Immunofluorescent detection of anti-cytoskeleton antibodies using vinblastine-treated mononuclear cells

A reliable and reproducible immunofluorescence method is described for the detection of anti-cytoskeleton antibodies in human sera, based on the use of vinblastine-treated peripheral blood mononuclear cells as substrate. Three immunofluorescence patterns associated with antibodies to microfilaments, intermediate filaments and microtubules are readily identified.