Human natural killer cells enhance a mixed leukocyte reaction.
Natural killer cells (NK) have been reported to down-regulate the initiation of T cell responses in animal models. In the current study, highly purified CD16+ human NK cells were obtained by cell sorting and their effect on the stimulation of allogeneic T cells (MLR) determined. NK cells did not directly stimulate T cell proliferation. However, when added to a population of loosely adherent mononuclear cells (LAM), NK enhanced the ability of these accessory cells to stimulate T proliferation. This effect was not reproduced by the addition of sorted CD5 + T cells, sorted CD16- cells, or control lymphocytes to the MLR. The effect of NK on the MLR was not restricted by class II antigens and was similar to the effect of adding IL-1 to MLR cultures. These results demonstrate that human NK cells are capable of enhancing a T cell response.
Weissler
J C
JC
Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Dallas 75235-9034.
Yarbrough
W C
WC
Toews
G B
GB
Nicod
L P
LP
D000938:Antigen-Presenting Cells / Q000276:immunology*; D002469:Cell Separation; D006801:Humans; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D007375:Interleukin-1 / Q000096:biosynthesis / Q000494:pharmacology; D007694:Killer Cells, Natural / Q000276:immunology*; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation; D007959:Lymphocyte Culture Test, Mixed; D008285:Major Histocompatibility Complex; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology*
D007375:Interleukin-1