The role of a gamma interferon-like lymphokine in the activation of T cells for expression of interleukin 2 receptors.

Human peripheral T cells, but not non-T cells, expressed receptors for interleukin 2 when treated with partially purified human gamma interferon (IFN-gamma). The expression of the receptors was evidenced by proliferation of IFN-gamma-treated cells in the presence of IL 2 and absorption of IL 2 by treated cells. The IFN-gamma-induced expression of IL 2 receptors was associated with partially purified IFN-gamma (approximately 2000-fold purified) and was blocked by treatment of IFN-gamma with specific antibodies or destruction of IFN-gamma by acid pH. IFN-gamma induced expression of receptors in a manner similar to that of concanavalin A (Con A). Further, Con A induction of expression of receptors was blocked by simultaneous treatment of cultures with anti-IFN-gamma sera, suggesting that IFN-gamma was involved in Con A induction of IL 2 receptors. T cells in culture are continuously exposed to various forms of antigen stimulation, and thus the function of IFN-gamma may be the enhancement of expression of antigen- or mitogen-induced IL 2 receptors in a manner similar to its enhancement of expression of antigens of the major histocompatibility complex.