International Bordetella pertussis assay standardization and harmonization meeting report. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States, 19-20 July 2007

An international meeting on Bordetella pertussis assay standardization and harmonization was held at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, 19–20 July 2007. The goal of the meeting was to harmonize the immunoassays used for pertussis diagnostics and vaccine evaluation, as agreed upon by academic and government researchers, regulatory authorities, vaccine manufacturers, and the World Health Organization (WHO).

The primary objectives were (1) to provide epidemiologic, laboratory, and statistical background for support of global harmonization; (2) to overview the current status of global epidemiology, pathogenesis and immunology of pertussis; (3) to develop a consensus opinion on existing gaps in understanding standardization of pertussis assays used for serodiagnosis and vaccine evaluation; and (4) to search for a multicenter process for addressing these priority gaps. Presentations and discussions by content experts addressed these objectives. A prioritized list of action items to improve standardization and harmonization of pertussis assays was identified during a group discussion at the end of the meeting. The major items included: (1) to identify a group that will organize, prepare, maintain, and distribute proficiency panels and key reagents such as reference and control sera; (2) to encourage the development and identification of one or more reference laboratories that can serve as an anchor and resource for other laboratories; (3) to define a performance-based assay method that can serve as a reference point for evaluating laboratory differences; (4) to develop guidance on quality of other reagents, e.g., pertussis toxin and other antigens, and methods to demonstrate their suitability; (5) to establish an international working group to harmonize the criteria to evaluate the results obtained on reference and proficiency panel sera; (6) to create an inventory to determine the amount of appropriate and well-characterized sera that are available globally to be used as bridging reagents for vaccine licensure; and (7) to seek specific guidance from regulatory authorities regarding the expectations and requirements for the licensure of new multicomponent pertussis vaccines.

Oligomeric behavior of Bordetella pertussis adenylate cyclase toxin in solution

Adenylate cyclase (AC) toxin from Bordetella pertussis inserts into eukaryotic cells, producing intracellular cAMP, as well as hemolysis and cytotoxicity. Concentration dependence of hemolysis suggests oligomers as the functional unit and inactive deletion mutants permit partial restoration of intoxication and/or hemolysis, when added in pairs [M. Iwaki, A. Ullmann, P. Sebo, Mol. Microbiol. 17 (1995) 1015-1024], suggesting dimerization/oligomerization. Using affinity co-precipitation and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), we demonstrate specific self-association of AC toxin molecules in solution. Flag-tagged AC toxin mixed with biotinylated-AC toxin, followed by streptavidin beads, yields both forms of the toxin. FRET measurements of toxin, labeled with different fluorophores, demonstrate association in solution, requiring post-translational acylation, but not calcium. AC toxin mixed with DeltaR, an inactive mutant, results in enhancement of hemolysis over that with wild type alone, suggesting that oligomers are functional. Dimers and perhaps higher molecular mass forms of AC toxin occur in solution in a manner that is relevant to toxin action.

Newly secreted adenylate cyclase toxin is responsible for intoxication of target cells by Bordetella pertussis

Adenylate cyclase (AC) toxin is present on the surface of Bordetella pertussis organisms and their addition to eukaryotic cells results in increases in intracellular cAMP. To test the hypothesis that surface-bound toxin is the source for intoxication of cells when incubated with B. pertussis, we characterized the requirements of intoxication from intact bacteria and found that this process is calcium-dependent and blocked by monoclonal antibody to AC toxin or antibody against CD11b, a surface glycoprotein receptor for the toxin. Increases in intracellular cAMP correlate with the number of adherent bacteria, not the total number present in the medium, suggesting that interaction of bacteria with target cells is important for efficient delivery of AC toxin. A filamentous haemagglutinin-deficient mutant (BP353) and a clinical isolate (GMT1), both of which have a marked reduction in AC toxin on their surface, and wild-type B. pertussis (BP338) from which surface AC toxin has been removed by trypsin, were fully competent for intoxicating target cells, demonstrating that surface-bound AC toxin is not responsible for intoxication. B. pertussis killed by gentamicin or gamma irradiation were unable to intoxicate, illustrating that toxin delivery requires viable bacteria. Furthermore, CCCP, a protonophore that disrupts the proton gradient necessary for the secretion of related RTX toxins, blocked intoxication by whole bacteria. These data establish that delivery of this toxin by intact B. pertussis is not dependent on the surface-associated AC toxin, but requires close association of live bacteria with target cells and the active secretion of AC toxin.

Structural consequences of divalent metal binding by the adenylyl cyclase toxin of Bordetella pertussis

Adenylyl cyclase toxin of Bordetella pertussis has been shown by several investigators to require Ca(2+) for its actions on target cells, but little is known about the nature and specificity of divalent metal binding to this novel toxin. Calcium is the preferred divalent metal since toxic actions are markedly reduced in the presence of divalent species other than calcium. Mn(2+) EPR was used to quantitate and characterize divalent metal binding and revealed that the toxin contains approximately 40 divalent metal sites, consisting of at least one class of high-affinity sites that bind Mn(2+) with a K(D) of 0.05 to 0.35 microM and one or more classes of lower affinity sites. Water proton relaxation data indicate that approximately 30 of these sites are completely inaccessible to bulk solvent. Our observations, together with the sequence homology between adenylyl cyclase toxin and the alkaline protease of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, indicate that the formation of five beta-sheet helices within the repeat domain of the toxin upon binding Ca(2+) is required for cell intoxication.

Translocation-specific conformation of adenylate cyclase toxin from Bordetella pertussis inhibits toxin-mediated hemolysis

Bordetella pertussis adenylate cyclase (AC) toxin belongs to the RTX family of toxins but is the only member with a known catalytic domain. The principal pathophysiologic function of AC toxin appears to be rapid production of intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) by insertion of its catalytic domain into target cells (referred to as intoxication). Relative to other RTX toxins, AC toxin is weakly hemolytic via a process thought to involve oligomerization of toxin molecules. Monoclonal antibody (MAb) 3D1, which binds to an epitope (amino acids 373 to 399) at the distal end of the catalytic domain of AC toxin, does not affect the enzymatic activity of the toxin (conversion of ATP into cAMP in a cell-free system) but does prevent delivery of the catalytic domain to the cytosol of target erythrocytes. Under these conditions, however, the ability of AC toxin to cause hemolysis is increased three- to fourfold. To determine the mechanism by which the hemolytic potency of AC toxin is altered, we used a series of deletion mutants. A mutant toxin, DeltaAC, missing amino acids 1 to 373 of the catalytic domain, has hemolytic activity comparable to that of wild-type toxin. However, binding of MAb 3D1 to DeltaAC enhances its hemolytic activity three- to fourfold similar to the enhancement of hemolysis observed with 3D1 addition to wild-type toxin. Two additional mutants, DeltaN489 (missing amino acids 6 to 489) and DeltaN518 (missing amino acids 6 to 518), exhibit more rapid hemolysis with quicker onset than wild-type toxin does, while DeltaN549 (missing amino acids 6 to 549) has reduced hemolytic activity compared to wild-type AC toxin. These data suggest that prevention of delivery of the catalytic domain or deletion of the catalytic domain, along with additional amino acids distal to it, elicits a conformation of the toxin molecule that is more favorable for hemolysis.

