Abstract
Abstract Protein malnutrition in children has been linked to increased instance of infection and higher fatality likely due to limited T and B cell-mediated host immunity. These findings suggest protein malnourishment may alter antigen presentation and the cognate interaction between T and B cells. Studies here show serum deprivation induced macroauophagy and MHC class II presentation of select antigens which utilize this pathway in B cells. Further studies established serum deprivation inhibited MHC class II presentation of cytoplasmic autoantigen, glutamic acid decarboxylase and the presentation of epitopes derived from the B cell receptor. Serum deprivation did not alter the expression MHC class II proteins but did upregulate proteasome and lysosomal protease activity. Interestingly, B cell receptor accumulation on the cell surface was detected likely due to a reduction in endocytosis. An altered subcellular distribution of glutamic acid decarboxylase protein was observed, suggesting changes in the trafficking of this antigen. Studies are currently underway to examine how protein deprivation regulates antigen trafficking and presentation. This work was supported by the T32DK007519 and NIH RO1AI079065.
Published Version
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