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A cell surface antigen, TER, expressed by embryos and germ cells
Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
|November 1, 1979
Summary
Researchers identified a novel antigen, TER, present on mouse reproductive cells and early embryos. This antigen is absent in adult somatic cells but found on certain tumors, offering potential diagnostic insights.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Ovarian teratocarcinomas are tumors with diverse cell types.
- Identifying specific antigens can aid in understanding cell differentiation and malignancy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize novel antigens associated with early development and tumors.
- To investigate the expression patterns of a newly identified antigen in various mouse tissues and cell types.
Main Methods:
- Production of rabbit antiserum against a mouse ovarian teratocarcinoma (E6496).
- In vivo absorption of antiserum in C3HeB/FeJ mice to achieve specificity.
- Immunohistochemical analysis to determine antigen distribution in germ cells, early embryos, adult somatic tissues, and tumors.
Main Results:
- An absorbed antiserum specifically identified a target antigen, designated TER.
- TER antigen was detected on mouse sperm, ova, embryonic germ cells, and cells of the early embryo.
- TER was notably absent from all tested adult somatic cells.
- TER expression was observed in several types of murine tumors.
Conclusions:
- The TER antigen is a potential marker for germ cells, early embryonic development, and certain cancers.
- TER's restricted expression pattern suggests a role in early development and its potential as a tumor-associated antigen.