To provide a vaccine inducing a specific T cell response in vertebrates.
The present invention is based on the observation that CD1 (1-lymphocyte function associated antigen-1) functions to present foreign antigens and autoimmune antigens to a specific subpopulation of T-cells. The present invention provides, based on the observation, a method for detecting the presence of a CD1-presented antigen in a sample, a method for purifying the CD1-presented antigen, a vaccine containing the CD1-presented antigen, a method for blocking the CD1 antigen presentation, methods for identifying and/or isolating a CD1 blocking agent, a method for inducing CD1 expression, and a T-cell line for use in the methods disclosed herein. The CD1-presented antigen of the invention, unlike MHC (major histocompatibility complex)-presented antigens, is a non-polypeptide hydrophobic antigen. In particular, the CD1-presented antigen isolated from several bacterial species is a mycolic acid.
BRENNER MICHAEL B
BECKMAN EVAN
