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A common epitope on human myelin basic protein and the human T lymphocyte CD3 molecule
J W Zhang1, W E Weber, J Borst
1Department of Immunology, Dr. L. Willems Institute, Diepenbeek, Belgium.
Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
|June 1, 1989
Summary
Researchers discovered a shared epitope between myelin basic protein (MBP) and T cell CD3. This finding, identified by a specific antibody, suggests potential autoimmune implications in central nervous system disorders.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Myelin basic protein (MBP) is crucial for central nervous system myelin structure.
- CD3 is a T lymphocyte activation molecule involved in signal transduction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize a potential cross-reactive epitope shared between human myelin basic protein (H.MBP) and T lymphocyte CD3.
Main Methods:
- A murine monoclonal antibody (mAb) WW.B1, raised against H.MBP, was used.
- The antibody's reactivity with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and Jurkat T cells was assessed.
- Immunoprecipitation assays were performed for H.MBP and CD3.
- Biological functions, including T lymphocyte proliferation and CTL inhibition, were evaluated.
Main Results:
- mAb WW.B1 recognized both H.MBP and a complex indistinguishable from CD3.
- The antibody induced T lymphocyte proliferation and inhibited CTL function, similar to anti-CD3 antibodies.
- The epitope recognized by WW.B1 appears distinct from those targeted by OKT3 and anti-Leu-4.
Conclusions:
- A common epitope exists between H.MBP and CD3, recognized by mAb WW.B1.
- This cross-reactivity suggests potential autoimmune mechanisms where autoimmunization to MBP might lead to similar immunoregulatory antibody specificities.