The binding of a polyclonal antibody against human band 3 to in vitro aged erythrocytes

In vitro aged human erythrocytes were checked for their anti-band-3-antibody loading by means of a protein A-gold technique. The in vitro-ageing procedures are introduced as an alternative to the questionable preparation of in vivo aged cells. They include the influences of NaF in various concentrations, of heat (49 degrees C) and urea. After the treatment with 20 mmol/l NaF and more, the IgG loading increases significantly. In contrast to that, however, exovesiculation induced by heat and urea lower the IgG loading. Possible mechanisms for the growing accessibility of the epitopes concerned are discussed in connection with changes occurring during the physiological ageing processes.