U.S. patent application number 09/810328 was filed with the patent office on 2001-12-27 for dendritic marker-expressing macrophage cultures and methods for reactivating latent hcmv.
Invention is credited to Fish, Kenneth, Moses, Ashlee, Nelson, Jay, Soderberg-Naucler, Cecilia, Streblow, Daniel.
Application Number | 20010055755 09/810328 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22030427 |
Filed Date | 2001-12-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010055755 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Soderberg-Naucler, Cecilia ;
et al. |
December 27, 2001 |
Dendritic marker-expressing macrophage cultures and methods for
reactivating latent HCMV
Abstract
The present invention provides methods of latent virus
reactivation in monocyte-derived macrophages through allogeneic
stimulation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells ("PBMC"), methods
of culturing virus, and cultures of virally permissive
monocyte-derived macrophages.
Inventors: |
Soderberg-Naucler, Cecilia;
(Bromma, SE) ; Fish, Kenneth; (San Diego, CA)
; Moses, Ashlee; (Portland, OR) ; Streblow,
Daniel; (Tigard, OR) ; Nelson, Jay; (Tualatin,
OR) |
Correspondence
Address: |
TOWNSEND AND TOWNSEND AND CREW
TWO EMBARCADERO CENTER
EIGHTH FLOOR
SAN FRANCISCO
CA
94111-3834
US
|
Family ID: |
22030427 |
Appl. No.: |
09/810328 |
Filed: |
March 15, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09810328 |
Mar 15, 2001 |
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09164221 |
Sep 30, 1998 |
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6225048 |
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60060583 |
Oct 1, 1997 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
435/5 ;
435/235.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C07K 16/2833 20130101;
C12N 2502/11 20130101; C07K 2317/76 20130101; C12N 2710/16651
20130101; C12N 2501/22 20130101; C12N 2501/23 20130101; C12N
2501/25 20130101; C12N 7/00 20130101; C12N 2501/24 20130101; C12N
2503/00 20130101; C12N 5/0645 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
435/5 ;
435/235.1 |
International
Class: |
C12Q 001/70; C12N
007/01 |
Goverment Interests
[0002] This invention was made with Government support under Grant
No. AI 21640, awarded by the National Institutes of Health. The
Government has certain rights in this invention.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method of replicating viruses in virally permissive
monocyte-derived macrophages, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) culturing monocytes under conditions where the monocytes are in
fluid communication with viable, allogeneically stimulated
peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) to activate the monocytes
to differentiate into virally permissive monocyte-derived
macrophages; and (b) permitting viral replication in the
monocyte-derived macrophages, where the virus is either latent in
the monocytes or exogenously added to the culture.
2. A method of claim 1, wherein the monocyte derived-macrophages
have a majority population of cells bearing CD83 and CD14.
3. A method of claim 1, wherein the monocyte derived-macrophages
have a majority population of cells bearing CD83, CD68, CD1a, CD64,
and CD14.
4. A method of claim 1, wherein the allogeneically stimulated cells
include CD4.sup.+ and CD8.sup.+ cells.
5. A method of claim 1, wherein the virus is selected from the
group consisting of cytomegalovirus (CMV), hepatitis C virus (HCV),
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human herpes virus 6 (HHV6),
human herpes virus 7 (HHV7), and human herpes virus 8 (HHV8).
6. A method of claim 5, wherein the virus is CMV.
7. A method of claim 1, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages
are human.
8. A method for screening for inhibitors of virus production using
virally permissive monocyte-derived macrophages, the method
comprising the steps of: (a) culturing monocytes under conditions
where the monocytes are in fluid communication with viable,
allogeneically stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC)
to activate the monocytes to differentiate into virally permissive
monocyte-derived macrophages; (b) permitting viral replication in
the monocyte-derived macrophages, where the virus is either latent
in the monocytes or exogenously added to the culture; (c)
contacting the monocyte-derived macrophages of step (b) with
substances suspected of having the ability to inhibit viral
production; and (d) detecting the level of virus production in the
monocytes-derived macrophages.
9. A method of claim 8, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages
have a majority population of cell bearing CD83 and CD14.
10. A method of claim 8, wherein the monocyte derived-macrophages
have a majority population of cells bearing CD83, CD68, CD1a, CD64,
and CD14.
11. A method of claim 8, wherein the allogeneically stimulated
cells include CD4.sup.+ and CD8.sup.+ cells.
12. A method of claim 8, wherein the virus is latent.
13. A method of claim 8, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages
are human.
14. A method of claim 8, wherein the substances are inhibitors of
viral proteases.
15. A method of claim 8, wherein the substances are antisense
molecules that bind to nucleic acid generated by the virus.
16. A method of claim 8, wherein the substances are antisense
molecules that are complementary to mRNA encoded by a viral
genome.
17. A method of claim 16, wherein the substances are ribozymes
complementary to mRNA encoded by a viral genome.
18. A method of claim 8, wherein the virus is selected from the
group consisting of cytomegalovirus (CMV), hepatitis C virus (HCV),
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human herpes virus 6 (HHV6),
human herpes virus 7 (HHV7), and human herpes virus 8 (HHV8).
19. A method of claim 18, wherein the virus is CMV.
20. A method of claim 18, wherein the substances inhibit a viral
protein selected from the group consisting of CMV DNA polymerase,
UL80, and UL89.
21. A stable culture of virally permissive monocyte-derived
macrophages, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages are derived
from monocytes exposed to allogeneically stimulated peripheral
blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) for a time sufficient to and a
concentration sufficient to: (i) stimulate active differentiation
of the monocytes into monocyte-derived macrophages, and (ii)
stimulate viral production in the monocyte-derived macrophages;
and, wherein the virally permissive monocyte-derived macrophages
produce at least 10,000 fold greater virus than non-allogeneically
stimulated monocytes.
22. A culture of claim 21, wherein the majority of the
monocyte-derived macrophages bear CD83 and CD14.
23. A culture of claim 21, wherein the monocyte derived-macrophages
have a majority population of cells bearing CD83, CD68, CD1a, CD64,
and CD14.
24. A culture of claim 21, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages
produce a virus selected from the group consisting of
cytomegalovirus (CMV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human herpes virus 6 (HHV6), human
herpes virus 7 (HHV7), and human herpes virus 8 (HHV8).
25. A culture of claim 24, wherein the virus is CMV.
26. A stable culture of virally permissive monocyte-derived
macrophages having a population defined as at least 85% bearing
CD83 and CD14.
27. A culture of claim 26, wherein the monocyte derived-macrophages
have a population of at least 85% of the cells bearing CD83, CD68,
CD1a, CD64, and CD14.
28. A culture of claim 26, wherein the virus is latent.
29. A culture of claim 26, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages
produce a virus selected from the group consisting of
cytomegalovirus (CMV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human herpes virus 6 (HHV6), human
herpes virus 7 (HHV7), and human herpes virus 8 (HHV8).
30. A culture of claim 29, wherein the virus is CMV.
31. A culture of claim 26, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages
are human.
32. A method of culturing virally permissive monocyte-derived
macrophages, the method comprising the step of culturing monocytes
under conditions where the monocytes are in fluid communication
with viable, allogeneically stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear
cells (PBMC) to activate the monocytes to differentiate into
monocyte-derived macrophages.
33. A method of claim 32, wherein the monocyte derived-macrophages
have a majority population of cells bearing CD83 and CD14.
34. A method of claim 32, wherein the monocyte derived-macrophages
have a majority population of cells bearing CD83, CD68, CD1a, CD64,
and CD14.
35. A method of claim 32, wherein the allogeneically stimulated
cells include CD4.sup.+ and CD8.sup.+ cells.
36. A method of claim 32, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages
are human.
37. A stable culture of virally permissive monocyte-derived
macrophages having the following characteristics: (i) comprising
dendritic cell markers CD68, CD83, and CD1a; (ii) comprising
macrophage cell markers CD64 and CD14; and (iii) derived from
CD14.sup.+ monocytes.
38. A method of replicating viruses in virally permissive
monocyte-derived macrophages, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) culturing CD14.sup.+ monocytes under conditions where the
monocytes are exposed to conditioned media comprising IFN.gamma. in
an amount sufficient to activate the monocytes to differentiate
into virally permissive monocyte-derived macrophages; and (b)
permitting viral replication in the monocyte-derived macrophages,
where the virus is either latent in the monocytes or exogenously
added to the culture.
39. A method of claim 38, wherein the monocyte derived-macrophages
have a majority population of cells bearing CD83 and CD14.
40. A method of claim 38, wherein the monocyte derived-macrophages
have a majority population of cells bearing CD83, CD68, CD1a, CD64,
and CD14.
41. A method of claim 38, wherein the virus is selected from the
group consisting of cytomegalovirus (CMV), hepatitis C virus (HCV),
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human herpes virus 6 (HHV6),
human herpes virus 7 (HHV7), and human herpes virus 8 (HHV8).
42. A method of claim 41, wherein the virus is CMV.
43. A method of claim 38, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages
are human.
44. A method for screening for inhibitors of virus production using
virally permissive monocyte-derived macrophages, the method
comprising the steps of: (a) culturing CD14.sup.+ monocytes under
conditions where the monocytes exposed to conditioned media
comprising IFN.gamma. in an amount sufficient to activate the
monocytes to differentiate into virally permissive monocyte-derived
macrophages; (b) permitting viral replication in the
monocyte-derived macrophages, where the virus is either latent in
the monocytes or exogenously added to the culture; (c) contacting
the monocyte-derived macrophages of step (b) with substances
suspected of having the ability to inhibit viral production; and
(d) detecting the level of virus production in the
monocytes-derived macrophages.
45. A method of claim 44, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages
have a majority population of cell bearing CD83 and CD14.
46. A method of claim 44, wherein the monocyte derived-macrophages
have a majority population of cells bearing CD83, CD68, CD1a, CD64,
and CD14.
47. A method of claim 44, wherein the virus is latent.
48. A method of claim 44, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages
are human.
49. A method of claim 44, wherein the virus is selected from the
group consisting of cytomegalovirus (CMV), hepatitis C virus (HCV),
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human herpes virus 6 (HHV6),
human herpes virus 7 (HHV7), and human herpes virus 8 (HHV8).
50. A method of claim 49, wherein the virus is CMV.
51. A stable culture of virally permissive monocyte-derived
macrophages, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages are derived
from CD14.sup.+ monocytes exposed to conditioned media comprising
IFN.gamma. in an amount sufficient to and for a time sufficient to:
(i) stimulate active differentiation of the CD14.sup.+ monocytes
into monocyte-derived macrophages, and (ii) stimulate viral
production in the monocyte-derived macrophages; and, wherein the
virally permissive monocyte-derived macrophages produce at least
10,000 fold greater virus than non-allogeneically stimulated
monocytes.
52. A culture of claim 51, wherein the majority of the
monocyte-derived macrophages bear CD83 and CD14.
53. A culture of claim 51, wherein the majority of the
monocyte-derived macrophages bear CD83, CD68, CD1a, CD64, and
CD14.
54. A culture of claim 51, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages
produce a virus selected from the group consisting of
cytomegalovirus (CMV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human herpes virus 6 (HHV6), human
herpes virus 7 (HHV7), and human herpes virus 8 (HHV8).
55. A culture of claim 54, wherein the virus is CMV.
56. A stable culture of virally permissive monocyte-derived
macrophages having a population defined as at least 85% bearing
CD83 and CD14.
57. A culture of claim 56, wherein the population has at least 85%
of the cells bearing CD83, CD68, CD1a, CD64, and CD14.
58. A culture of claim 56, wherein the virus is latent.
59. A culture of claim 56, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages
produce a virus selected from the group consisting of
cytomegalovirus (CMV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human herpes virus 6 (HHV6), human
herpes virus 7 (HHV7), and human herpes virus 8 (HHV8).
60. A culture of claim 59, wherein the virus is CMV.
61. A culture of claim 56, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages
are human.
62. A method of culturing virally permissive monocyte-derived
macrophages, the method comprising the step of culturing CD.sup.14+
monocytes under conditions where the monocytes are exposed to
conditioned media comprising IFN.gamma. in an amount sufficient to
activate the monocytes to differentiate into virally permissive
monocyte-derived macrophages.
63. A method of claim 62, wherein the monocyte derived-macrophages
have a majority population of cells bearing CD83 and CD14.
64. A method of claim 62, wherein the monocyte derived-macrophages
have a majority population of cells bearing CD83, CD68, CD1a, CD64,
and CD14.
65. A method of claim 62, wherein the monocyte-derived macrophages
are human.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Ser. No.
60/060,583, filed Oct. 1, 1997, herein incorporated by reference in
its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention provides methods of culturing virus in
monocyte-derived macrophages ("MDM") through allogeneic stimulation
of peripheral blood mononuclear cells ("PBMC") or through culture
of PBMC with media comprising IFNY, stable cultures of such virally
permissive monocyte-derived macrophages, and methods of screening
for viral inhibitors using such cultures.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Human cytomegalovirus ("HCMV") is a ubiquitous pathogen that
is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised
individuals, such as transplant and AIDS patients, as well as a
leading cause of congenital birth defects (Britt et al., in Fields
Virology, pp. 2493-2523 (Fields et al., eds. 1996)). HCMV is also
associated with the development of atherosclerosis, restenosis
after coronary angioplasty, chronic rejection in organ transplant
patients (Grattan et al., Jama 261:3561-3566 (1989); Melnick et
al., Bioessays 17:899-903 (1995); Zhou et al., NEJM 335:624-630
(1996)) and chronic graft-versus-host disease in bone marrow
transplant patients (Lonnqvist et al., Transplantation 38:465-468
(1984); Soderberg et al., Transplantation 61:600-609 (1996)). Most
individuals become infected with HCMV early in life, and depending
on the geographic location, between 60-100% of adults are carriers
of the virus (Britt et al., in Fields Virology pp. 2493-2523
(Fields et al., eds. 1996)).
