Expression of polymorphic B-cell antigens on human kidneys

We have examined the expression on a panel of 22 human kidneys of polymorphic B-cell determinants recognized by mouse monoclonal antibodies. Monoclonal antibodies from a mouse immunized with an antigenic preparation from a DR4 positive B-cell line reacted preferentially with kidneys from DR4 positive donors (p less than 0.005), and the pattern of reactivity with kidney tissues was similar to that of antibodies to monomorphic determinants of class II. However, these antibodies did not show clear specificity for DR4 on lymphocytes in standard serological analyses. These results provide evidence for the expression of polymorphic class II determinants on human kidneys. Reasons for the differences in the apparent specificities of the monoclonal antibodies when tested on kidney sections and lymphocytes are discussed.