| abstract |
The present invention relates to monoclonal antibodies which recognize defined regions of the T-cell receptor (TCR). In a specific embodiment, the invention provides monoclonal antibodies which are reactive with a constant region of the alpha chain of the TCR. In particular embodiments, the invention relates to two monoclonal antibodies, termed alpha F1 and alpha F2, which react with two different epitopes on the framework region of the alpha monomer of the TCR molecule. In another specific embodiment, the invention is directed to monoclonal antibodies reactive with a variable region of the beta chain of the TCR. In particular, the invention provides two monoclonal antibodies, termed W112 and 2D1, which react with beta chain variable regions V beta 5.3 and V beta 8.1, respectively. In another specific embodiment, the invention is directed to monoclonal antibodies reactive with a variable region of the delta chain of the TCR. In particular, the invention provides monoclonal antibody delta TCS1, isotype IgG2a. The monoclonal antibodies of the invention have value in diagnosis and therapy and are useful tools for study of the immune system. |