[0005] Similar to other herpesviruses, HCMV establishes life-long
latency in the host after a primary infection, which is
characterized by persistence of the viral genome without the
production of infectious virus. The respective sites of latency for
other herpesviruses such as Epstein Barr and herpes simplex viruses
are B cells and neurons (Kieff, in Fields Virology pp. 2343-2396
(Fields et al., eds. 1996); Roizman et al., in Fields Virology pp.
2231-2296 (Fields et al., eds. 1996)). However, although
transmission of latent HCMV has been shown to occur through
transfusion of blood products, bone marrow grafts, and solid organs
(Britt et al., in Fields Virology pp. 2493-2523 (Fields et al.,
eds. 1996); Chou, AEJM 314:1418-1423 (1986); Meyers, Am. J. Med.
81:27-38 (1986); Tegtmeier, Arch. Pathol. Lab. Med. 113:236-245
(1989)), the identity of cells harboring latent or persistent virus
is unknown. In addition to HCMV, the identity of cells harboring
other viruses is unclear, and methods of culturing such viruses are
unknown.
[0006] Several animal models have been established to understand
mechanisms involved in latency and reactivation of CMV (Bruning et
al., Transplantation 41:695-698 (1986); Hamilton et al.,
Transplantation 39:290-296 (1985); Reddehase et al., J. Exp. Med.
179:185-193 (1994); Yagyu et al., Transpl. Proc. 25:1152-1154
(1993)). In murine organ transplant models, reactivation of murine
cytomegalovirus ("MCMV") was shown to be influenced by the state of
immunosuppression and histoincompatibility between the donor and
the recipient (Bruning et al., Transplantation 41:695-698 (1986);
Hamilton et al., Transplantation 39:290-296 (1985); Reddehase et
al., J. Exp. Med. 179:185-93 (1994); Yagyu et al., Transpl. Proc.
25:1152-1154 (1993)). In MCMV latently-infected mice, the spleen,
kidneys, and bone marrow were shown to be important sources of
virus (Jordan et al., J. Clin. Invest. 70:762-768 (1982); Mercer et
al., J. Virol. 62:987-997 (1988); Olding et al., J. Exp. Med.
141:561-572 (1975)). Activation of virus in latently infected
animals has been shown to occur through either intraperitoneal
injection of thioglycollate (Pollock et al., Virology 227:168-179
(1997)) or allogeneic stimulation (Schmader et al., J. Inf. Dis.
166:1403-1407 (1992)). The peripheral blood of latently infected
animals was also demonstrated to be a reservoir of virus since
allogeneic stimulation resulted in the activation of MCMV
replication (Schmader et al., J. Inf. Dis. 166:1403-1407 (1992);
Olding et al., J. Exp. Med. 141:561-572 (1975); Jordan et al., J.
Clin. Invest. 70:762-876 (1982); Mercer, et al., J. Virol.
62:987-997 (1988); Koffron et al., Scand. J. Inf. Dis.-Suppl.
99:612 (1995); Stoddart et al., J. Virol. 68:6243-6253 (1994);
Pollock et al., Virology 227:168-179 (1997)).
[0007] In humans, examination of organ tissues and peripheral blood
obtained from patients with HCMV disease has suggested that PBMC
are a viral reservoir of HCMV (Chou, NEJM 314:1418-1423 (1986);
Meyers, Am. J. Med. 81:27-38 (1986); Taylor-Wiedeman, et al., J.
Gen. Virol. 72:2059-2064 (1991); Tegtmeier, Arch. Pathol. Lab. Med.
113:236-245 (1989); Gnann et al., Am. J. Pathol. 132:239-248
(1988)). Further analyses of separated PBMC populations obtained
from HCMV-seropositive donors have identified monocytes as the
predominant infected cell type (Taylor-Wiedeman et al., J. Gen.
Virol. 72:2059-2064 (1991)). While viral replication in monocytes
is restricted to early events of gene expression (Ibanez et al., J.
Virol. 65:6581-6588 (1991)), examination of organ tissues early in
HCMV disease has demonstrated extensive viral gene expression in
tissue macrophages (Gnann et al., Am. J. Pathol. 132:239-248
(1988); Sinzger et al., J. Inf. Dis. 173:240-245 (1996)).
[0008] CD14.sup.+ monocytes in the peripheral blood are terminally
differentiated cells derived from myeloid/granulocyte precursors.
In vivo, stimulation of monocytes by contact with T and B cells
during antigen processing events induces differentiation of
monocytes into macrophages for function as immune effector cells. A
variety of tissue culture protocols have been established to mimic
the in vivo development of monocyte-derived macrophages ("MDM"),
which includes treatment of monocytes with cytokines, mitogens,
corticosteroids, or lipopolysaccharide ("LPS") (reviewed by Adams
et al., in The Macrophage pp. 77-115 (Lewis et al., eds. 1992)).
Caux et al. report, 25 using FACS sorting, that a transient
population of CD14.sup.+, CD1a.sup.+ cells represent a
developmental phase in MDM differentiation (Caux et al., J. Exp.
Med. 184:695-706 (1996)). MDM derived by these methods have been
used for the in vitro propagation of certain macrophage-tropic
viruses (Gendelnan et al. J. Exp. Med. 167:1428-1441 (1988);
Matloubian et al., J. Virol. 67:7340-7349 (1993); Schrier et al.,
J. Virol. 64:3280-3288 (1990)). Rettig et al. identify endogenous
CD68.sup.+, CD83.sup.+ bone marrow stromal cells that are infected
with HHV8 (Rettig et al., Science 276:1851-1854 (1997)). However,
culture of HCMV in MDM has proven to be difficult, often resulting
in abortive infection (Rice et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (USA)
81:6134-6138 (1984); Taylor-Wiedeman et al., J. Virol. 68:1597-1604
(1994)).
[0009] MDM differentiation systems have also been developed that
rely on the mitogenic stimulation of PBMC to generate HCMV
permissive macrophages (Ibanez et al., J. Virol. 65:6581-6588
(1991)). Although macrophages differentiated by this method are
susceptible to in vitro, exogenous HCMV infection, attempts to
reactivate HCMV from PBMC obtained from latently infected
individuals have been unsuccessful using this method or others
(Taylor-Wiedeman et al., J. Virol. 68:1597-1604 (1994)). Thus,
there is a need to identify the specific cellular reservoir of
latent HCMV infection, to isolate cultures of such cells, and to
establish methods of culturing cells in which HCMV replicates,
where the cells are latently infected with HCMV and/or additional
viruses, or can be infected in vitro.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present invention identifies for the first time the
specific cellular reservoir of latent viral, e.g., HCMV infection.
The invention also provides methods of reactivating HCMV and other
viruses in long-term cultures of allogeneically-stimulated
monocyte-derived macrophages ("MDM"). Infectious virus was
recovered from a myeloid lineage cell phenotype of MDMs that
expressed both macrophage (CD14) and dendritic cell markers (CD83).
In addition, these cells are permissive for exogenous viral
infection. These observations provide the first evidence that HCMV
and other viruses establish a true latent state in myeloid lineage
cells in the peripheral blood, which reactivate upon allogeneic
stimulation.
[0011] In one aspect, the invention provides a method of
replicating viruses, including mammalian viruses, in virally
permissive monocyte-derived macrophages. The method includes the
steps of: (a) culturing monocytes under conditions where the
monocytes are in fluid communication with viable, allogeneically
stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells ("PBMC") to activate
the monocytes to differentiate into monocyte-derived macrophages or
culturing the monocytes under conditions where the monocytes are
exposed to conditioned media comprising IFN-.gamma. in an amount
sufficient to activate the monocytes to differentiation into
virally permissive monocyte-derived macrophages; and (b) permitting
viral replication in the monocyte-derived macrophages, where the
virus is either latent in the monocytes or exogenously added to the
culture.
[0012] In another aspect, the invention provides a method for
screening for inhibitors of virus production using virally
permissive monocyte-derived macrophages. This method includes the
steps of: (a) culturing monocytes under conditions where the
monocytes are in fluid communication with viable, allogeneically
stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells ("PBMC") to activate
the monocytes to differentiate into monocyte-derived macrophages or
culturing the monocytes under conditions where the monocytes are
exposed to conditioned media comprising IFN-.gamma. in an amount
sufficient to activate the monocytes to differentiation into
virally permissive monocyte-derived macrophages; (b) permitting
viral replication in the monocyte-derived macrophages, where the
virus is either latent in the monocytes or exogenously added to the
culture; (c) contacting the monocyte-derived macrophages of step
(b) with substances suspected of having the ability to inhibit
viral production; and (d) detecting the level of virus production
in the monocytes-derived macrophages.
[0013] In another aspect, the invention provides a culture of
virally permissive monocyte-derived macrophages, where the
monocyte-derived macrophages are derived from monocytes exposed to
allogeneically stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells
("PBMC") or are exposed to conditioned media comprising IFN-.gamma.
in an amount or concentration sufficient to and for a time
sufficient to: (i) stimulate active differentiation of the
monocytes into virally permissive monocyte-derived macrophages, and
(ii) stimulate viral production in the monocyte-derived
macrophages; and, where the virally permissive monocyte-derived
macrophages produce at least 10,000 fold greater virus than
non-allogeneically stimulated monocytes.
[0014] In another aspect, the invention provides a culture of
virally permissive monocyte-derived macrophages having a population
further defined as at least 85% bearing CD83 and CD14. In another
aspect, the invention provides a culture of virally permissive
monocyte-derived macrophages having a population further deemed as
at least 85% bearing CD83, CD68, CD1a, CD64, and CD14.
[0015] In another aspect, the present invention provides a stable
culture of virally permissive monocyte-derived macrophages having
the following characteristics: (i) comprising dendritic cell
markers CD68, CD83, and CD1a; (ii) comprising macrophage cell
markers CD64 and CD14; and (iii) derived from CD14.sup.+
monocytes.
[0016] In another aspect, the invention provides a method of
culturing virally permissive monocyte-derived macrophages. This
method includes the step of culturing monocytes under conditions
where the monocytes are in fluid communication with viable,
allogeneically stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells
("PBMC") or culturing the monocytes under conditions where they are
exposed to media comprising IFN-.gamma., to activate the monocytes
to differentiate into monocyte-derived macrophages.
[0017] In one embodiment, the monocyte derived-macrophages have a
majority population of cells bearing CD83 and CD14. In another
embodiment, the monocyte-derived macrophages have a majority
population of cells bearing CD83, CD68, Cd1a, CD64, and CD14. In
another embodiment, monocyte-derived macrophages have a population
of cells where 85% of the cells bear CD83, CD68, Cd1a, CD64, and
CD14. the In one embodiment, the monocyte-derived macrophages are
human. In one embodiment, the allogeneically stimulated cells
include CD4.sup.+ and CD8.sup.+ cells.
[0018] In one embodiment, the mammalian virus is selected from the
group consisting of cytomegalovirus ("CMV"), hepatitis C virus
("HCV"), human immunodeficiency virus ("HIV"), human herpes virus 6
("HHV6"), human herpes virus 7 ("HHV7'), and human herpes virus 8
("HHV8"). In one embodiment, the virus is latent.
[0019] In one embodiment, the substances are inhibitors of viral
proteases. In another embodiment, the substances are antisense
molecules that bind to nucleic acid generated by the virus. In one
embodiment, the substances are antisense molecules that are
complementary to mRNA encoded by a viral genome. In one embodiment,
the substances are ribozymes complementary to mRNA encoded by a
viral genome. In one embodiment, the substances inhibit a viral
protein selected from the group consisting of CMV DNA polymerase,
UL80, and UL89.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] Not applicable.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0021] I. Introduction
[0022] The present invention describes for the first time
monocyte-derived macrophages ("MDM") that express dendritic markers
and that harbor latent viral, e.g., HCMV, infections. These
cultures are virally permissive, that is, they support reactivation
of latent infections and are also capable of being productively
infected with exogenous virus. The invention thus provides virally
permissive cultures of MDM, methods of culturing the virally
permissive MDM, and methods of using the cultures to identify
inhibitors of viral production.
[0023] Importantly, this invention describes an in vitro system
that can be used to study viruses; for example, to identify
mechanisms involved in the maintenance of viral latency and to
explore the cellular activation pathways that mediate latent virus
reactivation and initial virus infection. Furthermore, these cells
and methods of culture provide an important tool to examine
mechanisms of viral immunological surveillance. These cells and
methods of culture are also useful for identifying therapeutic
approaches to prevent viral reactivation and to inhibit viral
production. The cells and methods of the invention are also useful
for diagnosing patients that have latent virus infection, by
providing a means of culturing latently infected cells and
examining the cells for the presence of the viral genome.
[0024] II. Definitions
[0025] As used herein, the following terms have the meanings
ascribed to them unless specified otherwise.
[0026] "Replicating" refers to the ability of a virus to duplicate
and transcribe its genome, as a means to produce infectious
particles from a cell.
[0027] "Virally permissive" refers to a characteristic of a cell,
e.g., a monocyte-derived macrophage, where the cell is capable of
being productively infected by an exogenous virus or of
reactivating a latent viral infection, e.g., HHV6, HHV7, HHV8, CMV,
HCV, and HIV.
[0028] "Stable culture" refers to a culture of terminally
differentiated cells, as opposed to cells that appear transiently
during development and then further differentiate.
[0029] "Allogeneic stimulation" refers to a cellular
differentiation and/or proliferative event among immune cells
(e.g., B cells, T cells, monocytes, and the like) that is either:
(1) mediated by cells triggered to produce soluble factors such as
cytokines by antigen contact or mixing of cells with different MHC
haplotypes ("cell-mediated"); or (2) mediated directly by soluble
factors, e.g., cytokines such as IFN-.gamma. ("cytokinemediated").
