Phenotypic complexity of intraepithelial lymphocytes of the small intestine.

摘要: A detailed phenotypic analysis of intraepithelial lymphocytes (IEL) the small intestine was performed using multicolor fluorescence flow cytometry. CD4+8+ IEL (double positives; DP) could be detected in significant numbers preparations from several mouse strains. DP expressed Tcr alpha, beta and Thy1. Comparison levels thymocytes revealed that whereas majority low levels, high, mature T cell Tcr. In addition, were generally Ly3- (CD8 beta), unlike their thymic counterparts, which are Ly3+. Ly3 not present on gamma, delta IEL, CD4-8+ contained Ly3+ subsets. The population either Tcr-bearing subset further subdivided by Thy1 expression. Ly1 (CD5) expression also examined, none Ly1+. Based Thy1, Ly3, expression, four subsets detected. results indicate cellular complexity compartment rivals found thymus. These findings discussed light recent data suggesting an extrathymic origin some IEL.