[Receptors for polysaccharides of group A streptococci on human thymic lymphocytes. Stimulation of their expression by action of adenosine, theophylline and supernatant of thymocytes].

It was established by indirect immunofluorescence that thymic lymphocytes bear receptors for polysaccharide of group A streptococci (Rps). The ability of thymic lymphocytes to express Rps depends on the cAMP concentration in the cell, because the treatment of thymocytes with adenosine and theophylline increases the number of cells with Rps (Tps cells). Supernatant of thymic lymphocytes is also capable of stimulating expression of Rps.

[Stimulation of expression of IgM and IgG receptors on human thymus lymphocytes after treatment with lactoferrin in vitro].

It was established by immunofluorescence that lactoferrin, one of the heteroorganic thymus antigens, can stimulate the expression of Fc mu and Fcj receptors on thymus lymphocytes. The stimulating effect of lactoferrin on T mu cells is more pronounced with the level of these cells in the thymus being low. Its effect on Tj cells seems independent of their level in the thymus and may be related to their precursor differentiation.

[Bound immunoglobulins and immune complexes in the thymus of myopathy patients].

Profound changes in epithelial and lymphoid tissues were detected by the immunofluorescent technique in the thymus of myopathy patients. The characteristic immunomorphological manifestation indicating injuries to the thymic epithelial tissue is the sedimentation of IgG, IgA and complement in basal membranes and in the cytoplasm of adjacent poorly differentiated epithelial cells. Another remarkable sign of the changes in the thymic epithelial tissue during the disease is a sharply marked cystic degeneration of Hassall bodies, eventuating in the sedimentation of keratinized material in the internal environment of the organ.