[Role of T lymphocytes in systemic lupus erythematosus].
In very active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the serum levels of interleukin-2 (IL-2) are increased, indicating activation of T lymphocytes in the organism. The peripheral blood, however, contains T cells with a strongly reduced functional capacity, which results from a post-activation/refractory state; this hypofunction is reversible. Thus, the activity of the T lymphocytes in the circulating pool is the "mirror image" of the activity of these cells at the level of the whole organism. The B lymphocyte hyperactivity in SLE is T-dependent. A highly specific mechanism is involved in the activation of the B cells producing anti-native DNA antibodies. The investigation of lymphocyte functions enables one to follow the effect of immunosuppressive therapy.
Département de Médecine, Hôpital Cantonal Universitaire, Genève.
R H
RH
Zubler
P A
PA
Miescher
D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D007376:Interleukin-2 / Q000032:analysis; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000276:immunology*; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation / Q000502:physiology; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology / Q000502:physiology*
D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D007376:Interleukin-2
Le rôle des lymphocytes T dans le lupus érythémateux disséminé.