Identification of a novel feline large granular lymphoma cell line (S87) as non-MHC-restricted cytotoxic T-cell line and assessment of its genetic instability

Feline large granular lymphocyte lymphomas are rare but very aggressive tumors with a poor prognosis. In this study, a cell line from an abdominal effusion of a cat with large granular lymphoma was characterized. Immunophenotype staining was positive for CD3 and CD45R, and negative for CD4, CD8, CD56, CD79α, BLA.36 and NK1. A TCR γ gene rearrangement was detectable by PARR. Neither FeLV antigen nor exogenous FeLV provirus could be detected. A chromosomal instability associated with a centrosome hyperamplification could also be determined. The cell line is able to lyse target cells without antigen presentation or interaction with antigen presenting cells. Therefore, these cells were classified as genetically instable non-MHC-restricted cytotoxic T cells with large granular lymphocyte morphology.