Binding of sperm to somatic cells via HLA-DR. Modulation by sulfated carbohydrates
Scofield, V.L.; Clisham, R.; Bandyopadhyay, L.; Gladstone, P.; Zamboni, L.; Raghupathy, R.
Journal of Immunology 148(6): 1718-1724
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0022-1767 PMID: 1311731 Document Number: 398360
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.