Actin microfilaments control the MHC class II antigen presentation pathway in B cells

Comprehensive proteomic characterization of urethral stricture disease in the Chinese population

Background

Male urethral stricture disease (USD) is predominantly characterized by scar formation. There are few effective therapeutic drugs, and comprehensive molecular characterizations of USD formation remain undefined.

Methods

The proteomic profiling of twelve scar tissues and five matched normal adjacent tissues (NATs). Proteomic analysis methods were applied to explore the molecular characterizations of USD formation, including uncovering mechanistic pathways and providing novel biomarkers for scar formation.

Results

Comparative proteomic analysis showed that the extracellular matrix (ECM) and complement cascade signaling were predominant in scar tissues. COL11A1 and CD248 significantly contributed to the accumulation of ECM components. Our study presented diverse molecular mechanisms of scar formation across different ages and suggested the potential effects of PXK in Age 1 (<45) patients. Furthermore, immune infiltration studies indicated the therapeutic potential of inhibiting the complement system (C4A, C4B) in Age 2 (≥45) patients, providing a potential clinical strategy for USD.

Conclusion

This study illustrated the pathogenesis of USD formation and the diverse characteristics of USD patients with different ages, enhancing our understanding of the disease's pathogenesis and providing a valuable resource for USD treatment.

Involvement of the Actin Machinery in Programmed Cell Death

Programmed cell death (PCD) depicts a genetically encoded and an orderly mode of cellular mortality. When triggered by internal or external stimuli, cells initiate PCDs through evolutionary conserved regulatory mechanisms. Actin, as a multifunctional cytoskeleton protein that forms microfilament, its integrity and dynamics are essential for a variety of cellular processes (e.g., morphogenesis, membrane blebbing and intracellular transport). Decades of work have broadened our knowledge about different types of PCDs and their distinguished signaling pathways. However, an ever-increasing pool of evidences indicate that the delicate relationship between PCDs and the actin cytoskeleton is beginning to be elucidated. The purpose of this article is to review the current understanding of the relationships between different PCDs and the actin machinery (actin, actin-binding proteins and proteins involved in different actin signaling pathways), in the hope that this attempt can shed light on ensuing studies and the development of new therapeutic strategies.

The channel-kinase TRPM7 regulates antigen gathering and internalization in B cells

Members of the transient receptor potential (TRP) family of ion channels are cellular sensors involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes. We identified the TRP subfamily M member 7 (TRPM7) channel-kinase as a previously uncharacterized regulator of B cell activation. We showed that TRPM7 played a critical role in the early events of B cell activation through both its ion channel and kinase functions. DT40 B cells deficient in TRPM7 or expressing a kinase-deficient mutant of TRPM7 showed defective gathering of antigen and prolonged B cell receptor (BCR) signaling. We showed that lipid metabolism was altered in TRPM7-deficient cells and in cells expressing a kinase-deficient mutant of TRPM7 and suggest that PLC-γ2 may be a target of the kinase activity of TRPM7. Primary B cells that expressed less TRPM7 or were treated with a pharmacological inhibitor of TRPM7 also displayed defective antigen gathering and increased BCR signaling. Finally, we demonstrated that blocking TRPM7 function compromised antigen internalization and presentation to T cells. These data suggest that TRPM7 controls an essential process required for B cell affinity maturation and the production of high-affinity antibodies.

Astroglial vesicular network: evolutionary trends, physiology and pathophysiology

Intracellular organelles, including secretory vesicles, emerged when eukaryotic cells evolved some 3 billion years ago. The primordial organelles that evolved in Archaea were similar to endolysosomes, which developed, arguably, for specific metabolic tasks, including uptake, metabolic processing, storage and disposal of molecules. In comparison with prokaryotes, cell volume of eukaryotes increased by several orders of magnitude and vesicle traffic emerged to allow for communication between distant intracellular locations. Lysosomes, first described in 1955, a prominent intermediate of endo- and exocytotic pathways, operate virtually in all eukaryotic cells including astroglia, the most heterogeneous type of homeostatic glia in the central nervous system. Astrocytes support neuronal network activity in particular through elaborated secretion, based on a complex intracellular vesicle network dynamics. Deranged homeostasis underlies disease and astroglial vesicle traffic contributes to the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative (Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease), neurodevelopmental diseases (intellectual deficiency, Rett's disease) and neuroinfectious (Zika virus) disorders. This review addresses astroglial cell-autonomous vesicular traffic network, as well as its into primary and secondary vesicular network defects in diseases, and considers this network as a target for developing new therapies for neurological conditions.

Astrocytes as secretory cells of the central nervous system: idiosyncrasies of vesicular secretion

Astrocytes are housekeepers of the central nervous system (CNS) and are important for CNS development, homeostasis and defence. They communicate with neurones and other glial cells through the release of signalling molecules. Astrocytes secrete a wide array of classic neurotransmitters, neuromodulators and hormones, as well as metabolic, trophic and plastic factors, all of which contribute to the gliocrine system. The release of neuroactive substances from astrocytes occurs through several distinct pathways that include diffusion through plasmalemmal channels, translocation by multiple transporters and regulated exocytosis. As in other eukaryotic cells, exocytotic secretion from astrocytes involves divergent secretory organelles (synaptic-like microvesicles, dense-core vesicles, lysosomes, exosomes and ectosomes), which differ in size, origin, cargo, membrane composition, dynamics and functions. In this review, we summarize the features and functions of secretory organelles in astrocytes. We focus on the biogenesis and trafficking of secretory organelles and on the regulation of the exocytotic secretory system in the context of healthy and diseased astrocytes.

