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Multiple changes in VLA protein glycosylation, expression, and function occur during mouse T cell ontogeny
S Wadsworth1, M J Halvorson, A C Chang
1Biological Resources Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892.
Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
|February 1, 1993
Summary
VLA molecules, or beta 1 integrins, change glycosylation and expression during T cell development. These changes impact their binding to extracellular matrix proteins, suggesting a role in T cell maturation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- VLA molecules (beta 1 integrins) are crucial cell-surface receptors mediating cell adhesion to extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins.
- Understanding VLA expression and function on thymocytes is essential for elucidating T cell development pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression, structure, and function of VLA molecules on mouse thymocytes.
- To determine the role of VLA-ECM interactions in T cell ontogeny.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of VLA beta 1 and alpha chain expression on thymocytes using immunoprecipitation and PCR.
- Assessment of VLA-mediated binding to fibronectin and laminin.
- Distinguishing between mature (J11d-) and non-mature (J11d+) thymocyte populations.
Main Results:
- Two major forms of beta 1 integrins were identified, differing in N-glycosylation and sialylation, with distinct expression patterns on mature and immature thymocytes.
- VLA-alpha 4, -alpha 6, and -alpha 5 chains were broadly expressed, while VLA-alpha 1 and -alpha 2 were primarily found on mature thymocytes.
- Immature thymocytes showed higher binding to laminin (via VLA-6) and fibronectin (via VLA-4 and VLA-5) compared to mature thymocytes, suggesting an activated state of VLA-6.
Conclusions:
- Significant alterations in VLA glycosylation, expression levels, and ECM-binding capabilities occur during thymocyte maturation.
- These VLA-ECM interactions are integral to the process of T cell development and ontogeny.