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Common epitopes in Clq and collagen type II.
H P Heinz1, K Rubin, A B Laurell
1Institut für Medizinische Mikrobiologie, Johannes-Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, F.R.G.
Molecular Immunology
|February 1, 1989
Summary
A shared epitope between collagen type II and complement factor Clq was identified using a monoclonal anti-collagen type II antibody. This finding suggests a potential link to rheumatoid arthritis pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Collagen type II is a major component of cartilage.
- Complement factor Clq plays a role in immune responses.
- Both collagen type II antibodies and free Clq are found in rheumatoid arthritis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a potential shared epitope between collagen type II and complement factor Clq.
- To explore the implications of this epitope for rheumatoid arthritis.
Main Methods:
- Specific binding assays using monoclonal anti-collagen type II antibody (MAb B1) and purified Clq.
- Hemolytic assays and enzyme-linked biotin-avidin assays.
- Binding studies with Clq fragments and heat-aggregated IgG.
Main Results:
- A monoclonal anti-collagen type II antibody (MAb B1) specifically bound to purified Clq.
- The epitope recognized by MAb B1 is located in the collagen-like region of Clq.
- Binding affinity increased upon Clq interaction with aggregated IgG, suggesting epitope demasking.
- MAb B1 did not bind to the macromolecular Cl complex.
Conclusions:
- A common epitope exists between collagen type II and Clq.
- This epitope is accessible on free Clq, particularly after interaction with aggregated IgG.
- The findings suggest a potential pathogenetic role in rheumatoid arthritis due to the presence of anti-collagen type II antibodies and free Clq.