Binding of sperm to somatic cells via HLA-DR. Modulation by sulfated carbohydrates.
We have shown previously that human sperm bind and enter leukocytes expressing surface HLA class II molecules. In the present study, mutant B lymphoblastoid cells and HLA-DR-transfected murine 3T3 fibroblasts are used to confirm that HLA class II molecules are somatic cell receptors for sperm. Further, for isolated HLA-DR expressed on murine cells, we show that sperm receptor activity requires the presence of sulfated carbohydrates. As carriers of multiple HLA-DR binding ligands, sperm may 1) mimic the target cell-activating effects of anti-DR antibody and 2) bind HIV through CD4-like or alternate receptors. By these or other mechanisms, sperm/somatic cell interactions in the female reproductive tract may affect fertility and potentiate the sexual transmission of AIDS.
Scofield
V L
VL
Department of Microbiology and Immunology, UCLA School of Medicine 90024.
Clisham
R
R
Bandyopadhyay
L
L
Gladstone
P
P
Zamboni
L
L
Raghupathy
R
R
D016475:3T3 Cells; D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000635:transmission; D000818:Animals; D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000166:cytology; D002448:Cell Adhesion; D002459:Cell Fusion; D006001:Glycoconjugates / Q000378:metabolism; D006684:HLA-DR Antigens / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D008297:Male; D051379:Mice; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface / Q000378:metabolism*; D011994:Recombinant Proteins / Q000378:metabolism; D013094:Spermatozoa / Q000166:cytology*; D013431:Sulfates
D006001:Glycoconjugates; D006684:HLA-DR Antigens; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface; D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D013431:Sulfates; C035027:egg surface sperm receptor