Late differentiation antigen associated with helper T lymphocyte function

摘要

A late differentiation antigen (LDA1) expressed by activated helper cells is described. LDA1 is a membrane protein recognized by a monoclonal antibody produced by immunizing mice with an alloreactive human T cell clone with helper function. LDA1 is expressed by helper T cells optionally 9 days after activation. Anti-LDA1 monoclonal antibody blocks T cell enhancement of B-cell immunoglobulin production. Thus, LDA1 is associated with helper T cell effector function. Methods of diagnosis and therapy based upon LDA1 are also described.