Injection of B10.D2 cells into irradiated H-2d compatible (DBA/2xB10.D2)F1 recipients provokes a lethal GVH that can be abrogated by donor preimmunization against host-specific DBA/2 non-H-2 antigens. To study the possible relationship between the observed protection and restoration of immune responsiveness, we compared spleen cellularity, selected T and B cell functions, and NK activity in GVH and protected mice during the 1st month after grafting. Normal and isografted mice served as controls. GVH was found to be characterized by an early stimulation phase associated with splenomegaly and increased percentages (but not numbers) of Lyt-2+ and L3T4+ cells, followed by profound aplasia and abrogation of IL-2 production. Response to a B cell mitogen (LPS) is depressed, and cells from GVH mice exert a strong suppressive effect on the LPS and PHA responsiveness of normal cells. Suppression appears to be mediated by a radioresistant, nylon nonadherent, asialo GM1 negative cell expressing a low level of Thy-1 antigen. In contrast, protection correlates with progressive restoration of spleen cellularity and LPS responsiveness, with decreased but clearly detectable IL-2 production, and transient nonspecific suppressor activity. The immune status of protected mice resembles that of isografted controls. No correlation was found between mortality (or protection) and either PHA responsiveness, which remained depressed in all grafted mice throughout the observation period, or NK activity, which was strongly depressed in both GVH and protected mice. In conclusion, protection correlates with the disappearance of nonspecific suppressor cells and the restoration of cellularity and certain nonspecific immune functions. Donor immunization against host-specific non-H-2 antigens, which protects against mortality, also protects against GVH-associated immune deficiency.