For example, during allogeneic stimulation, monocytes are activated
to differentiate into monocyte-derived macrophages. Similarly, T
cells are activated to proliferate and differentiate into cytotoxic
or helper T cells and the like. Typically, the allogeneic
stimulation event of the invention occurs in vitro. For
cell-mediated allogeneic stimulation, typically a heterogenous
population of cells such as PBMC are mixed with PBMC of a different
haplotype. For direct cytokine-mediated allogeneic stimulation,
PBMC or a more homogenous population of cells is used. the
cytokine-mediated stimulation can occur using conditioned medium
(i.e., medium in which cells were grown) or in medium to which
cytokines have been exogenously added.
[0030] "Fluid communication" refers to cells in communication in an
aqueous solution. Fluid communication includes communication
mediated by direct contact between cells in aqueous solution, or
communication between cells that are separated by semipermeable
membranes, where the communication is mediated by soluble factors,
e.g., cytokines, in aqueous solution.
[0031] "Peripheral blood mononuclear cells" or "PBMC" refers to a
heterogeneous population of hematolymphoid cells derived from
blood, from which the red blood cells have been removed.
[0032] "Monocyte" refers to a differentiated cell of the
mononuclear phagocyte lineage, e.g., those that are CD14.sup.+
(see, e.g., Fundamental Immunology (Paul ed., 3d ed. 1993)).
[0033] "Monocyte-derived macrophage" or "MDM" is a type of antigen
presenting cell of the mononuclear phagocyte lineage derived from
monocytes that have further differentiated into macrophages (see,
e.g., Paul, supra).
[0034] "Culturing" refers to growing cells ex vivo or in vitro.
[0035] "Latent" refers to a type of viral infection in which the
host cells contain the genome of the virus, but where expression of
the genome is wholly or partially repressed. A latent infection can
be "reactivated" to produce viral replication, transcription, and
production of infectious particles (see, e.g., White & Fenner,
Medical Virology (4th ed., 1994)).
[0036] "CD83," "CD14," "CD68," "CD1a," "CD64," "CD4," and "CD8" are
names of specific cell surface molecules. These cell surface
molecules are often associated with specific cell types and can be
used as markers to identify specific cells (see, e.g., Paul,
supra). For example, CD4 and CD8 are T-cells markers, CD83, CD68,
and CD1a are dendritic cell markers, and CD14, and CD64 are
macrophage markers. The combination of CD14 and CD83 can be used to
identify virally permissive monocyte-derived macrophages. CD68,
CD1a, CD64, CD14, and Cd83 can also be used in combination to
identify virally permissive MDM (Allo-MDM).
[0037] "Ribozyme" refers to a catalytic RNA molecule that cleaves a
target RNA having particular nucleic acid sequences through
ribonuclease activity. General methods for the construction of
ribozymes, including hairpin ribozymes, hammerhead ribozymes, RNase
P ribozymes (i.e., ribozymes derived from the naturally occurring
RNase P ribozyme from prokaryotes or eukaryotes) are known in the
art (see, e.g., Castanotto et al., Advances in Pharmacology
25:289-317 (1994) (providing an overview of ribozymes in general,
including group I ribozymes, hammerhead ribozymes, hairpin
ribozymes, RNase P, and axhead ribozymes)).
[0038] An "antisense" nucleic acid refers to a nucleic acid that is
complementary to a target sequence of choice and capable of
specifically hybridizing with the target molecules. The term
antisense also encompasses a DNA sequence in an expression cassette
from which antisense RNA is transcribed. Antisense nucleic acids
hybridize to a target polynucleotide and interfere with the
transcription, processing, translation or other activity of the
target nucleic acid. An antisense nucleic acid can inhibit DNA
replication or DNA transcription by, for example, interfering with
the attachment of DNA or RNA polymerase to the promoter by binding
to a transcriptional initiation site or a template. It can
interfere with processing of mRNA, poly(A) addition to mRNA or
translation of mRNA by, for example, binding to regions of the RNA
transcript such as the ribosome binding site. It can promote
inhibitory mechanisms of the cells, such as promoting RNA
degradation via RNase action. The inhibitory polynucleotide can
bind to the major groove of the duplex DNA to form a triple helical
or "triplex" structure. Methods of inhibition using antisense
nucleic acids therefore encompass a number of different approaches
to altering expression of specific genes that operate by different
mechanisms (see, e.g., Helene & Toulme, Biochim. Biophys.
Acta., 1049:99-125 (1990)).
[0039] A nucleic acid that is "complementary" to another refers to
a nucleic acid capable of binding to a target nucleic acid through
base pairing involving hydrogen bond formation. Complementary
hybridization between a nucleic acid and a target sequence occurs
when the nucleic acid binds substantially only to the target
sequence, forming a hybridization complex, when the target is in a
heterogeneous mixture of polynucleotides and other compounds. Such
hybridization is determinative of the presence of the target
sequence. Although the complementary nucleic acid may bind other
unrelated sequences, at least 80%, preferably 90% or more of the
hybridization complexes formed are with the target sequence.
[0040] "Viral production" and "produce a virus" refer to the
ability of a cell infected with a virus to replicate and transcribe
a viral genome and/or to make viral particles. The infection can be
a reactivated latent infection, or infection via exogenously added
virus. The virus can be either a wild-type or mutated virus. Viral
mutations include both naturally occurring, chemically or
physically induced or recombinantly introduced.
[0041] "Inhibition of viral production" and viral "inhibitors"
refer to molecules that interfere with any step of the viral life
cycle, e.g., reactivation of latent infection, initial infection,
viral replication, viral transcription, viral translation, and
packaging of viral particles. Such molecules can be identified
using the cultures of the invention and can be molecules such as
protein inhibitors, antisense nucleic acid, ribozymes, and the
like. Monocyte-derived macrophages that are treated with a
substance suspected of having the ability to inhibit viral
production are compared to control samples without the inhibitor,
to examine the extent of inhibition. Control samples (untreated
with inhibitors) are assigned a relative viral production value of
100. Inhibition of viral production is achieved when the viral
production value relative to the control is about 75, preferably
50, more preferably 25.
[0042] The term "nucleic acid" refers to deoxyribonucleotides or
ribonucleotides and polymers thereof in either single- or
double-stranded form. Unless specifically limited, the term
encompasses nucleic acids containing known analogues of natural
nucleotides which have similar binding properties as the reference
nucleic acid and are metabolized in a manner similar to naturally
occurring nucleotides. Unless otherwise 25 indicated, a particular
nucleic acid sequence also implicitly encompasses conservatively
modified variants thereof (e.g., degenerate codon substitutions)
and complementary sequences and as well as the sequence explicitly
indicated. Specifically, degenerate codon substitutions may be
achieved by generating sequences in which the third position of one
or more selected (or all) codons is substituted with mixed-base
and/or deoxyinosine residues (Batzer et al., Nucleic Acid Res.
19:5081 (1991); Ohtsuka et al., J. Biol. Chem. 260:2605-2608
(1985); Cassol et al., 1992; Rossolini et al., Mol. Cell. Probes
8:91-98 (1994)). The term nucleic acid is used interchangeably with
gene, cDNA, and mRNA encoded by a gene.
[0043] The terms "polypeptide," "peptide" and "protein" are used
interchangeably herein to refer to a polymer of amino acid
residues. The terms apply to amino acid polymers in which one or
more amino acid residue is an artificial chemical analogue of a
corresponding naturally occurring amino acid, as well as to
naturally occurring amino acid polymers.
[0044] As used herein a "nucleic acid probe or oligonucleotide" is
defined as a nucleic acid capable of binding to a target nucleic
acid of complementary sequence through one or more types of
chemical bonds, usually through complementary base pairing, usually
through hydrogen bond formation. As used herein, a probe may
include natural (i.e., A, G, C, or T) or modified bases
(7-deazaguanosine, inosine, etc.). In addition, the bases in a
probe may be joined by a linkage other than a phosphodiester bond,
so long as it does not interfere with hybridization. It will be
understood by one of skill in the art that probes may bind target
sequences lacking complete complementarity with the probe sequence
depending upon the stringency of the hybridization conditions. The
probes are preferably directly labeled as with isotopes,
chromophores, lumiphores, chromogens, or indirectly labeled such as
with biotin to which a streptavidin complex may later bind. By
assaying for the presence or absence of the probe, one can detect
the presence or absence of the complementary target nucleic acid
sequence or subsequence.
[0045] A "labeled nucleic acid probe or oligonucleotide" is one
that is bound, either covalently, through a linker, or through
ionic, van der Waals or hydrogen bonds to a label such that the
presence of the probe may be detected by detecting the presence of
the label bound to the probe.
[0046] "Antibody" refers to a polypeptide substantially encoded by
an immunoglobulin gene or immunoglobulin genes, or fragments
thereof which specifically bind and recognize an analyte (antigen).
The recognized immunoglobulin genes include the kappa, lambda,
alpha, gamma, delta, epsilon and mu constant region genes, as well
as the myriad immunoglobulin variable region genes. Light chains
are classified as either kappa or lambda. Heavy chains are
classified as gamma, mu, alpha, delta, or epsilon, which in turn
define the immunoglobulin classes, IgG, IgM, IgA, IgD and IgE,
respectively.
[0047] An exemplary immunoglobulin (antibody) structural unit
comprises a tetramer. Each tetramer is composed of two identical
pairs of polypeptide chains, each pair having one "light" (about 25
kDa) and one "heavy" chain (about 50-70 kDa). The N-terminus of
each chain defines a variable region of about 100 to 110 or more
amino acids primarily responsible for antigen recognition. The
terms variable light chain (V.sub.L) and variable heavy chain
(V.sub.H) refer to these light and heavy chains respectively.
[0048] Antibodies exist e.g., as intact irnmunoglobulins or as a
number of well characterized fragments produced by digestion with
various peptidases. Thus, for example, pepsin digests an antibody
below the disulfide linkages in the hinge region to produce
F(ab)'.sub.2, a dimer of Fab which itself is a light chain joined
to V.sub.H-C.sub.H1 by a disulfide bond. The F(ab)'.sub.2 may be
reduced under mild conditions to break the disulfide linkage in the
hinge region, thereby converting the F(ab)'.sub.2 dimer into an
Fab' monomer. The Fab' monomer is essentially an Fab with part of
the hinge region (see Fundamental Immunology (Paul, ed., 3d ed.
1993)). While various antibody fragments are defined in terms of
the digestion of an intact antibody, one of skill will appreciate
that such fragments may be synthesized de novo either chemically or
by using recombinant DNA methodology. Thus, the term antibody, as
used herein, also includes antibody fragments either produced by
the modification of whole antibodies or those synthesized de novo
using recombinant DNA methodologies (e.g., single chain Fv).
[0049] The term "immunoassay" is an assay that uses an antibody to
specifically bind an analyte. The immunoassay is characterized by
the use of specific binding properties of a particular antibody to
isolate, target, and/or quantify the analyte.
[0050] III. Monocyte-derived Macrophages
[0051] Macrophages are terminally differentiated cells that
originate from a precursor stem cell found in bone marrow. This
stem cell is thought to be a common multipotential stem cell that
eventually leads to all the cells of the hematolymphoid system
(see, e.g., Fundamental Immunology (Paul ed., 3d ed. (1993);
Immunology (Hood et al., eds., 2d ed. 1984)). Within particular
maturational microenvironments, this multipotential stem cell
develops into a myeloid stem cell, and then commits to a specific
developmental lineage (see, e.g., Paul, supra, for a discussion of
proteins involved in monocyte-derived macrophage
differentiation).
[0052] Developmental commitment to the macrophage lineage is
demonstrated by the monocyte, which is a differentiated precursor
of a macrophage. Monocytes are found circulating in the blood, in
tissues, and in a storage compartment presumably located in the
bone marrow. In tissues, monocytes develop further into
macrophages.
[0053] Under normal circumstances, neither monocytes or macrophages
divide.
[0054] Macrophages are found in all tissues, in surrounding blood
vessels, and close to epithelial cells. Macrophages in different
tissues can develop distinctive properties. For example,
macrophages from peritoneal cavity, lung, liver, kidney, bone
marrow, and spleen have different cell receptors, expression of MHC
class II molecules, and oxidative metabolism. Their main function
is to investigate the environment, respond to stimuli, and present
antigen via MHC class II. Therefore, macrophages are active in
pinocytosis, where they sample extracellular fluid, and they also
express surface 10 receptors to a wide range of molecules. In this
manner, macrophages can take up microorganisms and respond to
cytokines and foreign proteins. In response to these environmental
stimuli, the macrophages present internalized antigen to other
cells of the immune system, and they secrete a variety of
molecules. Thus, macrophages participate in inflammation and
immunological reactions, such as antigen presentation to T cells
via MHC class II molecules.
[0055] IV. Cell Culture and Allogeneic Stimulation
[0056] A. Allogeneic Stimulation and Viral Infection or
Reactivation
[0057] The monocyte-derived macrophage cultures of the invention
are derived 20 from an allogeneic stimulation reaction. The cells
that are subjected to allogeneic stimulation are isolated from any
suitable source and may be heterogenous or homogenous, e.g.,
peripheral blood mononuclear cells ("PBMC") or monocytes. For
cell-mediated allogeneic stimulation reactions, PBMC are typically
used as the source of the monocyte-derived macrophage cultures of
the invention. PBMC contain approximately 4-6% monocytes. Monocytes
can also be quickly isolated with a 2 hour adherence.
[0058] PBMC are prepared from whole blood samples by separating
mononuclear cells from red blood cells. There are a number of
methods for isolating PBMC, e.g., velocity sedimentation, isopyknic
sedimentation, affinity purification, and flow cytometry.
