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IgM class autoantibodies in human cord serum
1Department of Immunobiology, National Public Health Institute, Helsinki, Finland.
Journal of Reproductive Immunology
|May 1, 1995
Summary
Newborns can possess natural autoantibodies, particularly IgM class, which may indicate a broader immune response. Elevated IgM levels in neonatal sera correlate with the presence of these autoantibodies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Neonatal Immunology
Background:
- Human neonatal B lymphocytes can produce natural autoantibodies, typically IgM, polyreactive, and low-affinity.
- These autoantibodies are thought to represent a natural component of the neonatal immune system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To screen cord blood serum for autoantibodies in neonates.
- To investigate the correlation between elevated IgM levels and the presence of specific autoantibodies in newborns.
Main Methods:
- Screened 1034 cord serum specimens for elevated IgM levels.
- Utilized enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) on 98 selected sera to detect autoantibodies against a panel of autoantigens.
- Confirmed autoantibody specificity using inhibition tests.
Main Results:
- Detected low levels of IgM autoantibodies against cardiolipin, pyruvate dehydrogenase, single-stranded DNA, thyroglobulin, and IgG Fc fragments (rheumatoid factors).
- Found a positive correlation between IgM concentration and autoantibody levels in neonatal sera.
- Demonstrated specificity of the detected autoantibodies through inhibition assays.
Conclusions:
- Several types of autoantibodies are present in some newborn sera.
- Elevated IgM levels in neonates may signify a polyclonal antibody response, indicating natural autoantibody production.