T lymphocyte subsets in human intestinal mucosa: the distribution and relationship to MHC-derived antigens

Clin Exp Immunol. 1981 Jun;44(3):453-8.

Abstract

T lymphocytes in the normal human intestinal tract have been analysed in tissue sections by a double-marker immunofluorescence technique, combining antiserum to T lymphocyte antigen (HuTLA) with a monoclonal antibody detecting T cells of suppressor-cytotoxic phenotype (OKT8). The distribution of HLA-A -B, -C and Ia-like antigens in intestinal mucosa was also examined by a similar method. In small and large intestine 67 to 90% (mean 70%) of intraepithelial T lymphocytes were of suppressor-cytotoxic phenotype (OKT8+). In contrast, only 27 to 56% (mean 39%) of lamina propria T cells were OKT8+. Intestinal epithelial cells demonstrated strong membrane staining for HLA-A, -B, -C antigens. Ia-like antigens were detected on the epithelial cells of small intestinal villi, but not on colonic epithelial cells. Lamina propria macrophages expressed both HLA-A, -B, -C and Ia-like antigens, the latter having strong membrane and cytoplasmic fluorescence. The distribution of T cells with suppressor-cytotoxic or inducer phenotype in the intestinal epithelium and lamina propria may be related to the differential expression of Ia-like and HLA-A, -B, -C antigens in intestinal mucosa.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / immunology
  • Cytotoxicity, Immunologic
  • Fluorescent Antibody Technique
  • HLA Antigens / analysis*
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class II / analysis
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Mucosa / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes / classification*
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • HLA Antigens
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class II