[Cell interaction in immune response].

Abstract

The recognition of antigens by specific T- and B-lymphocytic receptors underlies an immune response. However, the formation of a potential signal for the activation of lymphocytes requires an additional their stimulation (costimulation). The main source of costimulation signals is the interaction of the surface molecules of lymphocytes and accessory cells. The interaction between the T-cell surface molecules CD28 and costimulatory molecules of antigen-presenting cells (CD80 or CD86) is the most important point of the T-helper cell activation. The interaction between B-cell molecule CD40 and T-helper surface molecule CD154 is the key event of B-cell (and other antigen-presenting cell) activation. When costimulation is absent, antigen recognition induces specific lymphocytic anergy or apoptosis. Defects of costimulatory molecular expression or function can cause immunodeficiency. For example, hereditary defect of CD154 expression causes the hyper-IgM syndrome. The soluble forms of some costimulatory molecules are considered to be potential immunomodulators.