Susceptibility and resistance of human autoimmune T cell activation to the immunoregulatory effects of transforming growth factor (TGF) beta 1, beta 2, and beta 1.2.
The transforming growth factors type beta (TGF-beta) regulate immune responses by suppressing a variety of leukocyte functions. Using a panel of human autoimmune T cell lines specific for the acetylcholine receptor (AchR) we investigated the immunoregulatory effects of TGF-beta 1, TGF-beta 2, and TGF-beta 1.2. The cytokines have identical effects inhibiting activation of most T line cells and the activation-dependent changes in interleukin-2 (IL-2) receptor and T cell receptor expression. IL-2-dependent growth was not modulated by TGF-beta. However, autoimmune T cell lines specific for AchR differ in their susceptibility to TGF-beta and some are completely refractory. Resistance of autoimmune T cell activation to immunosuppressive cytokines might be an element in the development of chronic autoimmune disease.
Schluesener
H
H
Clinical Research Unit for Multiple Sclerosis, Max-Planck-Society, Würzburg, F.R.G.
Jung
S
S
Salvetti
M
M
D000954:Antigens, Surface / Q000032:analysis; D001324:Autoantigens / Q000276:immunology; D002460:Cell Line; D006801:Humans; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation / Q000187:drug effects*; D015375:Receptors, Interleukin-2 / Q000032:analysis; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology*; D015291:Transforming Growth Factors / Q000494:pharmacology*
D000954:Antigens, Surface; D001324:Autoantigens; D015375:Receptors, Interleukin-2; D015291:Transforming Growth Factors