Constant isotype pattern of anti-dsDNA antibodies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

The isotype profile, particularly emphasizing IgG subclass distribution, of dsDNA antibodies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus was evaluated using an especially adapted ELISA technique. Anti-dsDNA antibodies were quantified with class-specific antisera and subclass-specific monoclonal antibodies. IgG subclass specificity was proven with 20 myeloma proteins differing in light chains and allotypes. The standardization with myeloma proteins proved to be useful and reliable. Results from more than 100 anti-dsDNA positive sera from SLE patients showed specific antibodies within the three subclasses (IgG1: 52-100%, IgG2: 0-39%, IgG3: 0-48%). IgG4 was not detected in significant amounts. No correlation to the subclass distribution of total IgG was found. Each patients' serum displayed an individual isotype pattern that remained constant in longitudinal studies, independent of anti-dsDNA titre fluctuations. These results suggest a stable population of autoreactive clones in the progress of the disease.