Immunological regulation of spontaneous antibodies to DNA and RNA. II. Sequential switch from IgM to IgG in NZB/NZW F1 mice.
Serial serum samples from NZB/NZW F1 mice were studied by sucrose density gradient ultracentrifugation and filter radioimmunoassay for the immunoglobulin class of antibodies to double-stranded DNA and single-stranded RNA (Poly A). These antibodies occur spontaneously during the course of an autoimmune disease resembling systemic lupus erythematosus. Study of serum samples at 2-week intervals showed the sequential appearance of 19S followed by 7S anti-nucleic acid antibodies, an earlier commitment to 7S antibodies in female compared to male mice, and an independent and unrelated switching mechanism (19S-7S) for antibodies to DNA and Poly A. The more severe disease in female mice is correlated with an earlier appearance of 7S anti-DNA antibodies. This sequential and ordered appearance of antibodies to nucleic acids is discussed in relation to possible immunologic regulatory mechanisms.
D000818:Animals; D000974:Antibodies, Antinuclear / Q000032:analysis*; D004247:DNA / Q000276:immunology*; D005260:Female; D007074:Immunoglobulin G; D007075:Immunoglobulin M; D008297:Male; D051379:Mice; D008815:Mice, Inbred Strains; D011061:Poly A / Q000276:immunology; D012313:RNA / Q000276:immunology*; D012737:Sex Factors
D000974:Antibodies, Antinuclear; D007074:Immunoglobulin G; D007075:Immunoglobulin M; D011061:Poly A; D012313:RNA; D004247:DNA