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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
09:47
Generation of Human Alloantigen-specific T Cells from Peripheral Blood
Published on: November 21, 2014
T cell reactivity to MHC molecules: immunity versus tolerance
1Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Scripps Clinic, La Jolla, CA 92037.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|June 15, 1990
Summary
Mature T cell specificity is governed by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. While generally resistant to tolerance, mature T cells can achieve partial unresponsiveness through specific antigen-presenting cell interactions.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- T lymphocyte specificity is dictated by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and II molecules.
- T cell repertoire development involves thymic selection (positive and negative) and tolerance induction.
- Immature T cells develop tolerance via clonal deletion or anergy through intrathymic interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms and requirements for inducing tolerance in mature T cells.
- To understand the relative resistance of mature T cells to tolerance induction compared to immature T cells.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of T cell specificity using various assays.
- Investigation of tolerance induction in mature T cells.
- Exposure of T cells to foreign MHC molecules on atypical antigen-presenting cells.
Main Results:
- Mature T cell specificity is stringent but can be modulated by lymphokines.
- Mature T cells are generally resistant to tolerance induction.
- Partial unresponsiveness in mature T cells can be achieved under specific conditions involving foreign MHC molecules.
Conclusions:
- Tolerance induction in mature T cells is challenging and rarely complete.
- Further research is needed to clarify the precise requirements for tolerizing mature T cells.
- Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for controlling T cell responses in various immunological contexts.
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