Pathologic Potential of Astrocytic Vesicle Traffic: New Targets to Treat Neurologic Diseases?

Vesicles are small intracellular organelles that are fundamental for constitutive housekeeping of the plasmalemma, intercellular transport, and cell-to-cell communications. In astroglial cells, traffic of vesicles is associated with cell morphology, which determines the signaling potential and metabolic support for neighboring cells, including when these cells are considered to be used for cell transplantations or for regulating neurogenesis. Moreover, vesicles are used in astrocytes for the release of vesicle-laden chemical messengers. Here we review the properties of membrane-bound vesicles that store gliotransmitters, endolysosomes that are involved in the traffic of plasma membrane receptors, and membrane transporters. These vesicles are all linked to pathological states, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, neuroinflammation, trauma, edema, and states in which astrocytes contribute to developmental disorders. In multiple sclerosis, for example, fingolimod, a recently introduced drug, apparently affects vesicle traffic and gliotransmitter release from astrocytes, indicating that this process may well be used as a new pathophysiologic target for the development of new therapies.

Interferon gamma in autoimmunity: A complicated player on a complex stage

Early views of autoimmune disease cast IFNγ as a prototypic pro-inflammatory factor. It is now clear that IFNγ is capable of both pro- and anti-inflammatory activities with the functional outcome dependent on the physiological and pathological setting examined. Here, the major immune modulatory activities of IFNγ are reviewed and current evidence for the impact of IFNγ on pathology and regulation of several autoimmune diseases and disease models is summarized.

Astrocytic vesicle mobility in health and disease

Astrocytes are no longer considered subservient to neurons, and are, instead, now understood to play an active role in brain signaling. The intercellular communication of astrocytes with neurons and other non-neuronal cells involves the exchange of molecules by exocytotic and endocytotic processes through the trafficking of intracellular vesicles. Recent studies of single vesicle mobility in astrocytes have prompted new views of how astrocytes contribute to information processing in nervous tissue. Here, we review the trafficking of several types of membrane-bound vesicles that are specifically involved in the processes of (i) intercellular communication by gliotransmitters (glutamate, adenosine 5′-triphosphate, atrial natriuretic peptide), (ii) plasma membrane exchange of transporters and receptors (EAAT2, MHC-II), and (iii) the involvement of vesicle mobility carrying aquaporins (AQP4) in water homeostasis. The properties of vesicle traffic in astrocytes are discussed in respect to networking with neighboring cells in physiologic and pathologic conditions, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, and states in which astrocytes contribute to neuroinflammatory conditions.

Analyzing actin dynamics during the activation of the B cell receptor in live B cells

Actin reorganization has been shown to be important for lymphocyte activation in response to antigenic stimulation. However, methods for quantitative analysis of actin dynamics in live lymphocytes are still underdeveloped. In this study, we describe new methods to examine the actin dynamics in B cells induced by antigenic stimulation. Using the A20 B cell line expressing GFP-actin, we analyzed in real time the redistribution of F-actin and the lateral mobility of actin flow in the surface of B cells in response to soluble and/or membrane associated antigens. Using fluorescently labeled G-actin, we identified the subcellular location and quantified the level of de novo actin polymerization sites in primary B cells. Using A20 B cells expressing G-actin fused with the photoconvertible protein mEos, we examined the kinetics of actin polymerization and depolymerization at the same time. Our studies present a set of methods that are capable of quantitatively analyzing the role of actin dynamics in lymphocyte activation.

IFN-γ-induced increase in the mobility of MHC class II compartments in astrocytes depends on intermediate filaments

Background

In immune-mediated diseases of the central nervous system, astrocytes exposed to interferon-γ (IFN-γ) can express major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules and antigens on their surface. MHC class II molecules are thought to be delivered to the cell surface by membrane-bound vesicles. However, the characteristics and dynamics of this vesicular traffic are unclear, particularly in reactive astrocytes, which overexpress intermediate filament (IF) proteins that may affect trafficking. The aim of this study was to determine the mobility of MHC class II vesicles in wild-type (WT) astrocytes and in astrocytes devoid of IFs.

Methods

The identity of MHC class II compartments in WT and IF-deficient astrocytes 48 h after IFN-γ activation was determined immunocytochemically by using confocal microscopy. Time-lapse confocal imaging and Alexa Fluor⁵⁴⁶-dextran labeling of late endosomes/lysosomes in IFN-γ treated cells was used to characterize the motion of MHC class II vesicles. The mobility of vesicles was analyzed using ParticleTR software.

Results

Confocal imaging of primary cultures of WT and IF-deficient astrocytes revealed IFN-γ induced MHC class II expression in late endosomes/lysosomes, which were specifically labeled with Alexa Fluor⁵⁴⁶-conjugated dextran. Live imaging revealed faster movement of dextran-positive vesicles in IFN-γ-treated than in untreated astrocytes. Vesicle mobility was lower in IFN-γ-treated IF-deficient astrocytes than in WT astrocytes. Thus, the IFN-γ-induced increase in the mobility of MHC class II compartments is IF-dependent.

Conclusions

Since reactivity of astrocytes is a hallmark of many CNS pathologies, it is likely that the up-regulation of IFs under such conditions allows a faster and therefore a more efficient delivery of MHC class II molecules to the cell surface. In vivo, such regulatory mechanisms may enable antigen-presenting reactive astrocytes to respond rapidly and in a controlled manner to CNS inflammation.

