MHC class II molecules transferred between allogeneic dendritic cells stimulate primary mixed leukocyte reactions

Presentation of antigen to T cells is generally restricted by MHC type but the mixed leukocyte reaction (MLR) was thought to involve direct stimulation by dendritic cells (DC) of allogeneic T cells. However, here we showed that DC bearing allogeneic MHC class II acted synergistically with responder-type DC. Removal of residual DC from 'purified' responder T cell populations was achieved using treatment with DC-specific antibody and complement. These DC-depleted cells showed a significantly reduced response to allogeneic DC which was restored by addition of DC syngeneic with responder T cells. The studies support the concept that a major component of the MLR is the secondary presentation of alloantigens acquired from stimulator DC by DC of responder type. To investigate the reasons why DC and not other cells stimulate an MLR, synergy between DC and other cell types was investigated. Synergy was found exclusively between DC; macrophages, B cells or L cells transfected with MHC class II molecules did not contribute. When allogeneic DC were mixed in culture, transfer of MHC molecules between DC was observed as assessed by flow cytometry. Freshly obtained cell-free supernatants from cultured DC contained MHC class II and stimulated primary allogeneic MLR. DC of responder type acquired allogeneic MHC molecules from the supernatants and stimulated proliferation in syngeneic T cells. The capacity of DC both to shed and to acquire MHC molecules may contribute to their potency in stimulating primary responses, and could explain why passenger DC within allografts provide a potent stimulus for graft rejection.