Generation of antigen-specific suppressor cells in vitro in man

The generation of human antigen-specific suppressor cells in vitro was examined in a primary anti-DNP antibody-forming system. It was found that specific T8 suppressor cells could be induced in vitro with high doses of antigen. The suppression obtained was macrophage dependent and carrier specific. KLH-specific T8 suppressor cells suppressed the anti-DNP antibody response induced by DNP-KLH but not by DNP-FGG. Similarly, T8 suppressor cells induced with FGG specifically suppress the anti-DNP response stimulated by DNP-FGG. These T8+ suppressor cells bear Ia molecules arising as a consequence of activation. This in vitro antigen-specific system should be useful for the further dissection of human immunoregulatory circuits.