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Biomedical subjects

C J van Noesel

Publications and source records attributed to C J van Noesel.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

Variable heavy-chain gene analysis of follicular lymphomas: subclone selection rather than clonal evolution over time.

To investigate B-cell receptor evolution in follicular lymphomas (FLs), immunoglobulin variable heavy chain (V(H)) gene regions of 3 FLs were analyzed at different time points. One FL with a high somatic mutation load and intraclonal V(H) gene diversity was investigated in situ. V(H) gene transcripts were amplified and sequenced from samples of approximately 50 tumor cells isolated from frozen tissue sections by laser microdissection. Interestingly, the mutation pattern of the prevalent subclone in the relapse biopsy was virtually identical to that of a subclone isolated by microdissection from the presentation biopsy 9 years earlier. In a second FL, proof was obtained that the subclone that dominated the relapse sample had already been present in the initial biopsy. The finding that subclones found in the relapses of these FLs had not evolved over time but were preexistent, challenges the concept of antigen-driven B-cell receptor evolution during disease course.

Cell Transformation, Neoplastic↗

[Mix-up of patient specimen: DNA-microsatellite analysis as a fast identification method].

In a man aged 56 years with dysphagia, an oesophageal biopsy was found to contain an adenocarcinoma. In view of the discrepancy between the clinical and the histological pictures, the biopsy was repeated; in a second biopsy no carcinoma was demonstrable. DNA microsatellite analysis proved that the first biopsy originated from another person. The scheduled oesophageal resection was cancelled and the patient was reassured. A woman aged 77 years underwent gastrectomy because of biopsy samples with adenocarcinoma. However, no tumour was found in the resected stomach. DNA microsatellite analysis showed that the biopsy samples indeed originated from the patient. Unfortunately, mix-up of patient specimens occasionally occurs. Especially a discrepancy between the clinical picture and the histological diagnosis must raise the suspicion of a specimen mix-up. In such cases, DNA microsatellite analysis can give a rapid and reliable answer whether a mix-up has indeed taken place.

Adenocarcinoma↗

Variable heavy chain gene analysis of follicular lymphomas: correlation between heavy chain isotype expression and somatic mutation load.

The expansion of follicular lymphomas (FLs) resembles, both morphologically and functionally, normal germinal center B-cell growth. The tumor cells proliferate in networks of follicular dendritic cells and are believed to be capable of somatic hypermutation and isotype switching. To investigate the relation between somatic mutation and heavy chain isotype expression, we analyzed the variable heavy (V(H)) chain genes of 30 FL samples of different isotypes. The V(H) genes of the FLs were heavily mutated (29.3 mutations on average). In addition, isotype-switched lymphomas contained more somatic mutations than immunoglobulin M-positive lymphomas (33.8 mutations per V(H) gene versus 23.0, respectively). In all but one of the FLs, the ratios of replacement versus silent mutations in the framework regions were low, independent of the absolute number of somatic mutations and the level of intraclonal variation. Analysis of relapse samples of 4 FLs showed no obvious increase in somatic mutation load in most FLs and a decrease in intraclonal variation in time. In 3 of 4 cases, we obtained evidence for selection of certain subclones, rather than clonal evolution. Our findings question if intraclonal variation is always a reflection of ongoing somatic hypermutation. This may have implications for the concept of antigen-driven lymphomagenesis. (Blood. 2000;95:2922-2929)

Adult↗

VH gene analysis of primary cutaneous B-cell lymphomas: evidence for ongoing somatic hypermutation and isotype switching.

Primary cutaneous B-cell lymphomas are B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphomas that arise in the skin. The major subtypes discerned are follicle center cell lymphomas, immunocytomas (marginal zone B-cell lymphomas), and large B-cell lymphomas of the leg. In this study, we analyzed the variable heavy chain (VH) genes of 7 of these lymphomas, ie, 4 follicle center cell lymphomas (diffuse large-cell lymphomas) and 3 immunocytomas. We show that all these lymphomas carry heavily mutated VH genes, with no obvious bias in VH gene usage. The low ratios of replacement versus silent mutations observed in the framework regions of 5 of the 7 lymphomas suggest that the structure of the B-cell antigen receptor was preserved, as in normal B cells that are selected for antibody expression. Moreover, evidence for ongoing mutation was obtained in 3 immunocytomas and in one lymphoma of large-cell type. In addition, in 1 immunocytoma, both IgG- and IgA-expressing clones were found, indicative of isotype switching. Our data provide insight into the biology of primary cutaneous B-cell lymphomas and may be of significance for their classification.

Codon↗

Antigen receptor nonresponsiveness in chronic lymphocytic leukemia B cells.

B chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) are clonal populations of mIgM+ or mIgM+/mIgD+ CD5+ B cells that appear to be arrested in the follicular mantle-zone B-cell stage. Functional analyses have shown two groups of B-CLL that can be distinguished based on their capacity to proliferate in response to B-cell antigen receptor complex (BCR) cross-linking. To investigate the molecular basis for this phenomenon, we have analyzed both architecture and functional properties of BCR complexes on these two groups of B-CLL. Both groups were found to express structurally similar BCR. However, protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) activity associated with and specific for BCR constituents was strongly diminished in nonresponsive B-CLL. Moreover, the PTK-dependent assembly of Shc/Grb2 complexes, which may couple the BCR to p21ras, was absent in these B-CLL. Finally, of all PTKs tested, the expression of PTK syk was found to be considerably lower in nonresponsive B-CLL. Thus, absence of mitogenic responses upon BCR cross-linking in particular B-CLL was found to be strictly correlated with diminished induction of BCR-associated PTK activity and lower levels of PTK syk. Because nonresponsive B-CLL closely resembles tolerant autoreactive B cells both functionally and biochemically, distinction between B-CLL with respect to functional properties in vitro may be determined by differences in antigen encounter in vivo.

Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing↗

Evidence for a direct physical interaction of membrane IgM, IgD, and IgG with the B29 gene product.

The B cell Ag-receptor complex is composed of membrane immunoglobulin (mIg) and the mb-1/B29 heterodimer. In order to obtain insight into the architecture of the B cell receptor complex, we have looked for conditions that disrupt all disulfide bridges in the complex without affecting the noncovalent interaction between the mIg heavy chain and one or both members of the associated heterodimer. We show that in the presence of the reducing agent beta-mercaptoethanol the m mu, m delta, and m gamma heavy chains remain selectively associated with the B29 members. Our findings implied that if isotype-related differences exist between the mIg-associated dimers, they may reside in B29 and not, as initially suggested, in mb-1. However, sequence analyses of B29 gene transcripts from B cells expressing mIgM, mIgD, or mIgG only revealed no differences in their nucleotide composition. Thus, in spite of their close physical interaction with mIg heavy chain classes, which are significantly distinct in the C-terminal regions, no isotype-specific forms of B29 seem to exist.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

CD5 is associated with the human B cell antigen receptor complex.

On human B cells the antigen receptor complex is composed of the membrane form of the immunoglobulin molecule and the non-covalently associated Ig alpha/beta heterodimer. A small subpopulation of normal B cells and chronic lymphocytic leukemia B cells express (analogous to T cells) the transmembrane molecule CD5, a counterstructure of B cell-specific CD72. Numbers of CD5+ B cells are increased in several physiological and pathological conditions. Moreover, CD5+ B cells are being held responsible for the production of autoreactive antibodies and seem to have signaling characteristics distinct from conventional B cells. On T cells, CD5 associates with the T cell receptor CD3 complex and ligation of CD5 leads to the generation of co-stimulatory signals, that act on T cell activation. We here demonstrate that CD5 is associated with the B cell receptor (BCR) complex and serves as substrate for BCR-induced tyrosine kinase activity. Hence, CD5+ B cells have a unique potential to modulate BCR signals.

Antigens, CD↗

The structure of the mu/pseudo light chain complex on human pre-B cells is consistent with a function in signal transduction.

Prior to immunoglobulin (Ig) light (L) chain rearrangement, pre-B cells can express mu heavy (H) chains at the cell surface in association with pseudo (psi) L chains. This complex may be essential for B cell development. We have investigated the composition of the mu/psi L chain complex of a human pre-B cell line, in view of its potential role in transmembrane signal transduction. The mu/lambda receptor of a mature B cell line was analyzed in comparison. The mu/psi L chain complex is associated with disulfide-linked molecules that are homologous or identical to the mb-1 and B29 proteins, known to be integral components of membrane Ig receptors on mature B cells. Both receptors contain tyrosine (Tyr) kinase activity. In the mu/lambda receptor, the lyn and lck Tyr kinases could clearly be identified. The mb-1 and B29 proteins in both mu/lambda and mu/psi L chain receptors are substrates for in vitro phosphorylation on Tyr, but also on serine (Ser) and threonine (Thr) residues. The undefined mu-associated Ser/Thr kinase also phosphorylates the src-related kinases in the mu/lambda receptor and a 43-kDa mu-associated protein that is present in both complexes. The 43-kDa protein may be an integral part of both receptor types, or a transiently associated molecule instrumental in the signaling process. We conclude that the mu/psi L receptor on human pre-B cells fulfills the presently known criteria to function as a signal transduction unit.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

Dual antigen recognition by B cells.

