Characterization and function of T cell Fc gamma receptor

Fc receptors and the common gamma-chain in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

Fcgamma receptors (FcgammaRs), composed of a ligand-binding alpha-chain (FcRalpha) sometimes associated with the homodimeric, cell-signaling common gamma-chain (FcRgamma), comprise an important family of effector molecules linking humoral and cell-mediated adaptive immunity and regulating innate immunity. In peripheral autoimmune diseases, FcgammaRs contribute to inflammation and tissue damage through inappropriate activation of macrophages and neutrophils, release of cytokines and oxidants, and destruction of autoantibody-opsonized cells. In the central nervous system (CNS), the role of FcgammaRs in autoimmune disease such as multiple sclerosis (MS) remains largely unexplored despite extensive documentation of CNS-specific antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid and plaques. Several studies have now examined the role of FcgammaRs in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), the animal model for MS, using mice genetically deficient in one or more FcgammaRs or in FcRgamma. These studies indicate that none of the FcgammaR alpha-chains are critical for EAE development and progression. In contrast, it is unequivocal that FcRgamma contributes to EAE, and surprisingly it seems that this effect is independent of FcgammaRs. Recent studies now indicate that FcRgamma expression in gammadelta T cells, most likely as a component of the TCR/CD3 signaling complex, is a critical requirement for EAE development. These studies support previous evidence implicating a pathogenic role for gammadelta T cells in EAE.

IgD-receptor (IgD-R) cross-linking partially protects murine T cells from dexamethasone-induced apoptosis

Based on our previous findings that immunoglobulin D (IgD) receptor (IgD-R) cross-linking with oligomeric IgD (IgD-R-xL) led to T cell activation, we examined the effect of IgD-R-xL on the expression of Fas antigen and apoptosis induction. In splenic T cells, IgD-R-xL followed by dexamethasone (dex) treatment resulted in a decreased percentage of Fas-positive cells as well as a decreased mean fluorescence intensity (P<0.05) when compared with cells treated with dex alone. There are significant differences in annexin-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) and phosphatidylinositol (PI) staining between samples treated with dex alone and IgD-R-xL followed by dex-treated samples (P<0.05), suggesting a protective role for IgD-R-xL. No significant differences are seen in Fas antigen expression, annexin-FITC staining, and/or PI staining in murine T hybridoma (7C5) cells cultured under similar conditions (P<0.07). We hypothesize that ligation of IgD-R may predispose antigen-specific T lymphocytes for survival during primary immune responses when IgD-positive B cells serve as antigen-presenting cells.

IgD receptor-mediated signal transduction in T cells

Upregulation of immunoglobulin D-specific receptors (IgD-R) on CD4+ T cells may facilitate their interaction with specific carbohydrate moieties uniquely associated with membrane IgD on B cells. Previous studies have shown that upregulation of IgD-R facilitates cognate T-B cell interactions by mediating bidirectional signaling resulting in increased antibody responses and clonal expansion of antigen-specific T cells. Murine T hybridoma cells, 7C5, constitutively express IgD-R, as has been confirmed by staining with biotinylated IgD. Earlier studies have shown that inhibitors of protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) completely prevented upregulation of IgD-R in response to oligomeric IgD, suggesting that cross-linking of IgD-R may induce signal transduction and functional consequences through one or more PTK activation pathways, leading to upregulation of IgD-R. In the present study we show that cross-linking of IgD-R by oligomeric IgD indeed results in (a) T cell activation as seen by tyrosine phosphorylation of several intracellular proteins, (b) tyrosine phosphorylation of p56 Lck and PLC-gamma in 7C5 T hybridoma cells, and (c) phosphorylation of an approximately 29-kDa band that exhibits strong affinity for IgD. We analyzed tyrosine phosphorylation of p56 Lck and PLC-gamma in BALB/c splenic T cells that were exposed to oligomeric IgD both in vivo and in vitro. In vitro cross-linking as well as in vivo followed by in vitro cross-linking of IgD-R resulted in enhanced phosphorylation of p56 Lck and moderate tyrosine phosphorylation of PLC-gamma. These results suggest that interactions between IgD-R and IgD mediate signal transduction and support our previous findings that IgD-R+ T cells enhance cognate T cell-B cell interactions and antibody production.

Soluble CD16 in plasma cell dyscrasias

Soluble forms of Fc gammaR type III (sFc gammaRIII or sCD16) are present in many biological fluids. Their main ligand is IgG in the form of complexes. In plasma, sCD16 essentially derive from cleavage of membrane CD16 (or Fc gammaRIII) present on neutrophils and, to a lesser extent, on NK cells. Determination of sCD16 serum level during monoclonal gammopathies has demonstrated markedly reduced levels in multiple myeloma and in monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) rapidly evolving to multiple myeloma, compared to stable MGUS or controls, indicating a prognostic value for this biological parameter. The biology and functions of sCD16 are described, together with the biological significance of modifications of the sCD16 serum level in monoclonal gammopathies.

Fc receptors as targets for immunotherapy

Human membrane and soluble Fc epsilon receptors (Fc epsilon RI, Fc epsilon RII/CD23) and Fc gamma receptors (Fc gamma RI/CD64, Fc gamma RII/CD32, Fc gamma RIII/CD16) have been implicated in a number of diseases. Their functional roles such as capture and clearance of immune complexes, antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity, or cytokine or inflammatory mediator release, make them potential targets for immuno-intervention. In the present review, we will describe how membrane and soluble human Fc epsilon R and Fc gamma R have been already used as targets/tools for immuno-interventions by using monoclonal and bispecific engineered antibodies. Some therapeutic uses of these molecules both in cancer, infectious, and auto-immune diseases are presented.

Soluble Fc gamma receptors: interaction with ligands and biological consequences

Soluble Fc gamma receptors are produced by cleavage of the membrane receptors or by alternative splicing. They are found in biologic fluids. After a brief description of the structure and mode of production of soluble Fc gamma R, we address the question of ligands and function of the soluble Fc gamma R by using recombinant molecules and transgenic animals. We show that soluble Fc gamma R are not only IgG-binding factors which interfere with, and block, Fc-dependent immune reactions but also molecules that interact, in vitro, with non-Ig-ligands such as CR3 and CR4 and are trigger or regulate immune functions via these receptors.

