Selective activation of mouse T and B lymphocytes by periodate, galactose oxidase and soybean agglutinin

Abstract

AbstractModifications of surface saccharides of mouse spleen cells wirh periodate (NaIO4) or with neuraminidase and galactose oxidase induced extensive blastogenesis. The mitogenic effects of these agents on purified thymus‐derived lymphocytes (T cells) and bone marrow‐derived lymphocytes (B cells) were investigated. Thymus cells were stimulated after treatment with NaIO4 or with neuraminidase and galactose oxidase. The stimulation of these cells was markedly enhanced upon addition of a lymphocyte‐activating factor obtained from human leukocyte culture. Spleen cells from congenitally athymic mice did not respond to treatment with NaIO4 or with neuraminidase and galactose oxidase. Spleen cells from mice deprived of T cells by thymectomy, irradiation and bone marrow reconstitution, responded poorly to the above mentioned agents. It was concluded that periodate or treatment with neuraminidase and galactose oxidase stimulates exclusively T cells. Soybean agglutinin (SBA) had selective effects on T and B mouse lymphocytes. Neuraminidase treatment rendered T cells highly responsive to stimulation by SBA. On the other hand the small but significant stimulation of B cells by SBA is reduced after treatment of the cells with neuraminidase. SBA stimulates B cells and neuraminidase‐treated T cells by interaction with galactose‐like sites.