Pathogenicity of SG 9R, a rough vaccine strain against fowl typhoid

SG 9R, a rough vaccine strain of Salmonella gallinarum, has been used for the prevention of fowl typhoid and paratyphoid in the world despite the presence of residual virulence. SG 9R-like rough strains have been recently isolated from fowl typhoid cases; however, molecular markers to differentiate SG 9R from field strains are not well-characterized and the molecular mechanisms of SG 9R residual virulence are unclear. Therefore, we analyzed LPS biosynthesis (rfa gene cluster) and virulence genes (spv, SPI-2) of both SG 9R and S. gallinarum rough field strains. SG 9R carried a unique nonsense mutation in rfaJ (TCA to TAA) and a shared rfaZ mutation (G-deletion) by rough and smooth S. gallinarum strains. SG 9R also carried intact SPI-2 and spvC, B, A, and R (except deleted spvD). SG 9R-like rough strains (n=10) carried identical mutations in virulence-related genes to SG 9R. SG 9R and SG 9R-like rough strains did not demonstrate significant mortality or liver lesions under normal conditions. However, fowl typhoid was successfully reproduced in the present study by SG 9R inoculation to 1-day-old male brown layer chicks per os following starvation. Therefore, the LPS defect may be one of the major mechanisms of SG 9R attenuation, and the possession of intact SPI-2, spvC, B, A, and R virulence genes may be associated with residual SG 9R virulence.

Autotaxin/lysophospholipase D-mediated lysophosphatidic acid signaling is required to form distinctive large lysosomes in the visceral endoderm cells of the mouse yolk sac

Autotaxin, a lysophospholipase D encoded by the Enpp2 gene, is an exoenzyme that produces lysophosphatidic acid in the extracellular space. Lysophosphatidic acid acts on specific G protein-coupled receptors, thereby regulating cell growth, migration, and survival. Previous studies have revealed that Enpp2(-/-) mouse embryos die at about embryonic day (E) 9.5 because of angiogenic defects in the yolk sac. However, what cellular defects occur in Enpp2(-/-) embryos and what intracellular signaling pathways are involved in the phenotype manifestation remain unknown. Here, we show that Enpp2 is required to form distinctive large lysosomes in the yolk sac visceral endoderm cells. From E7.5 to E9.5, Enpp2 mRNA is abundantly expressed in the visceral endoderm cells. In Enpp2(-/-) mouse embryos, lysosomes in the visceral endoderm cells are fragmented. By using a whole embryo culture system combined with specific pharmacological inhibitors for intracellular signaling molecules, we show that lysophosphatidic acid receptors and the Rho-Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase (ROCK)-LIM kinase pathway are required to form large lysosomes. In addition, electroporation of dominant negative forms of Rho, ROCK, or LIM kinase also leads to the size reduction of lysosomes in wild-type visceral endoderm cells. In Enpp2(-/-) visceral endoderm cells, the steady-state levels of cofilin phosphorylation and actin polymerization are reduced. In addition, perturbations of actin turnover dynamics by actin inhibitors cytochalasin B and jasplakinolide result in the defect in lysosome formation. These results suggest that constitutive activation of the Rho-ROCK-LIM kinase pathway by extracellular production of lysophosphatidic acid by the action of autotaxin is required to maintain the large size of lysosomes in visceral endoderm cells.

SWAP-70 regulates RhoA/RhoB-dependent MHCII surface localization in dendritic cells

Stimulated dendritic cells (DCs) mature and migrate to lymphoid organs to prime naive T cells. DC maturation augments antigen-presentation capacity of DCs by increasing peptide loading, half-life, and cell surface localization of MHC molecules. Activated SWAP-70(-/-) DCs fail to properly localize MHCII molecules in the plasma membrane, are strongly impaired in T-cell activation, and are altered in F-actin rearrangement. MHCII synthesis, invariant chain removal, and MHCII internalization, however, are unaffected. MHCII surface localization is known to require RhoGTPases. Surprisingly, SWAP70, hitherto known to bind F-actin and Rac, also binds RhoA-GTP. In SWAP-70(-/-) DCs, RhoA and RhoB are stimulus-independent and constitutively active. Surface localization of MHCII molecules and T-cell activation can be restored by blocking RhoA and RhoB before but not during DC activation. Thus, contrasting positive regulation of Rac, SWAP-70 negatively regulates RhoA and-indirectly-RhoB, preventing premature RhoA/RhoB activation. Through RhoA/RhoB regulation, SWAP-70 defines a new pathway to control surface localization of MHCII, a critical element in DC-dependent immune responses.

Cytoskeletal elements and intracellular transport

Recent advances in the understanding of the functions of various components of the cytoskeleton indicate that, besides serving a structural role, the cytoskeletal elements may regulate the transport of several proteins in the cell. Studies reveal that there are co-operative interactions between the actin and microtubule cytoskeletons including functional overlap in the transport influenced by different motor families. Multiple motors are probably involved in the control of the dynamics of many proteins and intriguing hints about how these motors are co-ordinated are appearing. It has been shown that some of the intermediate elements also participate in selected intracellular transport mechanisms. In view of the author's preoccupation with the steroid receptor systems, special attention has been given to the role of the cytoskeletal elements, particularly actin, in the intracellular transport of steroid receptors and receptor-related proteins.

Syk-dependent actin dynamics regulate endocytic trafficking and processing of antigens internalized through the B-cell receptor

Antigen binding to the B-cell receptor (BCR) induces multiple signaling cascades that ultimately lead to B lymphocyte activation. In addition, the BCR regulates the key trafficking events that allow the antigen to reach endocytic compartments devoted to antigen processing, i.e., that are enriched for major histocompatibility factor class II (MHC II) and accessory molecules such as H2-DM. Here, we analyze the role in antigen processing and presentation of the tyrosine kinase Syk, which is activated upon BCR engagement. We show that convergence of MHC II- and H2-DM-containing compartments with the vesicles that transport BCR-uptaken antigens is impaired in cells lacking Syk activity. This defect in endocytic trafficking compromises the ability of Syk-deficient cells to form MHC II-peptide complexes from BCR-internalized antigens. Altered endocytic trafficking is associated to a failure of Syk-deficient cells to properly reorganize their actin cytoskeleton in response to BCR engagement. We propose that, by modulating the actin dynamics induced upon BCR stimulation, Syk regulates the positioning and transport of the vesicles that carry the molecules required for antigen processing and presentation.

The actin-based motor protein myosin II regulates MHC class II trafficking and BCR-driven antigen presentation

Antigen (Ag) capture and presentation onto major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules by B lymphocytes is mediated by their surface Ag receptor (B cell receptor [BCR]). Therefore, the transport of vesicles that carry MHC class II and BCR–Ag complexes must be coordinated for them to converge for processing. In this study, we identify the actin-associated motor protein myosin II as being essential for this process. Myosin II is activated upon BCR engagement and associates with MHC class II–invariant chain complexes. Myosin II inhibition or depletion compromises the convergence and concentration of MHC class II and BCR–Ag complexes into lysosomes devoted to Ag processing. Accordingly, the formation of MHC class II–peptides and subsequent CD4 T cell activation are impaired in cells lacking myosin II activity. Therefore, myosin II emerges as a key motor protein in BCR-driven Ag processing and presentation.

Dendritic cells regulate exposure of MHC class II at their plasma membrane by oligoubiquitination

Dendritic cells (DCs) initiate adaptive immune responses by activating T cells via cognate interactions between MHC-peptide complexes and T cell receptors. In immature DCs, MHC class II is predominantly stored in late endocytic compartments, where it has a short half-life because of degradation. In contrast, mature DCs recruit MHC class II to the plasma membrane. We here demonstrate that in immature DCs, the beta-chain of MHC class II was oligoubiquitinated after proteolytic processing of the associated invariant chain in endosomes and that this modification was required for efficient endocytosis and sorting into luminal vesicles of multivesicular bodies. Ubiquitination of MHC class II was suppressed in lipopolysaccharide-activated DCs. Mutated MHC class II lacking its ubiquitination site was expressed at the plasma membrane, irrespective of DC maturation. Together, these data provide a molecular basis for the regulation of MHC class II-mediated antigen presentation by DCs.

Antigen presentation by B lymphocytes: how receptor signaling directs membrane trafficking

Antigen capture and presentation onto MHC class II molecules by B lymphocytes is mediated by their surface antigen receptor - the B-cell receptor (BCR). The BCR must therefore coordinate the transport of MHC class II- and antigen-containing vesicles for them to converge and ensure efficient processing. Recently, progress has been made in understanding which and how these vesicular transport events are molecularly linked to BCR signaling. In particular, recent studies have emphasized the key roles of membrane microdomains and the actin cytoskeleton in regulation of membrane trafficking upon BCR engagement.

Bacterial cytotoxins: targeting eukaryotic switches

Many bacterial cytotoxins act on eukaryotic cells by targeting the regulators that are involved in controlling the cytoskeleton or by directly modifying actin, with members of the Rho GTPase family being particularly important targets. The actin cytoskeleton, and especially the GTPase 'molecular switches' that are involved in its control, have crucial functions in innate and adaptive immunity, and have pivotal roles in the biology of infection. In this review, we briefly discuss the role of the actin cytoskeleton and the Rho GTPases in host-pathogen interactions, and review the mode of actions of bacterial protein toxins that target these components.

Synaptic clusters of MHC class II molecules induced on DCs by adhesion molecule-mediated initial T-cell scanning

Initial adhesive contacts between T lymphocytes and dendritic cells (DCs) facilitate recognition of peptide-MHC complexes by the TCR. In this report, we studied the dynamic behavior of adhesion and Ag receptors on DCs during initial contacts with T-cells. Adhesion molecules LFA-1- and ICAM-1,3-GFP as well as MHC class II-GFP molecules were very rapidly concentrated at the DC contact area. Binding of ICAM-3, and ICAM-1 to a lesser extent, to LFA-1 expressed by mature but not immature DC, induced MHC-II clustering into the immune synapse. Also, ICAM-3 binding to DC induced the activation of the Vav1-Rac1 axis, a regulatory pathway involved in actin cytoskeleton reorganization, which was essential for MHC-II clustering on DCs. Our results support a model in which ICAM-mediated MHC-II clustering on DC constitutes a priming mechanism to enhance antigen presentation to T-cells.

B cell lipid rafts regulate both peptide-dependent and peptide-independent APC-T cell interaction

Formation of an immunological synapse (IS) between APCs and T CD4(+) lymphocytes is a key event in the initiation and the termination of the cognate immune response. We have analyzed the contribution of the APC to IS formation and report the implication of the actin cytoskeleton, the signaling proteins and the lipid rafts of B lymphocytes. Recruitment of MHC class II molecules to the IS is concomitant with actin cytoskeleton-dependent B cell raft recruitment. B cell actin cytoskeleton disruption abrogates both IS formation and T cell activation, whereas protein kinase C inhibition only impairs T cell activation. Pharmacological B cell lipid raft disruption inhibited peptide-dependent T lymphocyte activation and induced peptide-independent but HLA-DR-restricted APC-T cell conjugate formation. Such peptide-independent conjugates did not retain the ability to activate T cells. Thus, B cell lipid rafts are bifunctional by regulating T cell activation and imposing peptide stringency.

Farnesyltransferase inhibitors disrupt EGF receptor traffic through modulation of the RhoB GTPase

The Rho family of small GTPases play a pivotal role in the dynamic regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. Recent studies have suggested that these signalling proteins also have wide-ranging functions in membrane trafficking pathways. The Rho family member RhoB was shown to localise to vesicles of the endocytic compartment, suggesting a potential function in regulation of endocytic traffic. In keeping with this, we have previously shown that expression of active RhoB causes a delay in the intracellular trafficking of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor; however, the site of action of RhoB within the endocytic pathway is still unknown. RhoB exists as two prenylated forms in cells: geranylgeranylated RhoB (RhoB-GG) and farnesylated RhoB (RhoB-F). Here we use farnesyltransferase inhibitors (FTIs) to show that prenylation specifies the cellular localisation of RhoB. RhoB-GG localises to multivesicular late endosomes and farnesylated RhoB (RhoB-F) localises to the plasma membrane. The gain of endosomal RhoB-GG elicited by FTI treatment reduces sorting of EGF receptor to the lysosome and increases recycling to the plasma membrane. Ultrastructural analysis shows that activation of RhoB through drug treatment or mutation has no effect the sorting of receptor into late endosomes, but instead inhibits the subsequent transfer of late endosomal receptor to the lysosome.

The role of mVps18p in clustering, fusion, and intracellular localization of late endocytic organelles

Delivery of endocytosed macromolecules to mammalian cell lysosomes occurs by direct fusion of late endosomes with lysosomes, resulting in the formation of hybrid organelles from which lysosomes are reformed. The molecular mechanisms of this fusion are analogous to those of homotypic vacuole fusion in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We report herein the major roles of the mammalian homolog of yeast Vps18p (mVps18p), a member of the homotypic fusion and vacuole protein sorting complex. When overexpressed, mVps18p caused the clustering of late endosomes/lysosomes and the recruitment of other mammalian homologs of the homotypic fusion and vacuole protein sorting complex, plus Rab7-interacting lysosomal protein. The clusters were surrounded by components of the actin cytoskeleton, including actin, ezrin, and specific unconventional myosins. Overexpression of mVps18p also overcame the effect of wortmannin treatment, which inhibits membrane traffic out of late endocytic organelles and causes their swelling. Reduction of mVps18p by RNA interference caused lysosomes to disperse away from their juxtanuclear location. Thus, mVps18p plays a critical role in endosome/lysosome tethering, fusion, intracellular localization and in the reformation of lysosomes from hybrid organelles.

Composition of MHC class II-enriched lipid microdomains is modified during maturation of primary dendritic cells

Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most potent antigen presenting cells. Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecule expression changes with maturation; immature DCs concentrate MHC class II molecules intracellularly, whereas maturation increases surface expression of MHC class II and costimulatory molecules to optimize antigen presentation. Signal transduction via MHC class II molecules localized in lipid microdomains has been described in B lymphocytes and in the THP-1 monocyte cell line. We have characterized MHC class II molecules throughout human DC maturation with particular attention to their localization in lipid-rich microdomains. Only immature DCs expressed empty MHC class II molecules, and maturation increased the level of peptide-bound heterodimers. Ligand binding to surface human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DR induced rapid internalization in immature DCs. The proportion of cell-surface detergent-insoluble glycosphingolipid-enriched microdomain-clustered HLA-DR was higher in immature DCs despite the higher surface expression of HLA-DR in mature DCs. Constituents of HLA-DR containing microdomains included the src kinase Lyn and the cytoskeletal protein tubulin in immature DCs. Maturation modified the composition of the HLA-DR-containing microdomains to include protein kinase C (PKC)-delta, Lyn, and the cytoskeletal protein actin, accompanied by the loss of tubulin. Signaling via HLA-DR redistributed HLA-DR and -DM and PKC-delta as well as enriching the actin content of mature DC microdomains. The increased expression of HLA-DR as a result of DC maturation was therefore accompanied by modification of the spatial organization of HLA-DR. Such regulation could contribute to the distinct responses induced by ligand binding to MHC class II molecules in immature versus mature DCs.

Intracytoplasmic domains of MHC class II molecules are essential for lipid-raft-dependent signaling

In addition to their role in antigen presentation, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules have been widely described as signaling proteins in diverse antigen-presenting cells (APCs) including B cells and dendritic cells. By contrast, little is known of the signaling function of MHC class II molecules expressed in solid tumors. We describe the functional organization and signaling ability of I-Ak expressed in a sarcoma, and report the recruitment of I-Ak to lipid rafts after MHC class II engagement. Lipid raft integrity was required for I-Ak-mediated reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and translocation of protein kinase C-alpha(PKC-alpha) to the precise site of stimulation via I-Ak. Truncation of the intracytoplasmic domains of I-Ak did not perturb I-Ak recruitment to lipid rafts but abrogated PKC-alpha translocation and actin rearrangement. PKC-alpha was detected in lipid microdomains and enrichment of activated PKC-alphain lipid rafts was induced by I-Ak signaling. Ordering of the molecular events following engagement of the MHC class II molecules revealed that I-Ak recruitment to lipid rafts precedes signaling. This is consistent with the absence of a requirement for the intracytoplasmic tails for localization to lipid rafts. These data reveal that lipid-rich microdomains play a key role in MHC class II-mediated signaling in a solid tumor.

