Genetic control of allogeneic interactions in the guinea-pig. IV. The specific elimination of MLC suppressor cells by the in vivo administration of antisera against a GPLA-B region-controlled determinant.

The in vivo effects of alloantisera, on the production of mixed leucocyte culture (MLC)-suppressor cells and suppressor factor (MLC-SF) as well as on the adoptive transfer of MLC suppression, were investigated. Intravenously administered anti-B.2 serum specifically eliminates B.2-associated MLC unresponsiveness and prevents the production of MLC-SF. By contrast, antisera directed against other B locus (homologous to the mouse H-2D or H-2K regions) or I region determinants do not appear to interfere with suppressor cell or factor production. Peritoneal exudate cells (PEC) from B.2-positive guinea-pigs can transfer MLC unresponsiveness to "normal' B.1-positive recipients; treatment of donor animals with anti-B.2 serum specifically prevents the transfer of MLC suppression. the results of this study support our earlier in vitro demonstration of B.2-bearing suppressor T cells which are sensitive to lysis by anti-B.2 sera in the presence of complement.