I-J as a Restriction Element in the Suppressor T Cell System

Abstract

This review attempts to sort out the differences between macrophage and T cell I-J determinants. We propose that suppressor T cells have receptors for self-I-J determinants which are expressed on macrophage-like accessory cells. The I-J determinants associated with accessory cells are responsible for the selection of the Ts receptors. Although the major histocompatibility complex is involved in the selection of Ts receptors, the receptors themselves need not be encoded by genes which reside within the MHC. In fact, the molecular genetic evidence presently available has established that suppressor T cell factors do not express gene products associated with the postulated I-J region of the H-2 complex. In spite of the failures of biochemists and molecular geneticists to identify I-J genes and gene products, there is extensive biological data demonstrating the existence of I-J. The activity of anti-I-J reagents has been verified by numerous laboratories. Sera containing anti-I-J activity have been prepared in many strain combinations. Immunization between a variety of strains differing at the purported I-J region produce active anti-I-J antibodies (Murphy et al. 1976, Tada et al. 1976, Pierres et al. 1977, Tada et al. 1978). Furthermore, in many suppressor cell systems the interactions of Ts cells and factors are restricted by I-J (Tada & Okumara 1980, Sorensen & Pierce 1982, Green et al. 1983, Dorf & Benacerraf 1984). Most investigators who have attempted to detect I-J have analyzed T cells. Since we propose that T cells express a complementary anti-I-J receptor, subsequent efforts at identifying I-J should include analysis of macrophage I-J determinants. In spite of extensive biological data, we still do not know if I-J is a protein, carbohydrate or lipid. In addition, the role of H-2 in determining I-J structure is unknown. Nevertheless, the overwhelming biological data demonstrate that I-J is an important structure for suppressor T cell interactions. Much remains to be accomplished, including the characterization of I-J products and locating the I-J genes.