Human cytomegalovirus disrupts constitutive MHC class II expression

CD8(+) and CD4(+) T lymphocytes are important in controlling human CMV (HCMV) infection, but the virus has evolved protean mechanisms to inhibit MHC-based Ag presentation and escape T lymphocyte immunosurveillance. Herein, the interaction of HCMV with the MHC class II Ag presentation pathway was investigated in cells stably transfected with class II transactivator. Flow cytometry experiments demonstrate that HCMV infection decreases cell-surface MHC class II expression. HCMV down-regulates MHC class II surface expression without a significant effect on class II RNA or steady-state protein levels. SDS-stability and confocal microscopy experiments demonstrate normal levels of steady-state peptide-loaded class II molecules in infected cells and that class II molecules reach late endosomal and HLA-DM positive peptide-loading compartments. However, MHC class II positive vesicles are retained in an abnormal perinuclear distribution. Finally, experiments with a mutant HCMV strain demonstrate that this novel mechanism of decreased MHC class II expression is not mediated by one of the known HCMV immunomodulatory genes. These defects in MHC class II expression combined with previously identified CMV strategies for decreasing MHC class I expression enables infected cells to evade T lymphocyte immunosurveillance.

Eukaryotic cell locomotion depends on the propagation of self-organized reaction-diffusion waves and oscillations of actin filament assembly

Actin filament (F-actin) assembly kinetics determines the locomotion and shape of crawling eukaryotic cells, but the nature of these kinetics and their determining reactions are unclear. Live BHK21 fibroblasts, mouse melanoma cells, and Dictyostelium amoebae, locomoting on glass and expressing Green Fluorescent Protein-actin fusion proteins, were examined by confocal microscopy. The cells demonstrated three-dimensional bands of F-actin, which propagated throughout the cytoplasm at rates usually ranging between 2 and 5 microm/min in each cell type and produced lamellipodia or pseudopodia at the cell boundary. F-actin's dynamic behavior and supramolecular spatial patterns resembled in detail self-organized chemical waves in dissipative, physico-chemical systems. On this basis, the present observations provide the first evidence of self-organized, and probably autocatalytic, chemical reaction-diffusion waves of reversible actin filament assembly in vertebrate cells and a comprehensive record of wave and locomotory dynamics in vegetative-stage Dictyostelium cells. The intensity and frequency of F-actin wavefronts determine locomotory cell projections and the rotating oscillatory waves, which structure the cell surface. F-actin assembly waves thus provide a fundamental, deterministic, and nonlinear mechanism of cell locomotion and shape, which complements mechanisms based exclusively on stochastic molecular reaction kinetics.

Actin filaments and myosin I alpha cooperate with microtubules for the movement of lysosomes

An earlier report suggested that actin and myosin I alpha (MMIalpha), a myosin associated with endosomes and lysosomes, were involved in the delivery of internalized molecules to lysosomes. To determine whether actin and MMIalpha were involved in the movement of lysosomes, we analyzed by time-lapse video microscopy the dynamic of lysosomes in living mouse hepatoma cells (BWTG3 cells), producing green fluorescent protein actin or a nonfunctional domain of MMIalpha. In GFP-actin cells, lysosomes displayed a combination of rapid long-range directional movements dependent on microtubules, short random movements, and pauses, sometimes on actin filaments. We showed that the inhibition of the dynamics of actin filaments by cytochalasin D increased pauses of lysosomes on actin structures, while depolymerization of actin filaments using latrunculin A increased the mobility of lysosomes but impaired the directionality of their long-range movements. The production of a nonfunctional domain of MMIalpha impaired the intracellular distribution of lysosomes and the directionality of their long-range movements. Altogether, our observations indicate for the first time that both actin filaments and MMIalpha contribute to the movement of lysosomes in cooperation with microtubules and their associated molecular motors.

Reorganization of multivesicular bodies regulates MHC class II antigen presentation by dendritic cells

Immature dendritic cells (DCs) sample their environment for antigens and after stimulation present peptide associated with major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) to naive T cells. We have studied the intracellular trafficking of MHC II in cultured DCs. In immature cells, the majority of MHC II was stored intracellularly at the internal vesicles of multivesicular bodies (MVBs). In contrast, DM, an accessory molecule required for peptide loading, was located predominantly at the limiting membrane of MVBs. After stimulation, the internal vesicles carrying MHC II were transferred to the limiting membrane of the MVB, bringing MHC II and DM to the same membrane domain. Concomitantly, the MVBs transformed into long tubular organelles that extended into the periphery of the cells. Vesicles that were formed at the tips of these tubules nonselectively incorporated MHC II and DM and presumably mediated transport to the plasma membrane. We propose that in maturing DCs, the reorganization of MVBs is fundamental for the timing of MHC II antigen loading and transport to the plasma membrane.

