HLA restriction of human cytotoxic T cells.

Journal article

The human major histocompatibility complex (MHC), the HLA system, has been extensively analysed because of its role in organ graft rejection, and the recent demonstration that many of its alleles contribute to disease susceptibility. The relationship with disease is unlikely to be accidental and probably relates to the biological function of this group of linked genes. The murine equivalent of HLA, the H2 system, has been shown to regulate immune responses by controlling immunocyte interactions. It is pertinent, therefore, to determine whether the HLA system functions in this way. There is accumulating experimental evidence that this is so and this review will concentrate on one aspect; the restriction of human cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) function by the HLA complex. It is concerned with the recognition, by T lymphocytes, of cell surfaces that differ slightly from self. These differences can be minor transplantation antigens, changes consequent on chemical alteration or virus infection. These may all be models for changes in cells that could occur in human disease due to somatic mutation, toxins, or infection.

Authors: Mcmichael, A

• Publication status: Published
• Journal: Springer seminars in immunopathology
• Volume: 3
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 3-22
• Publication date: 1980-05-01
• DOI: 10.1007/bf00199923
• EISSN: 1432-2196
• ISSN: 0344-4325
• Language: English
• Keywords: Y Chromosome; Haptens; H-2 Antigens; Mice; HLA Antigens; Cytotoxicity, Immunologic; Infectious Mononucleosis; Measles; Humans; T-Lymphocytes; Influenza, Human; Autoimmune Diseases; Spondylitis, Ankylosing; Protein Biosynthesis; Animals; Male; Malaria; Influenza A virus