THE IMMUNOGLOBULINS OF MICE

Abstract

Two subclasses of mouse 7S gamma(2)-globulins are identified, and are designated gamma(2a)- and gamma(2b)-globulins. They are distinguished from 7S gamma(1)-globulins, gamma(1A) (beta(2A))-globulins, and gamma(1M)-globulins of mouse serum. Antibody activity was detected among the gamma(2a)-globulins and gamma(2b)-globulins of hyperimmune mouse serum. gamma(2a)- and gamma(2b)-myeloma proteins were identified. The genetically determined isoantigen, Iga-1, was present on gamma(2a)-myeloma proteins, but not on gamma(2b)-myeloma proteins. These findings indicate a complexity among the 7S gamma(2)-globulins which must be taken into account in structural, functional, and genetic studies of immunoglobulins.