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Identification of a new white cell antigen
D F Stroncek1, G Ramsey, G P Herr
1American Red Cross Blood Services, St. Paul, Minnesota.
Transfusion
|August 1, 1994
Summary
A new white cell antigen, SL, was identified on neutrophils and T-lymphocytes in a case of neonatal alloimmune neutropenia. This antigen, present in 66% of individuals, aids in understanding neutropenia causes.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Hematology
- Genetics
Background:
- Antibodies to white cell antigens can cause various blood disorders including neonatal alloimmune neutropenia.
- Understanding these antigens is crucial for diagnosing and managing transfusion reactions and autoimmune conditions.
Observation:
- A full-term infant presented with neutropenia and skin infection, showing a transient response to intravenous immunoglobulin.
- Maternal serum reacted with the infant's neutrophils, indicating potential alloimmunization.
- The novel SL antigen was detected on 66% of neutrophils from healthy individuals and on T-lymphocytes.
Findings:
- The SL antigen is inherited in an autosomal-dominant manner.
- SL antigen expression showed weak correlations with NA1 and 5a antigens but not others.
- The molecule bearing the SL antigen could not be identified using immunoprecipitation or immunoblotting techniques.
Implications:
- The identification of the SL antigen expands the known spectrum of human neutrophil antigens.
- This discovery may lead to improved diagnostic tools for neonatal alloimmune neutropenia and related conditions.
- Further research is needed to characterize the molecular basis of the SL antigen.