Zwa antigen distribution on the human platelet: an electron microscope study using a colloidal gold labelled marker

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Abstract
The application of a new technique was presented for visualizing surface antigen distribution patterns on intact platelets, treated with anti ZWa antibody, using colloidal Au labeled anti-human Ig as a marker. Platelets from Zwa negative and from both heterozygous and homozygous Zwa positive individuals were examined for surface Zwa antigen distribution. Platelets fixed with paraformaldehyde show an even distribution of Au particles with a well-developed reticular pattern over their surfaces. Platelets heterozygous for Zwa shows considerable antigen variation, some platelets having similar quantities of antigen to, other much less than, homozygotes. The importance of platelet fixation prior to antigen demonstration by anti Zwa antibody and immunogold visualization is seen by the redistribution of antigen on unfixed platelets. This technique could be exploited to investigate the relationship between platelet surface antigens or structures and their functions.