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Lymphocytotoxic and phagocytotoxic activity in progressive systemic sclerosis
The Journal of Rheumatology
|February 1, 1983
Summary
Cold and warm reacting lymphocytotoxins (LCT) were detected in patients with progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS). These cytotoxins, particularly cold LCT, showed cross-reactivity against various immune cells, suggesting shared antigens.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by immune system dysregulation.
- The presence and role of lymphocytotoxins (LCT) in PSS pathogenesis are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of cold and warm reacting LCT in PSS patients.
- To explore the cross-reactivity of these cytotoxins against different immune cell types.
Main Methods:
- Sera from 66 PSS patients were tested for cold and warm LCT.
- Cytotoxicity assays were performed on peripheral B and T lymphocytes.
- Elution studies were conducted using lymphocytes and other immune cells.
Main Results:
- Cold LCT were found in 45% of PSS patients, with some also having warm LCT.
- Cold LCT predominantly targeted B cells (52%) and T cells (14%).
- Eluates from lymphocytes showed cytotoxicity against polymorphonuclears and monocytes, indicating cross-reactivity.
Conclusions:
- Lymphocytotoxins are present in a significant proportion of PSS patients.
- These cytotoxins exhibit cross-reactivity, suggesting common antigenic determinants on various immune cells.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the clinical significance of these findings in PSS.