bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity as Revealed on the Footpads of Mice to Azobenzenearsonate-Acetyl Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: Ohuchi Kazuo , Yoshino Shin , Kurihara Atsushi , Yoshimura Hiromitsu , Ishiguro Masamichi , Kiso Satoko , Tsurufuji Susumu
Published: July 2009

A strong delayed-type footpad reaction was established in mice using azobenzenearsonate-acetyl bovine serum albumin (ABA-AcBSA) as an antigen. Male ddY/S mice were sensitized by subcutaneous injection of 100 μl of Freund’s complete adjuvant – saline (1:1) emulsion containing 100 μg of the antigen and challenged by subcutaneous injection of 2.5 μl of Freund’s incomplete adjuvant – saline (1:1) emulsion with 2.5 μg antigen in the footpad on the 10th day after the sensitization. The analysis of the system which fulfilled criteria for delayed-type hypersensitivity with regard to kinetics, passive transfer and histology of the footpad reaction, and the effect of dexamethasone, indomethacin and quinacrine on the footpad reaction were described.
Regulation of the ‘Spontaneous’ (Background) Immunoglobulin Synthesis
Authors: Benner R. , van Oudenaren A. , Haaijman J.J. , Slingerland-Teunissen Joke , Wostmann B.S. , Hijmans W.
Published: July 2009

The number of mature cytoplasmic immunoglobulin containing cells (C-Ig cells) in various lymphoid organs of the mouse was studied as a function of antigenic load and the presence of T cells. Both antigen and T-cell deprivation decreased the number of C-Ig cells (plasma blasts and plasma cells). The absolute C-Ig cell numbers were minimal in germfree nude mice, intermediate in specific pathogen-free (SPF) nude mice and in germ-free thymus-bearing mice, and the largest in SPF thymus-bearing mice. The bone marrow was the organ where this picture was most strikingly examplified. In germfree C3H mice raised on a synthetic diet the bone marrow of 3 out of 4 mice tested did not show any C-Ig cell. None of them had C-Ig cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes. The Ig class distribution of the C-Ig cells and the incidence of C-Ig cells positive for more than one Ig heavy-chain isotype (‘double producers’) were also highly dependent upon the antigenic load and the presence of T cells. C-IgM cells were well represented in all groups of mice. Appreciable numbers of C-IgA cells were only found in SPF thymus-bearing mice. The absolute number, but not the relative number, of C-IgG cells followed the same pattern. The percentages of double producers in the various lymphoid organs were largest in germfree nude mice, intermediate in SPF nude mice and in germfree thymus-bearing mice, and minimal in SPF thymus-bearing mice. From these studies we conclude that the background synthesis of IgG and IgA in not intentionally immunized mice is virtually completely dependent on stimulation of the immune system by external antigens, in contrast to the production of IgM.
Immunologic Properties of Conjugates of Ragweed Antigen E with Various Alkoxypolyethylene Glycols
Authors: King Te Piao , Weiner Corey
Published: July 2009

Antigen E from ragweed pollen has been modified by coupling about 8 of its 18 ε-amino groups with various alkoxypolyethylene glycols (ROPEG). These glycols include methoxy-PEGs of 2,000 and 5,000 daltons, n-lauryloxy-PEG of 1,200 daltons (BRIJ-35), and p-isooctylphenoxy-PEG of 3,300 daltons (Triton X-705). The immunogenic and immunosuppressive activities of these conjugates were tested in mice. They showed reduced immunogenicity for antigen E-specific IgE and IgG antibody responses although the BRIJ-35 conjugate showed only slightly decreased immunogenicity. The protein portion of the conjugate molecules appeared to contain the same antigenic determinants as in native antigen E. The alkoxypolyethyleneglycoxy portion of the conjugate molecules was found to be weakly immunogenic, since mice which had been immunized with such conjugates showed a transient weak IgE antibody response. All conjugates retained the immunosuppressive property of antigen E since the subcutaneous treatment of antigen E-sensitized mice with high doses of antigen E or of conjugate led to suppression of their specific IgE and IgG antibody levels.
Inhibition of Human Lung Mast Cell Sensitization by IgE in Allergic Sera
Authors: Coleman J.W. , Godfrey R.C.
Published: July 2009

Passive sensitization of mast cells in human lung tissue by antigen-specific IgE was inhibited by allergic sera containing IgE of other specificities. IgE-free sera and heat-treated sera failed to inhibit. Inhibition by purified myeloma IgE was quantitatively similar to that produced by serum IgE. It is concluded that IgE antibodies of different antigen specificity at concentrations found in allergic sera compete for cell surface receptors on human mast cells.
Mothers of Infants with Neonatal Group B Streptococcal Septicemia Are Poor Responders to Bacterial Carbohydrate Antigens
Authors: Christensen Karen Kvist , Christensen Poul , Lindberg Alf , Lindén Viveka
Published: July 2009

Serum antibodies against various carbohydrate antigens were studied in 16 mothers of infants with serious infections caused by group B streptococci (GBS) (the study group), and compared with a control group of 29 urogenital carriers of GBS who gave birth to neonatally healthy infants. Using a radioimmunoassay for the determination of antibodies to GBS types Ia, Ib, II and III, it was found that the study group had significantly lower levels of IgG antibodies to each of the 4 GBS types than the control group. The IgG levels against Salmonella BO and DO, Yersinia enterocolitica 03, Francisella tularense and Streptococcus pneumonia types 3, 6, 9, 19 and 23 purified carbohydrate antigens were determined using an ELISA technique. Significantly more individuals in the study group than in the control group had low levels of IgG antibodies against 8 of 9 carbohydrate antigens. No difference was found in IgM levels against 3 of 4 antigens studied, while the study group showed significantly more IgM antibodies against Salmonella DO than the controls. These results indicate that mothers of GBS-infected infants might be poor IgG antibody responders to bacterial carbohydrate antigens in general.
Comparative Studies on Tree Pollen Allergens
Authors: Florvaag E. , Elsayed S. , Apold J.
Published: July 2009