Typically, PBMC are separated from red blood cells by density
gradient (isopyknic) centrifugation, in which the cells sediment to
an equilibrium position in the solution equivalent to their own
density. For density gradient centrifugation, physiological media
should be used, the density of the solution should be high, and the
media should exert little osmotic pressure. Density gradient
centrifugation uses solutions such as sodium
ditrizoate-polysucrose, Ficoll, dextran, and Percoll (see, e.g.,
Freshney, Culture of Animal Cells (3rd ed. 1994)). Such solutions
are commercially available, e.g., HISTOPAQUE.RTM. (Sigma).
[0059] Typically, anticoagulated whole blood or plasma is layered
onto the gradient and centrifuged according to standard procedures
(see, e.g., Fish et al., J. Virol. 69:3737-3743 (1995)). Using,
e.g., the procedure in Fish et al., the red blood cells and
granulocytes form a pellet, while lymphocytes and other mononuclear
cells such as monocytes remain at the plasma/density gradient
interface (see, e.g., Freshney, Culture of Animal Cells (3rd ed.
1994)).
[0060] After the cells of choice are isolated, they are cultured
under conditions that give rise to allogeneic stimulation and
differentiation of monocytes into monocyte-derived macrophages
("MDM"). Cell-mediated allogeneic stimulation is a proliferative
and differentiation response to mismatched haplotypes and antigen.
Allogeneic stimulation via mixed haplotypes is commonly known as a
mixed lymphocyte or leukocyte reaction ("MLR"). An example of a
well-known MLR is a "one way" reaction, in which PBMC from two
individuals are mixed, where the cells from one individual have
been inactivated by irradiation or treatment with mitomycin C.
Because one set of cells is inactivated, only the other set
undergoes the proliferative response. However, in the cultures of
the invention, the reaction can also be performed as a "two way"
reaction, in which both cell sets are stimulated to proliferate.
Thus, the MDM cultures of the invention may have one or more
genotypes.
[0061] Because allogeneic stimulation depends on cytokine
production by cells, MDM can also be cultured under conditions
where monocytes are separated from allogeneically stimulated PBMC,
using semipermeable membranes. Cells, typically PBMC, from donors
with two different haplotypes are mixed and placed in one
compartment, while cells, e.g., PBMC or a more homogenous monocyte
population (from one of the two donors or a third donor) are placed
in a second compartment. The two compartments are separated by
semipermeable membranes, where the compartments are in fluid
communication. In this manner, the soluble factors produced by the
allogeneically stimulated PBMC in the first compartment are
available to stimulate the monocytes in the second compartment to
differentiate into MDM. One example of such a culture apparatus is
a transwell system (commercially available), in which a small well
with a 0.45 micron membrane at the bottom is placed inside a larger
well. The monocytes or PBMC to be differentiated into MDM are
placed in the small well, and the haplotype mixed PBMC are in the
larger outside well. Conditioned medium or transwell systems can be
used for cytokine-mediated allogeneic stimulation. Medium can also
be used for cytokine-mediated stimulation into which the cytokines
have been exogenously added, and the medium has not been previously
contacted with cells.
[0062] Because cytokines promote differentiation of monocytes into
monocyte-derived macrophages, allogeneic stimulation can also be
performed in a cell-free system. In a cell free, cytokine-mediated
allogeneic stimulation reaction, PBMC or monocytes from a single
individual are directly treated with cytokines such as IFN-.gamma.
to activate differentiation of monocytes into MDM (see, e.g.,
Example II). This type of allogeneic stimulation reaction is
referred to as cytokine-mediated allogeneic stimulation.
[0063] For example, in one type of cell-mediated allogeneic
stimulation reaction using mixed haplotypes, typically equal
numbers of viable cells from two different blood donors are mixed.
The cells are plated at a concentration of about between
1.times.10.sup.6 to 1.times.10.sup.8 cells per ml, preferably
approximately 1-2.times.10.sup.7 cells per ml. Preferably, an
adherence medium such as Iscove's complete medium is used for
plating. The medium typically contains antibiotics, e.g.,
penicillin, streptomycin, kanamycin, gentamicin, mycostatin and the
like, preferably penicillin and streptomycin. The medium also
contains serum, preferably non-heat treated human AB serum at a
concentration of 10%. Serum should be tested for antibodies to the
virus of choice. For example, when the MDM cultures are to be
infected or reactivated with HCMV, the serum should be free of
virus (HCMV) and antibodies to the virus.
[0064] After a culture under standard conditions for a suitable
time, preferably approximately 48 hours, the cells are washed to
remove non-adherent cells (e.g., B and T cells). At this point the
monocytes have adhered to the culture substrate. The cultures are
then maintained in media that is composed of approximately 50%
spent media:50% fresh media. The media used after adherence is
typically a mix of proliferative media such as AIM-V (GIBCO), and
adherence media such as Iscove's. The ratio of the media is not
critical. Preferably, the media is 60% proliferative media (e.g.,
AIM-V) and 30% adherence media (Iscove's). The media is replenished
approximately every 3-4 days, and the cultures can be maintained
minimally up to 90 days post-stimulation. After adherence, the
cultures have a cell density of approximately 10.sup.4-10.sup.6
cells per ml.
[0065] MDM cultures are either examined for reactivation of latent
virus approximately 22-26 days after allogeneic stimulation, or
infected with exogenous virus approximately 8-10 days after
allogeneic stimulation. For infection with exogenous virus stocks,
typically a multiplicity of infection ("MOI") from 1-100 is used to
infect the cells (see, e.g., Example I). The cells are then
cultured under standard conditions and examined for the presence of
virus, as described below. The cells infected with exogenous virus
or reactivated virus are compared to non-infected cultures and
nonvirally permissive cultures. Typically, the virally permissive
cultures of the invention produce at least about 10,000 fold
greater virus than non-permissive cells. Mammalian viruses for
infection or reactivation of MDM cultures include, e.g, HCV, HHV6,
HHV7, HHV8, HIV, and HCV. Virus stocks are obtained from
commercially available sources, the ATCC, or patient isolates
(e.g., HCMV isolates PO and PE, Example I). Viral stocks are
titered and maintained according to standard procedures (see, e.g.,
Ausubel et al., supra; Sambrook et al., supra; Example I).
[0066] B. Cell culture
[0067] In general, the cell culture environment includes
consideration of such factors as the substrate for cell growth, the
gas phase, the medium, and temperature. For cells such as monocytes
that grow in a monolayer attached to a substrate, typically plastic
dishes or flasks are used. Other artificial substrates can be used
such as glass and metals. The substrate is often treated by
etching, or by coating with substances such as collagen,
chondronectin, fibronectin, and laminin. The type of culture vessel
depends on the culture conditions, e.g., multi-well plates, petri
dishes, tissue culture tubes, flasks, and the like. Cells are grown
at optimal densities that are determined empirically based on the
cell type. For example, before adherence, a typical cell density
for MDM cultures varies from 1.times.10.sup.6 to 1.times.10.sup.8
cells per ml of medium, and after adherence the typical cell
density is approximately 1.times.10.sup.4-1.times.10.sup.6 cells
per ml.
[0068] Important constituents of the gas phase are oxygen and
carbon dioxide. Typically, atmospheric oxygen tensions are used for
MDM cultures. Culture vessels are usually vented into the incubator
atmosphere to allow gas exchange by using gas permeable caps or by
preventing sealing of the culture vessels. Carbon dioxide plays a
role in pH stabilization, along with buffer in the cell media and
is typically present at a concentration of 1-10% in the incubator.
The preferred CO.sub.2 concentration for allogeneic stimulation and
MDM culture is 5%.
[0069] Cultured cells are normally grown in an incubator that
provides a suitable temperature, e.g., the body temperature of the
animal from which is the cells were obtained, accounting for
regional variations in temperature. Generally, 37.degree. C. is the
preferred temperature for MDM cell culture. Most incubators are
humidified to approximately atmospheric conditions.
[0070] Defined cell media are available as packaged, premixed
powders or presterilized solutions. Examples of commonly used media
include Iscove's media, AIM-V, RPMI 1640, DMEM, and McCoy's Medium
(see, e.g., GibcoBRL/Life Technologies Catalogue and Reference
Guide; Sigma Catalogue). Iscove's complete media is preferred for
pre-adherence cultures, and mixed proliferative and adherence media
are preferred for post-adherence cultures. Defined cell culture
media are often supplemented with 5-20% serum, e.g., human horse,
calf, and fetal bovine serum. The preferred serum for allogeneic
stimulation and MDM culture is 10% non-heat inactivated human AB
serum (Sigma). The culture medium is usually buffered to maintain
the cells at a pH preferably from 7.2-7.4. Other supplements to the
media include, e.g., antibiotics, amino acids, sugars, and growth
factors.
[0071] V. Detection and Characterization of Virus in Cultured
Monocyte-derived Macrophages
[0072] After the cell of choice, e.g., PBMC or monocyte, has been
allogeneically stimulated and differentiated into MDM in a stable
culture, the cells are examined for their permissiveness for viral
reactivation and infection. The MDM cultures are typically used to
examine reactivation of latent infections such as HCMV. Macrophages
that express dendritic cell markers may also constitute reservoirs
for latent viruses other than HCMV.
[0073] Alternatively, the cultures are also useful for studying
exogenous viral infection. The cultures of the invention are
suitable for studying many types of mammalian viruses that infect
and replicate in monocyte-derived macrophages, e.g., HCMV (human
cytomegalovirus), DNA viruses of the herpes family; HHV6, HHV7, and
HHV8 (human herpes virus 6, 7, and 8), a DNA virus of the herpes
family that is associated with Kaposi's sarcoma); HCV (hepatitis C
virus), an RNA virus of the flavivirus family; and HIV (human
immunodeficiency virus), an RNA virus of the lentivirus family.
[0074] Infection of MDM with a virus can be examined using a
variety of techniques. The genome and transcripts of the virus are
detected using nucleic acid hybridization and amplification
techniques. Viral proteins and particles are detected using any one
of a number of immunological techniques known to those skilled in
the art. Viral titers and infectivity are examined by isolating
supernatant from infected cells, and then infecting other cells
with the virus. For example, cells such as human fibroblasts are
commonly used to determine viral titers using serial dilutions and
plaque forming assays.
[0075] These techniques to detect viral infection of MDM are used
for many applications. Detection of virus genome sequences is
useful for diagnosing latent infection. Detection of viral
transcripts, proteins, and particles are useful for examining the
effect of inhibitors of viral production. Detection of viral
genomes, transcripts, proteins, and particles is also useful for
studying the life cycle of a virus in vitro.
[0076] A. Nucleic Acid Detection
[0077] Techniques used to detect viral DNA and RNA from the cells
of the invention include a wide variety of techniques based on
nucleic acid hybridization e.g., northern blots, Southern blots,
dot blots, DNA fingerprinting, RNase protection, and filter
hybridization. One variation of nucleic acid hybridization
techniques includes those based on nucleic acid amplification, such
as reverse transcription ("RT"), polymerase chain reaction ("PCR"),
ligase chain reaction ("LCR"), and nucleic acid sequence-based
amplification ("NASBA"). Detectable moieties used in these methods
include, e.g., labeled polynucleotide probes, direct incorporation
of label in amplification or RT reactions, and labeled
polynucleotide primers.
[0078] Nucleic acid probes and primers used for hybridization
assays are chosen to hybridize to a target viral gene or
transcript. The probe can be a DNA or RNA molecule, as well as a
synthetic, non-naturally occurring analogue of the same.
Hybridization conditions are selected by those skilled in the art,
as discussed herein. Although primers and probes can differ in
sequence and length, the primary differentiating factor is one of
function: primers typically serve as an initiation point for DNA
synthesis of a target nucleic acid, as in RT and PCR reactions,
while probes are typically used for hybridization to and detection
of a complementary target nucleic acid.
[0079] Typical lengths of primers or probes can range from about 7
to about 50 nucleotides. A primer or probe can also be labeled with
a detectable moiety for detection of hybridization of the primer or
probe to the target nucleic acid.
[0080] One preferred hybridization assay is reverse transcription.
Reverse transcription is an amplification method that copies RNA
into DNA. The reverse transcription reaction, which synthesizes
first strand cDNA, is typically performed by mixing RNA with random
hexamer primer or a specific primer, heating to 70.degree. C. for 5
minutes to denature the nucleic acids (a thermal cycler may be used
for this step), and then cooling on ice. The reaction mixture,
prepared according to the enzyme manufacturers instructions or
according to kit instructions, is added to the denatured RNA and
hexamer mixture and incubated at a suitable temperature, usually
42.degree. C. The reaction is stopped by heating the tube
containing the reaction mixture for 10 minutes at 70.degree. C. The
first strand cDNA is collected by precipitation and brief
centrifugation and aliquoted to new tubes, in which it can be
quickly frozen on dry ice and stored at -70.degree. C., if
necessary, for later use.
[0081] Another preferred type of hybridization assay are
amplification based assays such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction)
and LCR (ligase chain reaction). Standard techniques for performing
such assays are known in the art (PCR Technology: Principles and
Applications for DNA Amplification (Erlich, ed., 1989); PCR
Protocols: A Guide to Methods and Applications (Innis, Gelfland,
Sninsky, & White, eds., 1990); Mattila et al., Nucleic Acids
Res. 19:4967 (1991); Eckert & Kunkel, PCR Methods and
Applications 1:17 (1991); Wallace et al., Ligase Chain Reaction, in
Technologies for Detection of DNA Damage and Mutations, pp. 307-322
(Pfiefer, ed., 1996)). RT and PCR reactions are often used in the
same assay and are referred to as RT-PCR. RT-PCR combines reverse
transcription of RNA into DNA and subsequent DNA amplification
reactions in a single reaction. Optimal reverse transcription,
hybridization, and amplification conditions will vary depending
upon the sequence composition and length(s) of the primers and
target(s) employed, and the experimental method selected by the
practitioner. Various guidelines may be used to select appropriate
primer sequences and hybridization conditions (see, e.g., Sambrook
et al., supra).
