A transient acidification linked to intracellular Ca2+ in anti-mu-stimulated human B-lymphocytes

H Schøyen1, J G Iversen, E B Smeland

  • 1Institute of Physiology, University of Oslo, Norway.

Insights

Anti-mu antibodies trigger rapid intracellular pH and calcium changes in human B-lymphocytes, initiating cell cycle progression. IF5 antibody, targeting CD20, does not induce these signaling events.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Cellular proliferation, particularly in B-lymphocytes, is linked to dynamic shifts in intracellular pH and calcium.
  • Understanding these signaling pathways is crucial for deciphering B-cell activation and immune responses.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the specific patterns of intracellular pH and free Ca2+ concentration changes in human B-lymphocytes upon activation.
  • To compare the signaling effects of anti-mu antibodies with the CD20-specific antibody IF5.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized fluorescent dyes (2',7'-bis(carboxyethyl)-5,6-carboxy-fluorescein and indo-I) to monitor intracellular pH and Ca2+ levels.
  • Stimulated normal resting human B-lymphocytes with anti-mu antibodies and the IF5 monoclonal antibody.
  • Assessed the impact of Ca2(+)-free solutions and the ionophore ionomycin on these responses.

Main Results:

  • Anti-mu antibodies induced rapid intracellular acidification followed by alkalinization, and a significant increase in cytoplasmic Ca2+.
  • The acidification response to anti-mu was amiloride-resistant, while the subsequent alkalinization was sensitive.
  • The CD20-specific antibody IF5 did not elicit changes in intracellular pH or Ca2+.
  • Ionomycin mimicked the pH and Ca2+ responses observed with anti-mu.
  • Responses to anti-mu were diminished in Ca2(+)-free conditions, indicating reliance on intracellular Ca2+ stores.

Conclusions:

  • Anti-mu antibody-induced B-lymphocyte activation involves distinct, rapid changes in intracellular pH and Ca2+.
  • These signaling events appear to be mediated through pathways distinct from those targeted by the CD20 antibody IF5.
  • Intracellular calcium stores play a critical role in mediating the anti-mu antibody-induced signaling cascade.

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