal, kidney, and lung origin.

The expression of murine Qa region gene product(s) in L cell transformants

The cosmid H3.5, containing genes mapping to the murine H-2 Qa region, was used to transfect L cells by the calcium phosphate co-precipitation method. The resultant transfected cells expressed a Qa-like determinant as detected by an immune serum raised against the transfectant cells and Qa specific monoclonal antibodies. Two-dimensional gel analysis revealed the expression of a class I-like heavy chain with a similar molecular mass to the Qa2 antigens of the positive strain B10 and B10.A but with a different isoelectric point. The cosmid H3.5 spans 40 kb of DNA and contains at least one complete Qa region gene which encodes the Qa-like determinant detected in this study.

Molecular biology of the H-2 histocompatibility complex

The H-2 histocompatibility complex of the mouse is a multigene family, some members of which are essential for the immune response to foreign antigens. The structure and organization of these genes have been established by molecular cloning, and their regulation and function is being defined by expression of the cloned genes.

Organization and evolution of D region class I genes in the mouse major histocompatibility complex

Chromosome walking has been used to study the organization of the class I genes in the D and Qa regions of the MHC of the BALB/c mouse and in the D region of the AKR mouse. Five and eight class I genes are found in the D and Qa regions of the BALB/c mouse, respectively, while the AKR mouse contains only a single class I D region gene that has been identified by transfection as the Dk gene. Restriction map homologies and crosshybridization experiments suggest that the multiple class I genes in the D region of the BALB/c mouse have been generated by unequal crossing-over involving class I genes from the Qa region. The expanded D region of BALB/c and other H-2d haplotype mouse strains appears to be metastable, since evidence for gene contraction in the Dd region has been found in two mutant strains. Thus the D region and also the Qa region class I genes are in a dynamic state, evolving by gene expansion and contraction.