STUDIES OF ANTI-LYMPHOCYTE SERUM

IMMUNIZATION OF THE HORSE WITH HUMAN LYMPHOCYTES AND DEVELOPMENT OF ANTIBODIES

Abstract

Anti-human lymphocyte sera (AHLS) were produced by immunization of the horse with human spleen cells, peripheral lymphocytes, lymphocyte membrane components and cultured lymphoblasts as the antigens. The method of immunization and blood collection and the antibody titer of AHLS were discussed.
The anti-lymphocyte antibody was tested in vitro by leukoagglutination, lymphocyte cytotoxicity and rosette formation inhibition test. The other antibodies (hemagglutinin, antiplatelet antibody and antihuman-serum-protein antibody) were also assayed.
In AHLS produced by subcutaneous immunization with spleen cells or peripheral lymphocytes high anti-lymphocyte activities were developed but antibodies against platelet and human serum proteins also made appearance.
In AHLS induced by intravenous immunization with spleen cells and lymphocyte membrane components lower antilymphocyte activities were developed.
AHLS produced by subcutaneous and intravenous immunization with cultured lymphoblasts had a high lymphocyte cytotoxicity and rosette formation inhibition titer without development of antibodies against platelet, human serum protein, and glomerular basement membrane. The antilymphocyte globulin (AHLG) purified from this AHLS can be administered intravenously without development of anemia, thrombocytopenia or allergic reaction and furthermore has a favorable immunosuppressive effect for clinical use in kidney transplantations.