Abstract

The lack of class I antigens of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) on syncytiotrophoblast has been proposed as an explanation for the survival of the allogeneic fetus. These antigens, however, have recently been detected on nonvillous trophoblastic columns of the early human placenta. By using a combination of immunofluorescence techniques to identify trophoblast, we have studied transplantation antigens of the cytotrophoblastic shell present in the basal plate of normal full-term human placentae. With the use of two different monoclonal antibodies to a common determinant of HLA (clones W6/32 and 61D2), it was shown that this subset of trophoblast does express class 1 MHC antigens. However, while these cells reacted uniformly with W6/32, only rare reactivity with 61D2 was found. Reactivity of polyclonal antisera to beta 2-microglobulin correlated with that seen using W6/32. These results are similar to those recently observed in a subset of trophoblast of the amniochorion to which the term "metatrophoblast" has been given.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.