[0082] For example, PCR is typically carried out in a buffered
aqueous solution, preferably at a pH of 7-9. Deoxyribonucleoside
triphosphates are added to the synthesis mixture in adequate
amounts, and the resulting solution may be heated to about
85-100.degree. C. for about 1 to 10 minutes. After this optional
heating period, the solution is allowed to cool to about
20-40.degree. C., for primer hybridization. An agent for
polymerization is added to the mixture, and the reaction is allowed
to occur under conditions known in the art, typically using a
thermocycler. This synthesis reaction may occur at room temperature
up to a temperature just over which the agent for polymerization no
longer functions efficiently. The agent for polymerization may be
any compound or system that will function to accomplish the
synthesis of primer extension products, including enzymes. Suitable
enzymes for this purpose include, for example, E. coli DNA
polymerase I or Klenow fragment, Taq DNA polymerase, and other
available DNA polymerases.
[0083] A final preferred method of detecting the presence of viral
genome sequences is Southern hybridization. Briefly, DNA is
isolated from a cell and digested with restriction enzymes. The
digested DNA is run on agarose slab gels in buffer and transferred
to membranes. Hybridization to the membrane is carried out using
labelled probes which specifically hybridize to viral nucleic acids
(see, e.g., Ausubel et al., supra; Sambrook et al., supra; Example
III).
[0084] Cells that are infected by virus can also be identified by
in situ hybridization. A sample of tissue or cells is fixed onto a
glass slide and permeablized sufficiently for use with in situ
hybridization techniques, according to standard methods. After the
sample is fixed, a primer that specifically hybridizes to the viral
nucleic acid of choice is hybridized to the sample, and then the
hybridization of the primer is detected, for example, using an
RT-PCR protocol or other methods described herein.
[0085] These methods of detecting hybridization, described above,
generally include the use of a detectable moiety. Primers and
probes that include detectable moieties are synthesized by standard
methods known to those skilled in the art (see Ausubel, et al., and
Sambrook, et al., supra). The detectable moiety may be directly or
indirectly detectable and associated with either a primer or a
probe. Directly detectable moieties include, e.g., polynucleotides
that are labeled with .sup.32P at the 5' end of the molecule, or
that incorporate radioactive nucleotides. Indirectly detectable
moieties include, for example, polynucleotides that incorporate
biotinylated nucleotides recognized by streptavadin, or a
nucleotide sequence, which is the binding partner for a
radioactively labeled complementary sequence.
[0086] The detectable moiety often generates a measurable signal,
such as a radioactive, chromogenic, or fluorescent signal, that can
be used to quantitate the amount of bound detectable moiety, for
example, for measuring the ability of a substance to inhibit viral
production. Quantitation of the signal is achieved by methods known
to those skilled in the art, for example, scintillation counting,
densitometry, or flow cytometry.
[0087] Oligonucleotides preferably are synthesized on an Applied
BioSystems or other commercially available oligonucleotide
synthesizer according to specifications provided by the
manufacturer. Oligonucleotides may be prepared using any suitable
method, such as the phosphotriester and phosphodiester methods, or
automated embodiments thereof. In one such automated embodiment,
diethylphosphoramidites are used as starting materials and may be
synthesized as described by Beaucage et al., Tetrahedron Letters
22:1859 (1981), and U.S. Pat. No. 4,458,066.
[0088] Nucleic acids, e.g., probes, also can be recombinantly
produced through the use of plasmids or other vectors. Vectors can
be adapted for function in prokaryotes or eukaryotes by inclusion
of appropriate promoters, replication sequences, selectable
markers, etc. for replication and transcription of a nucleotide
sequence. The construction of vectors and the replication and
expression of genes in transfected cells involves the use of
molecular cloning techniques also well known in the art (see, e.g.,
Ausubel et al., supra; Sambrook et al., supra; Berger & Kimmel,
volume 52, Methods in Enzymology, Guide to Molecular Cloning
Techniques (1987)). The particular vector used to transport the
genetic information into the cell is also not particularly
critical. The vector containing the sequence of interest is
transformed into host cells for replication and expression. The
particular procedure used to introduce the genetic material into
the host cell is not particularly critical. It is only necessary
that the particular procedure utilized be capable of successfully
introducing at least one gene into the host cell which is capable
of expressing the gene (see generally Sambrook et al., supra;
Ausubel, et al., supra.
[0089] B. Immunological Detection of Viral Proteins and Cell
Surface Markers
[0090] In addition to the detection of viral genes and gene
expression using nucleic acid hybridization technology, one can
also use immunoassays to detect viral proteins and to measure
inhibitory activity of substances being tested for their ability to
inhibit viral production. Immunoassays can be used to qualitatively
or quantitatively analyze viral protein production in infected
cells, e.g., in assays for substances that inhibit viral
production. A general overview of the applicable technology can be
found in Harlow & Lane, Antibodies: A Laboratory Manual
(1988).
[0091] 1. Antibodies to Viral Proteins
[0092] Methods of producing polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies
that react specifically with viral proteins are known to those of
skill in the art (see, e.g., Coligan, Current Protocols in
Immunology (1991); Harlow & Lane, supra; Goding, Monoclonal
Antibodies: Principles and Practice (2d ed. 1986); and Kohler &
Milstein, Nature, 256:495-497 (1975)). Such techniques include
antibody preparation by selection of antibodies from libraries of
recombinant antibodies in phage or similar vectors, as well as
preparation of polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies by immunizing
rabbits or mice (see, e.g., Huse et al., Science 246:1275-1281
(1989); Ward et al., Nature 341:544-546 (1989)).
[0093] A number of viral protein immunogens may be used to produce
antibodies specifically reactive with viral proteins. For example,
recombinant viral proteins or a antigenic fragments thereof can be
isolated, expressed in eukaryotic or prokaryotic cells, and
purified as generally described above. Recombinant protein is the
preferred immunogen for the production of monoclonal or polyclonal
antibodies. Alternatively, a synthetic viral peptide can be
conjugated to a carrier protein can be used an immunogen. Naturally
occurring protein may also be used either in pure or impure form.
The product is then injected into an animal capable of producing
antibodies. Either monoclonal or polyclonal antibodies may be
generated, for subsequent use in immunoassays to measure the
protein. Suitable viral proteins for use as antigens include herpes
virus (e.g., HHV6-8 and CMV) major intermediate early protein and
glycoproteins gB, gD and gH; HIV glycoprotein gp120, phosphoprotein
p24, RT, and protease; HCV glycoproteins E1 and E2, and structural
protein C.
[0094] Methods of production of polyclonal antibodies are known to
those of skill in the art. An inbred strain of mice or rabbits is
immunized with the protein using a standard adjuvant, such as
Freund's adjuvant, and a standard immunization protocol. The
animal's immune response to the immunogen preparation is monitored
by taking test bleeds and determining the titer of reactivity to
the viral antigen of choice. When appropriately high titers of
antibody to the immunogen are obtained, blood is collected from the
animal and antisera are prepared. Further fractionation of the
antisera to enrich for antibodies reactive to the protein can be
done if desired (see Harlow & Lane, supra).
[0095] Monoclonal antibodies may be obtained by various techniques
familiar to those skilled in the art. Briefly, spleen cells from an
animal immunized with a desired antigen are immortalized, commonly
by fusion with a myeloma cell (see Kohler & Milstein, Eur. J.
Immunol. 6:511-519 (1976)). Alternative methods of immortalization
include transformation with Epstein Barr Virus, oncogenes, or
retroviruses, or other methods well known in the art. Colonies
arising from single immortalized cells are screened for production
of antibodies of the desired specificity and affinity for the
antigen, and yield of the monoclonal antibodies produced by such
cells may be enhanced by various techniques, including injection
into the peritoneal cavity of a vertebrate host. Alternatively, one
may isolate DNA sequences which encode a monoclonal antibody or a
binding fragment thereof by screening a DNA library from human B
cells according to the general protocol outlined by Huse et al.,
Science 246:1275-1281 (1989).
[0096] Monoclonal antibodies and polyclonal sera are collected and
titered against the immunogen protein in an immunoassay, for
example, a solid phase immunoassay with the immunogen immobilized
on a solid support. Polyclonal antisera with a titer of 10.sup.4 or
greater are selected and tested for their cross reactivity against
non-viral proteins or even other homologous proteins from other
organisms, using a competitive binding immunoassay. Specific
polyclonal antisera and monoclonal antibodies will usually bind
with a K.sub.D of at least about 0.1 mM, more usually at least
about 1 .mu.M, preferably at least about 0.1 .mu.M or better, and
most preferably, 0.01 .mu.M or better.
[0097] Once viral specific antibodies are available, viral proteins
can be detected by a variety of immunoassay methods. For a review
of immunological and immunoassay procedures, see Basic and Clinical
Immunology (Stites & Terr eds., 7th ed. 1991). Moreover, the
immunoassays of the present invention can be performed in any of
several configurations, which are reviewed extensively in Enzyme
Immunoassay (Maggio, ed., 1980); and Harlow & Lane, supra.
[0098] 2. Immunological Binding Assays
[0099] Expression of viral proteins is a signal of infection or
reactivation of a latent infection. Inhibition of viral production
can also be measured by monitoring the level of expression of viral
proteins. Viral proteins therefore can be detected and/or
quantified using any of a number of well recognized immunological
binding assays (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,366,241; 4,376,110;
4,517,288; and 4,837,168). For a review of the general
immunoassays, see also Methods in Cell Biology Volume 37:
Antibodies in Cell Biology (Asai, ed. 1993); Basic and Clinical
Immunology (Stites & Terr, eds., 7th ed. 1991). Immunological
binding assays (or immunoassays) typically utilize a "capture
agent" to specifically bind to and often immobilize the analyte (in
this case the viral protein or antigenic subsequence thereof). The
capture agent is a moiety that specifically binds to the analyte.
The antibody may be produced by any of a number of means well known
to those of skill in the art and as described above.
[0100] Immunoassays also often utilize a labeling agent to
specifically bind to and label the binding complex formed by the
capture agent and the analyte. The labeling agent may itself be one
of the moieties comprising the antibody/analyte complex. Thus, the
labeling agent may be a labeled viral polypeptide or a labeled
antibody. Alternatively, the labeling agent may be a third moiety,
such as another antibody, that specifically binds to the
antibody/antigen complex.
[0101] In one embodiment, the labeling agent is a second antibody
bearing a label. Alternatively, the second antibody may lack a
label, but it may, in turn, be bound by a labeled third antibody
specific to antibodies of the species from which the second
antibody is derived. The second can be modified with a detectable
moiety, such as biotin, to which a third labeled molecule can
specifically bind, such as enzyme-labeled streptavidin.
[0102] Other proteins capable of specifically binding
immunoglobulin constant regions, such as protein A or protein G may
also be used as the label agent. These proteins are normal
constituents of the cell walls of streptococcal bacteria. They
exhibit a strong non-immunogenic reactivity with immunoglobulin
constant regions from a variety of species (see generally Kronval,
et al., J. Immunol., 111:1401-1406 (1973); Akerstrom, et al., J.
Immunol., 135:2589-2542 (1985)).
[0103] Throughout the assays, incubation and/or washing steps may
be required after each combination of reagents. Incubation steps
can vary from about 5 seconds to several hours, preferably from
about 5 minutes to about 24 hours. However, the incubation time
will depend upon the assay format, analyte, volume of solution,
concentrations, and the like. Usually, the assays will be carried
out at ambient temperature, although they can be conducted over a
range of temperatures, such as 10.degree. C. to 40.degree. C.
[0104] Immunoassays for detecting viral protein in samples may be
either competitive or noncompetitive. Noncompetitive immunoassays
are assays in which the amount of captured analyte (in this case
the protein) is directly measured. In one preferred "sandwich"
assay, for example, the capture agent (anti-viral protein
antibodies) can be bound directly to a solid substrate on which
they are immobilized. These immobilized antibodies then capture
viral proteins present in the test sample. Viral protein is thus
immobilized is then bound by a labeling agent, such as a second
viral protein antibody bearing a label. Alternatively, the second
antibody may lack a label, but it may, in turn, be bound by a
labeled third antibody specific to antibodies of the species from
which the second antibody is derived. The second can be modified
with a detectable moiety, such as biotin, to which a third labeled
molecule can specifically bind, such as enzyme-labeled
streptavidin.
[0105] In competitive assays, the amount of viral protein (analyte)
present in the sample is measured indirectly by measuring the
amount of an added (exogenous) analyte displaced (or competed away)
from a capture agent (anti-viral protein antibody) by the analyte
present in the sample. In one competitive assay, a known amount of,
in this case, the viral protein of choice is added to the sample
and the sample is then contacted with a capture agent, in this case
an antibody that specifically binds to the viral protein of choice.
The amount of viral protein bound to the antibody is inversely
proportional to the concentration of viral protein present in the
sample. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the antibody is
immobilized on a solid substrate. The amount of the viral protein
bound to the antibody may be determined either by measuring the
amount of viral protein present in an antigen/antibody complex, or
alternatively by measuring the amount of remaining uncomplexed
protein. The amount of viral protein may be detected by providing a
labeled viral protein molecule.
[0106] A hapten inhibition assay is another preferred competitive
assay. In this assay a known analyte is immobilized on a solid
substrate and a known amount of antibody is added to the sample.
