Immune-induced TCR-like antibodies regulate specific T cell response

Antigen-specific regulation of T cell response is crucial for limiting hyperimmune response. In this study, we discovered that antibodies specific to the antigen peptide-MHC class II complex are produced during helper T cell responses to various antigens. These antibodies specifically inhibited T cell receptor (TCR) recognition of MHC class II molecules presenting specific antigen peptide. We have termed these antibodies ‘immuneinduced TCR-like antibodies’ (iTabs). Immunization with peptides containing flanking residues induced iTabs, whereas immunization with peptides lacking flanking residues did not. Furthermore, immunization of iTab-inducible peptide as well as iTab treatment suppressed autoimmune disease development. Our findings provide a strategy for suppressing antigen-specific helper T cell responses using specific peptides, potentially controlling autoimmune diseases.