Functions of Fc receptors on human dendritic Langerhans cells

Immature dendritic cells are antigen presenting cells highly specialized for capturing and processing foreign protein antigens. These cells express Fc gamma RII and Fc epsilon RI which, by their ability to internalize and use the endocytic pathway, increase their capacity to process antigens. Immature dendritic cells, such as epidermal Langerhans cells, also release soluble forms of Fc gamma RII. These latter molecules are likely to compete with the membrane-associated Fc gamma R to diminish or abrogate the capacity of dendritic cells to present immune complexes, as suggested by our in vitro experiments using both human and mouse epidermal Langerhans cells. However, when dendritic cells mature in vitro and become efficient stimulators of resting T cells, they rapidly down-regulate and sometimes completely abolish the expression of their membrane-associated Fc gamma R and Fc epsilon RI. Consequently, they lose or at least strongly diminish their capacity to capture immune complexes. At this stage, the release of soluble Fc gamma R by dendritic cells is also markedly diminished. One can hypothesize that the membrane-associated Fc gamma RII and the soluble Fc gamma RII are molecules expressed when dendritic cells are potent capturing and processing cells, the soluble Fc gamma RII molecule acting by competition as a negative regulatory element on the Fc gamma RII-mediated internalization of IgG-containing immune complexes. Thus, the expression of membrane-associated Fc gamma R and Fc epsilon RI, as well as the release of soluble Fc gamma R, would seem to characterize the immature stage of dendritic cells.

A functional analysis of recombinant soluble CD46 in vivo and a comparison with recombinant soluble forms of CD55 and CD35 in vitro

The human cell surface complement regulatory proteins CD46 (MCP), CD55 (DAF) and CD35 (CR1) protect autologous cells from complement-mediated damage by inhibiting C3 and C5 convertases. This regulatory potential has previously been exploited in the treatment of some models of inflammatory injury by the generation of recombinant soluble (rs) proteins, such as rsCD55 and rsCD35 . More recently, we have shown that rsCD46 inhibits complement activation in the fluid phase. In this report, the ability of rsCD46, rsD55 and rsCD35 to regulate human complement activation mediated by the classical pathway in vitro was clearly demonstrated by all three soluble proteins; however, rsCD35 was a more effective inhibitor than either rsCD46 or rsCD55. A combination of rsCD46+ rsCD55 was more potent than either of these proteins alone. Cell lysis via alternative pathway activation in vitro was efficiently regulated by rsCD46 and rsCD35 to a similar extent, whereas rsCD55 was not effective. Assays of rsCD46 in vivo have previously not been possible due to difficulties in expressing sufficient quantities of protein. This limitation has been overcome and now we report the ability of rsCD46 to inhibit immune complex-mediated inflammation in a rat using the reverse passive Arthus reaction model. Administration of rsCD46 significantly reduced the size of lesion, and histological examination showed a reduction in inflammatory infiltrate and edema. These data suggest that rsCD46, in addition to rsCd55 and rsCD35, may be useful a therapeutic agent.

A transforming growth factor beta-like immunosuppressive factor in immunoglobulin G-binding factor

Immunoglobulin G-binding factors (IgG-BF), which are produced by cells of the immune system, inhibit antibody production. In this paper, we show that transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) suppresses secondary in vitro anti-sheep red blood cell responses of mouse splenocytes and lipopolysaccharide- or anti-IgM-stimulated mouse B cell responses in a way similar to, and with the same kinetics as, rodent IgG-BF. Moreover, the immunosuppressive activity of IgG-BF was totally neutralized by polyclonal and monoclonal anti-TGF-beta antibodies and it eluted with TGF-beta by gel exclusion chromatography, suggesting that a TGF-beta-like immunosuppressive factor is present in IgG-BF. We also show that TGF-beta behaves as an IgG-BF since it binds to insolubilized IgG, but not to insolubilized F(ab')2 or bovine serum albumin. Altogether, the data support the concept of a biological role for TGF-beta in the IgG-mediated negative feedback of antibody responses.

Feedback suppression of B cell colony formation by supernatants of B colony cells: role of immunoglobulin

We have reported previously that CD5+ B cells from mature B cell colonies provide a negative feedback signal to the growth of autologous B cell colonies. Now we have observed that supernatants from mature B cell colonies also provide a negative feedback signal to the growth of autologous B cell colonies. We investigated the mechanism of this effect by growing B cell colonies physically separated by a 0.45 micron filter from T cells in millicell-CM chambers. Addition of colony supernatants to the T cell compartment reduced the number of B cell colonies by 28 +/- 6%. Colony numbers were reduced by 11 +/- 2 and 17 +/- 5% when the supernatants were added to the B cell or to both compartments, respectively. Pulsing T cells with the B cell colony supernatants before adding them to the colonies also decreased colony numbers by 33 +/- 13%. The addition of exogenous Ig classes and IgG subclasses to B cells decreased B cell colony numbers, although the effect was variable. In the presence of T cells, IgG had the greatest suppressive activity and the subclass IgG4 was most suppressive. In the absence of T cells, high concentrations of IgG almost abolished B cell colony formation. We conclude that these supernatants provide a negative feedback signal either directly to B cells, or via T cells which may be mediated at least in part by Ig.

Ligands and biological activities of soluble Fc gamma receptors

Soluble forms of low-affinity Fc gamma receptors (sFc gamma R) circulate in biologic fluids. Their plasmatic levels vary in immunological disorders or related diseases. They are produced by enzymatic cleavage of the membrane receptors or by alternative splicing. They bind IgG with the same isotype specificity as their cell surface counterparts and thus modulate Fc-dependent immune functions. Recent data suggest that they also bind non-Ig ligands present on leukocytes. Functional implications of these findings are discussed.

