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Immune response (Ir) genes expressed at macrophage–B lymphocyte interactions

Abstract

THERE are two major types of genetic control of antibody responses. One is linked to immunoglobulin (Ig) allotype, and the relevant genes are Ig heavy-chain variable-region genes, which control receptor structures on B cells1. The other major region controlling immune responses lies in the major histo-compatibility complex (MHC), a genetic region discovered due to its predominant influence on graft reactions, but also containing immune response (Ir) genes2. The mode of action of the MHC-linked Ir genes is not known. Many hypotheses have been proposed both for their cellular site of action, that is, on T cells, B cells or macrophages, and for their mechanism of action2–4. Recently, we discussed the possibility that as macrophages are required for T and B lymphocyte activities, the available data were compatible with Ir genes expressed at the macrophage–lymphocyte interactions, with either T cells or B cells5. Results implying the involvement of macrophage Ir genes in the macrophage–T lymphocyte interaction have been reported in several species and systems, and include antigen induced proliferation in guinea pigs and mice6,7, and delayedtype hypersensitivity responses8. We report here the first evidence for macrophage Ir genes at the macrophage–B cell interaction.

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HOWIE, S., FELDMANN, M. Immune response (Ir) genes expressed at macrophage–B lymphocyte interactions. Nature 273, 664–666 (1978). https://doi.org/10.1038/273664a0

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