T-cell receptor Vβ use predicts reactivity and tolerance to Mlsa- encoded antigens

Abstract

T lymphocytes reactive with the product of the Mls^a-allele of the minor lymphocyte stimulating (Mls) locus use a predominant T-cell receptor β-chain variable gene segment (V_β6). Such V_β6-bearing T cells are selectively eliminated in the thymus of Mls^a-bearing mice, consistent with a model in which tolerance to self antigens is achieved by clonal deletion.