Regulation of tyrosine-containing activation motif-dependent cell signalling by Fc gamma RII

Crosslinking of the B-cell receptor (BCR) for antigen to low-affinity receptors for IgG (Fc gamma RII) inhibits B-cell activation induced by BCR aggregation. The cell-triggering properties of the BCR depend on tyrosine-containing activation motifs (TAM), in the intracytoplasmic domain of its Ig alpha and Ig beta subunits. TAMs also account for the cell-triggering capabilities of the T-cell receptor (TCR) for antigen, in T lymphocytes, and of the high-affinity receptor for IgE (Fc epsilon RI), in mast cells. Using as a model, rat basophilic leukemia cells (RBL-2H3) stably transfected with cDNA encoding wild-type or mutated murine or human Fc gamma RIIB and chimeric molecules having the intracytoplasmic domain of the FcR gamma subunit or of TCR-CD3 zeta subunit, we found that the inhibitory properties of Fc gamma RII are neither restricted to B cells nor to BCR-dependent cell activation, but can be extended to other cells and, as a general rule, to TAM-dependent cell activation.

Recombinant soluble Fc gamma receptors: production, purification and biological activities

Soluble forms of low affinity receptors for the Fc portion of IgG circulate in body fluids and regulate immune functions. We describe the transfection, production and purification techniques which allow the preparation, at a laboratory scale, of milligram amounts of glycosylated recombinant mouse and human soluble Fc gamma receptors. These recombinant products bind IgG and are biologically active on immune responses, like their normal counterparts.

Recombinant soluble human Fc gamma RII: production, characterization, and inhibition of the Arthus reaction

A recombinant soluble form of human Fc gamma RII (rsFc gamma RII) was genetically engineered by the insertion of a termination codon 5' of sequences encoding the transmembrane domain of a human Fc gamma RII cDNA. Chinese hamster ovary cells were transfected with the modified cDNA and the secreted rsFc gamma RII purified from the tissue culture supernatant (to > 95%, assessed by SDS-PAGE) using heat aggregated human immunoglobulin G (IgG) immunoaffinity chromatography. The IgG-purified rsFc gamma RII was relatively homogeneous (approximately 31,000 M(r)) whereas the total unpurified rsFc gamma RII secreted into the tissue culture supernatant was heterogeneous relating to N-linked glycosylation differences. Functional in vitro activity of the rsFc gamma RII was demonstrated by: (a) ability to bind via the Fc portion of human IgG and mouse IgG (IgG2a > IgG1 > > IgG2b); (b) complete inhibition of binding of erythrocytes sensitized with rabbit IgG to membrane-bound Fc gamma RII on K562 cells; and (c) inhibition of the anti-Leu4-induced T cell proliferation assay. Blood clearance and biodistribution studies show the rsFc gamma RII was excreted predominantly through the kidney in a biphasic manner, with an alpha-phase (t1/2 approximately 25 min) and a beta-phase (t1/2 approximately 4.6 h); the kidneys were the only organs noted with tissue-specific accumulation. In vivo, the administration of rsFc gamma RII significantly inhibited the immune complex-mediated inflammatory response induced by the reversed passive Arthus reaction model in rats. There was a specific and dose-dependent relationship between the amount of rsFc gamma RII administered, and the reduction in the size and severity of the macroscopic inflammatory lesion. Histological analysis of the skin showed a diffuse neutrophil infiltrate in both control and rsFc gamma RII-treated rats, however the perivascular infiltrate and the red cell extravasation was less intense in the rsFc gamma RII-treated group. It is likely that complement activation leads to neutrophil chemotaxis, but neutrophil activation via Fc gamma RII, which results in inflammatory mediator release, is inhibited. The data indicate that rsFc gamma RII is a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of antibody or immune complex-mediated tissue damage.

Peripheral membrane molecules of leukocytes and NK cytotoxicity

Some leukocyte effector cell-surface molecules movement toward the adjoining target cells takes place during the reaction of NK cytotoxicity (NK R). The majority of the moving molecules are usually anchored via a divalent-ion-dependent interaction (PMM-M2+). The released PMM-M2+ can interact also with the secreted tumor necrosis factor alfa (TNF-alpha). In agreement with PMM-M2+ movement, the number of TNF-alpha binding sites on the target cell surface increases during NK R. In addition, antibodies against PMM-M2+, as well as D-mannose- or N-acetyl-D-glucosamine-terminated oligosaccharides of PMM-M2+ inhibit NK R. A more detailed analysis of PMM-M2+ with monoclonal antibodies used flow cytometry and cell-surface biotinylation. Only 3 of 31 tested CD antigens (CD2, LAK-1 and CD45) were passed through this first strongly restricted experimental screening. The EDTA-released LAK-1 antigen, but not CD2 and CD45, interact with TNF-alpha and cell surface via a mannose-inhibitable interaction dependent on the presence of Ca2+ ions. The mechanism of possible participation of PMM-M2+ in cytotoxic events is discussed in relation to Ca2+ influx and subsequent cytolysin secretion.

Murine soluble Fc gamma receptors/IgG-binding factors (IgG-BF): analysis of the relation to Fc gamma RII and production of milligram quantities of biologically active recombinant IgG-BF

The production of soluble forms of low-affinity Fc gamma R by cells expressing recombinant or natural membrane Fc gamma RII, and the structural relationships between these soluble receptors and membrane Fc gamma RII are described. We show that 37-40 kD soluble Fc gamma RII, corresponding to the two N-terminal domains of Fc gamma RII and binding to IgG, are spontaneously produced in vitro by cleavage of membrane Fc gamma RII. Moreover, we describe methods to produce and purify to homogeneity large quantities of endotoxin-free recombinant IgG-binding factor (rIgG-BF) from the culture medium of a cell line transfected with a mutated Fc gamma RII cDNA. These methods include the use of bioreactors for culturing transfected fibroblasts and the purification of rIgG-BF by ion-exchange chromatography and hydrophobic-interaction chromatography. By using such procedures, about 2.4 mg of rIgG-BF were purified from 1 liter of culture medium of transfected fibroblasts. Like natural IgG-BF, the 95-99% pure rIgG-BF suppressed, in a dose-dependent manner, secondary in vitro IgG antibody responses to sheep red blood cells.

