IL-2 producing memory CD4(+) T lymphocytes are closely associated with the generation of IgG-secreting plasma cells

Nicolle Litjens, J Huisman, D (Daniëlle) Hijdra, Bart Lambrecht, Koert Stittelaar, M.G.H. Betjes

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51 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The role of specific CD4(+) T cell subsets in the induction of Immoral immune responses in humans is largely unknown. In this study, the generation of hepatitis B surface Ag-specific CD4(+) T lymphocytes following vaccination was closely monitored and characterized at the single-cell level. The appearance and absolute numbers of hepatitis B surface Ag-specific IL-2 producing effector memory CD4(+) T lymphocytes was solely and tightly related to Ab titers reached. This relation remained present many years after vaccination. Subsequently, a relation was found between Ab titers and number of IL-2 producing memory CD4(+) T lymphocytes for various other Ags. These observations matched the findings of an in vitro assay, using different T cell subsets to induce B cell differentiation into IgG-producing plasma cells. By depleting for IL-2 producing memory T cells, we demonstrated that these cells are important for B cell differentiation into IgG-producing plasma cells. Finally, blocking the action of IL-2 with an IL-2R-alpha Ab inhibited the differentiation of B lymphocytes into IgG-producing plasma cells. Based on these findings, we conclude that the development of Ag-specific IL-2-producing memory T cells appears to be essential for the development of IgG-secreting plasma cells in humans.
Original languageUndefined/Unknown
Pages (from-to)3665-3673
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of Immunology
Volume181
Issue number5
Publication statusPublished - 2008

Research programs

  • EMC MM-04-27-01
  • EMC MM-04-39-05

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