We have used PCR to study the expression of T-cell antigen receptor beta RNA containing particular variable region (V) elements from transcripts directly in the cells isolated from joints and lymph nodes of B10.Q mice (H-2q) immunized with chicken type II collagen. Our data show that the T cells present in arthritic joints expressed only a few V beta transcripts--V beta 2, -6, -7, -8.2, -9, -10, and -15. V beta 6 and -8.2 were expressed predominantly (six out of seven animals) while others were expressed at a relatively low level in different animals. In lymph node cells, transcripts for V beta 6, -8.2, and -9 were detected in four out of seven animals. The data indicate that in collagen-induced arthritis there is a restrictive usage of TCR V beta elements and that V beta 6 and -8.2 are probably used preferentially.