Monoclonal rat anti-MHC alloantibodies detect HLA-linked polymorphisms in humans

Two monoclonal rat anti-MHC alloantibodies detect a polymorphic determinant expressed on the peripheral lymphocytes of normal human donors. The pattern of cytotoxicity observed with these antibodies correlated with the HLA type of the individual; no HLA-A-locus specificities showed significant associations, and all of the HLA-B-locus specificities showing significant association were members of the Bw6 supertype. Family studies established that the determinant detected by the monoclonal antibodies is linked to HLA. These studies therefore provide an alternative basis for the production of monoclonal antibodies to polymorphic HLA determinants based on the conservation of polymorphic MHC determinants between man and rats.