T cell responses to cartilage derived antigens

T cells control and direct the immune system. In the normally functioning immune system these cells fight infections and control tumors. However, these same cells are implicated in the development of autoimmune diseases. The presence of CD4 T cells at the site of inflammation in RP suggests that they may be targeting the cartilage, leading to inflammation and destruction of these tissues. Our laboratory has attempted to identify the protein that is the target of the CD4 T cells in RP, and to isolate these T cells for further study. We have found that the majority of patients with RP have T cells which are activated by cartilage, specifically type II collagen. We have also been able to isolate and study these T cells in the laboratory. Our present studies continue to expand on this work, by examining more individuals for these collagen specific T cells and by searching for other cartilage proteins that may be the target of the immune system in RP.