CD45R, CD44 and MHC class II are signaling molecules for the cytoskeleton-dependent induction of dendrites and motility in activated B cells.

Anti-CD44 or anti-MHC II antibodies bound to tissue culture plates have previously been shown to induce a dramatic generation of dendritic processes in activated murine B cells. In this study, we demonstrate a similar generation of dendrites and cell motility in activated B cells through CD45R. The dynamic formation of dendritic processes and associated induction of cell motility were analyzed by video microscopy and were characterized by a rapid, and multidirectional emission of dendrites with retractile behavior. The addition of cytochalasin E totally blocked dendrites formation and motility induced through either CD45R, CD44 or MHC II, suggesting that the necessary cytoskeletal rearrangements require active polymerization of actin. Confocal microscopy showed an accumulation of F-actin in the dendrites, as long as cells were elongating. In contrast, G-actin was localized in the perinuclear area and also accumulated in sites where dendrites originated. Preincubation of B cells with staurosporine (a PKC inhibitor) or BAPTA-AM (a calcium chelator) prevented these morphological changes, indicating additionally a requirement for a PKC-calcium-dependent activity. Dendrite formation and cellular motility, therefore, seem to be two manifestations of the same phenomenon, and CD44, CD45R and MHC II appear to be signaling molecules for the observed cytoskeleton-dependent morphological changes.