Autoreactive human T cell lines recognizing ribosomal protein L7.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Autoimmunity
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by autoantibodies, including those targeting ribosomal protein L7 (rpL7).
• The autoimmune response to rpL7 involves both B cells and T cells.
• Understanding T cell responses is crucial for elucidating SLE pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the T cell response to ribosomal protein L7 (rpL7) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
• To characterize the phenotype and specificity of rpL7-reactive T cells.

Main Methods:

• Peripheral blood lymphocytes from SLE patients and healthy donors were cultured with recombinant rpL7.
• Cytokine secretion (IFN-gamma, IL-4, IL-10) was measured using spot-ELISA.
• rpL7-reactive T cell lines were established via limiting dilution cloning and characterized (phenotype, TCR, HLA restriction).

Main Results:

• T cells from SLE patients and healthy donors showed increased IFN-gamma secretion upon rpL7 stimulation.
• Six rpL7-reactive, IFN-gamma-secreting T cell lines with a CD4+ phenotype were established.
• Specific rpL7 epitopes and HLA-DR/DP restriction were identified for some T cell lines.

Conclusions:

• T cells from SLE patients and healthy individuals can recognize ribosomal protein L7 (rpL7).
• The T cell response to rpL7 is characterized by IFN-gamma secretion and specific HLA restriction.
• These findings contribute to understanding the T cell-mediated autoimmune response in SLE.