A response calculus for immobilized T cell receptor ligands
P S Andersen1, C Menné, R A Mariuzza
1Institute for Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Copenhagen, The Panum Institute, Bldg. 24.2, Blegdamsvej 3C, Copenhagen DK-2200, Denmark. psa@symphogen.com
The Journal of Biological Chemistry
|October 11, 2001
Summary
A new 2D-affinity model explains T cell activation by considering T cell receptor (TCR) density, ligand density, and their 2D affinity. This model highlights how surface properties optimize TCR signaling for effective cell binding.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Biophysics
Background:
- T cell receptor (TCR) signaling is crucial for adaptive immunity.
- Understanding the molecular mechanisms governing TCR activation is essential.
- Existing models may not fully capture the complexities of cell-surface interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel model for T cell activation based on molecular interactions.
- To investigate the role of 2D-affinity in T cell signaling.
- To elucidate how surface properties influence TCR-ligand binding.
Main Methods:
- Formulation of the 2D-affinity model for T cell activation.
- Experimental validation using purified ligands immobilized on surfaces.
- Analysis of T cell responses under varying ligand affinity and density.
Main Results:
- The 2D-affinity model accurately simulated T cell activation changes.
- Receptor cross-linking density was identified as a key factor in TCR signaling.
- Ligand-presenting surface composition affects functional 2D-affinity.
Conclusions:
- The 2D-affinity model provides a framework for understanding TCR signaling.
- Optimal 2D-affinity can enable effective TCR binding under physiological conditions.
- Cell-bound ligands may possess optimal 2D-affinity for T cell activation.
Related Concept Videos
The Two-State Receptor Model
The two-state receptor model explains a drug's interaction with receptors, such as G protein-coupled receptors and ligand-gated ion channels, to induce or inhibit a biological response. When no natural ligands are present, a receptor exists in an equilibrium of inactive (Ri) and active (Ra) conformations. The inactive form does not produce a response, while the active form generates a basal effect known as constitutive activity.
The binding affinity of a drug determines its interaction with one...
The binding affinity of a drug determines its interaction with one...
T Cell Activation and Clonal Selection
T cells are integral to our adaptive immune system, recognizing and effectively responding to foreign antigens. T cell activation and clonal selection are pivotal in orchestrating this immune response. This article elucidates these mechanisms, detailing the roles of cluster of differentiation (CD) markers, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules, costimulatory signals, and the process of clonal selection.
Naive T cells that have not yet encountered an antigen express two primary CD...
Naive T cells that have not yet encountered an antigen express two primary CD...


