Related Experiment Videos
A histamine-releasing factor from activated human mononuclear cells.
Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
|September 1, 1985
Summary
Researchers identified a human histamine-releasing factor (HRF) produced by activated immune cells. This factor, crucial for understanding hypersensitivity, can be reliably produced and quantified.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cellular Biology
- Allergy Research
Background:
- Human mononuclear cells can produce a factor that triggers histamine release from basophils.
- This histamine-releasing factor (HRF) is implicated in allergic responses and hypersensitivity reactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop reproducible methods for large-scale production and characterization of human histamine-releasing factor (HRF).
- To investigate the biochemical properties of HRF, including its molecular weight and isoforms.
Main Methods:
- Utilized cells from leukapheresis packs for HRF production.
- Employed anti-IgE stimulated donor basophils for HRF detection.
- Quantified histamine release using the radioenzyme method.
- Characterized HRF using gel filtration, SDS-PAGE, ion-exchange chromatography, and isoelectric focusing.
Main Results:
- Established reproducible methods for producing and quantifying HRF.
- Determined HRF's molecular weight to be approximately 30,000-32,000 Da via gel filtration and SDS-PAGE.
- Resolved HRF into at least two distinct forms using ion-exchange chromatography and isoelectric focusing, with isoelectric points at pH 6.9 and 7.4-8.3.
Conclusions:
- Successfully developed methods for producing and characterizing human histamine-releasing factor (HRF).
- HRF exhibits heterogeneity, existing in at least two forms.
- HRF represents a significant molecular link between cellular immunity and immediate hypersensitivity reactions.