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CD26 and CD31 surface antigen expression on human colostral T cells
A Bertotto1, F Spinozzi, R Gerli
1Department of Paediatrics, Perugia University School of Medicine, Italy.
Biology of the Neonate
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Human colostral T cells show higher expression of CD26 and CD31 surface antigens compared to peripheral blood. This suggests immune cell compartmentalization in the mammary gland during late pregnancy and lactation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- T lymphocytes (CD3+) play crucial roles in immune responses.
- Adhesion/activation molecules like CD26 and CD31 are involved in T cell function.
- Colostrum, the first breast milk, contains immune cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression levels of CD26 and CD31 on T cells in human colostrum.
- To compare these levels with those in peripheral blood T cells.
- To understand the potential immune implications of colostral T cells.
Main Methods:
- Flow cytometry was used to analyze T cells from human colostrum and peripheral blood.
- Expression levels of CD26 and CD31 surface antigens were quantified.
Main Results:
- Significantly higher expression of CD26 and CD31 was observed on colostral T cells (CD3+) compared to autologous peripheral blood T cells.
- This indicates a distinct phenotype of T lymphocytes in colostrum.
Conclusions:
- T lymphocytes are compartmentalized in the mammary gland during late pregnancy and lactation.
- The functional role of these expanded T cell populations in modulating the infant's immune response requires further investigation.