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Cytomegalovirus induced PMN adherence in relation to an ELAM-1 antigen present on infected endothelial cell

A H Span1, W Mullers, A M Miltenburg

  • 1Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Limburg, Maastricht, The Netherlands.

Immunology
|March 1, 1991
PubMed

Insights

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection induces an endothelial cell antigen, similar to ELAM-1, which promotes polymorphonuclear cell (PMN) adhesion. This virus-induced PMN adhesion is mediated by IL-1 and CD18 glycoprotein.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Virology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection can alter endothelial cell function.
  • Endothelial cell activation plays a role in inflammatory responses.
  • Polymorphonuclear cell (PMN) adhesion is a key event in inflammation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the mechanism of virus-induced PMN adhesion to endothelial cells.
  • To identify the specific molecules involved in this adhesion process.

Main Methods:

  • Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were infected with CMV.
  • Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) ENA1 and IB4 were used to detect cell surface antigens and inhibit adhesion.
  • Interleukin-1 (IL-1) and its role in antigen expression were assessed.
  • PMN adhesion assays were performed on infected and uninfected endothelial cells.

Main Results:

  • CMV infection induced an endothelial surface antigen recognized by mAb ENA1, similar to ELAM-1.
  • Anti-IL-1 partially inhibited the appearance of the ENA1 antigen and reduced PMN adhesion.
  • F(ab)2 fragments of mAb ENA1 significantly reduced PMN adhesion to CMV-infected cells.
  • PMN adhesion to uninfected cells was CD18 glycoprotein dependent, and CMV infection upregulated this mechanism.

Conclusions:

  • CMV infection induces IL-1 production in endothelial cells, leading to ELAM-1 expression.
  • ELAM-1 on endothelial cells binds to a ligand on PMNs, mediating virus-induced adhesion.
  • A CD18 glycoprotein-dependent mechanism also contributes to virus-induced PMN adhesion.

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