The aqueous extract of alder (Alnus incana) pollen was found to consist of a protein mixture amounting to 3% of the dry pollen weight. Separation by gel permeation chromatography on an AcA-54 column resulted in 6 fractions designated chronologically to their relative elution volumes (AI 1 to AI 6). The immunological reactivity of these fractions was demonstrated in both IgE and IgG test systems. Being both immunochemically and quantitatively dominant fraction AI 4 was selected for further purification by a semipreparative isoelectric focusing column. A well-resolved and apparently homogeneous component with a pI value of 4.78 was eluted from the IEF column. The homogeneity of this fraction was demonstrated by one sharp band in thin layer IEF, one single band in HVE, one distinct sharp peak in HPLC and a symmetrical precipitate in CIE. The molecular weight was estimated to 22,500 daltons. Fraction pI 4.78 was shown to be a major allergen of alder pollen, it elicited a 1.17 histamine wheal reaction in skin prick test at a concentration of 1 mg·ml––1 and showed a significantly high RAST inhibition in all of the reaginic sera used. Fraction pI 4.78 was found to be an adequate model allergen of alder pollen well suited for further immunochemical characterization.
Increased Levels of IgG4 Subclass in 5 Patients with Acquired Respiratory Disease
Authors: van Nieuwkoop J.A. , Brand A. , Radl J. , Skvaril F.
Published: July 2009

5 sera from a series of more than 1,000 serum samples from hospitalized patients tested by immunoelectrophoresis were selected for further examination because of a disproportional increase in the anodic part of IgG. A marked polyclonal increase in IgG4 subclass level was detected in each of these sera. While the patients suffered from a variety of diseases (e.g. Loeffler’s syndrome, leiomyosarcoma, periarteritis nodosa, chronic bronchitis, and mycosis fungoides, respectively), they all had an acquired respiratory disease as the only common clinical denominator.
Plasma Fibrinogen Concentration in ABO-Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn
Authors: Romano E.L. , Linares J. , Suárez G.
Published: July 2009

Plasma fibrinogen and total serum proteins were measured in infants affected by ABO-hemolytic disease and in normal infants’ cord blood and blood taken 48 h after birth. The average plasma fibrinogen concentrations in the blood of infants with ABO-hemolytic disease was 447.36 mg/dl as compared with 267.09 mg/dl (p < 0.005) in cord blood and 313.82 mg/dl (p < 0.005) in blood samples taken 48 h afterbirth. A simple ‘autoagglutination’ test is found to be helpful when establishing the diagnosis of ABO-hemolytic disease.
Idiotypic and Structural Analysis of Monoclonal Human Immunoglobulins with Anti-Streptolysin·Activity
Authors: Riesen W.F. , Braun D.G. , Skvaril F. , Mansa B.
Published: July 2009

The class, subclass and light chain distribution of eight myeloma proteins with anti-streptolysin·activity (ASO) in sera studied by our group and in cases from the literature indicates a predominance of the IgG1 kappa subclass and type of immunoglobulins. Three IgG myeloma proteins (O.I., L.F. and A.S.) were further characterized with respect to idiotypic cross-reaction and variable region subgroup. The anti-idiotypic antibodies (anti-Id) against protein O.I. and against protein L.F. both indicated idiotypic cross-reaction between O.I. and L.F. While in the case of anti-IdL.F. this cross-reaction was in the order of 5% it was much weaker when studied with anti-IdO.I.·The reaction between O.I. and anti-IdO.I. could be inhibited to 95% by the antigen streptolysin O, indicating that the idiotypic determinants are associated with the combining site. N-terminal amino acid sequence analysis showed that all three light chains fall into the VκIII variable region subgroup. The heavy chains of proteins O.I. and L.F. with idiotypic similarities both have blocked N-termini, indicating the presence of the VHI or VHII subgroup while protein A.S. belongs to the VHIII subgroup.
Inhibitory Effect of Transplanted Syngeneic Thymus Fragments, Thymus Epithelium and Thymocytes on the Increased Contact Sensitivity Reaction in the Adult Thymectomized Mouse
Authors: Olafsson Jon H. , Lindholm Leif , Roupe Gösta
Published: July 2009

Thymectomy in the adult mouse leads to an increased ability to develop contact sensitivity. The effect of different types of thymus grafts to adult thymectomized mice on contact sensitivity was studied in the present investigation. An inhibition was observed after transplantation either of uncultured thymus tissue, cultured thymus epithelium or of thymocytes. The results of the study favor the hypothesis that a continuous production of suppressor cells regulates contact sensitivity in the adult mouse.
BL-5255
Authors: Siminoff Paul , Reed, III Frederick C. , Schurig John E.
Published: July 2009

BL-5255 exhibited potent activity in several models of antigen-induced immediate hypersensitivity reactions in rats and guinea pigs. The compound was effective whether administered by oral or parenteral routes and in passively and actively sensitized animals. It appeared to be readily absorbed when given orally. Localized skin and bronchoconstriction reactions in rats were inhibited by the compound by oral doses at 0.014 and 1 mg/kg, respectively. BL-5255 was protective against both IgE- and IgG-mediated reactions in the rat and guinea pig. Its effectiveness versus the systemic anaphylaxis reaction in the guinea pig appears to be due to BL-5255’s ability to inhibit both the IgE and IgGl components of the reaction.
IgG4 and Release of Histamine from Human Peripheral Blood Leukocytes
Authors: van Toorenenbergen A.W. , Aalberse R.C.
Published: July 2009