In vitro inhibition of tumor B cell growth by IgG-BF-producing Fc gamma RII+ T cell hybridoma and by immunoglobulin G-binding factors

The growth-modulating effect on mouse hybridoma B cells of IgG-BF-producing Fc gamma RII+ mouse T cell hybridomas and of the IgG-BF isolated from the culture supernatants of these cells has been examined. Cocultures of IgG-secreting hybridoma B cells with IgG-BF-producing T hybridomas or with partially purified IgG-BF demonstrated a reproducible inhibition of the tumor B cell growth. The inhibition was due to a cytostatic and not to a cytotoxic effect. Hybridoma B cells cultured in liquid medium in the presence of soluble IgG-BF, or cocultured in semisolid agarose assays with IgG-BF-producing hybridoma T cells did not undergo immediate cytolysis but were prevented from proliferating. Thus, our data indicate that IgG-BF-producing Fc gamma RII+ T cells interfere with the proliferation of transformed B cells, possibly through soluble IgG-BF.

Soluble Fc gamma R (sFc gamma R): detection in biological fluids and production of a murine recombinant sFc gamma R biologically active in vitro and in vivo

Soluble forms of receptors for the Fc portion of IgG (sFc gamma R) were detected in biological fluids from mice and humans. In mouse bearing tumors, circulating amounts of sFc gamma R increased concurrently with tumor growth. Tumors secreting IgG2a, IgG2b or IgG3 led to a 5- to 10-fold increase in serum sFc gamma R levels whereas tumors secreting IgG1, IgGA or other types of tumors (non Ig B cell tumors, T cell lymphoma and a melanoma) increased 2- to 3-fold the levels of circulating sFc gamma R. In the human, sFc gamma R were also detected in whole unstimulated saliva. Levels of sFc gamma RII and of sFc gamma RIII were variable and did not seem to depend on the dental status of the individuals. Finally, a murine recombinant sFc gamma R (rsFc gamma R) composed of the two extracellular domains of Fc gamma RII was produced by culture of transfected L cells in bioreactors. The purified rsFc gamma R was found to inhibit antibody production in vitro in anti-SRBC responses and by cultures of small B cells stimulated by anti-IgM antibodies in the presence of IL-4 and IL-5. Moreover, the i.p. injection of this material into adult mice immunized with SRBC led to a decrease of IgG antibody production by splenocytes, as measured by a hemolytic plaque assay, and in serum, as measured by antigen-specific ELISA.

Increased levels of soluble low-affinity Fc gamma receptors (IgG-binding factors) in the sera of tumour-bearing mice

Soluble forms of low affinity Fc gamma receptors (Fc gamma R), also called IgG-binding factors (IgG-BF), have been shown to play a regulatory role in immune responses. By using an immunodot assay with the anti-mouse Fc gamma R MoAb, 2.4G2, the levels of IgG-BF have been measured in the sera of mice bearing syngeneic tumours of lymphoid or non-lymphoid origin or in mice injected with high doses of murine IgG. These sera contained large amounts of IgG-BF as compared with controls. In the case of mice bearing IgG2a- or IgG2b-secreting hybridomas or lymphomas, serum IgG-BF increased progressively with tumour size and serum monoclonal IgG concentration, reaching 4-12 times the normal levels. A less than three-fold increase was found in mice bearing an IgG1-secreting hybridoma or tumours which do not secrete IgG (IgA-secreting hybridoma, non-immunoglobulin-secreting lymphoid tumours or melanoma) or in mice injected with 9 mg of monoclonal IgG2a. The enhancement of serum IgG-BF levels was independent of the expression of Fc gamma R by the tumour cells, suggesting that the majority of IgG-BF secreted in response to tumours was produced by the host rather than by the tumour. The increased production of IgG-BF may participate in the control of tumour growth and in the modulation of the host immune responses in tumour-bearing animals.

Immunomodulation of the induction phase of lymphokine-activated killer activity by acute phase proteins

Effective treatment of head and neck cancer with biologic response modifiers may be benefitted by an understanding of in vivo factors capable of modulating the lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cell phenomenon. Eighteen patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck were studied. Killer cells from each patient, activated by recombinant interleukin-2 (10 U/ml), were induced in either complete medium alone or complete medium plus 10% autologous serum solution and analyzed. Cytotoxicity against both K562 and squamous cell carcinoma (MDA686-Ln) cell lines was determined by use of standard chromium-release assays. The immunomodulatory capacity of serum was correlated with levels of various acute phase proteins. Autologous serum significantly inhibited the induction phase of the LAK phenomenon in 61% of patients and stimulated it in 22%. No patients with early stage I or II disease had significant inhibition of induction. No direct correlation between inhibition and serum acute phase protein levels were seen. An inverse relationship was seen between the C3 component of complement and induction inhibition (r = -0.6). These findings suggest that advances of in vivo immunomodulatory therapy will require elucidation of mechanisms of serologic inhibition of the induction phase of the LAK phenomenon. Such studies may lead to serologic modification to enhance treatment efficacy of biologic response modifiers.

Soluble Fc gamma receptors II (Fc gamma RII) are generated by cleavage of membrane Fc gamma RII

This study describes the production of soluble Fc gamma RII by a cell line, D1B1, obtained by transfection of mouse L cells with a murine beta 1 Fc gamma RII cDNA. Upon incubation at 37 degrees C, radioiodinated D1B1 cells release a 39-kDa soluble Fc gamma RII, reacting with the rat anti-mouse Fc gamma RII monoclonal antibody 2.4G2, and binding to mouse IgG2a, IgG2b and IgG1 but not IgG3. In contrast to the transmembrane 50- to 70-kDa receptor, this soluble Fc gamma RII does not react with antibodies directed against a peptide corresponding to the 15 carboxy-terminal intracytoplasmic amino acids of beta Fc gamma RIII. N-Glycosidase F treatment generates a 18-kDa polypeptide. A 32- to 40-kDa soluble Fc gamma RII, which resolves into 18.5- and 20-kDa polypeptides after deglycosylation, was also isolated from the culture medium of unlabeled D1B1 cells. Therefore, this study indicates that soluble Fc gamma RII corresponding to the two extracellular domains of Fc gamma RII are generated by cleavage of membrane Fc gamma RII. Proteolysis occurs most probably at the vicinity of the transmembrane region of the receptor, around amino acids 165 to 180.

