Effect of temperature on the red cell membrane protein and its antigenic reactivity

The red blood cell membrane protein pattern of erythrocytes exposed to 50 C for 10 to 15 minutes was found to be abnormal by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate. Membranes of heated red blood cells consistently had significant elevation of band 7 and 8. The total membrane protein content (mg/10(9) cells) of heated erythrocytes was increased, but the sialic acid content was normal. Heated erythrocytes showed a consistent decrease in the reactivity of Fya and Jka antigens. Other blood group antigens were variably affected by temperature elevation. These observations may explain the mechanism of antibody elution by heat.