Allergen-specific IgG4 was found in the sera from many normal, nonallergic individuals.Basophil leukocytes from donors with IgG4 antibodies to an allergen, but without IgE antibodies to the same allergen, did not release histamine when challenged with this allergen. In some cases, anti-IgG4 antiserum induced a release of histamine from the leukocytes. However, these cells also released histamine after incubation with normal rabbit serum or normal sheep serum. It is concluded that the IgG4-RAST cannot be used for the detection of IgG short-term sensitizing antibodies.
Clinical Studies of a Purified Timothy Pollen Extract: Desensitization Therapy with a Purified Timothy Pollen Preparation Compared to a Crude Timothy Pollen Extract
Authors: Nordvall S.L. , Berg T. , Johansson S.G.O. , Lanner Å.
Published: July 2009

Perennial desensitization therapy was given during a period of 3.5 years to 40 children allergic to grass pollen allergens. 20 patients were treated with a crude and another 20 with a purified timothy pollen extract. 8 children served as untreated controls. The concentration of total and specific IgE in the treated groups covaried with those in the control group. Neither a suppression of the seasonal booster effect nor a suppression of IgE synthesis attributable to the treatment was found. The rise of timothy-specific ‘blocking’ IgG antibodies was more pronounced in the group treated with the purified extract than in the group treated with the crude extract. A significant difference was found only after 3.5 years of treatment. The amplitude of rise of IgG antibodies correlated significantly with the effect of the treatment as judged by repeated conjunctival titration test. The results suggest that a good IgG response is an indication of successful therapy and that a better IgG response may be achieved with purified allergen extracts.
Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity in Rabbits
Authors: Snippe H. , de Reuver M.J. , Beunder J.W. , van der Meer J.B. , van Wichen D.F. , Willers J.M.N.
Published: July 2009

Injection of rabbits with antigen mixed with the cationic surface-active lipid dimethyl dioctadecyl ammonium bromide (DDA) induced delayed-type hypersensitivity (DH), which could be measured as skin reactions and was confirmed by histology of the skin test sites. 1 week after injection of a conjugate of bovine serum albumine (BSA) with dinitrophenol (DNP30––BSA) mixed with DDA, DH was detectable in most but not in all rabbits. Similar results were obtained using FCA as adjuvant. The animals treated with the latter adjuvant, however, produced a long-lasting DH (1–3 weeks) complicated by circulating anti-DNP antibodies (Arthus-type reactions). Skin testing with heterologous hapten-carrier complexes revealed that individual rabbits immunized with DNP30––BSA in DDA expressed DH with different reaction patterns, either to hapten, carrier or both. In conclusion, DDA is a useful adjuvant for the induction of a state of pure DH in rabbits. However, not all rabbits do respond, or respond similarly.
Increase in Rosette-Forming T Cells with Autologous Human Erythrocytes in Lymphocytes of Patients with Tuberculosis by in vitro Stimulation with Purified Protein Derivative
Authors: Tsuyuguchi Izuo , Shiratsuchi Hiroe , Fujiwara Hiroshi
Published: July 2009

Lymphocytes of tuberculous patients activated in vitro with purified protein derivative of tuberculin (PPD) were examined for rosette formation with human autologous erythrocytes. The percentage of the rosette-forming cell (auto-RFC) was increased when pleural fluid lymphocytes of patients with tuberculous pleurisy and peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) from patients with tuberculosis or from tuberculin skin test positive healthy individuals were stimulated with PPD in vitro, whereas no increase of auto-RFC was observed in PBL from tuberculin skin test negative donors. Increased numbers of auto-RFC were also observed when these lymphocytes were stimulated with concanavalin A. These PPD-induced auto-RFC were shown to form rosettes with sheep erythrocytes but have no IgG Fc receptors on their surfaces. It was also shown that adherent cells were required for the PPD-induced increase of auto-RFC. Depletion of PPD-induced auto-RFC by the density gradient sedimentation technique led to a significant decrease in the degree of the proliferative response to PPD and the number of the auto-RFC after stimulation with PPD. These findings strongly suggest that PPD-induced auto-RFC represents the consequence of an immunological interaction between sensitized T lymphocytes and relevant antigen PPD, and reflects the PPD responsiveness of tuberculosis at the T cell level.
Regulation of Natural Killer Activity in vivo
Authors: Saxena Q.B. , Saxena R.K. , Adler W.H.
Published: July 2009

Spleen natural killer (NK) activity against YAC tumor cells was reduced in female C57BL/6J mice hypophysectomized at 3 weeks and sacrificed 4–8 weeks later. Proportions of null cells and of target binding cells in spleens from hypophysectomized and sham operated mice were not significantly different. Administration of ovine growth hormone (GH) (100 μg/day, i.p. for 10 days) resulted in a marked recovery of NK activity in hypophysectomized mice. NK activity by spleen cells from hypophysectomized or sham operated mice (with or without GH treatment) was mediated by non-T, non-B lymphocytes.
Development of Beryllium Lymphocyte Transformation Tests in Chronic Beryllium Disease
Authors: Williams W.R. , Williams W. Jones
Published: July 2009

