Alterations in helper-inducer and suppressor-inducer T-cell subsets in human neonatal blood

The distribution of T-helper cell subsets of human umbilical cord lymphocytes was compared with that of adult peripheral blood lymphocytes. Cytofluorometric analysis revealed a similar Leu 3/Leu 2 (helper/suppressor) ratio in neonates compared with adults. Total T-cell numbers were slightly decreased in neonatal blood. The Leu 3-positive-4B4-positive cell (helper-inducer) subset, however, was markedly reduced in neonatal blood, while the Leu 3-positive-2H4-positive cell (suppressor-inducer) subset was increased compared with that of normal adults. These findings may contribute to the poor help and enhanced suppression observed in vitro with neonatal T cells.