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At least two loci encode polymorphic class I MHC antigens in the horse
W L Donaldson1, A L Crump, C H Zhang
1James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, New York State College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca 14853.
Animal Genetics
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Researchers identified a second equine leukocyte antigen (ELA) class I locus using pregnancy-induced antibodies. This discovery reveals new polymorphic ELA antigens that are immunogenic during pregnancy in horses.
Area of Science:
- Immunogenetics
- Equine immunology
- MHC research
Background:
- Equine leukocyte antigen (ELA) class I antigens are crucial for immune responses.
- Understanding ELA polymorphism is vital for equine health and transplantation.
- Previous studies have characterized some ELA loci, but a comprehensive understanding remains incomplete.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the polymorphism of equine class I MHC antigens.
- To compare different methods of raising alloantisera for ELA antigen characterization.
- To identify potential novel ELA class I loci and their immunogenicity.
Main Methods:
- Radiolabeling of equine peripheral blood lymphocytes.
- Immunoprecipitation using monoclonal antibodies and alloantisera.
- Comparison of antisera production methods: pregnancy and skin allografting.
- Sequential immunoprecipitation to confirm antigen identification.
Main Results:
- Ten alloantisera and six monoclonal antibodies were used to precipitate ~44 kDa molecules (class I ELA antigens).
- Pregnancy-induced antisera primarily targeted class I antigens, while skin grafting also elicited antibodies against class II antigens.
- A novel polymorphic class I locus (ELA) was identified using pregnancy antiserum raised across an MHC haplotype barrier.
- Sequential immunoprecipitation confirmed the existence and immunogenicity of this second ELA class I locus during pregnancy.
Conclusions:
- Pregnancy is an effective method for generating antibodies against specific equine class I MHC antigens.
- A second polymorphic class I locus in horses, distinct from previously identified loci, has been characterized.
- Gene products of this newly identified ELA class I locus are immunogenic, particularly during pregnancy.