We found that optimal conditions for the beryllium transformation test required the use of purified lymphocyte suspensions in 20% human serum, with beryllium sulphate at concentrations of 10––6 to 10––7M. Using these conditions, all 15 chronic beryllium patients tested gave a stimulation index of more than 2. Despite the above, 10––5 and 10––6M, BeSO4 inhibited spontaneous thymidine incorporation and lymphocyte transformation to PHA and PPD in normal subjects. Alternative methods, using whole blood, venous and thumb-prick samples, gave fewer and less reproducible positive results.
Effects of Levamisole and D-Penicillamine on Contact Sensitivity to Oxazolone in Rats
Authors: West G.B.
Published: July 2009

Levamisole, but not D-penicillamine, inhibited the oxazolone delayed hypersensitivity in rats. It was more effective when given locally to the ear (the tissue being challenged with oxazolone) or when injected intraperitoneally 24 h previously. Rats bred for resistance to the dextran anaphylactoid reaction exhibit contact sensitivity to oxazolone even better than rats which respond to clinical dextran.
Influence of Palmitic Acid on Mouse Lymphocyte Function in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Tizard Ian , Sheppard Judith
Published: July 2009

The effect of palmitic acid on the immune response of mice to sheep erythrocytes was studied. It was found to increase the number of background plaques in normal mice but it had no significant effect on primed cells. When given with antigen it functioned as a weak adjuvant but it had no effect on response of mouse lymphocytes to the mitogens phytohemagglutinin or bacterial lipopolysaccharide. While it is clear that palmitic acid does not have a profound effect on lymphocyte reactivity, it may have a subtle modulating influence on the immune system.
Immune Responses in Nonhaired Mice
Authors: Smith Sharon M. , Forbes Donald , Linna Juhani
Published: July 2009

Ten stocks and strains of genetically nonhaired mice were evaluated for the ability to respond to two mitogens (concanavalin A and lipopolysaccharide) and to two antigens (sheep erythrocytes and pneumococcal polysaccharide, type III). The numbers of T and B lymphocytes in the thymus, spleen and pooled lymph nodes of individual animals were determined using immunofluorescent techniques; the values for each group of animals were found to be comparable. The antibody-forming ability was evaluated by determining the number of plaque-forming cells in the spleen after immunization with either antigen. All strains of mice responded to both antigens and the responses are discussed. All groups of mice responded to the mitogens tested.
Antibody Responses to Impurities of Penicillin in Infants and Rabbits
Authors: Ahlstedt S. , Jodal U. , Mårild S. , Sjövall J.
Published: July 2009

Antibody responses to penicilloyl were recorded in infants and children treated for about 1 week with intravenous ampicillin. In this single-blind, randomized study two commercially available preparations were compared, one of high-grade purity (< 0.1 μg antigen per gram) and the other slightly contaminated with high molecular weight proteinaceous material (1.5 μg antigen per gram) according to a radioimmunoassay. The results showed no significant increase in the antibody titers in any of the patient groups. The immunogenic properties of high molecular weight proteinaceous impurities isolated from phenoxymethyl penicillin during manufacture were tested in rabbits given daily subcutaneous injections with 0.1–10 μg of the antigen over 10-day periods. When the 10-day period was repeated, the rabbits injected with more than 2 μg of antigen responded with both IgM/IgG and IgE antibodies. The clinical as well as the animal study indicates that antigen impurities in the preparations of the order of 2 μg per gram or less do not elicit a significant antibody response. However, the study in rabbits demonstrates that high molecular weight impurities can induce penicillin allergy if present in about 10-fold higher quantities than those usually found in the commercial penicillin preparations of today.
Detection of Antibodies to Streptococcal Mucopeptide in Patients with Rheumatic Disorders and Normal Controls
Authors: Pope Richard M. , Rutstein Joel E. , Straus David C.
Published: July 2009

Bacterial mucopeptide is an integral part of bacterial cell walls and is therefore ubiquitous in our environment. An enhanced degree of humoral immunity has been detected not only in patients with acute rheumatic fever (ARF), with a known recent response to streptococci, but also in patients with adult and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (RA and JRA). Our studies confirmed this association with ARF and JRA using a precipitin system as well as a radioimmunoassay to detect IgG anti-mucopeptide antibodies. In those with adult RA, either IgM or IgA rheumatoid factors or IgM or IgA antibodies specific for mucopeptide were responsible for the increased incidence of precipitins to mucopeptide in the RA patients detected in this and other studies. No differences in the specificities of the anti-mucopeptide antibodies were noted between the various patient populations as there were no lines of partial identity or nonidentity when examined by Ouchterlony double diffusion analyses. Additionally, no differences of anti-mucopeptide antibody were observed when the sera from these same patient populations were examined employing inhibition studies utilizing N-acetylglucosamine and rhamnose.
Association of Anti-F(ab′)2 Antibodies (Pepsin Agglutinators) with Immune Complexes as Determined by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays
Authors: Davey Michael P. , Korngold Leonhard
Published: July 2009

A solid-phase assay for the detection of anti-F(ab′)2 antibodies is described. Wells of microtiter plates are coated with F(ab′)2, dilutions of sera are added, and IgG bound to the solid phase is detected using peroxidase-labeled Protein A. Anti-F(ab′)2 antibodies were found in 61% of sera from patients with rheumatoid arthritis, 77% with subacute bacterial endocarditis, and 34% with systemic lupus erythematosus. Simultaneous analysis of these sera for immune complexes (IC), using modified Clq and monoclonal rheumatoid factor assays, showed that a correlation existed between anti-F(ab′)2 antibodies and the levels of IC. Characterization of anti-F(ab′)2 antibodies by inhibition and absorption experiments and by immunological and physical means indicated that they were similar to serum proteins described in the 1960s and designated pepsin agglutinators.
Immunopotentation of the IgE Antibody Response by 13-cis-Retinoic Acid
Authors: Barnett John B.
Published: July 2009

