Induction of immunoglobulin synthesis by CD4+ T cell clones.

The study of mechanisms by which CD4+ T cells induce Ig synthesis has been greatly enhanced by the availability of CD4+ T cell clones with restricted cytokine profiles. We have demonstrated with in vitro and in vivo studies that both Th1 (T helper cell 1) and Th2 clones can provide MHC restricted help and induce primary as well as secondary antibody responses under cognate antigen driven conditions. In addition, we have shown that both types of clones, utilizing distinct cytokines, can effect B cell memory and affinity maturation of the Ig response, although the precise mechanisms by which this occurs are not yet clear. Using Th1 and Th2 clones, we have also shown that the pathways for IgG1 synthesis are redundant, in that induction of IgG1 synthesis in secondary responses in which B cells have already switched from IgM to IgG1, can occur via several pathways, one involving IL-4 and IL-5, the other involving IL-2. In contrast, IgE and IgG2a synthesis require specific cytokines for synthesis in both primary and secondary B cells. Finally, the cytokines produced by Th1 and Th2 clones can 'neutralize' each other, when both types of clones are present during the induction of primary Ig responses. As an exception however, the induction of IgA synthesis is greatly augmented by the presence of both types of clones.