Probing molecular interactions within class II MHC Aq/Glycopeptide/T-cell receptor complexes associated with collagen-induced arthritis

T cells obtained in a mouse model for rheumatoid arthritis are activated by a glycopeptide fragment from rat type II collagen (CII) bound to the class II major histocompatibility complex A(q) molecule. We report a comparative model of A(q) in complex with the glycopeptide CII260-267. This model was used in a structure-based design approach where the amide bond between Ala(261) and Gly(262) in the glycopeptide was selected for replacement with psi[COCH2], psi[CH2NH2+], and psi[(E)-CH=CH] isosteres. Ala-Gly isostere building blocks were then synthesized and introduced in CII260-267 and CII259-273 glycopeptides. The modified glycopeptides were evaluated for binding to the A(q) molecule, and the results were interpreted in view of the A(q)/glycopeptide model. Moreover, recognition by a panel of T-cell hybridomas revealed high sensitivity for the backbone modifications. These studies contribute to the understanding of the interactions in the ternary A(q)/glycopeptide/T-cell receptor complexes that activate T cells in autoimmune arthritis and suggest possibilities for new vaccination approaches.