Identification of a T helper cell-derived lymphokine that activates resting T lymphocytes.
A novel lymphokine with apparent molecular size of 10 to 12 kilodaltons is secreted from helper T cell clones within hours after cross-linking their T cell antigen-MHC (major histocompatibility complex) receptors (T3-Ti). This lymphokine, termed interleukin-4A (IL-4A), stimulates resting lymphocytes by binding to a surface component (or components) of the alternative T11 pathway and subsequently by inducing interleukin-2 (IL-2) receptors. The activation process is neither dependent on antigen specificities of the recruited population or the presence of macrophages. It appears, therefore, that IL-4A is a mediator involved in amplifying the T cell immune response.
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D002999:Clone Cells; D006801:Humans; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation; D008222:Lymphokines / Q000276:immunology*; D008970:Molecular Weight; D011971:Receptors, Immunologic / Q000032:analysis; D015375:Receptors, Interleukin-2; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology*; D006377:T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / Q000378:metabolism*
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D008222:Lymphokines; D011971:Receptors, Immunologic; D015375:Receptors, Interleukin-2