Neutralizing antibodies to adenylate cyclase toxin promote phagocytosis of Bordetella pertussis by human neutrophils

A previous study showed that opsonization with human immune serum could either promote or antagonize phagocytosis of Bordetella pertussis by human neutrophils depending on whether the bacteria expressed adenylate cyclase toxin. Opsonization of the wild-type strain inhibited phagocytosis relative to unopsonized controls. In contrast, mutants lacking adenylate cyclase toxin were efficiently phagocytosed when opsonized with human immune serum. In this study, we examined opsonization in the presence or absence of monoclonal antibodies to adenylate cyclase toxin. Addition of neutralizing monoclonal antibodies to adenylate cyclase toxin converted a serum that previously inhibited both attachment and phagocytosis of the wild-type strain to one that increased both attachment and phagocytosis compared to the no-serum control. Monoclonal antibodies that recognize the adenylate cyclase toxin but fail to neutralize activity were without effect. These results suggest that adenylate cyclase toxin inhibits both Fc receptor-mediated attachment and phagocytosis of B. pertussis by neutrophils.

Escherichia coli alpha-hemolysin (HlyA) is heterogeneously acylated in vivo with 14-, 15-, and 17-carbon fatty acids

alpha-Hemolysin (HlyA) is a secreted protein virulence factor observed in certain uropathogenic strains of Escherichia coli. The active, mature form of HlyA is produced by posttranslational modification of the protoxin that is mediated by acyl carrier protein and an acyltransferase, HlyC. We have now shown using mass spectrometry that these modifications, when observed in protein isolated in vivo, consist of acylation at the epsilon-amino groups of two internal lysine residues, at positions 564 and 690, with saturated 14- (68%), 15- (26%), and 17- (6%) carbon amide-linked side chains. Thus, HlyA activated in vivo consists of a heterogeneous family of up to nine different covalent structures, and the substrate specificity of the HlyC acyltransferase appears to differ from that of the closely related CyaC acyltransferase expressed by Bordetella pertussis.

Adenylate cyclase toxin from Bordetella pertussis: current concepts and problems in the study of toxin functions

Adenylate cyclase (AC) toxin produced by Bordella pertussis and other Bordella species is a virulence factor and protective antigen with novel properties and activities, which make it attractive as a prototype toxin for study of membrane insertion and delivery to the target cell interior. It is unique among RTX toxins in that it possesses enzymatic (adenylate cyclase) activity, as well as the capacity to create an ion-permeable pore in target cell membranes and lyse erythrocytes. The current issues in understanding AC toxin, which will be discussed here, include the role of acylation in its various activities and the relationship among those several toxin functions.

Characterization of binding of adenylate cyclase toxin to target cells by flow cytometry

Adenylate cyclase (AC) toxin from Bordetella pertussis intoxicates eukaryotic cells by increasing intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels. In addition, insertion of AC toxin into the plasma membrane causes efflux of intracellular K(+) and, in a related process, hemolysis of sheep erythrocytes. Although intoxication, K(+) efflux, and hemolysis have been thoroughly investigated, there is little information on the nature of the interaction of this toxin with intact target cells. Using flow cytometry, we observe that binding of AC toxin to sheep erythrocytes and Jurkat T lymphocytes is dependent on posttranslational acylation of the toxin. Extracellular calcium is also necessary, with a steep calcium concentration dependence similar to that required for intoxication and hemolysis. Binding of AC toxin is concentration dependent but unsaturable up to 50 micrograms/ml, suggesting that if there is a specific receptor molecule with which the toxin interacts, it is not limiting. Visualization of cells by fluorescence microscopy supports the data obtained by flow cytometry and reveals a peripheral pattern of toxin distribution. AC toxin binds to erythrocytes at both 0 and 37 degrees C; however, the total binding at 0 degrees C is less than that at 37 degrees C. In human erythrocytes, AC toxin does not cause an increase in K(+) efflux or hemolysis. While AC toxin exhibits reduced potency to increase cAMP in these cells than in sheep erythrocytes, there is only a modest reduction in the binding of the toxin as measured by flow cytometry. Further use of this technique will provide new approaches for dynamic and functional analysis of the early steps involved in intoxication, K(+) efflux, and hemolysis produced by AC toxin.

A commentary on the pathogenesis of pertussis

In recent years a great deal of information has been generated on the virulence factors produced by Bordetella pertussis, the regulation of their expression, and their molecular mechanisms of action. There are numerous studies of Bordetella virulence factors and strains of B. pertussis in which the genes for some of these components have been mutated or deleted. In addition, several acellular vaccines composed of these virulence factors have been developed, tested, and licensed for use in the prevention of pertussis. Nevertheless, there exists little information specifically on the pathogenesis of the disease process caused by B. pertussis in humans, and such data are necessary for adequate understanding and treatment of this novel infectious disease.

Epitope mapping of monoclonal antibodies against Bordetella pertussis adenylate cyclase toxin

Adenylate cyclase (AC) toxin from Bordetella pertussis is a 177-kDa repeats-in-toxin (RTX) family protein that consists of four principal domains; the catalytic domain, the hydrophobic domain, the glycine/aspartate-rich repeat domain, and the secretion signal domain. Epitope mapping of 12 monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) directed against AC toxin was conducted to identify regions important for the functional activities of this toxin. A previously developed panel of in-frame deletion mutants of AC toxin was used to localize MAb-specific epitopes on the toxin. The epitopes of these 12 MAbs were located throughout the toxin molecule, recognizing all major domains. Two MAbs recognized a single epitope on the distal portion of the catalytic domain, two reacted with the C-terminal 217 amino acids, one bound to the hydrophobic domain, and one bound to either the hydrophobic domain or the functionally unidentified region adjacent to it. The remaining six MAbs recognized the glycine/aspartate-rich repeat region. To localize these six MAbs, different peptides derived from the repeat region were constructed. Two of the six MAbs appeared to react with the repetitive motif and exhibited cross-reactivity with Escherichia coli hemolysin. The remaining four MAbs appeared to interact with unique epitopes within the repeat region. To evaluate the roles of these epitopes on toxin function, each MAb was screened for its effect on intoxication (cyclic AMP accumulation) and hemolytic activity. The two MAbs recognizing the distal portion of the catalytic domain blocked intoxication of Jurkat cells by AC toxin but had no effect on hemolysis. On the other hand, a MAb directed against a portion of the repeat region caused partial inhibition of AC toxin-induced hemolysis without affecting intoxication. In addition, the MAb recognizing either the hydrophobic domain or the unidentified region adjacent to it inhibited both intoxication and hemolytic activity of AC toxin. These findings extend our understanding of the regions necessary for the complex events required for the biological activities of AC toxin and provide a set of reagents for further study of this novel virulence factor.

