Abstract
We describe conditions where the addition of stimulated CD8+ lymphocytes from healthy donors to autologous antibody-secreting B cells significantly enhanced IgG production by these cells. In two-step experiments, purified CD8+ lymphocytes were first cocultured with irradiated allogeneic monocytes. These cells developed interleukin 2 receptors, but proliferated only minimally in the absence of CD4+ cells. When added to antibody-secreting B cells, these CD8+ lymphocytes augmented IgG production in a dose-dependent manner in comparison with control CD8+ cells. Studies with T killer cell precursors revealed an inverse correlation between augmentation of antibody synthesis and the generation of MHC class I-restricted cytotoxic activity against lymphocytes from the allogeneic donor. Evidence is presented that CD8+ CD45RA+ CD45RO- can provide B cell help, whereas the generation of CD8+ CD45RA+ CD45RO+ cells inhibits this helper activity. Our studies support the hypothesis that in chronic diseases characterized by CD4+ cell hypofunction, CD8+ cells not only fail to down-regulate antibody production, but can provide B cell help.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 352-365 |
Number of pages | 14 |
Journal | Clinical Immunology and Immunopathology |
Volume | 58 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1991 Mar |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Immunology and Allergy
- Pathology and Forensic Medicine
- Immunology