CD8+ LYMPHOCYTES AUGMENT CHRONIC REJECTION IN A MHC CLASS II MISMATCHED MODEL

Abstract

In this MHC class II mismatched murine model, CAV is a T lymphocyte dependent event, and absolutely contingent on the presence of CD4+ lymphocytes. Furthermore, CD8+ lymphocytes (1) are activated by MHC class II disparate antigens and (2) play a significant role in the progression of lesion development. Finally, both CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes contribute to CAV development via secretion of IFN-gamma, a known mediator of CAV in this model.