Clonal analysis of human T cell activation by the Mycoplasma arthritidis mitogen (MAS)

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Abstract
Mycoplasma arthritidis produces an as yet undefined soluble molecule (MAS) that has a potent mitogenic effect on T cells of several species. We have used cloned human cytotoxic and proliferative T lymphocytes to dissect the molecular mechanism of T cell activation by this mitogen. Reactivity to MAS is clonally expressed among T cell receptor (TcR) α/β chain-expressing T cell clones of CD4+ or CD8+ phenotype, as well as CD4−8− TcRα/β chain-negative T lymphocyte clones expressing the CD3-associated TcRγ chain. MAS is able to induce cytotoxicity and/or proliferation in these T cell clones. For triggering of these T cells, regardless of their phenotype of specificity, the presence of autologous, allogeneic or xenogeneic major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules on accessory cells or target cells is necessary. However, T cells do not immunologically recognize MAS on class II molecules, since a direct action of MAS on the T cells themselves can be demonstrated. Triggering of T cells by MAS can be blocked by monoclonal antibodies against CD2, CD3 and the TcRα/β chain dimer. We discuss as a possible explanation that MAS is a functionally bivalent molecule cross-linking TcR and MHC class I1 molecules. Thus, the mechanism of T cell activation by MAS has striking similarities to the mechanisms by which Staphylococcal enterotoxins activate T cells. It is intriguing that a similar mitogenic principle has been developed by two evolutionary distinct pathogenic microorganisms.

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