In vivo T cell activation properties of anti-T cell monoclonal antibodies
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026

A Method to Assess Fc-mediated Effector Functions Induced by Influenza Hemagglutinin Specific Antibodies
Published on: February 23, 2018
C Ferran1, J F Bach, L Chatenoud
1INSERM U25, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France.
Murine monoclonal antibodies specifically directed at the CD3 molecular complex are widely used in clinical transplantation. They are potent inhibitors of immune function and may be administered in association with conventional immunosuppressive drugs. However, their use has been complicated by the severe clinical syndrome that invariably follows the first injections of the antibody. We have shown that this reaction relates to transient T cell activation, with production of a cohort cytokines. This in vivo activating effect is unique to anti-CD3 MoAbs. Furthermore, this property is highly monocyte-dependent, engaging Fc receptors, and thus varies according to the isotype of the administered MoAb. Another anti-T cell MoAb such as the BMA031 directed towards monomorphic determinants of the T cell receptor (TCR) does not promote such massive in vivo activation.
Murine monoclonal antibodies specifically directed at the CD3 molecular complex are widely used in clinical transplantation. They are potent inhibitors of immune function and may be administered in association with conventional immunosuppressive drugs. However, their use has been complicated by the severe clinical syndrome that invariably follows the first injections of the antibody. We have shown that this reaction relates to transient T cell activation, with production of a cohort cytokines. This in vivo activating effect is unique to anti-CD3 MoAbs. Furthermore, this property is highly monocyte-dependent, engaging Fc receptors, and thus varies according to the isotype of the administered MoAb. Another anti-T cell MoAb such as the BMA031 directed towards monomorphic determinants of the T cell receptor (TCR) does not promote such massive in vivo activation.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Cell-mediated Immune Responses
Hybridoma Technology
Hybridoma Selection
Commonly used fusion techniques — electroporation, polyethylene glycol...
T Cell Activation and Clonal Selection
Naive T cells that have not yet encountered an antigen express two primary CD...
T Cell Types and Functions
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
B Cell Activation and Differentiation
When naive B cells encounter a specific antigen that can bind to the B cell receptor (BCR) on their surface, they undergo sensitization to respond to the antigen's presence. Sensitization begins with...
Antibody Actions
Neutralization
Antibodies can bind to pathogens, preventing them from infecting host cells. This process...

