T cell-mediated inhibition of the transfer of autoimmune diabetes in NOD mice

Current concepts in autoimmunity

Autoimmune diseases are subsequent to tissue damage mediated by an immune reaction directed toward autoantigens. Activation of CD4+ T cells reactive to carrier determinants on foreign antigenic complexes or autoreactive CD4+ T cells are central to the triggering of immune effector mechanisms. Transfer experiments in animals, demonstration of suppressor T cells, study of antigen-presenting cells--CD4+ T cells interaction, isolation of T cell clones and study of transgenic mice have recently brought new insight into the understanding of autoimmunity.