SPECIFIC REMOVAL OF DNA ANTIBODIES INVIVO WITH AN EXTRACORPOREAL IMMUNO-ADSORBENT

  • 1 January 1976
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 24  (2) , 231-237
Abstract
The selective removal of circulating antibody specific for DNA was effected with an immuno-absorbent consisting of DNA-cellulose incorporated into agar gel. Antisera to DNA obtained from a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus was circulated in vitro through experimental and control columns by a dual channel hemodialysis pump and serial aliquots were withdrawn and assayed for antibody. A 65% reduction in DNA binding of serum was achieved at a flow rate of 210 ml/min over a 4-h period with no release of 125I-labeled DNA from the column into the serum. For in vivo studies, 2.6-3.8 kg rabbits were actively immunized with methylated bovine serum albumin conjugated to single-stranded DNA (MBSA-ssDNA). Whole blood was pumped from the femoral artery through an immuno-adsorbent composed of ssDNA-cellulose in an agar matrix. Results showed significant reductions in ssDNA binding activity over various periods after connection of the rabbit''s circulation to the immuno-adsorbent with only minimal changes in BSA binding during the same period. Little release of incorporated 125I-labeled DNA from the column as assayed in the blood and tissues of the experimental animals occurred during the procedure. The immuno-adsorbent columns showed no residual cellular debris or thrombotic material. This immuno-adsorbent system probably can be used to specifically withdraw circulating DNA antibodies in vivo. Such a system may have clinical potential for specific therapy of systemic lupus erythematosus.

This publication has 10 references indexed in Scilit: