IgE and IgG(4) autoantibodies against DFS70/LEDGF in atopic dermatitis

DFS70/LEDGF is a known survival factor, growth factor, and HIV-1 transporter. It is also an autoantigen recognized by IgG autoantibodies (aAbs) in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD). In the past few decades, various IgE aAbs against self-proteins have been identified in AD. Although DFS70 is considered to be one of these proteins, to date, there has not been a detailed analysis of the significance of this putative autoantigen.

Using recombinant protein that was generated using a baculovirus and insect cell system, we established an ELISA that can measure IgE-anti-DFS70 aAbs and IgG(4)-anti-DFS70 aAbs. Sera obtained from 61 AD patients and 20 healthy donors were analyzed using the ELISA.

Nine of 61 AD patients were determined to be IgE-anti-DFS70 aAb-positive. IgG(4)-anti-DFS70 aAbs were detected in nine of 61 patients. The serum thymus and activation-regulated chemokine concentrations were significantly higher in the group that was positive for both aAbs compared to the aAb-negative group, although the total serum IgE levels were not significantly different between these groups.

We conclude that serum IgE-anti-DFS70 aAbs and IgG(4)-anti-DFS70 aAbs may be related to the severity of AD.