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Tissue distribution of complement regulatory membrane proteins in rats
K Funabashi1, N Okada, S Matsuo
1Department of Molecular Biology, Nagoya City University School of Medicine, Japan.
Immunology
|March 1, 1994
Summary
Complement regulatory proteins CD59 and 5I2 antigen are widely distributed in rat tissues, primarily on endothelial and circulating cells. Their expression varies in specific tissues like the cornea and central nervous system.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Complement System
Background:
- Complement regulatory membrane proteins control the complement cascade.
- These proteins act on C3/C5 convertase enzymes or prevent membrane attack complex (MAC) formation.
- 5I2 and 6D1 monoclonal antibodies target rat complement inhibitors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the tissue distribution of two rat complement regulatory membrane proteins.
- To characterize the expression of a C3 convertase inhibitor (5I2) and a MAC inhibitor (CD59, 6D1 antigen).
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical staining using monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) 5I2 and 6D1.
- Visualization of tissue distribution of target antigens in rat tissues.
Main Results:
- Both rat CD59 (6D1 antigen) and the 5I2 antigen showed widespread distribution.
- Predominant expression was observed on endothelial cells (arteries, veins, capillaries) and all circulating cells.
- Expression was also noted on immature hepatocytes, skin fibroblasts, bronchial epithelial cells, bile canaliculi, Schwann cells, and ependymal cells.
- Neither antigen was detected in the central nervous system's glial cells or myelin sheath.
- Anti-CD59 (6D1) stained corneal epithelial and endothelial cells, whereas 5I2 stained only the corneal epithelial cell layer.
Conclusions:
- Rat CD59 and the 5I2 antigen are broadly expressed across various cell types and tissues.
- Their distribution patterns suggest significant roles in protecting peripheral tissues and cells from complement-mediated damage.
- Differential expression in specific tissues like the cornea warrants further investigation.