T-cell antigen receptors.

We have reviewed the knowledge of the human TCR and its implications in dermatology. The TCR has been shown to be the molecule responsible for specific cellular immunity in the same way that immunoglobulins confer humoral immunity. Much has been learned about the complex genomic organization of the TCR chains and how the great diversity of TCR proteins is created by somatic rearrangement of the genes. Most peripheral T cells carry an alpha/beta TCR heterodimer; these cells account for the major T-cell-associated functions such as cytolysis and the modulation of immune responses. The gamma/delta TCR is found on a minor population of T cells, and its functional significance needs further characterization. With respect to dermatology, the knowledge of TCR genetics, along with the application of recombinant DNA methodology, has provided a major improvement in the diagnosis and management of mycosis fungoides. Sezary's syndrome, and other lymphoproliferative diseases of the skin.