Differential inhibition of contact sensitivity by suppressor T cells and suppressor factor induced by combined treatment with dinitrobenzenesulphonate and dinitrofluorobenzene.

Suppressor T cells acting on the efferent phase (Ts-eff) of dinitrofluorobenzene-contact sensitivity (DNFB-CS) were induced in BALB/c mice by injection of dinitrobenzenesulphonate (DNBSO3) and subsequent painting (sensitization) with DNFB. Ts-eff cells released a suppressor factor, antigen and strain specific, which was active in vivo in sensitized recipients. Administration of DNBSO3 alone generated suppressor T cells, which acted only on the afferent phase (Ts-aff). Suppressor T cells could not be detected in mice painted with DNFB and desensitized later by injection of DNBSO3.