The phosphorylation of the CD3 gamma chain of T lymphocytes is modulated by beta-endorphin.
The neuropeptide beta-endorphin can modulate the response of T and B cells to mitogenic or antigenic stimulation. In the present report we describe a novel mechanism by which beta-endorphin can interfere with T cell activation. It is shown here that beta-endorphin can modulate the phorbol ester-induced phosphorylation of the gamma chain of the CD3 complex. The effect of beta-endorphin is dose dependent and appears to be mediated via interaction of beta-endorphin with an opiate receptor on lymphocytes. Evidence is presented that the modulatory effect of beta-endorphin is specific for the phosphorylation of the CD3 gamma chain. beta-Endorphin does not affect the phosphorylation of total cell protein, nor does it have any effect on the phosphorylation of the CD4 determinant on T cells. The possible consequence of a change in CD3 gamma chain phosphorylation is discussed.
Kavelaars
A
A
Department of Pediatric Immunology, University Hospital for Children and Youth, Het Wilhelmina Kinderziekenhuis, The Netherlands.
Eggen
B J
BJ
De Graan
P N
PN
Gispen
W H
WH
Heijnen
C J
CJ
D000945:Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte / Q000378:metabolism*; D017252:CD3 Complex; D006801:Humans; D010766:Phosphorylation; D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / Q000378:metabolism*; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism; D001615:beta-Endorphin / Q000494:pharmacology*
D000945:Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte; D017252:CD3 Complex; D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell; D001615:beta-Endorphin