Pertussis: current concepts of pathogenesis and prevention

The selection of acellular vaccine antigens relies on current concepts of pertussis pathogenesis. Animal model data provide evidence that certain products of Bordetella pertussis, which include the putative adhesins filamentous hemagglutinin, pertactin and fimbriae, and pertussis toxin could serve as protective antigens and are available in sufficient quantities of purified material to be considered appropriate candidates for vaccine inclusion. In clinical studies vaccines containing three, four or five components were more effective at preventing pertussis than vaccines containing only inactivated pertussis toxin and filamentous hemagglutinin. These data suggest that pertactin may make a contribution to the protection elicited by an acellular product, but information does not allow evaluation of a possible incremental contribution from fimbriae. Serologic studies of patients in the clinical efficacy trials of the acellular pertussis vaccines did not yield a correlation between antibody levels and protection against pertussis, which suggests that relationships or mechanisms involved in the protective activities of these acellular vaccines are not yet understood. Therefore other mechanisms of immunity (i.e. cellular immunity) may be involved in vaccine-elicited immunity. Increasing understanding of the likely mechanisms of pertussis pathogenesis will provide insights into potential therapies for patients infected with B. pertussis. The mechanisms of vaccine-induced immunity remain elusive and determination of whether these products are working as initially predicted will require further study.

Role of pertussis toxin A subunit in neutrophil migration and vascular permeability

The anti-inflammatory activity of pertussis toxin (Ptx) was compared to that of a noncatalytic mutant of pertussis toxin (9K/129G; Ptxm), which contains two amino acid substitutions in the A protomer, by using a rat model of inflammation. The toxins were administered intravenously 1 h prior to the injection of inflammatory stimuli. Ptx, but not Ptxm, inhibited neutrophil migration into peritoneal cavities in response to formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine and lipopolysaccharide. The inhibitory effect of Ptx on neutrophil migration could not be explained by the ability of the toxin to induce leukopenia or neutropenia. The increase in skin vascular permeability induced by leukotriene B4, a powerful neutrophil chemotactic agent, was also inhibited only by Ptx. On the other hand, the increase in skin vascular permeability induced by histamine was potentiated by both toxins. These data show that Ptx inhibits neutrophil-mediated inflammation in vivo and that this effect is dependent on the ADP-ribosyltransferase activity of the A protomer.

Preparation and composition of acellular pertussis vaccines. Consideration of potential effects on vaccine efficacy

An evaluation of possible relationships between the preparation and content of acellular pertussis vaccines and their efficacy reveals that, in most instances, there is much more extensive variability in content and mode of preparation of these products than in their clinical efficacies. In general, there is a positive correlation of antigen content with immunogenicity. However, there was an apparent difference in the dose-response relationships between chemically and genetically toxoided vaccines which revealed a greater immunogenicity of the genetically inactivated material. Overall, however, the immunigenicity data (IgG serology) do not correlate well with protective efficacy and it is apparent that additional information is necessary to elucidate a specific role for any aspect of vaccine content or preparation in vaccine efficacy.

Adenylate cyclase in striatal cholinergic interneurons regulates acetylcholine release

Fractional [3H]ACH efflux from dissociated rat striata tested whether tonic inhibition prevents stimulation of acetylcholine (ACH) release by adenylate cyclase. Forskolin stimulated release from the dissociated cells (threshold at 300 nM; EC50 > or = 1 MicroM). Release was also stimulated by 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine and was additive with forskolin. The 1,9-dideoxy forskolin analog that lacks cyclase-stimulating activity was ineffective. Thus, stimulation of adenylate cyclase within striatal cholinergic interneurons increases ACH secretion but is tonically inhibited by endogenous striatal transmitters. Disinhibition of the excitatory cyclase by denervation of striatal cholinergic interneurons in situ could contribute to supersensitivity without receptor upregulation.

ATP shortens atrial action potential duration in the dog: role of adenosine, the vagus nerve, and G protein

The mechanism by which adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) shortens atrial action potential duration was studied in a canine model in vivo. Previous studies have indicated that the negative chronotropic and dromotropic actions of ATP in the canine heart are mediated by a vagal reflex and by adenosine. However, the mechanism of ATP's action on atrial action potential duration remains unknown. The effects of ATP on endocardial monophasic action potential were determined under baseline conditions (control) and after left cervical vagotomy followed by right vagus nerve afferent blockade with capsaicin (1% in olive oil), and subsequent bilateral cervical vagotomy plus propranolol (1.0 mg/kg, i.v.). In addition, the effects of ATP and adenosine were determined 48 h following the administration of pertussis toxin (PTX, 30 micrograms/kg, i.v.). PTX intoxication was verified by monitoring plasma levels of insulin during glucose tolerance tests. ATP (4 and 6 mumol/kg, rapid bolus into right atrium) markedly shortened right atrial action potential duration at 50% repolarization (APD50) from 101 +/- 8 to 22 +/- 6 and from 111 +/- 8 to 14 +/- 2 ms, respectively. Adenosine (equimolar doses given in an identical mode) had a smaller effect, i.e., APD50 of 106 +/- 8 and 109 +/- 6 was shortened to 77 +/- 12 and 76 +/- 12 ms, respectively. Left cervical vagotomy slightly reduced the effect of ATP but not that of adenosine. Blockade of right vagal C fiber afferent traffic using local application of capsaicin to the right cervical vagosympathetic trunk markedly attenuated the effect of ATP, but not that of adenosine. Autonomic blockade (i.e., bilateral cervical vagotomy and propranolol) markedly attenuated the effect of ATP, but not of adenosine; for example, the effect of ATP (6 mumol/kg) was reduced from 86 +/- 2% shortening of APD50 to 24 +/- 5% (p < 0.05), while that of adenosine was 32 +/- 8 and 20 +/- 4% (ns) before and after autonomic blockade, respectively. Treatment with PTX completely abolished the effect of both ATP and adenosine on atrial action potential duration. These data indicate that (i) the effect of ATP on the canine atrial action potential duration is mediated to a large extent by a vagal reflex triggered by the nucleotide and to a lesser extent by adenosine, the product of ATP's enzymatic degradation,(ii) the afferent traffic of this reflex travels mainly via the right vagal C fibers, and (iii) the effects of both vagal and the adenosine components are mediated by PTX-sensitive guanine nucleotide binding proteins (G proteins) coupled to the muscarinic cholinergic receptors and A1 adenosine receptors, respectively.

Hemolytic, but not cell-invasive activity, of adenylate cyclase toxin is selectively affected by differential fatty-acylation in Escherichia coli

Adenylate cyclase toxin from Bordetella pertussis requires posttranslational acylation of lysine 983 for the ability to deliver its catalytic domain to the target cell interior and produce cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cell-invasive activity) and to form transmembrane channels (hemolytic activity). When the toxin is expressed in Escherichia coli, it has reduced hemolytic activity, but comparable cell-invasive activity to that of adenylate cyclase toxin from B. pertussis. In contrast to the native protein from B. pertussis, which is exclusively palmitoylated, recombinant toxin from E. coli is acylated at lysine 983 with about 87% palmitoylated and the remainder myristoylated. Furthermore, the recombinant toxin contains an additional palmitoylation on approximately two-thirds of the lysines at position 860. These observations suggest that the site and nature of posttranslational fatty-acylation can be dictated by the bacterial host used for expression and can have a significant, but selective, effect on protein function.

