Transfer of an antigen-specific immediate hypersensitivity-like reaction with an antigen-binding factor produced by T cells.

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Abstract
Because T cell-dependent activation of mast cells occurs in delayed-type hypersensitivity, it was investigated whether a T cell product could mimic some of the functions of IgE. Cultures (24 or 48 h) of T cells from mice immunized optimally for delayed-type hypersensitivity resulted in release of an antigen-binding factor that transferred the ability to elicit an antigen-specific immediate hypersensitivity-like skin reaction in normal recipients. The responsible factor was concentrated and purified by affinity chromatography on antigen columns and was distinguished from Ig by several criteria: it was released by purified T cells (anti-Ig plate depletion of B cells); it expressed no known antigenic markers of Ig (enzyme-linked immunosorbent direct binding assay); it had a MW of .ltoreq. 70,000 (sucrose gradient ultracentrifugation) and it had serological markers associated with antigen-specific T cell factors from other experimental systems. At sites of delayed-type hypersensitivity, antigen-reactive T cells may release antigen-specific factors that lead to mast cell activation and release of vasoactive amines, which is required for elicitation for these responses.