Ubiquitin-like protein MNSFβ negatively regulates T cell function and survival

Monoclonal non-specific suppressor factor β (MNSFβ) is a ubiquitously expressed member of the ubiquitin-like family that is involved in various biological functions. Previous studies have demonstrated that MNSFβ covalently binds to intracellular pro-apoptotic protein Bcl-G and regulates apoptosis in macrophages. In this study, we demonstrate that MNSFβ negatively regulates T cell function. In murine T-helper type 2 clone, D10.G4.1 (D10) cells transfected with MNSFβ cDNA, CD3/CD28-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation leading to IL-4 production was significantly inhibited. The formation of MNSFβ-Bcl-G complex was induced by the CD3/CD28 stimulation. Co-transfection with MNSFβ and Bcl-G greatly enhanced CD3/CD28-induced apoptosis in D10 cells. Similarly, co-over-expression of MNSFβ and Bcl-G caused a marked enhancement of apoptosis in purified splenic T cells. Interestingly, this MNSFβ adduct was also induced in T cells derived from DO11.10 mice stimulated with antigen. Collectively, CD3/CD28-inducible MNSFβ-Bcl-G complex may be involved in the regulation of T cell function and survival.