Idiotype-specific T helper cells are required to induce idiotype-positive B memory cells to secrete antibody.

We have tested the proposition that induction of certain sets of B cell clones to produce antibody requires a signal from T helper cells that recognize idiotypic determinants expressed on Ig receptors of the relevant B cell clones. The approach is based on the analysis of T cell populations required to induce B cells to secrete anti-arsonate antibodies that are marked by a cross-reactive idiotype (CRId). crid+ anti-azophenyl arsonate (Ar) antibodies are produced in A/J strain mice after immunization with Ar keyhole limpet hemocyanin and represent 20--70% of the total anti-Ar antibody response. These studies indicate that antibody secretion by idiotype+ B memory cells requires two signals: one provided by "carrier"-specific Ly-1 cells, and a second delivered by idiotype-specific Ly-1 cells. Both signals are required for optimal induction of idiotype+ B memory clones.