CD4 CD8-NEGATIVE T-CELLS WITH ALPHA-BETA ANTIGEN RECEPTORS/

A minor population of alpha beta T cells expresses neither CD4 nor CD8 . These cells are probably heterogeneous. They are widespread in anato mical distribution, express an abnormal T-cell repertoire largely unaf fected by selective processes that act on CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells, a nd exhibit both cytotoxic and Th-2-like functions. Their role in norma l immune function is completely obscure, but they are active in murine and human autoimmune disease.