Homocytotropic Antibodies in the Guinea-Pig

Authors:
  • DCD. Catty
    D. Catty
  • KFK.F. Fraser
    K.F. Fraser
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Abstract
The course of production and some properties of homocytotropic antibodies produced in guinea-pigs after infection with Trichinella spiralis have been examined by the PCA reaction using whole sera and γ-globulin fractions prepared by DEAE cellulose gradient chromatography. Two heat-stable homocytotropic antibodies eluting in the γ1region have been identified; these differ markedly in their capacity to persist in the skin. In addition a heat-labile (56°C/30 min) antibody, which can elicit PCA reactions 21 days after sensitization, was found as a minor component in several fractions. The reagin-like antibody appeared in detectable amounts in serum for a limited period after a single infection (days 25–45). The heat-stable homocytotropic antibodies were first demonstrated in the 2nd or 3rd week of infection and were produced together for an extensive period. There is evidence that reagin-like antibody competes for sensitization sites in the skin and partially inhibits sensitization by γ1heat-stable antibodies.