Modulation of HLA-DR antigens in the gingival epithelium in vitro by heat-killed Fusobacterium nucleatum and E. coli lipopolysaccharide

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The in vitro influence of the periodontopathic organism Fusobacterium nucleatum (FN) on gingival tissue was examined using an organ culture system. Treatment of gingival explants obtained from periodontally diseased sites with suspensions of FN, stimulated the expression of HLA-DR antigens by Langerhans cells (LC) in a dose-dependent fashion, and produced a maintenance of the LC markers T6 and ATPase. Similar effects were seen when E. coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was substituted for suspensions of FN. With both FN and LPS the expression of HLA-DR by gingival keratinocytes was maintained throughout the 72-h culture period, despite the cytotoxic effects of these agents. Using a variety of immunohistological techniques and a monoclonal antibody specific for the strain of FN used, it was possible to demonstrate the uptake of FN antigens by LC within the gingival epithelium.