Membrane depolarization prevents cell invasion by Bordetella pertussis adenylate cyclase toxin

Adenylate cyclase toxin from Bordetella pertussis is a 177-kDa calmodulin-activated enzyme that has the ability to enter eukaryotic cells and convert endogenous ATP into cAMP. Little is known, however, about the mechanism of cell entry. We now demonstrate that intoxication of cardiac myocytes by adenylate cyclase toxin is driven and controlled by the electrical potential across the plasma membrane. The steepness of the voltage dependence of intoxication is comparable with that previously observed for the activation of K+ and Na+ channels of excitable membranes. The voltage-sensitive process is downstream from toxin binding to the cell surface and appears to correspond to the translocation of the catalytic domain across the membrane.

Pertussis toxin from Bordetella pertussis blocks neutrophil migration and neutrophil-dependent edema in response to inflammation

Pertussis toxin (Ptx) is a hexameric protein with classical AB architecture produced by Bordetella pertussis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Ptx on migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes to site of inflammation and on cell-dependent edema. Ptx was purified from the supernatant of the culture medium of B. pertussis using hydroxylapatite chromatography and fetuin affinity chromatography. Ptx induced a maximal clustering of Chinese hamster ovary cells at concentrations as low as 0.1 ng/ml. Intravenous injection of Ptx (400 ng) significantly blocked the neutrophil migration induced by 200 ng of lipopolysaccharide (LPS from E. coli O111:B4; 2.27 +/- 0.13 vs 0.61 +/- 0.16 per 10(6) neutrophils/ml; P < 0.001; N = 5) and by 200 ng of formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP; 2.53 +/- 0.45 vs 0.75 +/- 0.14 per 10(6) neutrophils/ml; P < 0.01; N = 6) into the peritoneal cavities of male Wistar rats (weighing 150-180 g). In addition, Ptx (400 ng) pretreatment also blocked the edema induced by intraplantar injection of 100 micrograms carrageenin (delta increase in volume: 0.667 +/- 0.087 vs 0.313 +/- 0.058 ml; P < 0.01; N = 5) but not the edema induced by 100 micrograms dextran (delta increase in volume: 0.537 +/- 0.06 vs 0.385 +/- 0.076 ml; P > 0.05; N = 5). These data demonstrate that Ptx blocked neutrophil migration induced by a direct fMLP stimulus of a site of inflammation. In addition, this toxin blocks the indirect stimulus of LPS on neutrophil migration.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Effect of temperature and host factors on the activities of pertussis toxin and Bordetella adenylate cyclase

Pertussis toxin and adenylate cyclase toxin both contribute to the pathogenesis of whooping cough. Production of these proteins is controlled by the bvg locus, which is inactive at 25 degrees C, but at 37 degrees C produces a Vir+ phenotype. In view of the temperature dependence of virulence factor synthesis, the effects of temperature and host factors on their action were examined. The NAD glycohydrolase activity of the S1 subunit of pertussis toxin was enhanced by CHAPS, a zwitterionic detergent, with a temperature optimum of approximately 35 degrees C. Similar temperature optima for the ADP-ribosylation by pertussis toxin of transducin and recombinant Go alpha were observed. Since the temperature--activity relationship of S1 differed from that of S1 in activated holotoxin, and since S1 in activated holotoxin was more stable at 42 degrees C than was S1, it appears that S1 associated with the B oligomer components may, in fact, be an active species. Bordetella pertussis adenylate cyclase is activated by a host factor, calmodulin. In the absence of calmodulin, the temperature optimum for enzymatic activity was approximately 25 degrees C, whereas in its presence it was approximately 35 degrees C. Thus, the temperature optima for pertussis and adenylate cyclase toxins, virulence factors whose production is increased through the bvg locus at physiological temperatures, are either at or near these temperatures when stimulated by host factors.

Internal lysine palmitoylation in adenylate cyclase toxin from Bordetella pertussis

A number of bacterial protein toxins, including adenylate cyclase (AC) toxin from Bordetella pertussis, require the product of an accessory gene in order to express their biological activities. In this study, mass spectrometry was used to demonstrate that activated, wild-type AC toxin was modified by amide-linked palmitoylation on the epsilon-amino group of lysine 983. This modification was absent from a mutant in which the accessory gene had been disrupted. A synthetic palmitoylated peptide corresponding to the tryptic fragment (glutamine 972 to arginine 984) that contained the acylation blocked AC toxin-induced accumulation of adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate, whereas the non-acylated peptide had no effect.

Adenylate cyclase toxin from Bordetella pertussis produces ion conductance across artificial lipid bilayers in a calcium- and polarity-dependent manner

Adenylate cyclase toxin (AC toxin) from Bordetella pertussis enters target cells to produce supraphysiologic levels of cAMP and, by a cAMP-independent process, is hemolytic. In the present study, we show for the first time that this toxin also produces ion-permeable, cation-selective pores in phospholipid bilayers. The resulting membrane conductance is absolutely calcium-dependent, as are the intoxication and hemolytic activities. It is strongly affected by the polarity and magnitude of the membrane potential and enhanced by the presence of negatively charged phospholipid. AC toxins from two mutants, BPDE386 and BPD377, which are defective in toxin activity, produce little or no conductance. Finally, evaluation of the current-voltage relationships and the concentration dependence of pore formation and of hemolysis reveal a greater than 3rd power dependence, suggesting that a multimer of AC toxin, probably consisting of three or more holotoxin molecules, is involved in pore formation.

Pertussis toxin activates platelets through an interaction with platelet glycoprotein Ib

Platelets present a unique model to study the B-oligomer effects of pertussis toxin because they become activated in response to the B oligomer but are not susceptible to ADP-ribosylation by the holotoxin. In these studies, the B oligomer of pertussis toxin caused concentration-dependent platelet activation, as determined by increases in intracellular calcium concentration, dense granule secretion, and platelet aggregation. Stirring was required for pertussis toxin to increase intracellular calcium. A monoclonal antibody against platelet glycoprotein Ib abolished increases in intracellular calcium concentration and increased the latency and reduced the slope of the aggregation response elicited by the B oligomer. Pertussis toxin also evoked [14C]serotonin release from platelets, and this effect was inhibited, though not eliminated, by an antibody against platelet glycoprotein Ib. Binding of pertussis toxin to glycoprotein Ib was observed after nonreducing sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. These data suggest that the B oligomer of pertussis toxin induces platelet activation mediated, at least in part, by an interaction with platelet glycoprotein Ib.

