Serological Expression of Antibody Specificity for a Single Determinant of an Antigenically Complex Molecule

Abstract

THE immune response to an antigenically complex molecule results in the formation of antibodies specific for one or more antigenic determinants¹. In all but a few instances², antibodies specific for individual determinants cannot be identified, which precludes the evaluation of an immune response at this level of serological specificity. It is therefore usually assumed that antibodies specific for multiple determinants are regularly produced and participate in the serological reactivity of an antiserum. Such an assumption could obscure the possibility that a given antiserum consists of antibodies specific for a single determinant. The inability of such antisera to produce precipitation³ may, in turn, lead to their being considered devoid of antibody activity or their serological properties being misinterpreted. Because of these practical considerations, we decided to describe our experience of this subject.