Circulating Antibodies

FIGURE 1.11 Three -dimensional spacefilling representation of part of a protein molecule, the antigen-binding domain of immunoglobulin G (IgG). Immunoglobulin G is a major type of circulating antibody. Each of the spheres represents an atom in the structure. 

Thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) is present in 90% of patients with the classical triad of Graves disease (goiter, ophthalmopathy, dermopathy) but these features may follow independent courses and successful control of the hyperthyroidism improves TAO in less than 5% cases. Immunosuppression has been used since theories of the etiology of TAO include the presence of circulating antibodies to both thyroid and ocular muscle fibers, and of thyroglobulin-antithy-roglobulin complexes with high affinity for extraocular muscles. 

Defense against infection by the white blood cells and circulating antibodies... 

The direct Coombs test detects the presence of antibodies on red cells, whereas the indirect test detects the presence of circulating antibodies to antigens present on red cells. 

The HIV antibody test measures whether an individual has circulating antibodies to HIV. However, strictly speaking, the test does not indicate if an antibody positive individual still harbors infectious virus. Some individuals who are exposed to HIV might have raised a successful immune response and completely eliminated the infection. However, by and large, most HIV-antibody positive individuals turn out to be still infected. 

A worker who had developed cutaneous sensitization also developed apparent asthma from inhalation of nickel sulfate immunologic studies showed circulating antibodies to the salt, and controlled exposure to a solution of nickel sulfate resulted in decreased pulmonary function and progressive dyspnea the possibility of hypersensitivity pneumonitis could not be excluded. ... 

Demonstration of circulating antibodies to Plasmodium falciparum by gel diffusion techniques. Nature London) 210, 1384-1386 (1966). 

It provides passive protection when given immediately to individuals exposed to rabies virus. This provides maximum circulating antibody with minimum... 

Halothane-induced hepatitis seems to be mediated by both humoral and cell-mediated aspects of the immune system. Thus, both specific circulating antibodies and cytotoxic T lymphocytes are involved. One suggestion is that the mechanism involves antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity (ADCC). 

More than 90% of patients with myasthenia gravis have circulating antibodies directed against a subunit of the acetylcholine receptor/ Immunosuppressive drugs and steroids help to cut down on these autoantibodies, and many patients are benefit-ted by removal of the thymus. Newer approaches involve specific immunotherapy aimed at increasing tolerance to either T cells or to B cells.C/d For example, oral ingestion of purified acetylcholine receptors to desensitize the body s response or inhibition of production of 11-2. 

The anti-phospholipid syndrome refers to a range of autoimmune conditions which are characterised by venous or arterial thrombosis, recurrent strokes, pulmonary embolism, recurrent pregnancy loss or obstetric complications and the presence of circulating antibodies with specificity to a range of phospholipids including phosphatidylserine and cardiolipin. The syndrome is the leading cause of vascular thrombosis in children. It sometimes accompanies other autoimmune conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). 

Inject the mice intraperitoneally with 0.05 mL of antigen mixed with an appropriate adjuvant on d 0,14,28, and 44. Take a test bleed on d 51 and assess the serum for the presence of circulating antibody to the antigen. 

If the immune response is good (see Note 8) rest the animals for a minimum of 8-10 wk before cell fusion work. If the immune response is poor give another immunization on d 61 and assess the circulating antibody level on d 68. 

Take a test bleed by tail tip amputation under light anesthesia on d 21 and assess for circulating antibody. All antibody produced will be IgM and so assessment method (ELISA) must take this into account. Mark the mice by ear punch or tattoo for subsequent identification. 

Give the mouse exhibiting the highest titre of circulating antibody an IP injection of 0.1 mL (0.5 mg/mL solution) of antigen on d 23. 

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