CHARACTERIZATION OF HUMAN CD8(-CELLS REACTIVE WITH MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS-INFECTED ANTIGEN-PRESENTING CELLS() T)

Previous studies in murine models, including those using the beta 2 mi croglobulin knockout mouse, have suggested an important role for CD8() T cells in host defense to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). At pres ent, little is understood about these cells in the human immune respon se to tuberculosis. This report demonstrates the existence of human Mt b-reactive CD8(+) T cells. These cells are present preferentially in p ersons infected with Mtb and produce interferon gamma in response to s timulation with Mtb-infected target cells. Recognition of Mtb-infected cells by these CD8(+) T cells is restricted neither by the major hist ocompatibility complex (MHC) class I A, B, or C alleles nor by CD1, al though it is inhibited by anti-MHC class I antibody. The Mtb-specific CD8(+) T cells recognize an antigen which is generated in the proteaso me, but which does not require transport through the Golgi-ER. The dat a suggest the possible use of nonpolymorphic MHC class Ib antigen pres enting structures other than CD1.