Thymic involution in pregnant mice. II. Functional aspects of the remaining thymocytes
Phuc, L.H.; Papiernik, M.; Dardenne, M.
Clinical and Experimental Immunology 44(2): 253-261
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0009-9104 PMID: 6458427 Document Number: 176912
Non-specific immunological modifications in mice during syngeneic gestation are demonstrated. A dramatic transient thymic involution results from a significant reduction in the subpopulations of the thymic cortex with the remaining thymocytes [TC] being mainly medullary in nautre. Response to phytohemagglutinin and concanavalin A is greatly reduced in this pool which can normally be strongly stimulated. No suppressor cells or alteration in thymic epithelial function were demonstrated. This unexpected low responsiveness of the remaining TC was reversible after in vitro neuraminidase treatment. Meanwhile, mixed lymphocyte reactions of TC to allogeneic cells during syngeneic gestation was not impaired.