Characterization of monoclonal gammopathies, a new approach

A new approach to the characterization (typing) of L- and H-chains of monoclonal immunoglobulins and Bence-Jones protein utilizing elution of a monoclonal immunoglobulin in conjunction with solid-support electrophoresis and the reverse Mancini procedure of radial immunodiffusion on Mylar-backed cellulose acetate membranes is described. A number of benefits are derived, particularly the use of only a fraction (1/200) of the antisera used with agar immunoelectrophoresis. The importance of "standardizing" commercial antisera (and a method for carrying this out) with the techniques described is emphasized.