Induction of specific immune unresponsiveness using purified mixed leukocyte culture-activated T lymphoblasts as autoimmunogen. I. Demonstration of general validity as to species and histocompatibility barriers.

Abstract

Normal immunocompetent T [thymus derived] lymphocytes can be induced into specific proliferation if confronted with the relevant alloantigen in vitro. Such mixed leukocyte culture-activated T lymphoblasts carrying idiotypic receptors on their surface can be purified using velocity sedimentation and serve as immunogen if administered in adjuvant to the autologous host. Autoblast immunization leads to specific, long-lasting unresponsiveness against the relevant alloantigens, while leaving reactivity against third-party antigens intact. When tested as to general validity, it functions in all species analayzed (mouse, rat and guinea pig) as well as across both major and minor histocompatibility barriers. No negative side effects have been noted so far. Autoblast immunization using the above described scheme may serve as a general tool in inducing long-lasting, specific unresponsiveness in any species and across any histocompatibility barrier.