Characterization of adenylate cyclase toxin from a mutant of Bordetella pertussis defective in the activator gene, cyaC

Bordetella pertussis adenylate cyclase (AC) toxin has the abilities to 1) enter target cells where it catalyzes cyclic AMP production and 2) lyse sheep erythrocytes, and these abilities require post-translational modification by the product of an accessory gene cyaC (Barry, E. M., Weiss, A. A., Ehrmann, E. E., Gray, M. C., Hewlett, E. L., and Goodwin, M. St. M. (1991) J. Bacteriol. 173, 720-726). In the present study, AC toxin has been purified from an organism with a mutation in cyaC, BPDE386, and evaluated for its physical and functional properties in order to determine the basis for its lack of toxin and hemolytic activities. AC toxin from BPDE386 is indistinguishable from wild-type toxin in enzymatic activity, migration on SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, ability to bind calcium, and calcium-dependent conformational change. Although unable to elicit cAMP accumulation, AC toxin from BPDE386 exhibits binding to the surface of Jurkat cells which is comparable to that of wild-type toxin. This target cell interaction is qualitatively different, however, in that 99% of the mutant toxin remains sensitive to trypsin, whereas approximately 20% of cell-associated wild-type toxin enters a trypsin-resistant compartment. To evaluate the ability of this mutant AC toxin to function at its intracellular site of action, the cAMP-stimulated L-type calcium current in frog atrial myocytes was used. Extracellular addition of wild-type toxin results in cAMP-dependent events that include activation of calcium channels and enhancement of calcium current. In contrast, there is no response to externally applied toxin from BPDE386. When injected into the cell interior, however, the AC toxin from BPDE386 is able to produce increases in the calcium current comparable to those observed with wild-type toxin. Although AC toxin from BPDE386 is unaffected in its enzymatic activity, calcium binding, and calcium-dependent conformational change, the mutation in cyaC does result in a toxin which is able to bind to target cells but unable to elicit cAMP accumulation. In that AC toxin from BPDE386 is able to function normally when injected artificially to an intracellular site, we conclude that the disruption of cyaC produces a defect in insertion and transmembrane delivery of the catalytic domain.

Antibodies to Bordetella pertussis adenylate cyclase toxin in neonatal and maternal sera

To investigate the high prevalence among infants of antibodies to Bordetella pertussis adenylate cyclase toxin (ACT), cord-blood sera were examined for antibodies to ACT, filamentous hemagglutinin (FHA) and pertussis toxin (PT) using immunoblot analysis. Antibodies reactive with ACT were the most prevalent in neonatal sera. Similar reactivity of IgG with ACT was found in each sample of a given neonatal-maternal pair, yet IgM reactive with ACT was virtually absent in neonatal sera, suggesting that antibodies to ACT are maternally derived. Antibodies to ACT might come from infection or childhood vaccination of the mothers since pertussis vaccines from all US manufacturers elicited antibodies to ACT in mice. Alternatively, these antibodies may have been elicited by a cross-reactive antigen such as Escherichia coli alpha-hemolysin, since all of the neonatal and maternal sera contained antibodies reactive with alpha-hemolysin.

Enzymatic activity of adenylate cyclase toxin from Bordetella pertussis is not required for hemolysis

Adenylate cyclase (AC) toxin from Bordetella pertussis enters cells to cause supraphysiologic increases in cAMP. AC toxin is also hemolytic. Substitution of Lys-58 with a methionine residue by site-directed mutagenesis of the structural gene for AC toxin, cyaA, and introduction of this mutation onto the B. pertussis chromosome results in an organism that synthesizes an enzyme-deficient AC toxin molecule. This mutant toxin molecule exhibits 1000-fold reduction in enzymatic activity relative to wild-type and has no toxin activity in J774 cells. The enzyme-deficient toxin molecule is not, however, impaired in its ability to lyse sheep red blood cells. In order to ascertain the importance of these two separate activities of AC toxin in vivo the enzyme-deficient organisms were used to infect infant mice. The hemolytic, enzyme-deficient mutant organisms are reduced in virulence relative to wild-type organisms after intranasal challenge indicating that, although the enzymatic activity of AC toxin does not contribute to hemolysis, it is this property of the toxin which is important for virulence of B. pertussis.

Adenylate cyclase toxin from Bordetella pertussis. Conformational change associated with toxin activity

Adenylate cyclase (AC) toxin from Bordetella pertussis interacts with and enters eukaryotic cells to catalyze the production of supraphysiologic levels of cyclic AMP. Although the calmodulin-activated enzymatic activity (ability to convert ATP to cyclic AMP in a cell-free assay) of this molecule is calcium independent, its toxin activity (ability to increase cyclic AMP levels in intact target cells) requires extracellular calcium. Toxin activity as a function of calcium concentration is biphasic, with no intoxication occurring in the absence of calcium, low level intoxication (200-300 pmol of cyclic AMP/mg of Jurkat cell protein) occurring with free calcium concentrations between 100 nM and 100 microM and a 10-fold increase in AC toxin activity at free calcium concentrations above 300 microM. The molecule exhibits a conformational change when free calcium concentrations exceed 100 microM as demonstrated by shift in intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence, an alteration in binding of one anti-AC monoclonal antibody, protection of a fragment from trypsin-mediated proteolysis, and a structural modification as illustrated by electron microscopy. Thus, it appears that an increase in the ambient calcium concentration to a critical point and the ensuing interaction of the toxin with calcium induces a conformational change which is necessary for its insertion into the target cell and for delivery of its catalytic domain to the cell interior.

Construction and characterization of Bordetella pertussis mutants lacking the vir-regulated P.69 outer membrane protein

The Bordetella pertussis P.69 protein is an immunogen with vaccine potential. The role of this protein in pathogenesis is unclear; it has been associated with the toxic adenylate cyclase and adhesion to eukaryotic cells. For further analysis of the role of P.69 in the biology of B. pertussis, we have constructed strains which specifically lack P.69. The cloned P.69 (prn) gene of B. pertussis was insertionally inactivated with a kanamycin-resistance cassette. This inactivated gene was used to construct P.69- mutants of B. pertussis by allelic exchange using plasmid pRTP1. B. pertussis P.69- strains produced normal levels of other vir-regulated factors, including adenylate cyclase. The serotype of B. pertussis, determined by Eldering and Preston typing sera and monoclonal antibodies, was also unaffected by the presence or absence of P.69. The ability of a prn mutant to adhere to and invade HEp2 cells was not significantly different from that of its parent strain. A strain containing a mutation in fhaB was significantly less adhesive and invasive than its parent, and a prn fhaB double mutant exhibited an even greater reduction in adhesiveness and invasiveness down to levels comparable with a Vir- strain. However, strains harbouring mutations in FHA and/or P.69 were able to colonize or multiply in the murine respiratory tract, although a Vir- strain was unable to survive and proliferate in the same infection model.

Human serologic response to envelope-associated proteins and adenylate cyclase toxin of Bordetella pertussis

The human serologic response to several envelope-associated proteins and adenylate cyclase toxin of Bordetella pertussis was examined using immunoblot techniques. Antigens recognized by sera from individuals with culture-confirmed pertussis and by sera from infants immunized with three doses of conventional whole-cell pertussis vaccine included a 63,000-Da protein that was shown to be antigenically related to a mycobacterial heat-shock protein. A 29,000-Da protein reacted with sera from convalescent individuals, whereas a 91,000-Da protein reacted with sera from vaccinated individuals. Antibodies to adenylate cyclase toxin were common in sera from individuals diagnosed with pertussis. B. pertussis lipooligosaccharide was also recognized by antibodies in some of these sera. These data suggest that some of these antigens may play a role in immunity to pertussis.

