Abstract
Because the expression of interleukin 2 (IL-2) receptor and transferrin receptor is essential for the proliferation of T cells to mitogens and antigens, we examined the expression of monoclonal antibody defined IL-2 receptor (Tac antigen) and transferrin receptor on unstimulated as well as on phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-activated highly enriched T cells from patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and AIDS-related complex (ARC). A trend of increased proportion of unstimulated T cells with Tac antigen and transferrin receptor was observed in patients with AIDS and ARC when compared to healthy heterosexual controls, but the differences were not significant ( P > 0.1). The proportions of Tac + PHA-activated T cells were, however, significantly decreased in AIDS ( P < 0.001). ARC ( P < 0.001), and asymptomatic homosexuals ( P < 0.01) when compared to healthy heterosexuals. The proportions of transferrin receptor positive PHA-activated T cells were not significantly different among various groups. A significantly ( P < 0.01) decreased production of IL-2 was observed in AIDS. This study suggests that the poor proliferative responses of T cells may be due to several defects in lymphocyte-cytokine cascade and the deficiency of Tac antigen expression and of the production of IL-2 could be a few of several abnormalities contributing to poor T-cell functions in AIDS.
Published Version
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