Identification of CD4+, 2H4+ (T8 gamma +) suppressor-inducer cells in normal human epidermis and superficial dermis.

Immunohistological staining of frozen sections of normal human skin demonstrated the presence of significant numbers of mononuclear cells expressing novel epitopes associated with CD4-positive suppressor-inducer functions. The cells were located around superficial vessels and within the basal layers of the epidermis and hair follicles. The antigen identified by the various antibodies has been shown to be functionally important in the induction of various suppressor cells capable of abrogating B cell responses to pokeweed mitogen. The presence in the skin of cells with possible down-regulatory functions in the immune response may be significant with respect to surveillance against neoplasms and control of appropriate responses to infectious agents.