Memory in helper T cells of minor histocompatibility antigens, revealed in vivo by alloimmunizations in combination with Thy‐1 antigen

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Abstract
A cooperative antibody response in which T helper (Th) cells recognize minor histocompatibility antigens (mha) and B cells recognize Thy‐1 antigen, is used to explore memory in the T cell compartment. In contrast to B cell memory, Th memory reaches a plateau rapidly, although Th memory of Thy‐1 itself (or an associated antigen) behaves exceptionally in this respect. The plateau then extends over several weeks at least. Single mha, among them H‐Y, generate detectable memory. Incompatible H‐2 antigens, including class I antigens on their own, inhibit this response through what appears to be a mechanism of intracellular antigenic competition. Antigen presentation in this system is by host cells, as judged by lack of donor‐specific restriction. Memory resides in both the CD45RA+ and CD45RA− compartments, although the majority of memory Th cells have the latter phenotype.