Ontology highlight
ABSTRACT: Background
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is an iatrogenic complication of heparin therapy caused by antibodies to a self-antigen, platelet factor (4) and heparin. The reasons why antibodies form to PF4/heparin, but not to PF4 bound to other cellular glycosaminoglycans are poorly understood.Objective
To investigate differences in cellular responses to cell-bound PF4 and PF4/heparin complexes, we studied the internalization of each by peripheral blood-derived monocytes, dendritic cells and neutrophils.Methods and results
Using unlabeled and fluorescently-labeled antigen and/or labeled monoclonal antibody to PF4/heparin complexes (KKO), we show that PF4/heparin complexes are taken up by monocytes in a heparin-dependent manner and are internalized by human monocytes and dendritic cells, but not by neutrophils. Complexes of PF4/low-molecular-weight heparin and complexes composed of heparin and murine PF4, protamine or lysozyme are internalized similarly, suggesting a common endocytic pathway. Uptake of complexes is mediated by macropinocytosis, as shown by inhibition using cytochalasin D and amiloride. Internalized complexes are transported intact to late endosomes, as indicated by co-staining of vesicles with KKO and lysosomal associated membrane protein-2 (LAMP-2). Lastly, we show that cellular uptake is accompanied by expression of MHCII and CD83 co-stimulatory molecules.Conclusions
Taken together, these studies establish a distinct role for heparin in enhancing antigen uptake and activation of the initial steps in the cellular immune response to PF4-containing complexes.
SUBMITTER: Joglekar M
PROVIDER: S-EPMC4516590 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Aug
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
Joglekar M M Khandelwal S S Cines D B DB Poncz M M Rauova L L Arepally G M GM
Journal of thrombosis and haemostasis : JTH 20150714 8
<h4>Background</h4>Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is an iatrogenic complication of heparin therapy caused by antibodies to a self-antigen, platelet factor (4) and heparin. The reasons why antibodies form to PF4/heparin, but not to PF4 bound to other cellular glycosaminoglycans are poorly understood.<h4>Objective</h4>To investigate differences in cellular responses to cell-bound PF4 and PF4/heparin complexes, we studied the internalization of each by peripheral blood-derived monocytes, de ...[more]