Receptors for the Fc portion of immunoglobulins (FcR) on murine oral mucosal T cells

The incidence and distribution of immunoglobulin receptors on oral mucosal T cells were investigated. Enrichment of either Thy-1.2, L3T4 or Lyt-2.2-positive cells was achieved by the use of a panning procedure following cell extraction by an optimized digestion method that preserved all three T-cell markers. The percentage of cells possessing Fc receptors was determined by using immunoglobulin-coated (IgM, IgG or IgA) fluorescent microspheres in a multipoint rosetting assay. We report that approximately 60% of Thy-1.2, L3T4 and Lyt-2.2 positive cells bear Fc gamma R whereas less than 5% of T cells of any subset bear Fc alpha R or Fc mu R. In frozen tissue sections, Fc gamma R+ cells were mainly scattered throughout the basal and suprabasal epithelium and were observed at a lower frequency in the minor salivary gland network. From their distribution, it is anticipated that Fc gamma R+ cells may be involved in the surveillance of the epithelium while the minor Fc alpha R+ L3T4+ T lymphocyte population may promote the expression of sIgA by resident sIgM-bearing B cells, and their differentiation into IgA plasma cells.

Regulation of IgG production by suppressor Fc gamma RII+ T hybridomas

In this work, we analyzed the immunoglobulin heavy (H) and light (L) chain production by two variant B hybridomas, UN2.C3 and UN2.C17.K1 co-cultured with cells from a Fc gamma RII+, IgG-binding factor (IgG-BF)-producer T hybridoma (T2D4.C1) or with cells of a Fc gamma RII-, IgG-BF-nonproducer variant (D10C5). We showed that only the Fc gamma RII+ hybridoma directly inhibits the IgG secretion by UN2.C3 through a soluble mediator. This inhibition affects the H and L chain synthesis as well as the H and L chain-encoding mRNA steady state. No apparent cytotoxic effect could be detected. In contrast, the production of kappa chain by an H chain-negative variant (UN2.C17.K1) was unaffected. This indicates that a complete IgG molecule is required to observe the inhibitory effect induced by T2D4.C1. The pattern of effector/target cell interactions observed in our work suggests that the soluble factor involved in the suppression of IgG production is IgG-BF, able to transiently modify the IgG gene expression in target cells.

Recombinant soluble receptors for the Fc gamma portion inhibit antibody production in vitro

The problem of the structural relationship between suppressive IgG-binding factor and low-affinity receptors for the Fc portion of IgG (Fc gamma RII) has not yet been solved. In the present work we have isolated a recombinant soluble Fc gamma RII containing only the two external domains of Fc gamma RII, and analyzed its biochemical characteristics and biological activity. A cDNA encoding Fc gamma RII was mutated by the creation of a stop codon at the Lys175 codon. L cells have been transfected with this cDNA inserted into an expression vector. A cell line was obtained that secretes recombinant soluble Fc gamma RII which reacts with a monoclonal anti-Fc gamma RII antibody and binds to IgG1, IgG2a and IgG2b murine isotypes but not to IgG3 or F(ab')2 fragments of IgG2a. The secreted molecule contains two molecular species of relative molecular mass (Mr) 44,000 and 34,000-38,000 and of pI 4.5 and 6.3. They correspond to different glycosylations of a single polypeptide of Mr 19,000. After purification to homogeneity, soluble Fc gamma RII has found to suppress secondary and primary in vitro antibody responses in a dose-dependent way. The present work shows that recombinant soluble Fc gamma RII has biochemical characteristics, immunoreactivity and biological activity similar to those of suppressive IgG-binding factor.

Rheumatoid factor blocks regulatory Fc signals

Immunosuppressed cultures of murine spleen cells, partly deprived of T cells and antigen-stimulated, can be reconstituted to near full activity in their antibody-forming cell response with murine rheumatoid factors (RF). The dose of RF required for recovery of 50% of the reconstitutable immune response was 10-100 ng and reconstitution was blocked by intact murine IgG added to the cultures. IgG subclass specificity of RF was demonstrated; RF specific for IgG2a was more potent than RF specific for IgG1 in reconstituting the response. Synergy was observed between RF added at culture initiation and late-acting B-cell differentiation factors. The greater the degree of T-cell deprivation, the more stringent the conditions needed for reconstitution. Suitable conditions for reconstitution with profound T-cell depletion included the limited reconstitution by specific RF, the synergistic action of RF with late-acting T-cell-replacing supernatants, and multiple additions of a number of RFs to the cultures on Days 0, 1, and 2. RF was also shown to block Fc-dependent immunosuppression by added antigen-antibody complexes. These results are interpreted as favoring the hypothesis put forward previously that the normal production of RF acts to reduce T-cell dependency by preventing negative Fc signal transmission by immune complexes on the B-cell surface. Abnormal production of RF may be a primary destabilizer of the immune responses leading to autoimmunity.

Rheumatoid factor and Fc signaling: a tale of two Cinderellas

Signaling to lymphocytes depends not only upon the interaction of receptors with specific antigen, but also upon antigen nonspecific receptors which receive input from two classes of molecules, immunologically specific end products and lymphokines. These represent the central elements in the physiologic stimulation of immune responses to both self and foreign antigens. This review is dedicated primarily to describing the function of physiologically active receptors for end product which are central to end product feedback in normal immune responses. The emergence of autoimmunity as a pathologic process resultant from a defective end product signaling mechanism is described.

