Association between HLA determinants and complement receptors on human lymphocytes

The relationship between the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and functional receptors on the surface of human lymphocytes was studied. HLA antisera were tested for their effect on the formation of E-, EA-, and EAC'-rosettes by human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL). Antisera to various HLA specificities inhibited the formation of EAC'-rosettes, but had no effect on the formation of E-rosettes. The formation of EA-rosettes was inhibited by HLA antisera only in part among the individuals tested. Anti beta2-microglobulin serum resembled HLA antisera in its effect on the formation of the various rosettes. HLA determinants and complement receptors are different entities on the cell surface since elimination of complement receptors by trypsin treatment does not seem to affect the expression of HLA antigens on the cell surface. It is suggested that EAC' receptors are located close to HLA determinants.