ROSETTE FORMATION WITH MOUSE ERYTHROCYTES .4. T,B AND 3RD POPULATION CELLS IN HUMAN TONSILS

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  • 1 January 1977
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 28  (2) , 347-351
Abstract
Mononuclear cells from 20 human tonsils and peripheral blood lymphocytes were examined for T [thymus-derived], B [bone marrow-derived] and 3rd population cells. Compared with peripheral blood lymphocytes, tonsils had a higher proportion of B lymphocytes with surface Ig[immunoglobulin]M, IgD and IgA. Mouse erythrocyte rosette-forming cells were also present in increased proportions. However, 3rd population cells were found in very low proportions. Phagocytic cells as determined by latex ingestion and peroxidase staining were also present in low proportions. The lack of third population cells in human tonsils may establish this organ as one of particular interest in the study of lymphocyte subpopulations because T and B lymphocytes can be purified without contaminating 3rd population cells. The role of the 3rd population of lymphocytes in antibody-dependent cytotoxicity and spontaneous cytotoxicity may be supported by the absence of these functions along with absence of the 3rd population cells from tonsilar lymphoid cells.