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Antigenicity and accessory cell function of human articular chondrocytes
S Alsalameh1, B Jahn, A Krause
1Department of Medicine III, Erlangen Medical School, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany.
The Journal of Rheumatology
|March 1, 1991
Summary
Chondrocytes, or cartilage cells, can present antigens to T cells, potentially playing a role in autoimmune joint diseases. They are less effective than monocytes but can present antigens, especially when activated.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Chondrocytes are implicated in inflammatory joint diseases by potentially providing autoantigens.
- Their role as accessory cells in immune responses requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if chondrocytes can function as accessory cells in immune processes.
- To assess chondrocytes' antigen-presenting capacity to resting and activated T cells.
Main Methods:
- Mixed leukocyte-chondrocyte cultures and antigen presentation assays were performed.
- Chondrocytes were treated with gamma-interferon to induce HLA class II antigen (Ia) expression.
- Antigen presentation was assessed using tetanus toxoid and T cells from normal donors and rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Main Results:
- Ia-negative and Ia-positive chondrocytes showed weak or no stimulation of resting lymphocytes.
- Chondrocytes presented tetanus toxoid to resting T cells less effectively than blood monocytes.
- Both Ia-positive and initially Ia-negative chondrocytes efficiently presented antigen to activated T cells, with Ia expression increasing in initially Ia-negative cells.
Conclusions:
- Chondrocytes possess antigen-presenting capabilities, particularly towards activated T cells.
- This function may contribute to the pathogenesis of inflammatory joint diseases.
- Chondrocytes can acquire HLA class II antigens upon activation, enhancing their immune accessory function.