Abstract: Objective To determine the functions of CCR7⁺CD8⁺CD45RO⁺ T cells on CD4⁺T cells in systemic lupus erythematosu(SLE). Methods The expression of cytokines in CD4⁺T cells was measured by flow cytometry,real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Northern blotting.A chemotaxis assay was used to detect their functions. Results In the case of active SLE,CCR7⁺CD8⁺CD45RO⁺T cells could induce CD4⁺T cells to express high levels of Th2-cytokine (IL-4),and lowlevels of Tr1-cytokines (IL-10 and TGF-β),than those in normal controls and inactive SLE (P<0.01).The levels of Th1-cytokine (IFN-γ) were lower in active and inactive SLE than those in normal controls (P<0.01). Conclusions In the case of active SLE,CCR7⁺ central memory T cells may interact with dendritic cells,and induce differentiation of syngeneic CD4⁺T to Th2 cells.

Key words: Interleukin-4, Interleukin-10, Transforming growth factor beta, Interferon typeⅡ, CD4-positive T-lymphocytes, Lupus erythematosus, systemic, CD8-positive T-lymphocytes