Fc gamma RII expression in resting and activated B lymphocytes

In this report, we analyze the expression of the type II receptor for the Fc region of IgG (Fc gamma RII) in resting and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated murine B lymphocytes. Fc gamma RII is encoded by two genes, alpha and beta. The beta gene encodes two mRNA, beta 1 and beta 2, which are generated by alternative splicing. Using an S1 nuclease protection assay, we found that resting and activated B lymphocytes express predominantly the beta 1 transcript. Very low levels of the beta 2 mRNA were detected in this assay, while no expression of the alpha transcript could be detected. Quantitative Northern blot analysis showed that the amount of Fc gamma RII beta mRNA was increased 9-fold in LPS-activated B lymphocytes. The expression of Fc gamma RII during the various phases of B cell activation was then studied by immunofluorescence using the monoclonal antibody 2.4G2. LPS stimulation induced an increase of the Fc gamma RII cellular pool as well as of its expression at the surface of B lymphocytes. The rise in Fc gamma RII surface expression occurred after the induction of class II antigens (Ia) and before transferrin receptor induction. Fc gamma RII expression was found to be enhanced during the G1 phase of the cell cycle since (a) only large cells (i.e. those that had entered the G1 phase) expressed an increased amount of Fc gamma RII and (b) blocking the entry of activated cells into the S phase (with the ion channel blocker quinine) did not affect the Fc gamma RII induction by LPS. Furthermore, only B cell activators that induced cells to enter into G1 [LPS and F(ab')2 anti-IgM antibodies, but not interleukin 4] caused an increase in the expression of Fc gamma RII. These results show that the increase in the membrane expression of Fc gamma RII occurs during the early G1 phase, establishing it as a marker for the entry of B lymphocytes into the cell cycle.

A human suppressor T-cell factor that inhibits T-cell replication by interaction with the IgM-Fc receptor (CD7)

We have previously described the induction of human suppressor T cells from fresh peripheral blood lymphocytes of a kidney transplant recipient by in vitro stimulation with an autologous irradiated antidonor CTL line (EE-1) grown from a biopsy of the patient's own renal allograft. The induced T cells (designated TsEE) were shown to inhibit the in vitro generation of proliferative and cytotoxic responses of autologous T cells and nonautologous T cells that shared HLA-B7 with TsEE cells. Stimulation of TsEE cells by the autologous irradiated inducer line (EE-1) produced soluble factors (designated TsEEF) that similarly inhibited autologous and nonautologous T-cell responses to alloantigens and mitogens, but in a non-HLA-restricted manner. In this study, we examined the functional interaction of TsEEF with various cells surface receptors. TsEEF specifically inhibited the proliferation of stimulated and transformed T cells expressing CD7, a putative receptor for IgM-Fc (FcRmu). Blocking or capping of CD7-FcRmu determinants on responder T cells by pretreatment with IgM or anti-CD7 monoclonal antibodies (3A1, HuLy-m2) abrogated TsEEF activity. Conversely, pretreatment of T cells with TsEEF significantly reduced their binding of IgM and HuLy-m2. TsEEF was demonstrated not to be IgM or IgG, and its activity was not removed by preabsorption with IgM or IgG; however, its activity could be competitively inhibited by coculture with IgM. By cocapping experiments and studies utilizing CD7- (Hut-78) and CD7+ (HSB, Molt-4) T-cell lines. TsEEF activity did not appear to involve interactions with other T-cell or non-T-cell surface receptors. These findings suggest a novel role for FcRmu-CD7 T-cell surface receptors in binding certain soluble T-cell factors that result in the inhibition of T-cell replication.

The role of T cells in immunoglobulin class switching of specific antibody production system in vitro in humans

Only antibodies of the IgM class were produced in vitro by peripheral blood mononuclear cells stimulated with streptococcal carbohydrate. B cells of the peripheral blood mononuclear cells, however, synthesized both IgM and IgG class antibodies when combined with tonsillar T cells, suggesting that T cells inducing immunoglobulin class switching are present in the tonsils. Peripheral blood T cells also became capable of inducing B cells to produce IgG class antibodies when the T cells were incubated with antigen-pulsed macrophages. Surface IgM-positive, IgG-negative high-density B cells produced IgG antibodies for streptococcal carbohydrate in the presence of these T cells or tonsillar T cells. The culture supernatant solutions from these T cells or tonsillar T cells, however, failed to cause the B cells to produce IgG, indicating that class switching is not mediated by factors released from T cells. Lymphokines such as interleukin-2, human B cell growth factor, helper T cell factor, or interferon-gamma were also incapable of inducing IgG production. These results suggest that the cognate interaction between T cells and B cells is necessary for the immunoglobulin class switching.

Identification of the Fc gamma RII-related component of murine IgG-BF

Suppressor murine IgG-BF produced by the T cell hybrid (T2D4) expressing low affinity Fc gamma R (Fc gamma RII) contain four biologically active polypeptides of pI 5.2, 6.3, 7.7 and 8.3, respectively. They were fractionated by affinity chromatography on immunoadsorbents coupled with F(ab')2 fragments of the monoclonal anti-Fc gamma RII antibody 2.4G2 and by hydrophobic interaction chromatography. Both methods led to the identification of biologically active IgG-BF which react with 2.4G2 and of IgG-BF which do not react with 2.4G2. Molecules bearing the epitope recognized by 2.4G2 had an apparent pI of 5.3 while the pI of those which did not express this epitope were 6.3, 7.8 and 8.5, respectively. Therefore, one IgG-BF polypeptide of pI 5.3 is probably related to Fc gamma RII.

Human Fc gamma RIII: cloning, expression, and identification of the chromosomal locus of two Fc receptors for IgG

A cDNA clone encoding a human receptor for the Fc portion of IgG (Fc gamma R), Fc gamma RIII or CD16, was isolated from a human leukocyte library by a transient expression-immunoselection procedure. This cDNA (pGP5) encodes a 46-kDa phosphatidylinositol-linked cell surface protein with CD16 determinants and affinity for human IgG. The deduced protein sequence is most homologous to the murine receptor Fc gamma RII alpha, with slightly less homology to the human receptors Fc gamma RII and Fc epsilon RI. The cDNA hybridizes to a 2.2 kilobase mRNA in human leukocytes and a cloned human natural killer cell line. Fc gamma RIII is mapped to chromosome 1 by spot-blot analysis of sorted human chromosomes. Hybridization of Fc gamma RII and Fc gamma RIII probes to restriction digests of human genomic DNA separated by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis demonstrates physical linkage of the two genes within a maximum distance of 200 kilobases. The results identify a locus for at least two Fc gamma R genes on human chromosome 1.

