Identification of two distinct function gamma delta TCR complexes on the surface of a human T cell clone

Scand J Immunol. 1995 May;41(5):499-503. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-3083.1995.tb03598.x.

Abstract

In this study we describe the expression of two T cell receptor (TCR) gamma chains on the surface of a human T cell clone isolated from the peripheral blood. Each gamma chain was part of an independent and functional TCR. The dual receptor T cell clone (and all subclones derived from this clone) had stable expression of this phenotype. Immunoprecipitation studies revealed the expression of non-disulfide linked TCRs by this V gamma 4+V gamma 9+V delta 1+ T cell clone, which was in agreement with the finding that both V gamma gene transcripts were rearranged to C gamma 2-associated joining elements. Both gamma chains were derived from productive rearrangements of different (allelic) genes coding for a V gamma 4+ and a V gamma 9+ gamma-chain, and both were coupled to a V delta 1+ delta chain. Incubation of this V gamma 4+V gamma 9+V delta 1+ T cell clone with TCR gamma-chain-specific MoAbs rapidly induced an increase in intracellular Ca++, indicating that both gamma-chains are functional. Furthermore, this clone responded to stimulation with S. aureus derived superantigens. We suggest therefore that exogenous (super)antigens can trigger dual receptor T cells resulting in activation of these T cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / immunology
  • Autoimmune Diseases / etiology
  • Base Sequence
  • Clone Cells
  • Humans
  • Molecular Sequence Data
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta / analysis*
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta / genetics
  • Superantigens / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes / physiology*

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta
  • Superantigens