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Brain-associated stem cell antigen: an antigen shared by brain and hemopoietic stem cells
The Journal of Experimental Medicine
|August 1, 1972
Summary
Researchers identified a shared antigen between mouse brain tissue and hematopoietic stem cells. Antibodies targeting this brain antigen inhibit stem cell function, distinguishing them from thymus-targeting antibodies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Hematology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are crucial for blood cell formation.
- The mouse brain possesses unique antigens.
- Distinguishing HSCs from other cell types is vital for research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of shared antigens between mouse brain tissue and HSCs.
- To determine if antibodies against brain antigens can affect HSC function.
- To differentiate anti-HSC antibodies from anti-thymocyte antibodies.
Main Methods:
- Treatment of bone marrow and fetal liver cells with anti-brain antisera.
- Assessing the inhibition of colony-forming unit (CFU) expression.
- Testing antibody absorption by thymus cells.
Main Results:
- An antigen shared between mouse brain tissue and HSCs was identified.
- Anti-brain antisera treatment inhibited CFU expression in hematopoietic cells.
- The anti-stem cell antibody activity was distinct from anti-thymocyte activity.
Conclusions:
- A specific antigen on mouse brain tissue is also present on HSCs.
- Targeting this shared antigen can inhibit HSC function.
- This provides a method to distinguish anti-HSC antibodies from anti-thymocyte antibodies.