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Bacteria induce lymphokine synthesis polyclonally in human B lymphocytes
Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
|August 1, 1978
Summary
Bacteria can stimulate human B lymphocytes to produce leukocyte migration inhibitory factor (LIF). This suggests LIF may be part of the body's nonspecific defense against microbial invasion.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Leukocyte Migration Inhibitory Factor (LIF) is a key lymphokine involved in immune responses.
- The role of bacterial stimulation on lymphocyte-derived LIF production requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the capacity of various bacteria to induce human lymphocytes, including T and B cells, to produce LIF.
- To explore the potential role of LIF in the innate immune system's defense against microbial pathogens.
Main Methods:
- Human mononuclear cells and purified T and B lymphocytes from adult and cord blood were co-cultured with killed bacteria.
- Culture supernatants were analyzed for LIF presence using the agarose migration inhibition assay.
Main Results:
- All nine tested bacterial strains successfully stimulated unseparated mononuclear cells and B lymphocytes to produce LIF.
- T lymphocytes did not exhibit LIF production upon stimulation with the tested bacteria.
- LIF was detected in cord blood cell cultures, indicating polyclonal lymphocyte activation rather than antigen-specific responses.
Conclusions:
- B lymphocytes, when stimulated by bacteria, can produce LIF.
- B lymphocyte-derived lymphokines, including LIF, may contribute to the body's nonspecific defense mechanisms against microbial invasion.
- This study highlights a potential role for LIF in innate immunity and host defense against bacteria.