Foreign antigens opsonized by complement degradation products may be bound by both the B-cell antigen receptor (BCR) and CR2-CD19 complexes. Under these circumstances, the extensive cytoplasmic tail of CD19 endows the BCR with additional tyrosine kinase activity and with potential docking sites for molecules involved in cell signalling. Here, Carel van Noesel and colleagues argue that cooperation between BCR and CR2-CD19 at both the extra- and intracellular level provide for optimal recognition of antigen and amplification of ensuing intracellular signals.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

The CR2/CD19 complex on human B cells contains the src-family kinase Lyn.

The complement receptor 2 (CR2 or CD21) can be found in non-covalent association with the B lymphocyte specific CD19 complex at the surface of mature human B cells. Upon ligation of the B cell antigen receptor complex (BCR), members of the CR2-CD19 complex may associate with membrane immunoglobulin (mlg). Moreover, CD19 and CD21 ligands, either murine mAb, C3d fragments or Epstein-Barr virus, are known to have profound effects on B cell activation. We here show that CD19 is tightly linked to the non-receptor src kinase Lyn and that the CD19 glycoprotein itself serves as a substrate for a yet undefined serine/threonine kinase present within the complex. In the process of antigen recognition, mlg and the CR2-CD19 complex may bind different sites of a complement-opsonized antigenic particle. We hypothesize that in this process, approximation to the BCR allows CD19-associated Lyn kinase to phosphorylate potential substrates within the antigen-receptor complex, thereby effecting its coupling to the intracellular compartment.

Antigens, CD↗

Surface expression of immunoglobulin isotypes on primary human B cells: no evidence for glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol linkage.

Surface expression of membrane(m) IgM molecules requires the association of two disulphide-linked transmembrane (TM) glycoproteins, encoded by the B-cell-specific genes mb-1 and B29. We have shown that mIgM, mIgD and mIgG are associated with structurally related heterodimers on primary human B cells. Transfection studies in murine plasmacytoma cells, however, have demonstrated mb-1-independent expression of both mIgD and mIgG. The recent finding that mIgD is expressed on these cells through glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol (GPI) linkage may be interesting in view of the function of mIgD on primary B cells. We therefore investigated whether GPI linkage serves as an additional mechanism for expression of mIgD and the other mIg isotypes on primary human B cells. However, we were unable to demonstrate the release of mIg molecules upon treatment with phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC) in either immunofluorescence analysis or Ig heavy (H) chain-specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We conclude that primary human B cells, which constitutively express the mb-1 and B29 genes, do not express the mIg isotypes in a GPI-linked manner.

Animals↗

A combined immunodeficiency with oligoclonal CD8+, V beta 3-expressing, cytotoxic T lymphocytes in the peripheral blood.

The diagnosis severe combined immunodeficiency was made in a male infant at the age of 18 wk. Known causes of severe combined immunodeficiency were excluded. The activity of total 5'-nucleotidase (E.C. 3.1.3.5) in the PBMC was found to be strongly decreased. Analysis of the peripheral blood revealed a lymphocytosis, mainly of CD8+ T cells. These lymphocytes expressed high levels of CD29, CD38, CD45RA, and MHC class II molecules but no CD25, CD26, CD27, or CD28 Ag. The cells proliferated poorly to all T cell stimulants tested and no helper activity for IgM secretion could be induced. In contrast to the poor proliferative responses, high levels of TCR-induced cytolytic activity, without lymphokine-activated killer-cell outgrowth, were induced by CD3 mAb. Analysis of TCR-beta gene rearrangements indicated that two clonal populations constituted the majority of the E-rosette+ peripheral blood fraction. Moreover, the vast majority of the CD8+ cells were found to react with a mAb to V beta 3. Polymerase chain reaction on cDNA from peripheral blood cells with primers that amplify TCR V beta elements showed, in agreement with the fluorescence data, an overrepresentation of V beta 3 but absence of usage of approximately 50% of the other V beta elements. Thus, in a severe combined immunodeficiency patient, CD8+ T cells with limited T cell receptor usage and restricted effector functions were found. The observed alterations in the 5'-nucleotidase levels may be secondary to the outgrowth of this population.

5'-Nucleotidase↗

The B29 and mb-1 polypeptides are differentially expressed during human B cell differentiation.

