Docosahexaenoic Acid Modulates Class I Major Histocompatibility Complex Protein Function

Author

Kaleb Marie Hypes

Date of Award

2004

Degree Name

Biological Sciences

College

College of Science

Type of Degree

M.S.

Document Type

Thesis

First Advisor

Laura Jenski

Second Advisor

Nicola LoCascio

Third Advisor

Susan Jackman

Abstract

Fatty acids influence immune responses, but how this occurs at the molecular level is not understood. Class I major histocompatibility complex molecules (MHC I), transmembrane proteins required for antigen presentation to T cell receptors, each consist of a 45kDa α chain noncovalently associated with a 12-kDa β₂-microglobulin (β₂m) molecule. Docosahexaenoic acid’s (DHA) effect on the binding of β₂m and anti-MHC I monoclonal antibodies (Mab) was measured. EL4 and RMA-S cells were cultured 48 hours with 0-45µM DHA or oleic acid. Murine to human β₂m exchange and Mab binding were assessed by fluorescence flow cytometry. DHA-treated cells showed increased fluorescence (greater β₂m binding and Mab binding) compared to untreated and oleic acid-treated cells. The addition of α-tocopherol to these fatty acid treatments eliminated the DHA-associated increase in fluorescence. DHA’s effect on the cell membrane may alter the conformation of MHC I affecting antigen presentation to CD8+ T-lymphocytes and altering immune response.

Subject(s)

Docosahexaenoic acid.

Immune response - Effect of acid on.

Recommended Citation

Hypes, Kaleb Marie, "Docosahexaenoic Acid Modulates Class I Major Histocompatibility Complex Protein Function" (2004). Theses, Dissertations and Capstones. 660.
https://mds.marshall.edu/etd/660