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T-cell-directed hepatocyte damage in autoimmune chronic active hepatitis
1Department of Immunology, King's College School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK.
Lancet (London, England)
|December 22, 1990
Summary
Activated T lymphocytes targeting liver antigens may drive autoimmune chronic active hepatitis. These T-cells stimulate B cells to produce autoantibodies against liver components and the asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR).
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Hepatology
- Autoimmunity
Background:
- Autoimmune chronic active hepatitis (ACH) involves immune system attacks on the liver.
- The specific role of activated T lymphocytes in ACH pathogenesis requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the function of activated T lymphocytes in autoimmune chronic active hepatitis.
- To identify specific liver targets recognized by these T lymphocytes.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and characterization of T-cell clones from patients with ACH.
- Stimulation of T-cell clones with liver cell membranes and specific liver antigens.
- Assessing T-cell proliferation and B-cell activation.
Main Results:
- Seven of fifteen T-cell clones exhibited specificity for liver-membrane antigens.
- Six clones reacted with liver-specific lipoprotein complex; one clone targeted the asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR).
- Two clones induced autologous B lymphocytes to produce autoantibodies against liver membranes and ASGPR.
Conclusions:
- Activated T lymphocytes recognizing liver-membrane antigens are present in patients with ACH.
- These T lymphocytes may contribute to the autoimmune liver attack by stimulating autoantibody production.