A monoclonal antibody (Mab 67) marks type B synoviocytes

The functionally important lining cells of the synovium (types A and B synoviocytes) are the subjects of much study but have presented problems with their characterization and microscopical identification, particularly at the light level. Type A (macrophage-like) synoviocytes, however are more easily localized than the type B (fibroblast-like) variety because of the greater availability of antimacrophage antisera. We describe, using light and electron microscopy, a monoclonal antibody which in the synovial intimal layer is specific for type B synoviocytes.