On the structure of the T-cell receptor for antigen

Abstract

Antigen-binding receptors of T lymphocytes were analyzed in two different ways. First, the idiotypic properties of T helper cells are studied using anti-idiotypic antisera prepared against isolated antibodies specific for A-CHO. These anti-idiotypic antisera are defined by immunogenetic and immunochemical means with respect to their reactivity with heavy- or light-chain-associated idiotypic determinants. Second, antigen-binding receptors are isolated from enriched T-and B-lymphocyte preparations and compared with respect to their reactivity with antigen and with class- or allotype-specific anti-Ig antisera. The results provide an incomplete picture of the T-cell receptor which shares with antibodies the variable region of the heavy chain but probably no other variable or constant portion.