Pretreatment of Balb/c mice per os with 13-cis retinoic acid (13-cRA) in gelatin beadlets potentiated the production of a secondary IgE response to ovalbumin (OA) without a detectable primary response. Dose response experiments indicated that a single feeding of the lower doses (0.3 and 1.5 mg/dose) on day –1 potentiated the production of a low IgE response, whereas pretreatment with the higher concentrations of 13-cRA (3.0 and 6.0 mg/dose) potentiated a higher, sustained response. Pretreatment with 4 doses of 13-cRA on a weekly basis prior to immunization potentiated the production of high sustained secondary titers (titer 360–480) regardless of the concentration of 13-cRA used. These results suggest that 13-cRA has both an immunopotentiating effect and a suppressing effect.
Carrier and Hapten Functions in Immune Deviation
Authors: Neveu P.J.
Published: July 2009

The effects of the intravenous injection of DNP-Ficoll on delayed hypersensitivity reactions to bovine gamma globulins (BGG) and anaphylactic reactions to the hapten induced by immunization with DNP-BGG in Freund’s complete adjuvant were studied in guinea pigs. Animals treated with DNP-Ficoll exhibited stronger delayed hypersensitivity to BGG and lower anaphylactic reactions to the hapten than control animals treated with saline, Ficoll alone or with an unrelated protein antigen. These results could be explained by antigen competition between hapten and carrier determinants occurring at the macrophage level.
Immune Response to Trichomonas vaginalis
Authors: Yano A. , Kaji R. , Kojima S. , Ovary Z.
Published: July 2009

The antigenicity of Trichomonas vaginalis to elicit IgE antibody was examined in mice. The soluble antigen was prepared by sonication of in vitro cultured T. vaginalis lines. BALB/c mice were immunized by various doses of the antigen with alum followed by a booster injection on day 14 after primary injection of the protozoan antigen. The highest IgE antibody titer was found in mice immunized with 30 μg of the antigen. The IgE antibody response to Trichomonas antigen is regulated by at least two immune response genes: one localized in the I region (K to I-B subregions) of chromosome 17, the other in a not yet identified chromosome.
Enhancement of Suppressor Cell Generation in Human Mixed Lymphocyte Cultures by Interferon
Authors: Onsrud Mathias
Published: July 2009

Mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC) interactions are differentially influenced by interferon: proliferation is reduced whereas the induction of allospecific cytotoxic cells is enhanced. The experiments presented here show that interferon also potentiates the induction of cells which suppress the MLC responsiveness of freshly prepared responding cells from the same donor. This effect is most evident when low doses of interferon and low numbers of suppressor cells are used, and it does not seem to be exerted by a cytotoxic mechanism. Maximum effect was seen with interferon present from the beginning of and throughout the induction period, and once the suppressor cells were generated, interferon did not further potentiate their function.
In vitro Augmentation of Human Natural Killer (NK) Cell Activity by a Streptococcal Preparation OK-432 and Its Extracts, Protein M and Polysaccharides
Authors: Wakasugi Hiro , Oshimi Kazuo , Kasahara Tadashi , Miyata Michio , Morioka Yasuhiko
Published: July 2009

Effect of a streptococcal preparation OK-432 and its derivatives on the augmentation of human natural killer cell activity in vitro was examined. The strong augmentation was found by the OK-432 stimulation. Cell separation procedures revealed that cytotoxic activity augmented by the stimulant was considered to be mediated mainly by nonadherent, nonphagocytic, IgG-Fc receptor positive, non-T cells, i. e. NK cells. In addition, supernates cultured with OK-432 augmented NK activity, suggesting some kinds of soluble factors released in the supernates may be participating on the augmentation of human NK activity by OK-432.
Isolation and Some Properties of an IgG Fc-Binding Protein from Group A Streptococci Type 15
Authors: Grubb Anders , Grubb Rune , Christensen Poul , Schalén Claës
Published: July 2009

An IgG Fc-binding protein was isolated from alkaline extracts of group A streptococci type 15 by ion-exchange chromatography and immunosorption on an IgG column. Ample use of protease inhibitors was necessary to achieve successful isolation. 600 μg protein was obtained from 60 g bacteria (wet weight). The protein appeared homogeneous on agarose gel and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and had an apparent molecular weight of 29,500. It contained appreciable amounts of the amino acids glutamic acid, alanine, leucine, aspartic acid and lysine, but little or no tyrosine, phenylalanine, proline, glucosamine or galactosamine. It precipitated human monoclonal IgG of all four sub-classes in agarose gels as well as polyclonal IgG, IgG Fc and normal human serum. It did not precipitate IgG Fab, IgA, IgM, IgD or free κ or λ chains.
Bordetella pertussis-Induced Impairment of Relaxation of Rat Trachea to Isoprenaline and Histamine and Its Reversal with Hydrocortisone
Authors: Norris A.A. , Eyre P.
Published: July 2009

Bordetella pertussis vaccination of rats resulted in impairment of relaxation to isoprenaline and histamine of partially contracted tracheal smooth muscle. The concentration range of carbachol (10––6 to 5 × 10––6M) required for contraction (ED50) did not differ from the control group. Pretreatment of vaccinated animals with hydrocortisone was found to reverse the inhibition of spasmolytic activity.
Studies on Allergen and Allergoid Preparations from Purified Timothy (Phleum pratense) Pollen Extracts
Authors: Puttonen E. , Maasch H.J. , Pilström L.
Published: July 2009

Physicochemical and in vitro allergenic properties of two different preparations of timothy (Phleum pratense) pollen were compared. The refined allergen extract, timothy B, contained proteins of molecular weights from 10,000 to 45,000 daltons. The allergoid preparation, which was prepared by mild treatment of the partially purified extract with formaldehyde, possessed only a trace of activity in the RAST inhibition assay. The formaldehyde treatment also resulted in a shift of the net charge of proteins to the more acidic site, as demonstrated by isoelectric focusing. Furthermore, it was shown that the activities of naturally occurring enzymes of native allergen extracts were reduced considerably. Only traces of acid phosphatase activity could be demonstrated in timothy B allergoid.
Studies on Allergen and Allergoid Preparations from Purified Timothy (Phleum pratense) Pollen Extracts
Authors: Puttonen E. , Pilström L.P. , Wahn U. , Maasch H.J.
Published: July 2009

In vivo and in vitro allergenic activities of allergen and allergoid preparations from partially purified timothy pollen extract were measured in three different systems. In heterologous PCA titration, the allergen preparation was found to be 32 times more allergenic than the allergoid preparation. By intravenous dialed that treatment of allergen preparations with formaldehyde led to a preparation with the properties of an allergoid. In addition, it was found that the carbohydrate fraction of the refined allergen preparation of timothy a reduction in blood pressure. Thus, the allergen preparation was at least 50 times more potent in inducing systemic anaphylaxis in sensitized rats than the allergoid preparation. In the histamine release assay of grass-sensitive human leukocytes, approximately 1,000 times more allergoid protein than allergen protein was required to achieve 30% histamine release. Although to different degrees, in all three test systems it could be demonstrated that treatment of allergen preparations with formaldehyde led to a preparation with the properties of an allergoid. In addition, it was found that the carbohydrate fraction of the refined allergen preparation of timothy pollen decreased the blood pressure even in nonsensitized animals. The effect of this carbohydrate fraction on blood pressure was immediate but short-lived and immunologically nonspecific.
Phagocytosis, Chemoluminescence, and Intracellular Killing of Fungi by Phagocytes from Subjects with Deficiency of the Second Component of Complement
Authors: Meuwissen Hilaire J. , Rhee Myung S. , Rynes Richard I. , Pickering Richard J.
Published: July 2009

The capacity of phagocytes from animals or humans with complement component deficiency to ingest and kill Candida albicans has been much disputed. We show that peripheral blood polymorphonuclear leukocytes and mononuclear phagocytes from subjects with hereditary C2 deficiency (C2D) ingested C. albicans or Saccharomyces cerevisiae at an abnormally slow rate. After preincubating C. albicans in C2D plasma, the slow rate of phagocytosis was corrected and subsequent intracellular killing of C. Albicans was normal. A normal number of C2D phagocytes reduced nitroblue tetrazolium after stimulation with either phorbol myristate acetate or ingestion of C. albicans. The rate at which chemoluminescence was generated in response to C. albicans was abnormally slow, but peak chemoluminescence produced by C2D phagocytes in response to C. albicans was normal.
Collagen-Anti-Collagen Complexes in Rheumatoid Arthritis Sera
Authors: Wozniczko-Orlowska Genowefa , Milgrom Felix
Published: July 2009

Immune complexes (IC) were detected in rheumatoid sera by means of anti-antibody (AA) neutralization tests. The sera with rheumatoid factor (RF) that did not agglutinate human Rh+ erythrocytes sensitized by incomplete Rh antibodies, Ripley, could be tested in an AA neutralization test without any further treatment. On the other hand, ‘Ripley-positive’ sera had to be treated with 2-mercaptoethanol or dithiothreitol in order to destroy RF. IC-containing sera were further studied for dispersion of IC by collagen. Surprisingly, roughly 50% of IC-containing sera were affected by collagen in that they lost AA-neutralizing activity completely or partially. Significantly, very similar results were obtained with collagen type I, collagen type II and denatured collagen type II. It was concluded that these sera contained IC formed by denatured collagen and its antibodies. Further experiments were devoted to the study of the effect of collagen on reactions of RF with Ripley-sensitized erythrocytes. In several sera, the addition of collagen eliminated the prozone. This was interpreted as deblocking of RF due to the dispersion of the blocking IC by an excess of collagen. In other sera, the addition of collagen seemed to remove or block RF. This blocking effect was interpreted as a neutralization of multispecific RF by collagen. An alternative explanation proposed that collagen formed IC with free anti-collagen antibodies and that these IC blocked the RF.
Antigenicity of Beta-Lactam Antibiotic Preparations: Production of IgE Antibodies to Beta-Lactam Antibiotic and Their Cross-Reaction Within the Antibiotic Group
Authors: Iwata Masayuki , Katsuta Mitsuo , Tanii Takamitsu , Tokiwa Hiroshi , Matuhasi Tyoku
Published: July 2009

BALB/C mice were immunized with a conjugate of benzylpenicillin or ampicillin with Ascaris suum extract. The mice developed IgE antibodies to penicillin, which were found to react with commercially available penicillin preparations in the PCA system. Elimination of polymerized penicillin by Sephadex chromatography from tested preparations could not diminish their activities to elicit PCA. High pressure liquid chromatographic (HPLC) separation of PcG preparation yielded fractions unable to elicit PCA. On the other hand, all fractions from ABPC retained the activity even after the HPLC purification. A comparative estimation of cross-reactivity of IgE and IgE antipenicillin antibodies showed that IgE antibodies cross-reacted with a variety of beta-lactam antibiotics in a high degree.
Immune Responses of Guinea Pigs to Dietary Protein
Authors: Heppell L.M.J. , Kilshaw P.J.
Published: July 2009

