Generation of T-cell function in organ culture of foetal mouse thymus. II. Mixed lymphocyte culture reactivity
Robinson, J.H.; Owen, J.J.
Clinical and Experimental Immunology 27(2): 322-327
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0009-9104 PMID: 139222 Document Number: 122525
The generation of MLC reactive cells in organ cultures of embryonic mouse thymus is described. At least 4 days in culture are required before MLC reactive thymocytes are detectable in this system, which is in marked contrast to the short incubation period required for the expression of Thy-1 on T-cell precursors in other systems. Our data demonstrates the generation of T-cell subsets independent of influences from peripheral lymphoid organs, and in the absence of B cells or their products. One very important application of this technique is in the investigation of the mechanism of T-cell tolerance to self.