The actin cytoskeleton is required for the trafficking of the B cell antigen receptor to the late endosomes

The B cell antigen receptor (BCR) plays two central roles in B cell activation: to internalize antigens for processing and presentation, and to initiate signal transduction cascades that both promote B cells to enter the cell cycle and facilitate antigen processing by accelerating antigen transport. An early event in B cell activation is the association of BCR with the actin cytoskeleton, and an increase in cellular F-actin. Current evidence indicates that the organization of actin filaments changes in response to BCR-signaling, making actin filaments good candidates for regulation of BCR-antigen targeting. Here, we have analyzed the role of actin filaments in BCR-mediated antigen transport, using actin filament-disrupting reagents, cytochalasin D and latrunculin B, and an actin filament-stabilizing reagent, jasplakinolide. Perturbing actin filaments, either by disrupting or stabilizing them, blocked the movement of BCR from the plasma membrane to late endosomes/lysosomes. Cytochalasin D-treatment dramatically reduced the rate of internalization of BCR, and blocked the movement of the BCR from early endosomes to late endosomes/lysosomes, without affecting BCR-signaling. Thus, BCR-trafficking requires functional actin filaments for both internalization and movement to late endosomes/lysosomes, defining critical control points in BCR-antigen targeting.

Actin filament nucleation by endosomes, lysosomes and secretory vesicles

Intracellular pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes and vaccinia virus propel themselves through the cytoplasm of mammalian cells by nucleating actin filaments. Recently, actin assembly has also been shown to power the movement of intracellular vesicles, and this may be a mechanism underlying endomembrane movement in a variety of physiological contexts. Surprisingly, class I myosins have been found to play important roles in both actin nucleation and endomembrane trafficking.

Actin is ADP-ribosylated by the Salmonella enterica virulence-associated protein SpvB

The Salmonella enterica virulence-associated protein SpvB was recently shown to contain a carboxy-terminal mono(ADP-ribosyl)transferase domain. We demonstrate here that the catalytic domain of SpvB as well bacterial extracts containing full-length SpvB modifies a 43 kDa protein from macrophage-like J774-A.1 and epithelial MDCK cells as shown by label transfer from [32P]-nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) to the 43 kDa protein. When analysed by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, the same protein was modified in cells infected with S. enterica serovariant Dublin strain SH9325, whereas infection with an isogenic spvB mutant strain did not result in modification. Immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting experiments using SH9325-infected cells identified the modified protein as actin. The isolated catalytic domain of SpvB mediated transfer of 32P from [32P]-NAD to actins from various sources in vitro, whereas isolated eukaryotic control proteins or bacterial proteins were not modified. In an in vitro actin polymerization assay, the isolated catalytic SpvB domain prevented the conversion of G actin into F actin. Microscopic examination of MDCK cells infected with SH9325 revealed morphological changes and loss of filamentous actin content, whereas cells infected with the spvB mutant remained virtually unaffected. We conclude that actin is a target for an SpvB-mediated modification, most probably ADP-ribosylation, and that the modification of G actin interferes with actin polymerization.

The HPV16 E5 oncogene inhibits endocytic trafficking

The small hydrophobic E5 protein of Human Papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16) binds to the 16-kDa subunit of the V-H+-ATPase. This binding has been suggested to interfere with acidification of late endocytic structures. We here used video microscopy, ratio imaging and confocal microscopy of living C127 fibroblasts to study the effects of E5. Various endocytic markers including the pH-sensitive probe DM-NERF coupled to dextran, TransFluoSpheres and TRITC-concanavalin A, were applied. In E5-transfected cells, none of these markers colocalized with the membrane permeable probe LysoTracker Red, which accumulates in acidic, late endocytic structures, or with a green fluorescent version of the small GTPase Rab7 labeling late endocytic structures. Importantly, however, late endocytic structures accumulating LysoTracker were still present in the E5-transfected cells. It is therefore concluded that HPV16 E5 perturbs trafficking from early to late endocytic structures rather than acidification.

Specific types of prosomes distribute differentially between intermediate and actin filaments in epithelial, fibroblastic and muscle cells

First observed as components of non-translated mRNP complexes, prosomes harbour RNase and several proteinase activities; they are also the central constituent of the "Multicatalytic Proteinase (MCP) complexes" or "26S-proteasomes". In two recent publications (Arcangeletti et al., 1997b; De Conto et al., 1997) we have shown, by applying a new fixation technique, that these particles distribute differentially between the cytoskeletal networks of intermediate filament (IF) and actin types; previously they had been observed exclusively on the intermediate filaments. Here we further investigate the distribution of prosomes of several types, distinct by their subunit composition, between the IF of vimentin type and the actin network, as well as in the 3D space of the cell. It is shown that subtypes of prosomes occupy specific networks of the cytoskeleton, and that this pattern is specific for a given cell type. Confocal microscopy shows that prosome cytodistribution is not homogeneous in the 3D space: in the perinuclear area they colocalize most strongly with the IF, and more peripherally with the microfilament/stress fiber system; connections may exist between the two networks. Furthermore, new data indicate that the prosome-actin interaction may participate in the molecular structure of the stress fibers.

