Abstract
Recently, several laboratories have identified a novel protein(s) of 70,000 to 75,000 Da (IL-2R beta-subunit) that, when expressed with the p55 Tac protein (alpha-subunit), imparts high affinity IL-2 binding. Expression of the beta-subunit mediates acquisition of MHC-unrestricted cytotoxicity in large granular lymphocytes. We report that thymocytes and T acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells express the beta-subunit of the IL-2R in the absence of detectable alpha-subunit expression and that IL-2 induces acquisition of MHC-unrestricted cytotoxic activity in these cells through stimulation of the beta-subunit.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Child
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Cytotoxicity, Immunologic*
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Humans
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Interleukin-2 / metabolism
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Leukemia, Lymphoid / genetics
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Leukemia, Lymphoid / immunology*
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Leukemia, Lymphoid / metabolism
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Major Histocompatibility Complex*
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Phenotype
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Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / genetics
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Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / metabolism
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Receptors, Immunologic / isolation & purification
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Receptors, Immunologic / metabolism*
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Receptors, Interleukin-2
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T-Lymphocytes, Cytotoxic / immunology*
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Thymus Gland / cytology*
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Thymus Gland / metabolism
Substances
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Interleukin-2
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Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell
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Receptors, Immunologic
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Receptors, Interleukin-2