A newly designed column for selective removal of CD4 T cells

Abstract

T cell mediated immunity is the principal mechanism of inflammatory demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). This has led to therapeutic attempt to modify the immune system in selective way in patients with T cell mediated disease. We attempted to remove CD4+T cells, including autoreactive T cells, selectively from the circulation by means of adsorption using anti-CD4 monoclonal antibody (MoAb). A column immobilized anti-CD4 MoAb on the surface of activated substance is designed to remove helper T cells. With direct perfusion of whole blood through the column, it was possible to remove selectively more than 90% of CD4+T cells from blood, resulting in abolishing the T cell response to antigen. This new strategy in immunotherapy should be useful treatment for MS.