Introduction of ovalbumin into the diet of guinea pigs initially evoked the production of circulating antibody. With continued feeding, antibody levels declined in animals fed with ovalbumin from 2–4 days or 6–8 weeks of age, but remained constant in guinea pigs commencing the feeding regimen at 5–6 months of age. All animals receiving dietary ovalbumin became hyporesponsive to parenteral injection with ovalbumin in adjuvant, and suppression of IgG1 and IgG2 antibody subclasses was observed. The results demonstrated that delayed hypersensitivity to ovalbumin was more readily suppressed by the feeding regimen than the systemic antibody response.
Phosphatidic Acid Induces Histamine Secretion from Rat Peritoneal Mast Cells
Authors: Pearce F.L. , Messis P.D.
Published: July 2009

Phosphatidic acid produces a selective, dose-dependent release of histamine from rat peritoneal mast cells. The effect is independent of exogenous calcium and probably reflects mobilization of sequestered stores of the cation. The significance of these results is discussed in terms of the possible changes in membrane lipid metabolism involved in mast cell activation.
Palytoxin both Induces and Inhibits the Release of Histamine from Rat Mast Cells
Authors: Chhatwal G.S. , Ahnert-Hilger G. , Beress L. , Habermann E.
Published: July 2009

Palytoxin (PTX) is a potent releaser of histamine from rat mast cells. The concentration response curve is bell-shaped with its range between 0.05 ng/ml an 5 &um;g/ml and its maximum at 50 ng/ml. The release of histamine by PTX is specific because (a) heat-inactivated (50°C) mast cells are insensitive to PTX, and (b) extracellular calcium is essential. Removal of extracellular potassium as well as the presence of borate shifts the curve to the left by a factor of 10. At higher concentrations (5 µg/ml), PTX inhibits the release of histamine due to compound 48/80, MCD-peptide, Con-A, ionophore A-23187, and PTX itself.
Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis in Strain II Guinea Pigs II.
Authors: Schuyler Mark , Schmitt D. , Steinberg D.
Published: July 2009

A model of hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) in syngeneic animals would allow experiments designed to determine immunopathogenesis of HP. Strain II guinea pigs were treated with Micropolyspora faeni and challenged with intratracheal M. faeni. Skin test, serum antibody, hilar lymph node lymphocyte proliferation and bronchoalveolar macrophage migration inhibition (MMI) response to M. faeni antigen were determined. Sensitized animals had positive delayed skin tests, serum antibody and bronchoalveolar cell MMI, but not M. faeni-induced hilar node lymphocyte proliferation. We conclude that this model is suitable for examination of the importance of various mechanisms which might be important in HP.
Potentiated Immune Responses after Administration of Aclacinomycin
Authors: Orbach-Arbouys Simone , Andrade-Mena Carlos Enrique , Berardet Micheline , Mathe Georges
Published: July 2009

After the intraperitoneal injection of aclacinomycin into mice, a variety of immune responses were increased. The total plaque-forming spleen cell response to SRBC was higher in treated animals than in controls, in spite of an apparent cytotoxic effects on B cells. The aclacinomycin-sensitive cell is apparently a long-lived cell, surviving adult thymectomy. Delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions were also augmented in treated animals, particularly those bearing tumors. In adjuvant-treated mice, the injection of aclacinomycin augments the immune response still further. Such observations should be taken into account in the establishment of clinical protocols associating immunotherapy and chemotherapy.
Detection of Antibody to Carcinoembryonic Antigen by the Hemolytic Plaque Assay
Authors: Stinson R.S. , Lockhart C.G. , Margraf H.W. , Philpott G.W.
Published: July 2009

A modification of the standard hemolytic plaque-forming cell assay is described. The conjugation of a soluble antigen, carcinoembryonic antigen, to the membrane of the sheep red blood cell was accomplished and used as the indicator system to detect antibody-forming cells. The specificity of the assay was determined by cross-reacting studies and competitive inhibition by antigen blocking.
Histochemical Patterns of Human T Lymphocyte Subpopulations with Nonspecific Esterase Staining
Authors: Quesada Jorge R. , Murphy Samuel G.
Published: July 2009

Alpha-naphthyl-acetate-esterase (ANAE) activity was histochemically demonstrated in human T lymphocytes and their subpopulations. Examination of T lymphocytes bearing Fc receptors for IgM showed the presence of circumscribed deposits of esterase activity, while T cells with FC receptors for IgG showed a predominantly diffuse granular pattern. The difference in the topography of the enzymatic activity was shown to be related to cellular activation resulting from exposure to IgG-sensitized bovine erythrocytes or to strong polyclonal activation by lectin mitogens. The ANAE stain also characterized monocytes, which exhibited an intense nongranular cytoplasmic stain. Non-T cells showed no detectable ANAE activity when tested by this method.
Experimental Study on Immunological Reactions against the Articular Cartilage
Authors: Yoshioka Yasuhiro , Tsuru Sumiaki , Yokoyama Masahiro , Nomoto Kikuo
Published: July 2009

In rats immunized with articular cartilage antigens, delayed hypersensitivity was detected by the macrophage migration inhibition test and delayed footpad reaction. Additionally, a proliferative response was found in the regional lymph nodes of immunized rats. The mixed addition of sensitized lymphocytes and antibodies exerted a cytotoxic effect on cultured chondrocytes. Articular damage including accelerated chondrolysis may have some relation to delayed hypersensitivity to autologous articular cartilage antigens.
IgE Anti-Brucella Antibodies in the Course of Human Brucellosis and after Specific Vaccination
Authors: Escande Andrée , Serre Arlette
Published: July 2009

