Mixed lymphocyte reactivity in cattle

Abstract

Mixed lymphocyte reactivity (MLR) in cattle was assessed by measuring the extent of cellular proliferation between allogeneic lymphocytes in an in vitro test system. To test for involvement of the bovine major histocompatibility system (BoLA) the MLR tests were done using full-sibling cattle families which had been generated through the use of embryo transfer systems. The results showed that the responses in the MLR tests were associated with the BoLA antigen sharing status between the individuals being tested. Since the tests, were done using full-sibling combinations, this result suggests genetic linkage between the MLR controlling antigens and the BoLA complex.

Serological and genetic identification of a bovine B lymphocyte alloantigen system

“…The existence of a MHS-linked I region and the associated antigens (Ia) in the cow is only a speculative proposition at present (Adams, Brandon & Morris, 1979) although the presence of an MHS which is similar to those of other species suggests that an I region may yet be defined. The demonstration of BoLA control over mixed lymphocyte reactivity (MLR) in cattle also suggests the existence of such a region (Usinger et al, 1981;Newman, Campion & Stear, 1982). Additionally, the variation in immune responsiveness seen in different cattle can be taken to suggest some type of genetic control.…”