Abstract
Background: Cell-surface major histocompatibility (MHC) class II molecules contribute to a molecular, intercellular complex that stimulates T-cells. MHC class II molecules also activate signaling pathways leading to apoptosis. Lack of CIITA, a co-activator of the MHC class II gene promoter, is responsible for lack of MHC class II on most of the MHC class II-negative melanoma cell lines. Materials and Methods: We rescued CIITA and MHC class II expression in melanoma cell lines by stable transformation with a CIITA expression vector and assayed for MHC class II-mediated apoptosis. Results: Reconstitution of CIITA in multiple CIITA-negative melanoma lines restores the apoptotic function of melanoma MHC class II. Conclusion: Lack of MHC class II transcription, rather than defects in MHC class II protein function or defects in the other components of the MHC class II-stimulated apoptotic pathway, prevents MHC class II-mediated apoptosis in melanoma cells.
Footnotes
- Received August 3, 2005.
- Accepted September 7, 2005.
- Copyright© 2005 International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. John G. Delinassios), All rights reserved