A novel role for interleukin 2 in antibody responses: down-regulation of T helper cell activation
Kennedy, M.; Wassmer, P.; Erb, P.
Journal of Immunology 139(1): 110-113
1987
ISSN/ISBN: 0022-1767 PMID: 2953808 Document Number: 290917
This report provides new insights into the role of the T cell growth factor interleukin 2 (IL 2) for the regulation of antibody responses. Evidence is presented that IL 2 down-regulates T helper cell (Thc) activation but not Thc effector function, i.e., Thc-B cooperation. Thus, reagents which block the IL 2 pathway, e.g., cyclosporin A (CsA) or IL 2 receptor monoclonal antibodies (IL 2R Mab) enhanced Thc activation although T cell proliferation was blocked. In contrast, CsA or IL 2R Mab blocked Thc-B cooperation, suggesting that IL 2 is required for this step. The regulatory role of IL 2 was reconfirmed by the addition of exogenous IL 2 into the cultures which reversed the enhancing or blocking effect of CsA.