Susceptibility and resistance of human autoimmune T cell activation to the immunoregulatory effects of transforming growth factor (TGF) beta 1, beta 2, and beta 1.2

J Neuroimmunol. 1990 Aug;28(3):271-6. doi: 10.1016/0165-5728(90)90020-n.

Abstract

The transforming growth factors type beta (TGF-beta) regulate immune responses by suppressing a variety of leukocyte functions. Using a panel of human autoimmune T cell lines specific for the acetylcholine receptor (AchR) we investigated the immunoregulatory effects of TGF-beta 1, TGF-beta 2, and TGF-beta 1.2. The cytokines have identical effects inhibiting activation of most T line cells and the activation-dependent changes in interleukin-2 (IL-2) receptor and T cell receptor expression. IL-2-dependent growth was not modulated by TGF-beta. However, autoimmune T cell lines specific for AchR differ in their susceptibility to TGF-beta and some are completely refractory. Resistance of autoimmune T cell activation to immunosuppressive cytokines might be an element in the development of chronic autoimmune disease.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antigens, Surface / analysis
  • Autoantigens / immunology
  • Cell Line
  • Humans
  • Lymphocyte Activation / drug effects*
  • Receptors, Interleukin-2 / analysis
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • Transforming Growth Factors / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Antigens, Surface
  • Autoantigens
  • Receptors, Interleukin-2
  • Transforming Growth Factors