The Genetics of the Immune Response to a Synthetic Double-Stranded RNA in a Mutant CBA Mouse Strain

Abstract

Abstract A mutant strain of mice (CBA/HN) was found that did not form antibody to the synthetic double-stranded ribonucleic acid polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid when given with complete Freund's adjuvant. All other strains investigated responded to this antigen. Genetic studies revealed that the inability to respond to this antigen was secondary to a gene on the X chromosome of the CBA/HN strain. Antibody formation could be induced in this strain by giving the antigen with methylated bovine γ-globulin. Immune responsiveness was transferred to nonresponding animals via lymphoid cells. The possible mechanisms of this defect are discussed.