MEM-59 monoclonal antibody detects a CD43 epitope involved in lymphocyte activation

M Alvarado1, C Klassen, J Cerny

  • 1Department of Immunology, Medical School Hannover, Germany.

Insights

This study explores CD43 antigen stimulation using the MEM-59 antibody, revealing its role in T cell activation and co-stimulation. MEM-59 promotes T cell proliferation and signaling, distinct from previous antibodies.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Previous T cell activation studies focused on the CD43 antibody L10, targeting a sialic acid-independent epitope.
  • The CD43 molecule's role in T cell activation requires further investigation with different antibody specificities.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the T cell activation potential of the CD43 monoclonal antibody (mAb) MEM-59, which targets a neuraminidase-sensitive epitope.
  • To elucidate the mechanism of MEM-59-induced T cell activation and its relationship with CD3/T cell receptor (TcR) signaling.

Main Methods:

  • Stimulation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and T cell lines with MEM-59 mAb.
  • Analysis of PBMC proliferation, intracellular calcium mobilization, and Fc receptor-independent activation.
  • Investigation of physical association between CD43 and CD3/TcR complexes using cell lysates.

Main Results:

  • MEM-59 mAb induced monocyte-dependent PBMC proliferation and synergistic effects with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate.
  • F(ab')2 fragments of MEM-59 were effective in PBMC proliferation, indicating Fc receptor independence.
  • MEM-59 triggered intracellular Ca2+ mobilization in PBMC and Jurkat T cells, with defective signaling in CD3/TcR-negative mutants.
  • CD43 and CD3/TcR were found in a large complex, suggesting a physical association.

Conclusions:

  • MEM-59 mAb activates T lymphocytes through a mechanism distinct from L10, involving Fc receptor-independent pathways.
  • CD43 appears to function as a co-stimulatory molecule in T cell activation.
  • A physical and functional association exists between CD43 and CD3/TcR signaling pathways, crucial for T cell-antigen-presenting cell interactions.