Epidermal antigen preservation with freezing

Antigen preservation in human foreskin was evaluated after prolonged storage. Foreskin sections previously separated and stored were examined after 24 h, 6 days, 102 days, 364 days, and 493 days, using indirect immunofluorescence techniques. Each foreskin was evaluated with high-titer human antisera against bullous pemphigoid and pemphigus antigens, rabbit antiserum against laminin, and IgG murine monoclonal antibodies against OKT6, OKIa, AF-1, and Kab-3. Each section was studied and scored by three independent observers. Except for decreased fluorescent staining of pemphigus antigens, no decrease of the immunofluorescence titers was seen over the period of observation.