Definition of human melanoma-associated cell surface antigens by hybridoma monoclonal antibodies

Many human melanoma cell lines express HLA-D antigens in addition to HLA-A, -B, and -C specificities. Hybridoma antibodies produced after sensitization with melanoma cells are directed not only against tumor-associated antigens but against HLA and Ia-like specificities. Paired human melanoma cell lines and autologous lymphoblast lines were used to identify those monoclonal hybridoma antibodies that define human melanoma-associated antigens. Autologous lymphoblast lines were used to exclude hybridoma antibodies directed against HLA and Ia-like specificities. Using this method, we have identified several cell surface antigens that are expressed on the majority of human melanoma cell lines tested.