Antigen specific human T cell clones: heterogeneity of specificity and function

Human T cell clones specific for either mycobacterial or viral antigens have been generated and characterized. Different antigenic structures were recognized by T cells which had specific functions. These appeared to be directed at a number of target effector cells. Even where a number of T cell clones mediated the same function variation in clonal products suggested this might be achieved by different mechanisms. The multiplicity of immune function displayed by these T cell clones is discussed in the context of their antigenic specificity and genetic restriction.