Abstract
Surface major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and class II expression by pancreatic islet cells is considered a local initiator or regulator of immune processes that can lead to diabetes. Locally released cytokines, in particular interferon-gamma, are known to stimulate MHC antigen expression by islet cells. The present study quantifies MHC expression in cultured pancreatic beta- and non-beta-cells from both rat and human organs. Interferon-gamma increased MHC class I expression in endocrine beta- and non-beta-cells as well as in pancreatic ductal cells. The cytokine induced a 6-fold increase in the MHC class I messenger ribonucleic acid levels in pancreatic beta-cells; this effect was 2-fold amplified in the presence of elevated glucose levels (20 mmol/L instead of 6 mmol/L). No MHC class II expression was observed in endocrine beta- or non-beta-cells; human, but not rat, ductal cells exhibited MHC class II expression that increased in the presence of interferon-gamma. These data indicate that the increase in beta-cell MHC class I expression described in the pancreata of diabetic patients may result from stimulated transcription after exposure to locally released interferon-gamma and/or to a hyperglycemic state. The association of human islets with ductal cells in which MHC class II expression is stimulated by interferon-gamma makes these cells potential participants in the autoimmune process in diabetes.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
More From: The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.