SELF-REACTIVE GAMMA-DELTA T-CELLS ARE ELIMINATED IN THE THYMUS

The genes encoding a γδ T-cell receptor specific for a major histocompatibility complex class I molecule encoded by the Tla locus have been inserted into the mouse germ line. In mice that do not express the Tla-encoded determinant, transgenic γδ T cells are a functional component of the CD4∼CD8∼ 'double-negative' T cells in the thymus and peripheral lymphoid organs. In mice that express the Tla-encoded determinant, there are no transgenic γδ T cells in peripheral lymphoid organs, and there are no thymocytes expressing normal levels of the transgenic γδ T-cell receptor. © 1990 Nature Publishing Group.