The immobilized analyte is then contacted with the sample
containing antigen and antibody. The amount of antibody bound to
the immobilized analyte is inversely proportional to the amount of
antigen present in the sample. Again, the amount of immobilized
antibody may be detected by detecting either the immobilized
fraction of antibody or the fraction of the antibody that remains
in solution. Detection may be direct where the antibody is labeled
or indirect by the subsequent addition of a labeled moiety that
specifically binds to the antibody as described above.
[0107] Western blot (immunoblot) analysis is used to detect and
quantify the presence of viral proteins in the sample. The
technique generally comprises separating sample proteins by gel
electrophoresis on the basis of molecular weight, transferring the
separated proteins to a suitable solid support, (such as a
nitrocellulose filter, a nylon filter, or derivatized nylon
filter), and incubating the sample with the antibodies that
specifically bind the antigen of choice. The antibodies
specifically bind to the antigen on the solid support. These
antibodies may be directly labeled or alternatively may be
subsequently detected using labeled antibodies (e.g., labeled sheep
anti-mouse antibodies) that specifically bind to the primary
antibodies.
[0108] Other assay formats include liposome immunoassays ("LIA"),
which use liposomes designed to bind specific molecules (e.g.,
antibodies) and release encapsulated reagents or markers. The
released chemicals are then detected according to standard
techniques (see Monroe et al., Amer. Clin. Prod. Rev. 5:34-41
(1986)).
[0109] One of skill in the art will appreciate that it is often
desirable to minimize non-specific binding in immunoassays.
Particularly, where the assay involves an antigen or antibody
immobilized on a solid substrate it is desirable to minimize the
amount of non-specific binding to the substrate. Means of reducing
such non-specific binding are well known to those of skill in the
art. Typically, this technique involves coating the substrate with
a proteinaceous composition. In particular, protein compositions
such as bovine serum albumin ("BSA"), nonfat powdered milk, and
gelatin are widely used with powdered milk being most
preferred.
[0110] The particular label or detectable group used in the assay
is not a critical aspect of the invention, as long as it does not
significantly interfere with the specific binding of the antibody
used in the assay. The detectable group can be any material having
a detectable physical or chemical property. Such detectable labels
have been well-developed in the field of immunoassays and, in
general, most any label useful in such methods can be applied to
the present invention. Thus, a label is any composition detectable
by spectroscopic, photochemical, biochemical, immunochemical,
electrical, optical or chemical means. Useful labels in the present
invention include magnetic beads (e.g., Dynabeads.TM.), fluorescent
dyes (e.g., fluorescein isothiocyanate, Texas red, rhodamine, and
the like), radiolabels (e.g., .sup.3H, .sup.125I, .sup.35S,
.sup.14C, or .sup.32P), enzymes (e.g., horse radish peroxidase,
alkaline phosphatase and others commonly used in an ELISA), and
colorimetric labels such as colloidal gold or colored glass or
plastic (e.g., polystyrene, polypropylene, latex, etc.) beads.
[0111] The label may be coupled directly or indirectly to the
desired component of the assay according to methods well known in
the art. As indicated above, a wide variety of labels may be used,
with the choice of label depending on sensitivity required, ease of
conjugation with the compound, stability requirements, available
instrumentation, and disposal provisions.
[0112] Non-radioactive labels are often attached by indirect means.
Generally, a ligand molecule (e.g., biotin) is covalently bound to
the molecule. The ligand then binds to an anti-ligand (e.g.,
streptavidin) molecule which is either inherently detectable or
covalently bound to a signal system, such as a detectable enzyme, a
fluorescent compound, or a chemiluminescent compound. A number of
ligands and anti-ligands can be used in conjunction with the
labeled, naturally occurring anti-ligands. Alternatively, any
haptenic or antigenic compound can be used in combination with an
antibody.
[0113] The molecules can also be conjugated directly to signal
generating compounds, e.g., by conjugation with an enzyme or
fluorophore. Enzymes of interest as labels will primarily be
hydrolases, particularly phosphatases, esterases and glycosidases,
or oxidotases, particularly peroxidases. Fluorescent compounds
include fluorescein and its derivatives, rhodamine and its
derivatives, dansyl, umbelliferone, etc. Chemiluminescent compounds
include luciferin, and 2,3-dihydrophthalazined- iones, e.g.,
luminol. For a review of various labeling or signal producing
systems which may be used, see U.S. Pat. No. 4,391,904.
[0114] Means of detecting labels are well known to those of skill
in the art.
[0115] Thus, for example, where the label is a radioactive label,
means for detection include a scintillation counter or photographic
film as in autoradiography. Where the label is a fluorescent label,
it may be detected by exciting the fluorochrome with the
appropriate wavelength of light and detecting the resulting
fluorescence. The fluorescence may be detected visually, by means
of photographic film, by the use of electronic detectors such as
charge coupled devices ("CCDs") or photomultipliers and the like.
Similarly, enzymatic labels may be detected by providing the
appropriate substrates for the enzyme and detecting the resulting
reaction product. Finally simple colorimetric labels may be
detected simply by observing the color associated with the label.
Thus, in various dipstick assays, conjugated gold often appears
pink, while various conjugated beads appear the color of the
bead.
[0116] Some assay formats do not require the use of labeled
components. For instance, agglutination assays can be used to
detect the presence of the target antibodies. In this case,
antigen-coated particles are agglutinated by samples comprising the
target antibodies. In this format, none of the components need be
labeled and the presence of the target antibody is detected by
simple visual inspection.
[0117] VI. Characterization of Virally Permissive Monocyte-derived
Macrophages
[0118] The immunological and nucleic acid techniques described
above can also be used to isolate the virally permissive
monocyte-derived macrophages of the invention, using specific cell
markers. A variety of methods for purification of cells is known to
those skilled in the art. Typically, a physical or functional
marker is chosen for use in conjunction with physical separation
techniques to isolate the cell. For example, a cell surface
molecule is often used with immunological techniques to purify a
cell. For example, the virally permissive MDM of the invention
express the macrophage cell surface markers CD14 and CD64, and the
dendritic cell markers CD68, CD1a and CD83. Latent infection with
HCV is another suitable marker. Alternatively, the functional
characteristic of viral permissiveness can be used to isolate the
MDM. For the MDM of the invention, the cell surface markers CD14
and CD83 provide a convenient physical marker for isolation.
Antibodies to CD14 and CD83 are therefore used to identify the cell
(see Example IV for additional antigens used as markers) Antibodies
to CD14, CD83 and other cell surface antigens are commercially
available.
[0119] As described above, a number of techniques are known to
those skilled in the art to bind an antibody to an antigen. The
cell bound by the antibody may or may not be labeled. Once the
antibody has bound the cell, physical separation techniques are
used to separated antibody-bound cells from the rest of the cells
in culture. For example, the cells may be passed over an affinity
column or subjected to flow cytometry. Other techniques include
density gradient centrifugation, immune panning, magnetic activated
cell sorting, and electrophoresis in a Ficoll gradient or by
curtain electrophoresis (see, e.g., Freshney, supra). After
isolation, the purified MDM cells are cultured as described
above.
[0120] VII. Assays for Viral Reactivation, Viral Inhibitors, and
Viral Infection
[0121] The present invention provides for the first time stable,
virally permissive cultures of monocyte derived macrophages, in
which HCMV latent infections can be reactivated. Thus, these
cultures can be used to identify substances that inhibit viral
production and reactivation of latent infection. The viral
production may be, e.g., viruses such as HHV6-8, HIV, and HCV and
well as HCMV.
[0122] The ability of molecules to inhibit viral production can be
assessed using a variety of in vitro assays as described above,
e.g., immunoassays and nucleic acid hybridization assays.
Inhibitors of viral production are useful as pharmaceutical
treatments for mammalian viral diseases, both latent infections and
exogenous infections. In particular, inhibitors of viral production
can be used to prevent reactivation of a latent virus
infection.
[0123] Molecules that are potential inhibitors of viral production
include antisense nucleic acid, ribozymes, small chemical
molecules, and proteins. Targets for inhibition of viral production
include enzymes such as viral polymerases that are involved in
replication of the viral genome, viral transcriptional activators,
viral proteases such as UL80, UL89, and HIV protease, and
components of the viral particle. The inhibitors can target genes,
mRNA, and proteins. The inhibitor can be introduced to the cell by
a variety of methods, including transfection, electroporation,
infection, lipofection, passive diffusion, lipid solubility, and
active transport.
[0124] Cell samples or assays that are treated with a potential
viral production inhibitor are compared to control samples without
the inhibitor, to examine the extent of inhibition. Typically, a
culture of MDM is infected with exogenously added virus or latent
virus. In parallel with a control uninfected culture, the cell
samples are treated with potential inhibitors, incubated for a
suitable period of time, and then examined for viral products.
Control samples (untreated with inhibitors) are assigned a relative
viral production activity value of 100. Inhibition of viral
production is achieved when the viral production activity value
relative to the control is about 75, preferably 50, more preferably
25.
[0125] To determine the efficacy of an inhibitor of viral
production, cells are assayed for the presence of viral gene
expression products. Detection of viral transcription, viral
protein expression, and viral particles can be performed using the
nucleic acid and immunological techniques described above.
[0126] As described above, characterization of viral infection is
also a useful diagnostic tool in vitro. During latent infections,
typically the viral genome is partially or wholly repressed. Thus,
cells that harbor the viral genome must be identified and then
examined either for their ability to reactivate the latent
infection, or for the presence of viral genome sequences. The
culture methods of the invention and assays described above provide
a means of isolating cells that are potentially latently infected
with a virus such as HCMV and examining the cells to determine
whether or not they are infected.
[0127] All publications and patent applications cited in this
specification are herein incorporated by reference as if each
individual publication or patent application were specifically and
individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.
[0128] Although the foregoing invention has been described in some
detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity
of understanding, it will be readily apparent to one of ordinary
skill in the art in light of the teachings of this invention that
certain changes and modifications may be made thereto without
departing from the spirit or scope of the appended claims.
EXAMPLES
[0129] The following examples are provided by way of illustration
only and not by way of limitation. Those of skill in the art will
readily recognize a variety of noncritical parameters that could be
changed or modified to yield essentially similar results.
Example I
Generation of Macrophages from PBMC by Allogeneic or Mitogeneic
Stimulation Results in Altered Growth of HCMV
[0130] Methods
[0131] A. Establishment of Allogeneically Stimulated PBMC
Cultures
[0132] For preparation of allogeneically stimulated MDM
("Allo-MDM"), PBMC were isolated from blood samples of 32 healthy
blood donors by density gradient centrifugation on HISTOPAQUE.RTM.
(Sigma Chemical Co.) as previously described (Fish et al., 1995).
Subsequently, PBMC were resuspended in Iscove's complete medium
containing penicillin (100 IU/ml), streptomycin (100 .mu.g/ml, both
from GIBCO Laboratories) and 10% human AB serum (Sigma Chemical
Co., non-heat inactivated, anti-CMV negative). For allogeneic
stimulation experiments, equal numbers of cells from two different
blood donors at a cell concentration of 1.8.times.10.sup.7 cells
per ml were mixed before plating Primaria dishes (Becton
Dickinson). After 48 hours of culture at 37.degree. C. in 5%
CO.sub.2, non-adherent cells were removed. Cultures were washed and
maintained in media composed of 50% spent media/50% fresh media
which was replenished every 3-4 days up to 90 days
post-stimulation. Control cell cultures were established by
stimulation of PBMC from individual donors with concanavalin A as
previously described (Fish et al., J. Virol. 70:1855-1862 (1996)).
Day 1 post stimulation is defined as the day after the initial PBMC
isolation and allogeneic or Con A stimulation. Donors for latent
HCMV reactivation were HCMV positive, donors for culture for
exogenous virus were seronegative for that virus.
[0133] Cultures were also established using a transwell system. In
this system, PBMC from two donors were mixed and placed in the
outside well. PBMC from one of the donors or a third donor were
placed in the inside well, which has a 0.45 micron membrane at the
bottom. This membrane allows the PBMC in the two compartments to
remain in fluid communication. After 48 hours, the cells in the
inner well were plated and washed to establish the MDM
cultures.
[0134] B. HCMV Infection of MDM Cultures
[0135] Two recent patient isolates of HCMV were used to infect
primary cultures of MDM. These isolates (PO and PE) were isolated
from transplant patients with HCMV disease. Cell free viral stocks
which were stored at -70.degree. C. were prepared from supernatants
of infected human fibroblast ("HF") cultures. Viral strains used in
experiments were passaged less than 15 times in HF cells. MDM
cultures were infected with HF supernatants at a multiplicity of
infection ("MOI") of 1-10 at 8 to 10 days post allogeneic
stimulation or stimulation with Con A. For mock infection, cells
were exposed to media from uninfected HF cultures. The cultures
were fed every third day, and collected for viral titer assays at
different time points after infection.
[0136] C. Immunocytochemistry
[0137] HCMV infected and mock infected MDM cultures grown in 8-well
chamber slides or in Primaria 96 well plates were collected at
different time points after infection. The cells were washed in PBS
and fixed in phosphate buffered 1% paraformaldehyde ("PFA") or
methanol/acetone (1:1) for 10 minutes at room temperature and
permeabilized with 0.3% Triton X-100 in PBS. Cells were blocked
with 10% normal goat serum or 10% human AB serum in PBS for 30
minutes at room temperature, and thereafter with antibodies against
different HCMV gene products in a 1:100 dilution for 1-6 hours at
room temperature: antibodies against the major immediate early
protein (rabbit-anti-MIE (Stenberg et al., J. Virol. 63:2699-2708
(1989)), or gB (mouse-anti-gB (UL55)). Both murine monoclonal
antibodies were a gift from Dr. William Britt at the University of
Alabama, Birmingham, Ala. (Britt & Vugler, J. Virol.
66:6747-6754 (1992)).
