Distribution among the gamma-globulin molecules of different genetically determined antigenic specificities in the Gm system.

Abstract

Isolated myeloma proteins and anti-Rh antibodies were utilized for determination of the distribution among the gamma-globulin molecules of various Gm(b) and Gm(f) determinants. All of these genetic factors are as a rule inherited together in Caucasians, but not in other races. The Gm(b) determinants, except (b(2)), were found together in the same Caucasian myeloma globulins of the Vi H chain group, which never carried Gm(f) or (b(2)). The Gm(f) and (b(2)) determinants were found together in other myeloma globulins, of the We group. Anti-Rh antibody molecules appeared to be similar to myeloma molecules in these respects. A few myeloma proteins and anti-Rh antibodies were encountered which reacted with some but not other anti-Gm(b) or anti-Gm(f) reagents; the only available Vi type myeloma protein from a Negro, specifically lacked the Gm(b(3)) factor. The observations might be explained by the following hypothesis: In Caucasians with the common Gm(f) Gm(b) gene complex the Gm(b) antigenic determinants, except (b(2)), co-occur in certain molecules, which contain a polypeptide chain determined by the Gm(b) gene; the Gm(f) and (b(2)) determinants co-occur in other molecules, which contain a polypeptide chain determined by the Gm(f) gene. Individuals that lack some Gm(b) or Gm(f) determinants most likely have a gene partly different from Gm(b) or Gm(f). The value of studies with myeloma proteins from individuals of different racial groups was apparent from this study. One myeloma protein from a Chinese was unique in that it was both Gm(a+) and Gm(f+).