Newly synthesized class II MHC chains are required for VSV G presentation to CTL clones

Mechanisms of antigen processing and presentation to thymus-derived lymphocytes have been under intense study for several years, focusing on both Class I-restricted antigen presentation and Class II-MHC restricted responses. The studies described here examine the processing and presentation of exogenously provided soluble glycoprotein of the vesicular stomatitis virus and as well as newly synthesized viral glycoprotein. Evidence is provided that newly synthesized Class II MHC chains are required for cell surface expression of processed glycoprotein determinants irrespective of the origin of the viral antigen. Inhibitors of distinct cellular processes, including ammonium chloride, emetine, and Brefeldin A, have been used to dissect the pathways utilized.