Lymphokine production by T cells generated during infection with Trichinella spiralis

Lymphokine production by mesenteric lymph node cells (MLNC) taken from mice during infection with the intestinal nematode parasite Trichinella spiralis was investigated. Upon stimulation in vitro with a protective crude antigen preparation of the infective L1 larvae, MLNC proliferated in a specific manner, and were observed to release the T-cell lymphokines IL-2, IL-3 and interferon. IL-2 and IL-3 release by MLNC was greatest when taken during the early intestinal phases of infection. Interferon was also released by cells taken from infected mice, with highest levels observed shortly after expulsion of the parasite from the gut. MLNC taken during the early intestinal phases of infection were also able to respond and proliferate to an exogenous source of IL-2, suggesting clonal expansion of T cells within the node. Lymphokine release from T. spiralis specific T-cell lines was also examined.