Regulatory effects of IgG-BF on hybridoma B cells. molecular characterization of variant cell lines

Immunoglobulin G-binding factors (IgG-BF) produced by mouse T cells or hybridoma T cells (T2D4) were used to manipulate in vitro mouse hybridoma B cells. Both IgG production by, and proliferation of, these cells was inhibited by IgG-BF, or during co-cultures with IgG-BF-producing T2D4 cells. Thus, treatment of tumor B cells, besides its potential therapeutic use, represents an invaluable model for studying the regulation of Ig production by IgG-BF at a molecular level. To further analyze the molecular events induced by IgG-BF in B cell hybridomas, a set of variant clones of a hybridoma cell line (UN2) was isolated and variants were characterized for their Ig production and their Fc gamma R expression.

Cells involved in the immune response. XXXV. The antigen-specific antibody response in the rabbit is suppressed by thymocytes of allogeneic immunized rabbits (ITSC) and by the non-toxic suppressor factor (ITSF) secreted by these thymocytes

The antigen-specific suppressor cells (ITSC) detected in the thymus of the rabbit 7 days post-iv immunization with sheep or horse erythrocytes (SRBC and HRBC, respectively), and the antigen-specific suppressor factor (ITSF) which the ITSC secrete in culture, inhibit the antigen-specific primary immune response in vivo when injected iv into SRBC and/or HRBC immunized rabbits on Days 0, 3, and 5 (ITSC) or daily on Days 0 to 5 (ITSF) post-primary immunization. The rabbits recover the ability to synthesize the specific antibodies following reimmunization by day 80 post-primary immunization. The primary immune response toward a non-cross-reacting antigen is not inhibited by the antigen-specific ITSC or ITSF. Neither the thymocytes of unimmunized rabbits nor the secretions of these cells in culture can suppress the primary immune response in vivo to either SRBC or HRBC. It must be emphasized that the suppression of the immune response by ITSC and ITSF in the rabbit is antigen-specific. ITSC and ITSF are not cytotoxic to rabbit lymphocytes in vitro. No gross or microscopic changes were detected in any of the lymphoid and nonlymphoid organs of rabbits sacrificed 2 days following 5 daily iv injections of large doses (10 ml) of ITSF. ITSF causes no adverse reaction in vivo since it did not induce morbidity in the rabbits during the 80 days observation period following its injection iv daily for 5 days commencing with the primary immunization.

The PI-linked receptor FcRIII is released on stimulation of neutrophils

Human phagocytic cells express receptors for the constant (Fc) region of immunoglobulin G. Neutrophils carry Fc receptor II (FcRII; CDw32) and FcRIII (CD16) which both bind IgG-containing immune complexes, leading to phagocytosis of the complex and activation of the neutrophil. We find that patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) have only about 10% of the normal levels of FcRIII on their neutrophils, whereas the expression of FcRII is unaffected. We show that FcRIII is a phosphatidyl inositol (PI)-anchored protein in neutrophils. Analysis of FcRIII expression in cells of PNH patients, known to be deficient in PI-linked proteins, suggests FcRIII is not PI-linked in monocytes. We find that the synthesis of FcRIII in neutrophils from PNH patients appears normal, indicating that the defect lies in the PI linkage. This lipid linkage of the receptor on neutrophils suggests that its release may be important for its function, and indeed FcRIII release was observed on stimulation of neutrophils by an inflammatory bacterial peptide (f-Met-Leu-Phe), suggesting a role for FcRIII shedding in inflammatory reactions. Activation of the PNH neutrophils with IgG-coated latex beads appeared normal (although binding of dimer IgG complexes was reduced), indicating that FcRII, rather than FcRIII, is involved in neutrophil stimulation.

The binding of IgG1 containing immune complexes to the FcR of allogenically activated T cells induces changes in the membrane potential and the cell surface charge

The effect on membrane potential and cell surface charge of binding immune complexes containing IgG1 and IgG2a monoclonal antibodies to Fc receptors was studied in resting and allogenically activated murine T cells. IgG1 complexed by antigen or heat aggregation induced electrophysiological changes on activated T cells. A biphasic alteration of membrane potential was detected by measurement of the intra- and extracellular distribution of the fluorescent dye, DiOC6. A short-lived hyperpolarization, detectable for 4-6 min after adding the respective ligand, was followed by a longer lasting depolarization. The cell surface charge, measured by cell electrophoresis, was also changed. This alteration was detected 2-4 hr after addition of immune complexes and disappeared by the 8th hr of incubation. Monoclonal antibody 2.4.G2, reactive with mouse FcR, induced a similar membrane potential response on activated T cells, but did not affect the cell surface charge. Monomeric IgGs and complexes of IgG2a did not modify these parameters. FcR ligands had no effect on the studied characteristics of resting T cells.

