GENERATION OF SUPPRESSOR CELLS IN THE AUTOLOGOUS MIXED LYMPHOCYTE-REACTION

  • 1 January 1981
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 46  (1) , 185-195
Abstract
When challenged with HLA-A, B and DR incompatible cells, [human] T cells which have been primed in an autologous mixed lymphocyte response (AMLR) show an accelerated (day 2) component of their proliferative response, and the expected primary-style response at day 5. This early response of AMLR-primed cells to allogeneic stimulation, like the response to rechallenge with autologous cells, is abolished by treatment of the primary culture with BUdR [bromodeoxyuridine] and light. Priming in the AMLR probably is not solely to MHC[major histocompatibility complex]-private specificities; an antigenic element common to autologous and allogeneic cells probably is recognized. The AMLR also generates cells with suppressor activities. AMLR-primed cells suppress the proliferative responses of fresh T cells from the same donor to autologous or allogeneic stimulation. Limiting numbers of suppressor cells are more effective suppressors of the autologous, than of the allogeneic, response. Suppressor activity is reduced but not abolished by treatment with mitomycin C. AMLR-primed cells also suppress pokeweed mitogen-induced antibody production by fresh peripheral blood lymphocytes. In some experiments, specific antigen-induced antibody production is also suppressed.

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