Jennifer Gamble

Regulation by the H-2 gene complex of delayed type hypersensitivity

Identity at the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) was essential for successful transfer of delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) in mice. The regions of the MHC involved differed according to the antigen used for sensitization. In the case of fowl gamma globulin (FGG), identity atI-A was necessary, whereas with dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB), identity at theK, I, orD region was sufficient. These different genetic constraints probably reflect differences in the mechanisms by which antigens are presented to T lymphocytes. Cells from sensitized (CBA×C57BL)F1 mice transferred DTH to FGG into parental-strain mice, but transfer was more effective in C57BL than in CBA with the same cell dose. This phenomenon is governed by the MHC, since there was better transfer intoH-2b than intoH-2k mice, regardless of their backgrounds. It may reflect the activity of an Ir gene-dependent process. Cells of one genotype (e.g., CBA), sensitized in chimeric mice derived from two MHC-incompatible strains (CBA↔C57BL), transferred DTH to both strains. These results do not support the notion that the genetic constraint observed in DTH transfer may be a result of the necessity for sensitized T and stimulator cells to match an identical MHC-coded cell interaction molecule. Rather, they favor the hypothesis that T cells recognize antigen, not as a naked determinant, but in close association with products of genes of the MHC.

A Receptor for Antibody on B Lymphocytes

The physicochemical structure of the receptor for antibody (FcR) on B cells and its interrelationship with Ig and H-2 gene complex associated antigens were examined. FcR were found to be sensitive to

A radioisotopic technique for measuring the mononuclear inflammatory response in Sindbis virus-induced encephalitis of mice.

The mononuclear inflammation occurring in Sindbis virus-induced encephalitis of mice has been measured by means of pulse labelling with [125I]UdR at a defined time after infection. The method should be applicable to other studies of encephalitis and of mononuclear cellular infiltration occurring in other organs as a result of disease or infection.