Conclusions
The SEB1741 aptamer is a valuable tool for blocking CD4+ T cell activation and the subsequent release of proinflammatory cytokines by SEB stimulation.
Methods
Enrichment CD4+ T cells were stimulated with SEB, and as a blocker, we used the SEB1741 aptamer, which was previously synthesised by an "in silico" analysis, showing high affinity and specificity to SEB. The efficiency of the SEB1741 aptamer in blocking CD4+ T cell activation was compared with that of an anti-SEB monoclonal antibody. Flow cytometry and Bio-Plex were used to evaluate the T-cell function.
Results
In vitro, SEB induced the activation of CD4+ T cells and favoured a Th1 profile; however, the SEB1741 aptamer was highly efficient in decreasing the frequency of CD4+ T cells positive to ki-67 and CD69 cells, this means that proliferation and activation of CD4+ T cells was decreased. Moreover, the production of interleukin 2 (IL-2) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) was affected, suggesting that the Th1 profile is not present when the SEB1441 aptamer is used. Thus, the SEB1741 function was similar to that of anti-SEB. Conclusions: The SEB1741 aptamer is a valuable tool for blocking CD4+ T cell activation and the subsequent release of proinflammatory cytokines by SEB stimulation.