Adenosine and related compounds counteract tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibition of neutrophil migration: implication of a novel cyclic AMP-independent action on the cell surface

Human rTNF-alpha (greater than or equal to U/ml) decreased PMN nondirected and directed migration to FMLP to approximately 50% of control. Adenosine (100 microM) almost completely restored hrTNF-inhibited migration (nondirected from 54 to 92% and directed migration to from 54 to 93% of control). The lowest concentration of adenosine that restored hrTNF-inhibited migration was 3 microM, and the adenosine analogue, 5'-(N-cyclopropyl)-carboxamido-adenosine (CPCA) was more potent than adenosine. Although CPCA binds to A2-receptors and stimulates adenylate cyclase, the reversal of hrTNF-inhibited chemotaxis was found to be independent of both PMN cAMP content and binding to A2-receptors, because neither 8-Br-cAMP nor pertussis adenylate cyclase restored hrTNF-inhibited PMN chemotaxis and the A2-receptor antagonist, 1,3-dipropyl-7-methylxanthine decreased CPCA stimulated cAMP but enhanced CPCA-restoration of hrTNF-inhibited chemotaxis. The effect of adenosine could be augmented by inhibition of adenosine uptake and decreased by adenosine deamination. Pentoxifylline, (3,7 dimethyl-1-[5 oxo-hexyl] xanthine), like adenosine also restored PMN chemotaxis inhibited by hrTNF. The adenosine receptor antagonist, 1,3-dipropyl-8(phenyl-p-acrylate)-xanthine (BW A1433U), decreased restoration of hrTNF-inhibited chemotaxis by CPCA or pentoxifylline. Thus, the inhibitory effect of hrTNF on PMN migration can be counteracted by adenosine, CPCA, pentoxifylline, and compounds that increase adenosine availability to the surface of the PMN. Inasmuch as an A1-selective agonist N6-cyclopentyladenosine was less active, and the action of the A2-selective agonist CPCA was enhanced by an A2-receptor antagonist, we hypothesize that neither A1 or A2 receptors are involved in adenosine restoration of hrTNF-inhibited chemotaxis. Further, increased cAMP, an A2-regulated event, does not cause the effect, and adenosine restoration of hrTNF-inhibited migration does not appear to be mediated by changes in PMN [F-actin], FMLP receptor expression, or cytosolic calcium. Hence, the restoration of hrTNF-inhibited chemotaxis is controlled by a novel cyclic AMP-independent action on the PMN surface.

Adenosine and related compounds counteract tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibition of neutrophil migration: implication of a novel cyclic AMP-independent action on the cell surface

Human rTNF-alpha (greater than or equal to U/ml) decreased PMN nondirected and directed migration to FMLP to approximately 50% of control. Adenosine (100 microM) almost completely restored hrTNF-inhibited migration (nondirected from 54 to 92% and directed migration to from 54 to 93% of control). The lowest concentration of adenosine that restored hrTNF-inhibited migration was 3 microM, and the adenosine analogue, 5'-(N-cyclopropyl)-carboxamido-adenosine (CPCA) was more potent than adenosine. Although CPCA binds to A2-receptors and stimulates adenylate cyclase, the reversal of hrTNF-inhibited chemotaxis was found to be independent of both PMN cAMP content and binding to A2-receptors, because neither 8-Br-cAMP nor pertussis adenylate cyclase restored hrTNF-inhibited PMN chemotaxis and the A2-receptor antagonist, 1,3-dipropyl-7-methylxanthine decreased CPCA stimulated cAMP but enhanced CPCA-restoration of hrTNF-inhibited chemotaxis. The effect of adenosine could be augmented by inhibition of adenosine uptake and decreased by adenosine deamination. Pentoxifylline, (3,7 dimethyl-1-[5 oxo-hexyl] xanthine), like adenosine also restored PMN chemotaxis inhibited by hrTNF. The adenosine receptor antagonist, 1,3-dipropyl-8(phenyl-p-acrylate)-xanthine (BW A1433U), decreased restoration of hrTNF-inhibited chemotaxis by CPCA or pentoxifylline. Thus, the inhibitory effect of hrTNF on PMN migration can be counteracted by adenosine, CPCA, pentoxifylline, and compounds that increase adenosine availability to the surface of the PMN. Inasmuch as an A1-selective agonist N6-cyclopentyladenosine was less active, and the action of the A2-selective agonist CPCA was enhanced by an A2-receptor antagonist, we hypothesize that neither A1 or A2 receptors are involved in adenosine restoration of hrTNF-inhibited chemotaxis. Further, increased cAMP, an A2-regulated event, does not cause the effect, and adenosine restoration of hrTNF-inhibited migration does not appear to be mediated by changes in PMN [F-actin], FMLP receptor expression, or cytosolic calcium. Hence, the restoration of hrTNF-inhibited chemotaxis is controlled by a novel cyclic AMP-independent action on the PMN surface.

Transforming growth factor beta enhances parathyroid hormone stimulation of adenylate cyclase in clonal osteoblast-like cells

The effects of transforming growth factor beta (TGF beta) on parathyroid hormone (PTH)-responsive adenylate cyclase were examined in clonal rat osteosarcoma cells (UMR-106) with the osteoblast phenotype. Purified TGF beta incubated with UMR-106 cells for 48 hr produced a concentration-dependent increase in PTH stimulation of adenylate cyclase, with maximal increase in PTH response (37%) occurring at 1 ng/ml TGF beta. TGF beta also enhanced receptor-mediated activation of adenylate cyclase by isoproterenol and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and nonreceptor-mediated enzyme activation by cholera toxin and forskolin. In cells in which PTH-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity was augmented by treatment with pertussis toxin, the incremental increase in PTH response produced by TGF beta was reduced by 33%. However, TGF beta neither mimicked nor altered the ability of pertussis toxin to catalyze the ADP-ribosylation of a 41,000-Da protein, presumably the alpha subunit of the inhibitory guanine nucleotide-binding regulatory component (Gi) of adenylate cyclase, in cholate-extracted UMR-106 cell membranes. TGF beta also had no effect on the levels of alpha or beta subunits of Gi, as assessed by immunotransfer blotting. In time course studies, brief (less than or equal to 30 min) exposure of cells to TGF beta during early culture was sufficient to increase PTH response but only after exposed cells were subsequently allowed to grow for prolonged periods. TGF beta enhancement of PTH and isoproterenol responses was blocked by prior treatment of cells with cycloheximide but not indomethacin. The results suggest that TGF beta enhances PTH response in osteoblast-like cells by action(s) exerted at nonreceptor components of adenylate cyclase. The effect of TGF beta may involve Gi, although in a manner unrelated to either pertussis toxin-catalyzed ADP-ribosylation of the alpha subunit of Gi or changes in levels of Gi subunits. The regulatory action of TGF beta on adenylate cyclase is likely to be mediated by the rapid generation of cellular signals excluding prostaglandins, followed by a prolonged sequence of events involving protein synthesis. These observations suggest a mechanism by which TGF beta may regulate osteoblast responses to systemic hormones.

