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Autoantibody activities of human IgM M-components
Journal of Clinical & Laboratory Immunology
|September 1, 1982
Summary
Many immunoglobulin M (IgM) M-components bind to tissues, suggesting an antigen-antibody interaction. This binding may occur during polyclonal IgM responses, potentially involving secretory components.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Immunoglobulin M (IgM) M-components are monoclonal proteins found in serum.
- Their tissue-binding properties and underlying mechanisms are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the tissue-binding affinities of IgM M-components.
- To explore potential mechanisms of interaction, including antigen-antibody reactions and non-specific binding.
Main Methods:
- Indirect immunofluorescence microscopy was used to examine tissue binding of IgM M-components from patient sera.
- Titration of M-component binding and correlation with serum IgM concentrations were performed.
Main Results:
- 61% (11/18) of IgM M-components exhibited affinity for various tissue structures.
- Observed affinities included smooth muscle, gastric epithelium, and hepatocytes.
- Binding patterns suggested both antigen-antibody interactions and non-antigen-antibody reactions with secretory components.
Conclusions:
- IgM M-components frequently display tissue-binding activity, often related to antigen-antibody interactions.
- This activity may arise in contexts of polyclonal IgM responses.
- Non-specific binding, potentially involving secretory components, also contributes to tissue affinity.