Analysis of chironomid allergens using specific T cell lines and clones in humans.

To analyze the possible major T cell recognition site(s) of chironomid antigens, we established human T cell lines and clones (CD3+ 4+ 8-) reactive to soluble extracts of the adult midge of Tokunagayusurika akamusi (TAA) and/or Chironomus yoshimatsui (CYA). All T cell lines and clones proliferated heavily in response to relatively large molecular weight fractions of TAA (MW greater than or equal to 15,000). Nine clones reactive to TAA were classified into 3 groups according to reactivity, indicating the existence of at least 3 distinct T cell recognition sites in TAA. Five T cell clones responded to both TAA and CYA, although the two chironomid antigens were serologically distinct. We conclude that T cell recognition sites of chironomid antigens are different from B cell recognition sites in humans.