Phorbol esters enhance the cyclic GMP response of T84 cells to the heat-stable enterotoxin of Escherichia coli (STa)

We examined the effect of protein kinase C (PKC) activation on the cyclic GMP response to heat-stable enterotoxin (STa) in a colonic carcinoma intestinal epithelial cell line, T84 cells. Our results demonstrate that the active phorbol ester analog, phorbol dibutyrate, but not the inactive alpha-phorbol dibutyrate, acts synergistically with STa to elevate cyclic GMP in intact T84 cells. The effect is observed in the absence or presence of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor, isobutylmethylxanthine, which suggests that phorbol dibutyrate modifies cyclic GMP synthesis rather than cyclic GMP degradation. In contrast to several systems in which prolonged treatment with phorbol ester desensitizes PKC-mediated responses, the cyclic GMP response in T84 cells is not diminished by prolonged treatment of T84 cells with phorbol dibutyrate. Also, transient treatment of T84 cells with phorbol dibutyrate enhances subsequent STa-stimulated cyclic GMP accumulation. These observations suggest that PKC activation produces a long-lived signal in T84 cells which enhances cyclic GMP accumulation in response to STa. Second messenger "cross talk" [T. Yoshimasa, D. R. Sibley, M. Bouvier, R. J. Lefkowitz, and M. G. Caron, Nature (London) 327:67-70, 1987] may be important in the pathogenesis of diarrheal disease.

Adenylate cyclase toxin from Bordetella pertussis. Identification and purification of the holotoxin molecule

Bordetella pertussis adenylate cyclase (AC) toxin is a calmodulin-activated adenylate cyclase enzyme which has the capacity to enter eukaryotic target cells and catalyze the conversion of endogenous ATP into cyclic AMP. In this work, the AC holotoxin molecule is identified and isolated. It is a single polypeptide of apparent 216 kDa as determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Monoclonal antibodies which immunoprecipitate AC activity from extracts of wild type B. pertussis (BP338) react with this 216-kDa band on Western blots, and it is absent from a transposon Tn5 mutant (BP348) specifically lacking AC toxin. Isolation of the 216-kDa protein to greater than 85% purity by hydrophobic chromatography, preparative sucrose gradient centrifugation, and affinity chromatography using either calmodulin-Sepharose or monoclonal antibody coupled to Sepharose 4B yields stepwise increases in AC toxin potency, to a maximum of 88.3 mumol of cAMP/mg of target cell protein/mg of toxin. Electroelution of the 216-kDa band following sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis yields a preparation with both AC enzyme and toxin activities. These data indicate that this protein represents the AC holotoxin molecule.

Adenylate cyclase toxins from Bacillus anthracis and Bordetella pertussis. Different processes for interaction with and entry into target cells

Adenylate cyclase (AC) toxins produced by Bacillus anthracis and Bordetella pertussis were compared for their ability to interact with and intoxicate Chinese hamster ovary cells. At 30 degrees C, anthrax AC toxin exhibited a lag of 10 min for measurable cAMP accumulation that was not seen with pertussis AC toxin. This finding is consistent with previous data showing inhibition of anthrax AC toxin but not pertussis AC toxin entry by inhibitors of receptor-mediated endocytosis (Gordon, V. M., Leppla, S. H., and Hewlett, E. L. (1988) Infect. Immun. 56, 1066-1069). Treatment of target Chinese hamster ovary cells with trypsin or cycloheximide reduced anthrax AC toxin-induced cAMP accumulation by greater than 90%, but was without effect on pertussis AC toxin. In contrast, incubation of the AC toxins with gangliosides prior to addition to target cells inhibited cAMP accumulation by pertussis AC toxin, but not anthrax AC toxin. To evaluate the role of lipids in the interaction of pertussis AC toxin with membranes, multicompartmental liposomes were loaded with a fluorescent marker and exposed to toxin. Pertussis AC toxin elicited marker release in a time- and concentration-dependent manner and required a minimal calcium concentration of 0.2 mM. These data demonstrate that the requirements for intoxication by the AC toxins from B. anthracis and B. pertussis are fundamentally different and provide a perspective for new approaches to study the entry processes.

Detection of Bordetella pertussis by determination of adenylate cyclase activity

The adenylate cyclase activity of Bordetella pertussis in clinical isolates was measured in calmodulin-supplemented Stainer-Scholte broth by the rate of conversion of ATP to cyclic AMP. Analysis of 250 stock strains of Bordetella pertussis showed that measurable adenylate cyclase activity was produced by all strains. In clinical tests Bordetella pertussis was isolated from 135 (22%) of 605 swab samples. Increased adenylate cyclase activity was detected in 124 (92%) Stainer-Scholte broth cultures of these samples. A total of 475 swabs contained other bacteria or had no growth; only one of the Stainer-Scholte broth cultures of these swab samples contained measurable adenylate cyclase activity. The results indicate that testing for adenylate cyclase activity provides a specific and sensitive means for detecting Bordetella pertussis in clinical specimens.

Failure of pertussis toxin to inhibit activation of guanylate cyclase by the heat-stable enterotoxin of Escherichia coli (STa) in the T84 cell line

The heat-stable enterotoxin (STa) of Escherichia coli causes intestinal secretion by stimulating guanylate cyclase, an enzyme believed to be distinct from the STa receptor. Pertussis toxin (PT) has been reported to block the ability of STa to stimulate guanylate cyclase in rat intestinal mucosa (S. A. Epstein, R. A. Giannella, and H. J. Brandwein, FEBS Lett. 203:44-48, 1986). This suggested that a guanine nucleotide regulatory protein (G protein) coupled the STa receptor to guanylate cyclase, a function not previously recognized for G proteins. We sought to explore this phenomenon and, if possible, to identify this G protein. Initial experiments with the human colon carcinoma cell line T84 revealed that higher-than-expected concentrations (1 micrograms/ml) of PT were needed to intoxicate cells, as assessed by ADP-ribosylation of endogenous PT substrate, but that 99 to 100% intoxication could be achieved. Homogenates made from fully intoxicated cells did not differ from controls in basal or STa-stimulated guanylate cyclase activity, and cyclic GMP accumulation in intact T84 cells was not changed by PT treatment. We conclude that a PT-sensitive G protein is not involved in the stimulation of cyclic GMP production by the enterotoxin STa.

Pertussis toxin effects on T lymphocytes are mediated through CD3 and not by pertussis toxin catalyzed modification of a G protein

Pertussis toxin (PT) has been shown to have a variety of effects on T lymphocyte function, and its activity has been used to suggest the involvement of a G protein in the early events of T lymphocyte activation. In this report, the effects of PT on T lymphocytes have been investigated in detail. PT at a concentration of 10 micrograms/ml rapidly stimulated early events that are normally induced by occupancy of the TCR complex in Jurkat cells and cloned, murine CTL including increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration, serine esterase release, and induction of Ag non-specific target cell lysis. However, 1-h treatment with this concentration of PT induced a state that was refractory to further receptor stimulation in Jurkat cells but not cloned CTL although substrate membrane proteins were modified to a similar extent in both cell lines. The functional effects of PT were mimicked by the B oligomer of PT which did not, however, catalyze ADP-ribosylation of membrane proteins. In addition, overnight exposure of Jurkat cells to a lower concentration of PT also modified substrate membrane proteins but did not inhibit receptor stimulation. These findings indicate that PT catalyzed ADP-ribosylation of a G protein does not account for the actions of the toxin on T lymphocytes. Finally, direct stimulation of increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration by PT and the B oligomer only occurred in T lymphocytes expressing CD3. This suggests that the mitogenic effect of PT holotoxin is mediated by the interaction of the B oligomer with CD3 and that this may account for many of the effects of PT holotoxin both in vivo and in vitro.

