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Published on: August 8, 2012
Search for specificity in natural cell-mediated cytotoxicity
Abstract:
Differences in antigenicity between the human osteosarcoma cell line TE 85/B and its feline sarcoma virus-infected subline NIH E1041 were detected by competitive inhibition of natural cell-mediated cytotoxicity (NCMC). Whether the differences could be attributed to the viral infection was investigated by absorption and elution studies of antibodies that determine the specificity of NCMC against the cell lines. Antibodies from the serum of healthy individuals were first absorbed onto target cells against which they were to be tested and then eluted to provide antibodies putatively specific for the target cells. Trypsin-treated effector cells were restored with the absorbed serum or eluted antibodies and tested against TE 85/B and its intentionally infected sublines. The differences observed previously between TE 85/B and NIH E1041 were extended to the detection of small differences in antigenicity among all sublines. Separately maintained sublines from the same culture became antigenically different with continuous passage. The causes for these specific changes were unknown, but a role for the control of these antigens by NCMC was suggested. Differences in antigenicity between virus-infected sublines cultured separately need not be related to the virus infection.
Insights
Viral infection does not solely explain antigenicity changes in osteosarcoma cell lines. Natural cell-mediated cytotoxicity (NCMC) may influence these antigen differences, even in uninfected cells.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Virology
Background:
- Osteosarcoma cell lines exhibit distinct antigenicity.
- Feline sarcoma virus infection can alter cell surface properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate antigenicity differences between human osteosarcoma cells and virus-infected sublines.
- To determine if viral infection is the sole cause of observed antigenicity changes.
Main Methods:
- Competitive inhibition of natural cell-mediated cytotoxicity (NCMC).
- Absorption and elution of antibodies to identify NCMC specificity.
- Testing antibody-treated cells against TE 85/B and NIH E1041 sublines.
Main Results:
- Detected antigenicity differences between TE 85/B and NIH E1041 cells.
- Observed antigenicity variations among all sublines, including uninfected ones.
- Found that separately cultured sublines became antigenically distinct over time.
Conclusions:
- Viral infection is not necessarily the cause of all observed antigenicity differences.
- Natural cell-mediated cytotoxicity (NCMC) may play a role in controlling cell surface antigens.
- Continuous passage and separate culturing can lead to antigenicity changes independent of viral status.
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