Genetic control of the cytolytic T lymphocyte response to influenza viruses: H-2D genes influence the response to H-2K(b) plus virus

Genetic control of the cytolytic T lymphocyte response to influenza virus was examined. Mice bearing the H-2(b) haplotype and F₁ hybrid mice derived from C57BL/6 parents failed to recognize H-2K(b) plus type A or type B influenza viruses. Congenic mice that shared H-2K(b) but had either H-2D(d) or H-2D(q) genotypes responded in in vitro secondary cultures to H-2K(b) plus virus. Mapping studies suggest the gene(s) controlling the ability to respond to H-2K(b) plus virus can be localized in or near the H-2D region. Several interpretations of these observations are discussed.