Bovine luteal cells elicit major histocompatibility complex class II-dependent T-cell proliferation

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Reproductive Biology
• Veterinary Science

Background:

• Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules are present in the bovine corpus luteum (CL) and their expression correlates with luteolysis.
• The role of luteal cells in T-cell stimulation and antigen presentation within the bovine CL requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate whether bovine luteal cells can stimulate T-cell proliferation in a Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II-restricted manner.
• To determine if prostaglandin F2 alpha influences the antigen-presenting capacity of bovine luteal cells.

Main Methods:

• Coculture of luteal cells from midcycle or prostaglandin F2 alpha-induced regressing bovine corpora lutea (CL) with autologous T cells.
• Stimulation of T-cell proliferation using Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) with or without anti-MHC class II antibody.
• Assessment of T-cell proliferation via tritiated thymidine incorporation.

Main Results:

• T cells exhibited significantly higher proliferation when cocultured with cells from regressing CL compared to midcycle CL.
• Anti-MHC class II antibody partially attenuated the T-cell proliferation response with cells from regressing CL.
• T cells proliferated when cultured with cells from regressing CL even without SEB, indicating antigen presentation.

Conclusions:

• Bovine luteal cells possess antigen-presenting cell capabilities in vitro.
• Prostaglandin F2 alpha may enhance the antigen-presenting function of luteal cells during CL regression in cattle.