[0138] Cells were washed three times in PBS and binding of the
primary antibody was detected with a fluorescein
isothiocyanate-tetramethyl ("FITC") conjugated goat anti-mouse or
goat anti-rabbit antibody for 1-2 hours at room temperature. Double
immunocytochemistry for cell surface markers was performed on live
cells before fixation and staining for the HCMV IE antigen was
performed. Stained cells were washed in PBS and mounted in Slow
fade Antifade Kit (Molecular Probes Inc., Eugene, Oreg.) to ensure
minimal fluorescence fading. Fluorescence positive cells were
visualized on an upright or inverted Leitz fluorescent microscope
and the number of infected cells was counted.
[0139] D. Dendritic Cell Culture
[0140] PBMC were isolated as described above and plated onto
primaria plates for monocyte adherence. After two hours of culture,
non-adherent cells were removed by three washes in serum free
medium and adherent cells were stimulated with I1-4 (1000 U/ml) and
GM-CSF (50 ng/ml) as previously described (Sallusto et al., J. Exp.
Med. 179:1109-1118 (1994)). Immature dendritic cells cultured in
RPMI medium containing 1% sodium pyruvate were developed during the
first 12 days of culture. Cell samples were collected at 12 days
for flow cytometric analysis to determine the expression of
dendritic and macrophage markers. Small, round dendritic cells were
stimulated with TNF-.gamma. (10 ng/ml), IFN-.gamma. (500 U/ml), or
TNF-.gamma. (10 ng/ml) and IFN-.gamma. (500 U/ml) for two days.
Thereafter, the mature, adherent dendritic cells were challenged
with HCMV at a MOI of 10 or mock infected as described herein.
[0141] Results
[0142] A. Exogenous Infection with HCMV
[0143] Characteristics of viral replication were compared in
macrophages generated by concanavalin A-stimulated PBMC ("Con
A-MDM") or Allo-MDM. HCMV infection of Allo-MDM at a multiplicity
of infection ("MOI") of 10 resulted in a rapid lytic infection of
cells. Cytopathic effects ("CPE") were first detectable at 3 days
post infection ("dpi") and >80% lysis of infected Allo-MDM was
observed at 7 dpi. Infection at an MOI of 1 was non-lytic over an
observation period of 20 days. In contrast, HCMV infection of Con
A-MDM was non-lytic at intervals up to 90 dpi at MOI>10.
[0144] B. Detection of Viral Production
[0145] To examine the kinetics of HCMV replication in Allo-MDM, in
vitro infected cultures were monitored for production of infectious
virus at a variety of time points. The kinetics of HCMV replication
in Allo-MDM was rapid and significant quantities of virus were
found in both the cellular and extracellular fractions. These
characteristics are similar to viral replication in fibroblasts
which are the prototypic cell for growing HCMV in vitro. In
comparison, viral replication in the Con A-MDM was delayed,
exhibited lower levels of viral production, and virus was only
found associated with the cellular fraction.
[0146] The importance of allogeneic stimulation for unrestricted
HCMV replication in Allo-MDM was demonstrated by the lack of viral
replication in cultures derived by mixing PBMC from HLA identical
twins. The frequency of HCMV infected Allo-MDM was assessed by the
detection of the immediate early ("IE") as well as the late
glycoprotein B ("gB") antigen by immunofluorescence. In contrast to
the low numbers (<10%) of cells expressing viral antigens in the
Con A-MDM cultures, greater than 50% of the Allo-MDM expressed both
IE and gB antigens at 12 dpi. In addition, the kinetics of
expression of the structural protein gB correlated with the rapid
production of virus within Allo-MDM. These observations demonstrate
a highly altered vigorous growth of HCMV in the macrophage
generated by the allogeneically driven differentiation process in
comparison to mitogeneically differentiated MDM.
[0147] Allo-MDM express both macrophage (CD14 and CD64) and
dendritic cell (CD83 and Cd1a) markers, in contrast to ConA MDM,
which express only macrophage markers (CD14 and CD64). Since some
dendritic cells may be related to the Allo MDM, HCMV replication
was examined in dendritic cells. Monocyte derived dendritic cells
(MDDC) were obtained through treatment of monocyte enriched
cultures with IL-4 and GM-CSF. The MDDC expressed the dendritic
cell markers CD1a and CD83 but not the monocyte/macrophage markers
CD14 and CD64. HCMV in vitro infection of MDDC resulted in IE
expression in 25-45% of the cells at 1 dpi. However, neither IE or
late viral antigens were detected past this interval up to 20 dpi.
Additional stimulation of MDDC with IFN-.gamma. or TNF- to obtain
mature DC did not increase viral expression beyond what was
observed in the unstimulated cells up to day 12 post stimulation.
These results indicate that although Allo-MDM, ConA-MDM, and MDDC
are all derived from CD14.sup.+ monocytes, HCMV displays
differential patterns of replication in each of these different
cell types.
Example II
Generation of Allo-MDM is Mediated by Cytokines IFN-.gamma., and
CD4.sup.+ and CD8.sup.+ T Cells
[0148] Methods
[0149] A. Negative Selection of PBMC Subpopulations
[0150] In order to obtain CD4.sup.+ or CD8.sup.+ T cell depleted
Allo-MDM cultures, the Mini MACS system (Miltenyi Biotec, Bergish
Gladbach, Germany) was used for negative selection of the
respective cell type. Freshly isolated PBMC were stained with
monoclonal antibodies directed against CD4.sup.+ T cells
(anti-human Leu-3a), CD8.sup.+ T cells (anti-human Leu-2a, both
from Becton Dickinson), or isotype control sera (mouse IgG1 Fc,
R&D Systems, Minneapolis, Minn.). 1.times.10.sup.8 cells in 500
.mu.l serum free Iscove's medium were incubated with a titered
excess of the respective antibody at 4.degree. C. for 45 minutes.
The cells were washed twice in cold PBS, resuspended in 250 .mu.l
of MACS buffer (PBS containing 5 mM EDTA and 0.5% BSA) and
incubated with 160 .mu.l MACS beads conjugated with rat-anti-mouse
IgG1 antibodies for 20 minutes at 4.degree. C.
[0151] Each MACS column was washed with 15 ml of MACS buffer before
the addition of the respective sample. PBMC coupled to MACS beads
were eliminated from the samples by flow through the column in a
magnetic field under flow resistance. Each column was washed with 4
ml MACS buffer, and the collected cells were washed twice in serum
free medium, and resuspended in complete 60/30 medium.
[0152] Cells from two donors were allogeneically stimulated as
described above. Small aliquots of each sample before and after
negative selection were analyzed by flow cytometry to ensure
satisfactory purity of each sample before the establishment of each
Allo-MDM culture.
[0153] B. HLA Class I and HLA Class II Blocking Experiments
[0154] To block the interaction between T cells and monocytes,
monoclonal antibodies directed against constant regions of HLA A,
B, C, or HLA-DR (both from Immunotech, Westbrook, Me.), or isotype
controls (mouse IgG2a or mouse IgG2b, both from R&D Systems) at
a concentration of 35 .mu.g/ml were preincubated with
7.times.10.sup.7 cells in Iscove's complete medium for 1 hour at
4.degree. C. before allogeneic stimulation. Thereafter,
non-adherent cells and antibodies in the cultures were removed by
three washes in serum-free medium, and the Allo-MDM cultures were
cultured in complete 60/30 medium for up to 30 days.
[0155] C. Neutralization of Cytokines in Allo-MDM Cultures
[0156] For neutralizing experiments, polyclonal neutralizing goat
antibodies against human GM-CSF, IL-1, IL-2, TGF-.alpha. or
IFN-.lambda. (R&D Systems) were used to block the respective
cytokine produced in MDM cultures. Antibodies were added to the
cultures at the same time as allogeneic stimulation, and were
present in the cultures for 48 hours post stimulation. Thereafter,
non-adherent cells and antibodies in the cultures were removed by
three washes in serum-free medium, and the Allo-MDM cultures were
cultured in complete 60/30 medium for up to 30 days.
[0157] D. Addition of Cytokines to Standard Dendritic Cell
Cultures
[0158] PBMC were cultured under standard conditions with IL-4 and
GM-CSF to yield monocyte-derived dendritic cells (see, e.g., Annals
Surg. 226:1-5 (1997)). The dendritic cells were infected in vitro
under the conditions described herein with HCMV. Some cultures were
then treated by the addition of TNF-.alpha. and IFN-.gamma.,
separately and together, to examine the effects of the cytokines on
viral growth in cells cultured using these standard methods. Viral
growth is measured as described with antibodies against viral
proteins IE and gB. Viral growth is measured at days 1, 3, 8, 12,
and 20 post infection.
[0159] Results
[0160] A. Depletion of CD4.sup.+ T cells, CD8.sup.+ T cells, and
MHC molecules from PBMC
[0161] To identify the cellular elements within the PBMC population
which are important for the development of HCMV-permissive
Allo-MDM, CD4.sup.+ or CD8.sup.+ T cells were depleted from PBMC
using a negative selection technique. For these experiments, the
respective cell type was eliminated from the PBMC of each donor
prior to the establishment of Allo-MDM cultures. Flow cytometric
analysis was performed on cells before and after negative selection
to ensure that the residual cell phenotype was less than 3%.
Depletion of either CD4.sup.+ or CD8.sup.+ T cells from the PBMC
before virus challenge resulted in a 90% reduction in the number of
Allo-MDM expressing IE proteins as well as a 3-4 log decrease in
the production of virus.
[0162] The addition of neutralizing antibodies directed against HLA
class I or HLA class II to PBMC prior to allogeneic stimulation
also resulted in a 3-4 log decrease in virus.
[0163] These experiments demonstrate that the generation of
HCMV-permissive Allo-MDM by an allogeneic reaction involves both
CD4.sup.+ and CD8.sup.+ T cells as well as HLA class I and II
molecules. The ability of antibodies directed against HLA class I
and II to block formation of HCMV permissive Allo-MDM also
demonstrates that T cell contact is necessary for the specific
differentiation of these cells.
[0164] Similar experiments with Con A-MDM indicated that depletion
of CD8+but not CD4.sup.+ T cells and neutralization of HLA class I
but not HLA class III molecules significantly decreased viral
titers in MDM. These observations suggest that CD8.sup.+ T cell
contact with the monocyte through the HLA class I pathway is
important in the generation of both the Allo-MDM and the Con A-MDM.
Therefore, the critical difference between the two systems is the
differentiation of monocytes by a CD4.sup.+ T-cell mediated
mechanism for the development of HCMV permissive Allo-MDM.
[0165] B. Depletion of Cytokines from Allo-MDM Cultures
[0166] In order to determine if specific cytokines mediated the
reactivation of latent HCMV in permissive Allo-MDM, polyclonal
antibodies with neutralizing activity to IL-1, IL-2, TNF-.alpha.,
GM-CSF, or IFN-.gamma. were added separately to Allo-MDM cultures.
Neutralization of IFN-.gamma. in Allo-MDM cultures resulted in an
significant reduction in cells expressing viral antigens IE and gB,
as well as in a 4 log reduction in the production of infectious
virus. Furthermore, neutralization of I1-2 appeared to result in
reduction of the number of infected cells. Neutralization of the
remainder of the cytokines listed above did not affect the ability
of the cultures to reactivate latent HCMV. This data indicates that
IFN-.gamma. in particular is required for growth of latent virus in
Allo-MDM. This data also indicates that the Allo-MDM are a new cell
type, since their differentiation does not appear to be affected by
the removal of GM-CSF. In contrast, neutralization of TNF-.gamma.
decreased viral titers in infected ConA-MDM.
[0167] C. Reactivation of Latent HCMV and Cytokine Depletion
[0168] Allogeneically stimulated cell cultures were established to
determine whether additional cytokines are required for
reactivation of latent virus. Donors were tested for HCMV exposure
by ELISA for serum antibodies and by PCR for the presence of HCMV
DNA in PBMC. As described above, neutralizing antibodies were added
to the cultures. HCMV IE proteins were detected at day 14-21 post
infection without the addition of neutralizing antibodies, and the
late HCMV gB antigen was detected in adherent cells between days 21
and 35 post stimulation. At day 52 post stimulation IE positive
cells were quantified. Neutralization of IFN-.gamma. but not IL-1,
IL-2, TNF-.gamma., TGF-.beta., or GM-CSF for the first 48 hours
post stimulation resulted in 80-95% reduction in the number of HCMV
positive Allo-MDM. These results indicate that reactivation of
latent HCMV in Allo-MDM is dependent on IFN-.gamma. production.
[0169] D. Monocyte-derived Dendritic Cell Cultures
[0170] Monocyte-derived dendritic cells were cultured under
standard procedures via stimulation with IL-4 and GM-CSF. These
cells are a different differentiated cell type than
monocyte-derived macrophages. After approximately 8 days, the
dendritic cells were infected with exogenously added HCMV as
described herein. The cells were not permissive for HCMV growth, as
demonstrated by the lack of expression of viral antigen (see
above). Neutralization of TNF-.alpha. and IFN-.gamma. had no effect
on the culture's viral permissiveness.
Example III
Reactivation of Latent HCMV from Allo-MDM Obtained from Healthy
Blood Donors and Characterization of HCMV
[0171] Methods
[0172] A. Virus titer assays
[0173] Supernatants from MDM cultures were collected at different
days post infection, and MDM were harvested by scraping adherent
cells into DMEM medium containing 2% fetal bovine serum ("FBS"), 2
mM L-glutamine, 100 IU/ml penicillin and 100 .mu.g/ml streptomycin.
