Dynamic interactions of macrophages with T cells during antigen presentation.
We have established a method for real-time video analysis of the interaction of antigen-presenting cells (APCs) with T cells. Green fluorescent protein expression controlled by a nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT)-responsive promoter permits the visualization of productive antigen presentation in single T cells. The readout is rapid (within 2 h) and semiquantitative and allows analysis by video microscopy and flow cytometry. Using this approach, we demonstrate that macrophages have the capacity to simultaneously activate multiple T cells. In addition, the interaction of T cells with macrophages is extraordinarily dynamic: after initial stable contact, the T cells migrate continuously on the surface of the macrophage and from APC to APC during productive antigen presentation. Thus, T cells sum up signals from multiple interactions with macrophages during stimulation.
Underhill
D M
DM
Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA.
Bassetti
M
M
Rudensky
A
A
Aderem
A
A
D000818:Animals; D017951:Antigen Presentation; D002450:Cell Communication / Q000276:immunology*; D006825:Hybridomas; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation; D008264:Macrophages / Q000276:immunology*; D051379:Mice; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology*