Signalling via MHC Class II Molecules Modifies the Composition of GEMs in APC

Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules are responsible for peptide presentation to helper T lymphocytes and as such play an essential role in the immune response. These molecules transmit intracellular signals leading to diverse consequences in B lymphocytes including proliferation and apoptosis. Recent studies have revealed that glycolipid enriched membrane microdomains (GEMs) behave as signalling platforms for a variety of lymphocyte receptors. We have quantified human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-DR molecules localized in GEMs in human B lymphocytes. Use of a model imitating the interaction of HLA-DR with a T-cell receptor (TCR) modified the constituents of the HLA–DR-enriched GEMs. Confocal microscopy demonstrated a recruitment of HLA–DR and the ganglioside GM1 at the site of HLA–DR interaction with the stimulating ligand. Moreover, cholesterol depletion efficiently impaired this recruitment. Co-localizing proteins detected in HLA–DR-enriched GEMs include protein kinase C (PKC)-δ and actin. These data reveal that MHC class II antigens are localized in GEMs in mature human B lymphocytes and indicates that the formation of the immunological synapse regulates the composition of HLA–DR enriched GEMs in the antigen presenting cell (APC).