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Processing requirements for T cell activation by Mycoplasma arthritidis-derived mitogen
A Bauer1, I Rutenfranz, H Kirchner
1Institute of Virus Research, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, FRG.
European Journal of Immunology
|December 1, 1988
Summary
Mycoplasma arthritidis supernatant (MAS) mitogen activates T cells by requiring processing by accessory cells (AC). This processing involves lysosomal proteolysis, which can be blocked by specific inhibitors, suggesting a key step in T cell activation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Mycoplasma arthritidis produces a polyclonal mitogen that stimulates T lymphocytes.
- Accessory cells (AC) are necessary for the presentation of this mitogen to T cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the processing and presentation requirements of the Mycoplasma arthritidis supernatant (MAS) mitogen by accessory cells (AC) for human T cell activation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized inhibitors of lysosomal function, including chloroquine, NH4Cl, monensin, and leupeptin, to block AC processing.
- Assessed the impact of these inhibitors on T cell activation after washing out the agents before co-culture with T cells.
Main Results:
- Inhibitors of lysosomal function significantly reduced T cell activation, indicating interference with mitogen presentation.
- The results suggest that MAS mitogen presentation by AC involves a processing step.
Conclusions:
- The processing of Mycoplasma arthritidis supernatant (MAS) mitogen by accessory cells (AC) appears to involve lysosomal proteolysis.
- This lysosomal pathway can be inhibited in vitro, providing insights into T cell activation mechanisms by microbial products.