Idiotypic network: the MOPC 460 system

The results presented in this communication show very clearly that the mice with IghCa haplotype can produce anti-TNP antibodies from which a fraction share the idiotypic determinants expressed on M460 myeloma protein. Nevertheless the gene(s) which encode(s) this specificity, is present in the repertoire of strains of mice which have not this haplotype. As in DBA/2 mice this silent clone(s) can be stimulated by an appropriate immunological manipulation and their progeny even can be frozen in hybridomas. The expression of 460 Id positive anti-TNP antibody forming cells is regulated by T cells in BALB/c mice. These T cells are specific for 460 Id and share the idiotypic determinants of anti-460 Id antibodies since they were not found in BALB/c mice with an Ab3 type of response.