Freedman, Mark,Stone, Julianne Elizabeth.2009-03-252009-03-2519961996Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 36-01, page: 0148.9780612209541http://hdl.handle.net/10393/9567http://dx.doi.org/10.20381/ruor-7862$\alpha\beta$ and $\gamma\delta$ T cells are both postulated to play a role in the pathogenesis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). IFN-$\beta$-1b (Betaseron), a novel treatment for MS, can change the natural course of MS disease, though its exact mechanism of action is unknown. Since any benefit probably involves effects of IFN-$\beta$-1b on $\alpha\beta$ or $\gamma\delta$ T cells, I derived T cells from MS patients and healthy controls and investigated the effects of IFN-$\beta$-1b on their activation, proliferation and activation-induced apoptosis. PHA, anti-CD3 and tetanus toxoid were used as stimulants for one or both T cell types in the presence of 0-1000 IU/mL IFN-$\beta$-1b. Results indicate that IFN-$\beta$-1b differentially affects $\alpha\beta$ and $\gamma\delta$ T cells both in terms of activation and apoptosis, and that MS cells exhibit differential sensitivity to these effects compared to controls. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)90 p.Health Sciences, Pharmacology.Thesis