| 摘要 |
Peptides having at least seven amino acids, preferably up to 20 amino acids, and most preferably 7 to 9 amino acids, comprising an amino acid sequence which corresponds to positions 180-186 of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis protein hsp 65 having the formula TFGLQLE, but differing therefrom by one to three amino acid substitutions in the positions 181-183, are disclosed. These peptides inhibit antigen recognition by T lymphocytes, such as recognition of hsp 65, and are capable of protecting a subject from an immune-related disease, such as autoimmune arthritis and to prevent rejection of a transplanted organ or tissue. Single amino acid substitutions, in particular with alanine, at positions corresponding to hsp 65 positions 183 and 181 are preferred. T cell lines specific for the above peptides and their use in treating or preventing immune-related disease is also disclosed. |
