TRAFFICKING OF ACTIVATED CYTOTOXIC T-LYMPHOCYTES INTO THE CENTRAL-NERVOUS-SYSTEM - USE OF A TRANSGENIC MODEL

We have used cell or tissue-specific promoters to express lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) proteins in selected cells in independen t lines of transgenic mice. Upon adoptive transfers into these mice, M HC-restricted LCMV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes homed specifically to either the choroid plexus (SV40 promoter) or beta cells of the isl ets of Langerhans (rat insulin promoter). The availability of promoter s specific for neurons, oligodendrocytes and astrocytes makes this app roach compelling for evaluating T cell trafficking into the CNS and fo r analyzing antigen presentation in vivo in the CNS.