Class-specific suppression of human B cell maturation by IgA-binding factors

IgA-binding factors (IgA-BFs) were prepared by chromatography on Sepharose 4B beads covalently linked to dimeric and polymeric monoclonal IgA1 from supernatants of peripheral blood mononuclear lymphocytes (PBMC) and human B cell lines incubated in serum-free medium. Receptors for IgA, as revealed by the binding of biotinylated monoclonal IgA1, were expressed on monocytes, T-enriched and T-depleted lymphocytes. IgA-BFs or control eluates were added to pokeweed mitogen (PWM)-stimulated PBMC cultures, and their effects on the terminal differentiation of polyclonally activated human B cells were assessed by enumeration of intracytoplasmic IgM-, IgG- or IgA-containing cells. A selective decrease of IgA-containing cells was observed in the presence of IgA-BFs whereas IgM- and IgG-containing cells remained unchanged. Differential counts of B blasts and plasma cells revealed that only the former were decreased following addition of IgA-BFs. Kinetic studies indicated that maximum inhibition of IgA-containing cell generation was achieved when IgA-BFs were added during the first 5 days of PWM-stimulated PBMC cultures, whereas no inhibition could be demonstrated when IgA-BFs were added 24 h before harvesting. IgA-BFs did not decrease [3H]thymidine incorporation in PWM-stimulated PBMC cultures. They diminished the proliferation of the surface IgA+ monoclonal human B cell line DAKIKI, but not that of the surface IgA- IM-9 cell line. Several control eluates obtained from the same cell supernatants absorbed on Sepharose 4B, Sepharose 4B-IgG or Sepharose 4B-beta 2-microglobulin had no effect. Finally, IgA-BFs prepared from supernatants of two human B cell lines bearing receptors for IgA selectively depressed the generation of intracytoplasmic IgA+ cells in PBMC cultures stimulated by PWM. Altogether the data indicate that IgA-BFs obtained by spontaneous release from heterogeneous mononuclear cell suspensions or from IgA receptor-positive human monoclonal B cell lines selectively depress the maturation of B cells into IgA plasma cells and the proliferation of a surface IgA+ B cell line.

Regulation of immunoglobulin isotype expression in mice by antibodies in immune complexes

Fc-dependent regulation of humoral immune responses was investigated by immunization of BALB/c mice with immune complexes. These complexes were composed of DNP- and PC-conjugated KLH or Ficoll, and monoclonal T15 idiotype-positive anti-PC antibodies of different isotypes but indistinguishable V-region properties. Since the response to DNP was analyzed, effects due to masking of antigenic determinants by anti-PC antibodies are excluded. The responses to free and complexed antigens showed significant differences in the proportions of DNP-specific IgM, IgG1, IgG2 and IgG3 antibodies. Complexes containing the T-dependent carrier KLH elicited serum antibodies to DNP with significantly decreased IgM levels, irrespective of the isotype in the complex. Under these conditions, however, DNP-specific IgG classes were augmented to various extents, depending on the isotype in the complex. In the case of the T-independent carrier Ficoll, only complexes with IgM or IgG3 suppressed the IgM response. Moreover, immunization with complexes composed of IgM or IgG2a led to a significant decrease of DNP-specific IgG1. In contrast to changes induced by antibodies bound to the T-dependent antigen, immunization with T-independent complexes did not enhance the production of any of the immunoglobulin isotypes.

The effect of synthetic peptides corresponding to Fc sequences in human IgG1 on various steps in the B cell activation pathway

The influence of synthetic peptides comprising sequences in the exposed positions of the Fc region of human IgG 1 was tested on B lymphocyte activation. CH 2 domain peptides having an inhibitory effect on antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, as well as the whole Fc fragment, induced the appearance of the early signs of activation on resting B lymphocytes such as increase in cell volume and HLA-DR antigen expression or leukocyte migration inhibitory factor production. The peptides did not induce proliferation of resting B cells even when B cell growth factor (BCGF)-containing supernatants were added. Exposure to Fc fragment, however, induced a weak proliferation which was significantly enhanced by BCGF. On the other hand, both the Fc fragment and the CH 2 or CH 3 domain peptides enhanced the IgM synthesis of human blood mononuclear cells when a suboptimal dose of pokeweed mitogen was present. This effect was lost when Fc fragment or the peptides were added on the third day of culture. These results suggest that the early steps of B cell activation can be induced by Fc fragment and by small molecular weight Fc peptides, which are potential ligands of Fc receptors. The Fc fragment activates B cells to the state where they respond to BCGF, but the peptides do not possess this activity. Furthermore, both Fc fragment and Fc peptides are able to enhance the IgM synthesis, when accessory cells and the appropriate differentiating factors are present.

The low-affinity receptor for IgE (CD23) on B lymphocytes is spatially associated with HLA-DR antigens

Two hybridomas that produce the mAbs 135 and 449 B4 were obtained that inhibited the binding of IgE to the Fc epsilon RL/CD23 on the EBV-transformed B cell line RPMI 8866. mAb 135 was obtained from a mouse immunized with RPMI 8866 cells, whereas mAb 449B4 was obtained from a mouse immunized with a partially purified preparation of Fc epsilon RL/CD23 obtained as the eluate of an IgE immunoabsorbent loaded with a soluble extract of RPMI 8866 cells. These two mAbs bound to Fc epsilon RL/CD23- cell lines and precipitated two polypeptides with 36,000 Mr and 28,000 Mr, which were the HLA-DR alpha and beta chains, respectively. Immunoprecipitation with mAb 135 of NP-40 lysates from dithio-bis(succinimidyl propionate) (DSP) crosslinked 125I-labeled RPMI 8866 or normal B cells incubated with rIL-4 showed three polypeptides with 42,000, 36,000, and 28,000 Mr. The 42,000 Mr polypeptide is identical to the Fc epsilon RL/CD23 since it could be precipitated by the anti-Fc epsilon RL/CD23 mAb 25 after resolubilization from the SDS-PAGE gel. Immunoprecipitations of the crosslinked cell extracts carried out with the anti-Fc epsilon RL/CD23 mAb 25 yielded the same three polypeptides. Furthermore, when RPMI 8866 or rIL-4 preincubated normal B cells were solubilized with a digitonin buffer, which prevents the dissociation of noncovalently linked polypeptide complexes, mAb 135 and mAb 25 precipitated complexes composed of three molecules with 42,000, 36,000, and 28,000 Mr. The well-characterized anti-HLA-DR mAb L243 was unable to block the binding of either IgE or mAb 135 to RPMI 8866 cells, although it could immunoprecipitate the complex (HLA-DR-Fc epsilon RL/CD23) from crosslinked cell lysates. Since mAb 135 and L243 were able to both bind the RPMI 8866 cells, it demonstrates that they bind to different epitopes of the HLA-DR complex, the mAb 135 epitope of the HLA-DR molecule being close to the IgE binding site of the Fc epsilon RL/CD23. These data demonstrated that the Fc epsilon RL/CD23 and HLA-DR antigens are spatially associated on the B cell membrane.