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Novel astrocytic protein in multiple sclerosis plaques.
S K Malhotra1, R Predy, E S Johnson
1Department of Zoology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
Journal of Neuroscience Research
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Monoclonal antibody J1-31 detects an intracellular antigen in the brain. This J1-31 antigen is significantly elevated in multiple sclerosis plaques, indicating its potential role in reactive gliosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Monoclonal antibody J1-31 (MAb J1-31) targets an intracellular protein antigen in human brain.
- The J1-31 antigen is recognized in astrocytes, retinal Müller cells, and ependymal cells.
- Previous studies showed enhanced J1-31 antigen staining in astrocytes responding to central nervous system injury.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression of J1-31 antigen in multiple sclerosis (MS) plaques.
- To compare J1-31 antigen staining in MS plaques versus normal-appearing white matter.
- To further elucidate the relationship between J1-31 antigen and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP).
Main Methods:
- Immunofluorescence microscopy was used to detect J1-31 antigen.
- Staining patterns of MAb J1-31 were analyzed in MS brain tissue.
- Comparison of J1-31 antigen staining with GFAP staining.
Main Results:
- Immunofluorescence staining for J1-31 antigen was significantly enhanced in MS plaques compared to adjacent white matter.
- This enhanced staining in MS plaques is consistent with reactive gliosis.
- Evidence suggests J1-31 antigen is distinct from GFAP, though spatially associated.
Conclusions:
- J1-31 antigen expression is upregulated in MS plaques, correlating with reactive astrogliosis.
- MAb J1-31 serves as a marker for cellular responses in MS.
- The J1-31 antigen represents a potential target for understanding MS pathogenesis.