Reaction-diffusion waves of actin filament polymerization/depolymerization in Dictyostelium pseudopodium extension and cell locomotion

Cell surface movements and the intracellular spatial patterns and dynamics of actin filament (F-actin) were investigated in living and formalin-fixed cells of Dictyostelium discoideum by confocal microscopy. Excitation waves of F-actin assembly developed and propagated several micrometers at up to 26 microm/min in cells which had been intracellularly loaded with fluorescently labeled actin monomer. Wave propagation and extinction corresponded with the initiation and attenuation of pseudopodium extension and cell advance, respectively. The identification of chemical waves was supported by the ring, sphere, spiral and scroll wave patterns, which were observed in the extensions of fixed cells stained with phalloidin-rhodamine, and by the similar, asymmetrical [F-actin] distribution in wavefronts in living and fixed cells. These F-actin patterns and dynamics in Dictyostelium provide evidence for a new supramolecular state of actin, which propagates as a self-organized, reaction-diffusion wave of reversible F-actin assembly and affects pseudopodium extension. Actin's properties of oscillation and self-organization might also fundamentally determine the nature of the eukaryotic cell's reactions of adaptation, timing and signal response.

Actin-dependent propulsion of endosomes and lysosomes by recruitment of N-WASP

We examined the spatial and temporal control of actin assembly in living Xenopus eggs. Within minutes of egg activation, dynamic actin-rich comet tails appeared on a subset of cytoplasmic vesicles that were enriched in protein kinase C (PKC), causing the vesicles to move through the cytoplasm. Actin comet tail formation in vivo was stimulated by the PKC activator phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), and this process could be reconstituted in a cell-free system. We used this system to define the characteristics that distinguish vesicles associated with actin comet tails from other vesicles in the extract. We found that the protein, N-WASP, was recruited to the surface of every vesicle associated with an actin comet tail, suggesting that vesicle movement results from actin assembly nucleated by the Arp2/3 complex, the immediate downstream target of N-WASP. The motile vesicles accumulated the dye acridine orange, a marker for endosomes and lysosomes. Furthermore, vesicles associated with actin comet tails had the morphological features of multivesicular endosomes as revealed by electron microscopy. Endosomes and lysosomes from mammalian cells preferentially nucleated actin assembly and moved in the Xenopus egg extract system. These results define endosomes and lysosomes as recruitment sites for the actin nucleation machinery and demonstrate that actin assembly contributes to organelle movement. Conversely, by nucleating actin assembly, intracellular membranes may contribute to the dynamic organization of the actin cytoskeleton.

Intracellular traffic to compartments for MHC class II peptide loading: signals for endosomal and polarized sorting

In this review we focus on the traffic of MHC class II and endocytosed antigens to intracellular compartments where antigenic peptides are loaded. We also discuss briefly the nature of the peptide loading compartment and the sorting signals known to direct antigen receptors and MHC class II and associated molecules to this location. MHC class II molecules are expressed on a variety of polarized epithelial and endothelial cells, and polarized cells are thus potentially important for antigen presentation. Here we review some cell biological aspects of polarized sorting of MHC class II and the associated invariant chain and the signals that are involved in the sorting process to the basolateral domain. The molecules involved in sorting and loading of peptide may modulate antigen presentation, and in particular we discuss how invariant chain may change the cellular phenotype and the kinetics of the endosomal pathway.

Characterization of a peptide-loading compartment by monoclonal antibodies

Whether or not peptide-loading compartments are classical or specialized compartments of the endocytic pathway of antigen presenting cells is still a matter of debate. One way to solve this discrepancy would be to characterize specific markers for the peptide-loading compartment. We chose to generate monoclonal antibodies against the peptide-loading compartment that we previously characterized as lysozyme loading compartment (LLC) [Escola, J.M., Grivel, J.C., Chavrier, P., Gorvel, J.P., 1995. Different endocytic compartments are involved in the tight association of class II molecules with processed hen egg lysozyme and ribonuclease A in B cells. J. Cell Sci. 108, 2337; Escola, J.M., Deleuil, F., Stang, E., Boretto, J., Chavrier, P., Gorvel, J.P., 1996. Characterization of a lysozyme-major histocompatibility complex class II molecule-loading compartment as a specialized recycling endosome in murine B lymphocytes. J. Biol Chem. 271, 27360]. A preliminary screening by dot blot enabled us to identify several monoclonal antibodies recognizing the LLC and not early and late endosomes. One of these antibodies, the 20C4, was then characterized. It is directed against mature class II molecules of all murine haplotypes. By electron microscopy, 20C4 labeling was restricted to both the plasma membrane and the LLC. These reagents may be useful in the further characterization of the specialized function of these intracellular organelles.

Presentation of Antigens Internalized Through the B Cell Receptor Requires Newly Synthesized MHC Class II Molecules

Exogenous Ags taken up from the fluid phase can be presented by both newly synthesized and recycling MHC class II molecules. However, the presentation of Ags internalized through the B cell receptor (BCR) has not been characterized with respect to whether the class II molecules with which they become associated are newly synthesized or recycling. We show that the presentation of Ag taken up by the BCR requires protein synthesis in splenic B cells and in B lymphoma cells. Using B cells transfected with full-length I-Ak molecules or molecules truncated in cytoplasmic domains of their α- or β-chains, we further show that when an Ag is internalized by the BCR, the cytoplasmic tails of class II molecules differentially control the presentation of antigenic peptides to specific T cells depending upon the importance of proteolytic processing in the production of that peptide. Integrity of the cytoplasmic tail of the I-Ak β-chain is required for the presentation of the hen egg lysozyme determinant (46–61) following BCR internalization, but that dependence is not seen for the (34–45) determinant derived from the same protein. The tail of the β-chain is also of importance for the dissociation of invariant chain fragments from class II molecules. Our results demonstrate that Ags internalized through the BCR are targeted to compartments containing newly synthesized class II molecules and that the tails of class II β-chains control the loading of determinants produced after extensive Ag processing.