Pertussis toxin effects on T lymphocytes are mediated through CD3 and not by pertussis toxin catalyzed modification of a G protein

Pertussis toxin (PT) has been shown to have a variety of effects on T lymphocyte function, and its activity has been used to suggest the involvement of a G protein in the early events of T lymphocyte activation. In this report, the effects of PT on T lymphocytes have been investigated in detail. PT at a concentration of 10 micrograms/ml rapidly stimulated early events that are normally induced by occupancy of the TCR complex in Jurkat cells and cloned, murine CTL including increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration, serine esterase release, and induction of Ag non-specific target cell lysis. However, 1-h treatment with this concentration of PT induced a state that was refractory to further receptor stimulation in Jurkat cells but not cloned CTL although substrate membrane proteins were modified to a similar extent in both cell lines. The functional effects of PT were mimicked by the B oligomer of PT which did not, however, catalyze ADP-ribosylation of membrane proteins. In addition, overnight exposure of Jurkat cells to a lower concentration of PT also modified substrate membrane proteins but did not inhibit receptor stimulation. These findings indicate that PT catalyzed ADP-ribosylation of a G protein does not account for the actions of the toxin on T lymphocytes. Finally, direct stimulation of increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration by PT and the B oligomer only occurred in T lymphocytes expressing CD3. This suggests that the mitogenic effect of PT holotoxin is mediated by the interaction of the B oligomer with CD3 and that this may account for many of the effects of PT holotoxin both in vivo and in vitro.

Mechanism of enhanced sensitivity to bradykinin in pertussis toxin-treated fibroblasts: toxin increases bradykinin-stimulated prostaglandin formation

Exposure of animals to pertussis toxin results in increased sensitivity to agents such as bradykinin. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of toxin, bradykinin responsiveness was examined in control and intoxicated human fibroblasts. Exposure of fibroblasts to toxin resulted in a loss of inhibitory agonist action on adenylate cyclase, elevation of basal cAMP, and ADP-ribosylation of a 41-kDa protein, which was identified as Gi alpha, a component of adenylate cyclase, by its pattern of immuno-cross-reactivity with a family of antibodies to guanyl nucleotide-binding proteins, which are pertussis toxin substrates, and by the presence of an mRNA species with characteristics of a form of Gi alpha. Bradykinin increased prostaglandin accumulation to a greater extent in toxin-treated than in control fibroblasts. Agents such as cholera toxin, which elevated cAMP, also increased bradykinin-induced prostaglandin production. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that the enhanced sensitivity to bradykinin after pertussis toxin treatment results from modification of Gi alpha and increased cAMP, leading to enhanced formation of prostaglandins in response to bradykinin.

Nucleotide sequence and characterization of a repetitive DNA element from the genome of Bordetella pertussis with characteristics of an insertion sequence

A repeating element of DNA has been isolated and sequenced from the genome of Bordetella pertussis. Restriction map analysis of this element shows single internal ClaI, SphI, BstEII and SalI sites. Over 40 DNA fragments are seen in ClaI digests of B. pertussis genomic DNA to which the repetitive DNA sequence hybridizes. Sequence analysis of the repeat reveals that it has properties consistent with bacterial insertion sequence (IS) elements. These properties include its length of 1053 bp, multiple copy number and presence of 28 bp of near-perfect inverted repeats at its termini. Unlike most IS elements, the presence of this element in the B. pertussis genome is not associated with a short duplication in the target DNA sequence. This repeating element is not found in the genomes of B. parapertussis or B. bronchiseptica. Analysis of a DNA fragment adjacent to one copy of the repetitive DNA sequence has identified a different repeating element which is found in nine copies in B. parapertussis and four copies in B. pertussis, suggesting that there may be other repeating DNA elements in the different Bordetella species. Computer analysis of the B. pertussis repetitive DNA element has revealed no significant nucleotide homology between it and any other bacterial transposable elements, suggesting that this repetitive sequence is specific for B. pertussis.

Increased intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate inhibits T lymphocyte-mediated cytolysis by two distinct mechanisms

Cholera toxin (CT), but not pertussis toxin (PT), treatment of cloned murine CTL inhibited target cell lysis in a dose-dependent fashion. The effects of CT were mimicked by forskolin and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) analogues. Inhibition of cytotoxicity by CT and cAMP analogs was mediated in part by attenuation of conjugate formation. Additionally, both CT and cAMP analogs blocked the increase in intracellular Ca2+ induced by stimulation of the TCR complex by mAbs. These findings indicate that cAMP inhibits the activity of CTL by two distinct mechanisms and suggests a role for this second messenger in CTL-mediated cytolysis.

Actions of cyclic adenosine monophosphate on the cytodifferentiation of ovarian cells: studies in cultured swine granulosa cells using a novel exogenous adenylate cyclase from Bordetella pertussis

The regulation by cAMP of cholesterol side-chain cleavage activity and the synthesis of immunoisolated cytochrome P-450scc and adrenodoxin proteins was investigated in primary cultures of swine ovarian (granulosa) cells. Administration of a novel adenylate cyclase toxin isolated from Bordetella pertussis increased granulosa-cell cAMP accumulation up to 200-fold over basal. These effects were additive with those of FSH, forskolin, and cholera toxin. In contrast, bacterial extracts BP 347 and BP 348 from mutant strains of B. pertussis that lack either all virulent factors or the adenylate cyclase toxin and hemolysin were devoid of effect. Granulosa-cell cAMP accumulation supported by active bacterial adenylate cyclase was accompanied by 2- to 11-fold, time-dependent increases in [35S]methionine incorporation into immunospecific cytochrome P-450scc and adrenodoxin. These increases in the synthesis of cholesterol side-chain cleavage proteins were associated with enhanced pregnenolone production in response to exogenous sterol substrate, 25-hydroxycholesterol, and augmented progesterone secretion both in the absence and presence of exogenous lipoprotein. Moreover, the effects of Bordetella adenylate cyclase toxin on granulosa cell steroidogenesis were functionally integrated with other regulatory responses, since the non-cAMP dependent effector, estradiol 17-beta, interacted synergistically with bacterial adenylate cyclase in stimulating progesterone production. We conclude that exogenous adenylate cyclase isolated from B. pertussis can be functionally integrated into the cAMP-dependent effector pathway of granulosa cells with a resulting increase in intracellular cAMP concentrations, augmented biosynthesis of progesterone and pregnenolone, enhanced synthesis of immunospecific cytochrome P-450scc and adrenodoxin, and synergistic interactions with a non-cAMP-dependent ovarian effector hormone (estradiol).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)