Abstract
SUMMARYImmune response (Ir) genes linked to genes encoding histocompatibility antigens affect antibody‐formation to synthetic polypeptides, weak native antigens and strong native protein antigens given in limiting doses. It has been proposed that the products of such Ir genes function as receptors for antigen on thymus‐derived lymphocytes (T‐cells) and these products are not immunoglobulin in nature. Ho wever, recent evidence indicates that (a) Ir genes are probably expressed in both T‐cells and in bone‐marrow‐derived lymphocytes (B‐cells); (b) IgM immunoglobulin is present on T‐cells and functions in the binding of antigen, and (c) T‐cells of nonresponder animals possess the capacity to recognize antigen. These results prompted us to consider alternative hypotheses for the function of Ir genes; namely (1)‘tolerance’hypotheses in which response is dominant over non‐response, and (2) the possibility that the Ir gene product can act as an amplifier of T‐cell function. These hypotheses are discussed within the context of murine studies and in relation to the association of human diseases, notably immunopathic phenomena, with HL‐A.
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