MHC matching shows that at least two T-cell subsets determine resistance to HSV

Abstract

DISTINCT T-cell subsets recognise antigens in association with different major histocompatibility complex (MHC) products, and this provides a means of identifying the subsets which operate in protective immunity against pathogens. Thus, cytotoxic T cells (Tc) recognise antigen in association with products of the K and D regions of the H–2 complex of the mouse; and because protection against lymphocytic choriomeningitis1, ectromelia2 and influenza3 requires compatibility at K or D in adoptive transfer experiments, it follows that the subset mediates protective immunity against these viruses. I-region compatibility requirements have not hitherto been observed in viral infections, but are necessary for protection against the intracellular parasite Listeria monocytogenes. This suggests that T helper cells (TH) and/or the lymphocytes responsible for delayed hypersensitivity and lymphokine release may be involved4 (these lymphocytes can provisionally be included within the TH subset). Adoptive transfer studies in mice have clearly established a major role for T lymphocytes in recovery from infection with herpes simplex virus (HSV-1)5–7. The T-lymphocyte subclass or classes responsible for this protection are not known. In vitro cytotoxic T cells (Tc)8, and their primed precursors9 can be obtained from HSV-1 infected mice. The present study indicates that immune protection against HSV-1 can be conferred by immune spleen cells possessing either I or K-D compatibility, and that long-lasting protection is conferred only by cells with I-region compatibility.