Clonal analysis of intrahepatic T lymphocytes in chronic active hepatitis. Isolation of a T-cell line specific for hepatitis B core antigen from a patient with serological evidence of exposure to HBV

We have evaluated whether peripheral blood and hepatic lymphocytes from a patient with chronic active hepatitis (CAH) and antibodies to HBV in serum were specifically sensitized to HBV envelope antigens (HBsAg and pre-S Ag) or to HBcAg. No proliferation to HBV antigens was demonstrated upon stimulation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells either unfractionated or enriched in CD4+ (helper/inducer) T cells. Of 15 T-cell cloned lines (7 CD8+ and 8 CD4+) obtained by limiting dilution in the presence of PHA and recombinant IL2 from liver-infiltrating lymphocytes, one, designated H2, showed specific sensitization to HBcAg, whereas none demonstrated sensitization to viral envelope antigens. The H2 line displayed the CD8+ phenotype, suppressor activity on polyclonal immunoglobulin production and IL2-dependent, HBcAg-specific proliferation. These results suggest that in patients with CAH and serological evidence of previous exposure to HBV, it is possible to obtain lymphocytes specifically sensitized to HBcAg from liver biopsy.

[Diuretics in cardiovascular pathology. Their clinical use in the light of recent pathogenetic studies]

The action of the most common diuretics is reviewed with emphasis on precise indications in the case of cardiac deficiency, arterial hypertension and certain forms of angina pectoris. These drugs are judged extremely useful if the necessary precautions are taken at all times. Disturbances to the water-electrolyte balance may however occur during treatment and changes in the magnesium electrolyte are described in the light of recent developments in our knowledge of the physiopathology of diuretics.