Abstract
A simple technique for detection of serum autoantibodies that bind to liver membrane antigens on the surface of liver cells has been developed using Alexander cells[PLC/PRF/5]. Alexander cells were incubated with test serum(1:160), washed then adherent antibodies were detected by incubating with 125I-proCein A. Specific binding to cell surface was calculated as the ratio between the counts with patient's serum divided by 2SD above the mean count obtained with serum from controls. The ratio was significantly higher in those with active autoimmune chronic active hepatitis (aCAH)[median 4.5, range 1.1-23.1] when compared to inactive cases [1.5, 0.3-4.1; p<0.01], to alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency [1.2, 0.3-2.3; p<0.01], and to Wilson's disease[1.7, 0.3-2.9;p<0.01]. The ratio in primary sclerosing cholangitis was similar to active aCAH[4.2, 0.8-6.7]which would support recent evidence implicating autoimmune mechanisms in PSC. In 11 aCAH cases tested for anti-LSP [liver specific lipoprotein] antibody a positive correlation was found between Alexander cellbinding assay & anti-LSP titres( r= 0.56 p<0.02). In 4 aCAH tested @ diagnosis [4.8,3-23.1] the ratio fell after effective immunosuppresive therapy [0.9, 0.6-4.5]. Alexander cell binding assay provides a simple, rapid & sensitive technique to detect specific antibody to liver cell membrane which may help in the management of autoimmune liver disease.
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CMcSorley, AY., McFarlane, I., Mowat, A. et al. 57. A NEW METHOD FOR DETECTING ANTI LIVER CELL MEMBRANE ANTIBODY USING A HUMAN HEPATOMA CELL LINE. Pediatr Res 22, 105 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198707000-00078
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198707000-00078