Generation of thymus-derived helper cells by macrophage-associated antigen

Abstract A double cell transfer system was used to investigate the efficacy of macrophage bound antigen in generating carrier-reactive helper T cells. Macrophage bound antigen was found to be three orders of magnitude more potent than soluble antigen in T cell priming. The results are discussed with reference to the involvement of macrophages or related cells in the normal processes of immune induction.