Selective migration of the human helper/inducer T-cell subset CD4+ in BCG induced arthritis

ABSTRACT

SMs were stained with a panel of monoclonal antibodies [mAbs] directed against mononuclear cellular infiltrates [MNC] and HLA DR expressing ce11s. A large number of T-cells, particularly CD4 helper/inducer subset, was detected in the perivascular areas. Mature macrophages were observed mainly in the lining layer. B-cells were detected in a small percentage in perivascular aggregate and occasional cells in connective tissue areas. Moreover, HLA-DR expressing cells were detected in a large number in perivascular and connective tissue areas. In conclusion, BCG-induced arthritis is an immune-mediated process. T-cells, especially CD4+ helper/inducer subset which showed a selective migration to SMs, are likely to have the main role immediating this type of arthritis which is regulated by HLA-DR expression