Surface immunoglobulin on mouse B cells is associated with a heterodimer comprising the products of the mb-1 and B29 genes. Here we report that antibodies raised against a peptide sequence from the intracytoplasmic C terminus of the B29 murine gene product detect the 37-kDa component of the human heterodimer, indicating that this component in man is also encoded by the B29 gene. The immunocytochemical reactivity of these anti-B29 antibodies was compared with those of antibodies to the mb-1 protein. Of 25 cases of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), 24 were positive for mb-1 whereas B29 was expressed in only 13 cases. Most of these B29-positive ALL expressed immunoglobulin mu heavy chain in their cytoplasm (pre-B ALL). In lymphoid tissue sections, anti-B29-labeled B cell follicles in a similar fashion to anti-mb-1, with the striking exception that plasma cells were unreactive for B29, but positive for mb-1. These results suggest that the synthesis of B29 begins later in precursor B cells than that of mb-1, and ceases before the terminal plasmacyte phase.

Animals↗

The IgM-associated protein mb-1 as a marker of normal and neoplastic B cells.

Recent evidence indicates that the transmembrane form of IgM on murine and human B lymphocytes is physically associated with at least two proteins, forming a disulfide-linked dimer, which may control cell surface expression of IgM and also play a role in signal transduction after Ag binding (by analogy with the TCR-associated CD3 components in T lymphocytes). We have used mAb and polyclonal antibodies against an intracytoplasmic epitope on one of these polypeptides (previously identified in murine B cells as the product of the B cell specific mb-1 gene) to study the distribution of the IgM-associated dimer in human cells. By immunocytochemical staining of normal and neoplastic B cells, we show that the human mb-1 protein appears early in B cell differentiation, probably before expression of cytoplasmic mu-chain, and persists until the plasma cell stage, where it is seen as an intracytoplasmic component. According to immunohistologic analysis of reactive lymphoid tissue and lymphoma samples, mb-1 protein is completely B cell specific. Anti-mb-1 also labels B cell areas in tissues from seven different mammalian species. Finally, the Ig-associated dimer could be isolated from human hairy-cell leukemia cells in high purity and yield by affinity chromatography using anti-mb-1 antibody. Mice immunized with this material have produced a strong polyclonal response, so that it should now be possible to prepare a panel of new mAb reactive with different epitopes on both mb-1 and on its associated polypeptide(s).

Animals↗

The membrane IgM-associated heterodimer on human B cells is a newly defined B cell antigen that contains the protein product of the mb-1 gene.

7/8embrane IgM (mIgM) on human B lymphocytes is noncovalently associated with a disulfide-linked dimer that contains phosphoproteins of 47 and 37 kDa. In this study, the biochemical properties and the identity of these Ag receptor-associated components have been addressed. Both subunits carry N-linked carbohydrate groups. After deglycosylation, the 47-kDa and 37-kDa proteins have similar molecular masses, of about 23 kDa, and relatively acidic but different isoelectric points. The accumulated data, together with a previously performed comparison of tryptic peptides, suggest that the two components are structurally distinct and possibly encoded by different genes. Indeed, a mAb, raised against a synthetic peptide that was made on the basis of the published carboxyl-terminal amino acid sequence of the human mb-1 gene product, specifically reacted with the 47-kDa but not the 37-kDa subunit. None of the established B cell-specific mAb characterized in the Fourth International Workshop on Leukocyte Antigens, including CD24, CD37, and CD72, detect the mIgM-linked heterodimer, which makes it a newly defined human B cell Ag.

Antigens, CD↗

Functional and phenotypic evidence for a selective loss of memory T cells in asymptomatic human immunodeficiency virus-infected men.

In addition to a well-documented depletion of CD4+ T helper cells in later stages of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, evidence has been provided for a specific unresponsiveness to triggering either by specific antigen in the context of autologous major histocompatibility molecules (self + X) or anti-CD3 monoclonal antibodies (MAb) in both CD4 and CD8 cells from asymptomatic HIV-infected individuals. In the present study we analyzed this unresponsiveness using mitogenic antibodies to distinct T cell membrane receptors. T cells from HIV-infected men who had normal numbers of CD4+ T cells responded poorly to activation signals via the CD3 membrane antigen in both accessory cell-dependent as well as accessory cell-independent culture systems. A similar low response was observed in an anti-CD2-driven system. In contrast, proliferation induced by anti-CD3, anti-CD2, or the phorbol ester Phorbol myristate acetate could be normally enhanced by anti-CD28 MAb. We demonstrated that this unresponsiveness is not due to a failure to induce early events required for activation, such as increased intracellular concentration of free calcium and activation of protein kinase C, but is caused by an imbalance between naive and memory T cells. In HIV-infected asymptomatic men, CD29+ memory T cells are selectively depleted which results in a poor responsiveness to self + X. These findings provide new insights that may have implications for our understanding of the immunopathogenesis of AIDS.

Antibodies, Monoclonal↗