Supernatants or sonicated MDM cells were plated onto monolayers of
HF cells at subconfluency. After an initial 24 hours of viral
adherence at 37.degree. C., cells were washed twice in medium and
overlaid with DMEM medium containing 10% FBS, 2 mM L-glutamine, 100
IU/ml of penicillin, 100 .mu.g/ml of streptomycin, and 0.5%
autoclaved SeaKem agarose (Sigma). The cultures were incubated for
14 days, with feeding every fourth day. The cells were fixed with
25 % formaldehyde in PBS for 15 minutes, stained with a 0.05%
solution of methylene blue, and plaques were counted (Wentworth
& French, Proc. Soc. Exper. Biol. & Med. 135:253-258
(1970)).
[0174] B. Detection of HCMV Replication in Allo-MDM
[0175] Allo-MDM cultures were established by mixing PBMC from two
healthy blood donors as described above. Samples were collected at
day 1, 10, 17, 26, 36, 46, 54, 60, 70, 80 and 90 for detection of
HCMV gene products, and/or for virus recovery. Sonicated cells were
plated onto HF (human fibroblast) cells at subconfluency in 96 well
plates or in 25 cm.sup.2 culture flasks for virus isolation. HF
cells in 96 well plates were incubated for 17-20 days with feeding
every fourth day, fixed and stained for the presence of HCMV IE
antigens using a polyclonal antibody against IE (Fish et al., J.
Virol. 69:3737-3743 (1995)).
[0176] For PCR analysis, cell samples were collected at the
indicated time points by scraping. DNA and RNA were prepared using
the QIAGEN Blood and the Cell culture DNA kit and RNeasy kit,
respectively, according to the manufacturer<<s instructions.
HCMV specific primer pairs were used in nested RT-PCR reactions
detecting IE and pp150 RNA (Ssderberg et al., 1993). As a positive
control for the presence of DNA or RNA primers detecting
glucose-6-phosphatase dehydrogenase ("G6PD") were used for each
sample (Ssderberg et al., J. Virol. 67:3166-3175 (1993)). The
primers used for PCR analysis for HCMV IE and G6PD span an intron
and yield different sized bands from amplification of DNA and RNA,
whereas the pp150 gene does not contain an intron and yield DNA and
RNA PCR products of the same size. The PCR products were visualized
by direct gel analysis on a 1% agarose gel.
[0177] Experiments to detect the expression of HCMV proteins in
Allo-MDM as well as double label experiments to co-localize viral
and cellular proteins utilized immunofluorescence in combination
with confocal microscopy as described under
immunocytochemistry.
[0178] C. Infection of Human Fibroblast Cells and Southern
Analysis
[0179] Cell free viral stocks of the laboratory HCMV strains AD169,
Towne as well as a clinical isolate obtained from a bone marrow
transplant patient with acute HCMV disease or cell sonicates from
Allo-MDM from the respective donor pairs, were used to infect HF
cultures. DNA was prepared from HF when a cytopathic effect was
observed (10-16 weeks for the reactivated strains versus 7-9 days
for the laboratory strains). 10 .mu.g of total DNA from uninfected
HF cells was digested with EcoRI or HindIII, before Southern blot
analyses using .sup.32P labelled cosmid clones pCM1058 and pCM1048
and pCM1039 (Fleckenstein, B. et al., Gene, 18, 39-46 (1982)).
[0180] Results
[0181] Since HCMV frequently reactivates in recipients of
allogeneic blood transfusions, organ or bone marrow transplants and
the virus exhibits an altered growth in Allo-MDM during in vitro
infection, virus was examined to see if it could be reactivated
from its latent state in allogeneically stimulated PBMC obtained
from naturally infected healthy blood donors.
[0182] A. Allo-stimulation of PBMC and HCMV Reactivation
[0183] Donors were tested for HCMV exposure by ELISA for serum
antibodies and by PCR for the presence of HCMV DNA in PBMC.
Allogeneically stimulated cell cultures were established by mixing
PBMC from histoincompatible donor pairs (as described above in
methods). After 48 hours of allogeneic stimulation, non-adherent
cells were removed from the culture and Allo-MDM were maintained
with feeding every four days for up to 90 days.
[0184] B. HCMV Gene Expression in Allo-MDM
[0185] Cell samples were collected from these cultures at the
indicated intervals and evaluated for HCMV gene expression by
RT-PCR. The presence of HCMV-specific proteins in the Allo-MDM was
detected by immunofluorescence and virus production was assessed by
co-culture of sonicated cell samples with human fibroblasts ("HF").
HCMV immediate early ("IE") RNA was first detected at day 17 post
stimulation in 5/5 allogeneically stimulated cultures. A transcript
encoding a late tegument protein pp150 was also observed at day 17
in 4/5 cultures. Interestingly, in one donor pair (donor pair B)
the expression of pp150 was not detected until 54 days post
allogeneic stimulation.
[0186] Consistent with HCMV RNA expression, the IE protein and the
late protein gB were detected in adherent cells between days 17 and
60 post stimulation. Failure to detect HCMV transcripts and protein
in the Allo-MDM prior to day 17 indicates that the virus is latent
and not persistent in this cell population. The frequency of
Allo-MDM containing HCMV proteins was 1-12/1000 (0.1-1.2%) when
viral antigens were first detected in each culture. By day 60 post
stimulation, between 2-25% of the cells expressed HCMV proteins in
the different Allo-MDM cultures. The high number of infected cells
in some of the cultures at this interval most likely reflects
reinfection of Allo-MDM in vitro with reactivated virus.
[0187] C. Infection of Human Fibroblasts with Reactivated HCMV
[0188] To demonstrate the presence of infectious virus in Allo-MDM,
cells obtained from HCMV-positive donor pair cultures were
collected every 7-10 days for up to 90 days post stimulation. Cell
samples were sonicated and plated onto HF, and HF infection was
verified by immunofluorescence for HCMV IE. Infectious virus was
demonstrated by this method in 5/5 of the Allo-MDM cultures at days
26-61 post stimulation. In contrast, when Con A-MDM were derived
from the same individual donors by mitogenic stimulation of PBMC,
virus could not be detected for up to 90 days post stimulation.
[0189] Interestingly, HCMV reactivation was observed in Allo-MDM
obtained from two HCMV-seronegative donors (donor pair C). However,
one of these donors was HCMV DNA positive, which is consistent with
the recovery of virus from this donor pair. The successful
reactivation of HCMV in the Allo-MDM but not in the Con A-MDM from
the same donors implies a fundamental difference in the
differentiation process of PBMC.
[0190] Long term virus isolation cultures were established from HF
cells inoculated with sonicates of Allo-MDM obtained from different
donor pairs to allow recovery and characterization of reactivated
infectious HCMV strains. Cytopathic effects were observed in HF
cells infected with cell sonicates from 6/7 donor pairs after 10-16
weeks in culture. Reactivated HCMV strains obtained from the
Allo-MDM replicated slowly in HF and were extremely
cell-associated, similar to HCMV isolates obtained from acutely
infected individuals.
[0191] D. Restriction Enyme Analysis of HCMV in Infected Human
Fibroblasts
[0192] Restriction enzyme analyses were performed on HCMV DNA from
HF cells infected with reactivated virus to determine the genotype
of each isolate. This analysis demonstrates that the sizes of the
fragments obtained from digestion of the H and H<< isolates
with HindIII or EcoRI are identical. Furthermore, the restriction
enzyme analyses also demonstrate that the reactivated virus
isolates are distinct from the laboratory isolates AD169 and Towne
as well as an isolate obtained from a patient with acute HCMV
disease (Po). These experiments clearly demonstrate the unique
genotype of the reactivated virus strains.
Example IV
Reactivation of HCMV Occurs in Macrophages that Express Dendritic
Cell Markers
[0193] Methods
[0194] A fluorescence-activated cell analyzer (FACSCalibur; Becton
Dickinson) was used for all analyses of cell surface expression
using monoclonal antibodies directed against the following cell
phenotype markers: CD4, CD8, CD19, CD56, CD13, CD14, CD64, CD1a,
CD83, HLA class I molecules, HLA class II molecules, CD40, VCAM-1
and ICAM-1. Mean fluorescence values were obtained from histograms
displaying the log fluorescence of FITC ("FL1") or phycoerythrin
("FL2") of the samples which were generated against the background
staining of cells stained with an isotype control antibody (mouse
IgG1, IgG2a or IgG2b) and the secondary antibody.
[0195] For the analysis of purity of the samples prepared by
negative selection, histograms were generated displaying the log
fluorescence of FITC ("FL1") of the PBMC samples before and after
negative selection of CD4, CD8, CD19, CD56 (antibodies were
purchased from Becton Dickinson or Dakopatts) positive cells. The
percentage of positive cells was estimated by setting the level for
positive cells not to include the background staining of uninfected
cells in the negative control.
[0196] Results
[0197] To identify the cell type which reactivated HCMV, Allo-MDM
were analyzed by flow cytometry for the expression of specific cell
surface markers expressed on T and B cells, NK cells, myeloid
cells, and dendritic cells. Control analyses were performed with
fresh monocytes and with dendritic cells generated by stimulation
of monocytes with recombinant IL-4 and GM-CSF (Sallusto et al., J.
Expt. Med. 179:1109-1118 (1994)).
[0198] Cells staining for T, B and NK cell markers were absent from
the adherent cell fraction. The Allo-MDM demonstrated a remarkably
uniform surface expression of the monocyte/macrophage markers CD14
and CD64. High levels of expression of the dendritic cell markers
CD1a and CD83 were also observed. Co-localization of both CD14 and
CD83 was consistently observed on Allo-MDM throughout the
experimental time course as demonstrated by double label flow
cytometric analysis. In contrast, control dendritic cells expressed
CD1a and CD83 but were negative for CD14 as previously reported
(Sallusto, supra).
[0199] High levels of HLA class II, HLA class I, CD13, VCAM-1,
ICAM-1 and CD40 were observed on the Allo-MDM as well as on
monocytes and dendritic cells. The pattern of expression of these
markers was consistent in Allo-MDM obtained from the different
donor pairs.
[0200] An antibody to HCMV was utilized in combination with
antibodies to dendritic and macrophage antigens by double label
immunofluorescence confocal microscopy to confirm the cellular
origin of virus. Cells obtained from donor pair A expressed HCMV IE
as well as CD83 and CD14 at day 28 post stimulation, but were
uniformly negative for HCMV antigens at day 26 post stimulation.
Thus, the cells harboring reactivated virus expressed both CD14 and
CD83.
[0201] The above observations provide the first evidence that a
myeloid lineage cell in the peripheral blood of healthy individuals
is the source of latent HCMV which, upon allogeneic stimulation,
reactivates infectious virus. CD14 and CD83 double positive cells
have previously been reported as a transient cell phenotype during
the differentiation of CD34.sup.+ hematopoietic progenitor cells
stimulated with IL-4 and GM-CSF (Caux et al., J. Exp. Med.
184:695-706 (1996)). Since CD14.sup.+ cells represent approximately
10% of total PBMC, detection of virus in 1-12 cells/1000 Allo-MDM
implies a frequency of HCMV latently infected PBMC of
0.01-0.12%.
Example V
Reactivation of HHV8 after Allogeneic Stimulation of PBMC from
HHV8-seropositive Donors
[0202] Allo-MDM were prepared as described above, using co-cultured
PBMC from HHV8 seropositive and seronegative donors. Following
eight days of culture, cells were labeled with antibodies to the
lytic cycle-associated protein ORF59 (see immunofluorescence
methods, described above). Allo-MDM show expression of ORF59. In
contrast, ConA-MDM show only expression of latent protein ORF 73,
with no expression of lytic cycle proteins.
Example VI: Infection of Allo-MDM by T Cell Tropic and Macrophage
Tropic Strains of HIV-1
[0203] Allo-MDM were prepared as described above and infected with
T cell tropic, macrophage tropic, and dual tropic strains. p24
expression was examined by immunofluorescence, as described above.
Allo-MDM were productively infected by each strain.
Example VII
Reactivation of HCMV in CD14.sup.+ Monocytes Stimulated with
Allo-MDM Conditioned Medium from HCMV Seronegative Donors using a
Transwell System
[0204] To determine whether cytokines or other soluble factors are
sufficient to differentiate monocytes in to HCMV-permissive MDM,
allogeneically stimulated MDM conditioned culture medium was used
to differentiate CD14.sup.+ monocytes obtained from naturally
infected seropositive donors. A transwell system was used to
separate the monocytes from a single seropositive donor from an
allo-reaction of two seronegative donors. PBMCs from the donors
were adhered for two hours followed by removal of non-adherent
cells. Allo-conditioned medium from parallel cultures was added to
the adhered monocytes at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days post-stimulation.
Conditioned medium was sufficient to differentiate monocytes into
MDM with a similar morphology and viral permissiveness as the
parallel Allo-MDM cell cultures. Immunofluorescence was used to
identify MDM expressing the HCMV specific proteins IE86 and gB.
IE86 and gB positive cells were detected at both 16 and 21 days
post-stimulation in MDM from the seropositive donor, but not in MDM
from a seronegative donor or from cultures not receiving
conditioned medium. These observations indicate that cytokines
produce during allogeneic stimulation are sufficient to reactivate
HCMV in Allo-MDM.
Example VIII
Cytokine Profiles for Allo-MDM and ConA-MDM
[0205] To determine the cytokines produced during culture of
virally permissive Allo-MDM, cytokine profiles of Allo-MDM,
ConA-MDM and unstimulated macrophages were examined. Culture
supernatants were harvested at 6, 12, 24, 36, and 48 hrs. and at 3,
5, and 8 days post-stimulation. The cultures were analyzed using
immunoassays as described above (R&D systems) for the following
cytokines: IL-1.beta., IL-2, IL-6, IL-7, IL-10, I1-13, GM-CSF,
TGF-.beta., TNF-.alpha., and IFN-.gamma.. Cytokine analysis
indicated that substantial differences occurred in the production
of these growth factors in Allo-MDM in comparison to ConA-MDM.
These results highlight the phenotypic differences between these
two monocyte-derived cell types.
* * * * *