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Do human B and null lymphocytes form a single immunoglobulin-bearing population?
Lancet (London, England)
|November 17, 1979
Summary
Human null lymphocytes, lacking typical B and T cell markers, express surface immunoglobulin (smIg) detectable by specific tests. This suggests expanding the definition of B lymphocytes to include these cells, potentially clarifying the roles of natural killer cells.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Hematology
Background:
- Human lymphocytes are traditionally classified as B or T cells based on surface markers.
- Null lymphocytes lack conventional markers for both B and T lymphocytes.
- Surface membrane immunoglobulin (smIg) is a key marker for B lymphocytes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of surface immunoglobulin (smIg) determinants on human null lymphocytes.
- To propose an expanded definition of B lymphocytes based on new findings.
- To explore the implications for understanding natural and antibody-dependent killer cells.
Main Methods:
- Direct immunofluorescence to detect smIg.
- Direct antiglobulin and mixed antiglobulin rosette tests to demonstrate smIg determinants.
Main Results:
- Null lymphocytes lack T-lymphocyte markers and conventionally detectable smIg.
- Most null lymphocytes express smIg determinants demonstrable by antiglobulin and rosette tests.
- This suggests null lymphocytes share characteristics with B lymphocytes.
Conclusions:
- The definition of B lymphocytes should be broadened to encompass null cells detected by antiglobulin and rosette tests.
- Recognizing B-lymphocyte heterogeneity may clarify the function of natural and antibody-dependent killer cells.