Using two different techniques (an original RAST-like radio-immunoassay and indirect immunofluorescence) serum IgE anti-Brucella antibodies were detected in 59% brucellosis patients (76% in early samples from acute brucellosis) and in 43% subjects vaccinated with a phenol-insoluble Brucella fraction. IgE anti-Brucella antibodies are shown to appear after IgM but before IgG anti-Brucella antibodies in the course of the anti-Brucella response. There is no correlation between the presence of IgE anti-Brucella antibodies and the severity of brucellosis or its clinical manifestations. On the other hand, a significant association has been evidenced between the presence of mild reactions to primary vaccination and that of IgE antibodies induced by this vaccination. These findings are discussed in terms of their possible functional significance.
Presence of Fibronectin in Cold Precipitates of Patients with Cryoimmunoglobulinemia
Authors: Levo Yoram
Published: July 2009

Fibronectin (FN) has been implicated in the cryoprecipitation of fibrin-fibrinogen complexes. Preliminary observations have suggested that it may also play a role in cryoglobulinemia. In the present study 32 cryoprecipitates from patients with hepatitis, chronic active hepatitis, essential mixed cryoglobulinemia, and innammatory bowel diseases were analyzed and screened for the presence of FN. Most cryoproteins of patients with essential mixed cryoglobulinemia and inflammatory bowel diseases were of the mixed IgM-IgG type and all contained FN. In contrast, most cryoproteins of patients with hepatitis were composed of polyclonal IgM and were devoid of FN. It is possible that FN characterizes and facilitates the formation of mixed cryoglobulins. However, its presence does not seem to be an absolute requirement for cryoprecipitation.
Adjuvanticity of Dimethyl Dioctadecyl Ammonium Bromide in Guinea Pigs
Authors: Snippe Harm , De Reuver Marinus J. , Kamperdijk Ed.W.A. , van den Berg Marja , Willers Jan M.N.
Published: July 2009

The effect of the adjuvant dimethyl dioctadecyl ammonium bromide (DDA) on the induction of cellular immunity in guinea pigs was studied. DDA, a surface-active lipid, was mixed with the antigen bovine serum albumin (BSA) or with a conjugate of BSA and dinitrophenol (DNP22-BSA) and injected into the footpads of guinea pigs. At varying intervals skin tests were performed to test the immediate and delayed hypersensitivity (DH) reactions. Optimal DH reactions to BSA were observed from 3 to 6 weeks after immunization with BSA in DDA. The hapten-specific response to DNP22-BSA had an optimum at 3 weeks and was highly specific for the homologous antigen. Histological examinations of skin test sites confirmed that the reaction was rather of the tuberculin type than of the cutaneous basophil hypersensitivity type. When guinea pigs were immunized with DNP22-BSA in Freund’s complete adjuvant (FCA) a long-lasting DH to both carrier and hapten groups developed but the DH was always complicated by an Arthus reaction due to antibodies to the DNP hapten. In conclusion, DDA is superior to FCA as adjuvant for the induction of a state of pure DH in guinea pigs.
Quantification of the C3 Breakdown Product C3d by Rocket Immunoelectrophoresis
Authors: Ramentol-Massana Mercé , Grau Georges , Beaumariage Marie-Louise , Salmon Jacques
Published: July 2009

The levels of the C3 breakdown product C3d were measured in plasma, serum, and synovial fluid by the technique of rocket immunoelectrophoresis. Serum and plasma from 22 healthy donors, 4 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, 1 patient with systemic lupus erythematosus, and 1 patient with cryoglobulinemia were used. The synovial fluid was studied in 3 other patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Normal values for the 22 healthy donors in plasma were within a narrow range of 3.25–5.75% as compared to the standard pool that was prepared. Storage of plasma to ––80°C during 7–15 days did not modify the results of the test. Significant differences in C3d values were observed between serum and EDTA plasma samples. Patients with immunological diseases showed higher values of C3d in the samples (from 5 to 30% of activity as compared to the standard pool). Measurement of C3d by rocket immunoelectrophoresis showed to be an easy, satisfactory and reliable procedure able to be incorporated to routine immunological evaluations.
Use of Isotachophoresis for Identification of Pollen Allergens
Authors: Einarsson Roland , Karlsson Robert
Published: July 2009

A sensitive and practical method is described for identification of individual pollen allergens. Isotachophoretic patterns of allergen extracts suggest that it is possible to differentiate between various pollen allergens. Owing to the high sensitivity and short analysis time of isotachophoresis, new ways are made available for the analysis of allergen extracts and allergen raw materials.
Standardization of the Double-Antibody Method for IgE Determination: Use of Different Monoclonal IgE as Tracer, Immunogen or Standard
Authors: Popa Valentin , Reardon Mark
Published: July 2009

We wanted to determine whether the competitive radioimmunoassay for IgE is influenced by various combinations of three monoclonal IgE (IgEND, IgEps, IgEsha) used as tracer or standard, and anti-IgEND and anti-IgEps as first antibody. When the immunogen for the first antibody was indentical with the monoclonal tracer or standard IgE, the latter two bound preferentially to the first antibody. These unusual assays led to inhibition curves that ran in parallel to those produced by usual assays, i.e. assays in which the tracer and the immunogen were different monoclonal IgE and the standard was a polyclonal IgE. When serum samples were analyzed for their IgE content, the unusual assay produced values that were linearly related to those produced by a usual or another, unusual, assay. However, the values of IgE produced by a usual assay were, in general, significantly different from those obtained by unusual assays. We conclude that as suspected, but never demonstrated before, the competitive assay for IgE requires the use of two different monoclonal IgE as tracer and immunogen; application of unusual assays requires their prior calibration against a usual assay.