Elicitation of Arthus Reactions in Guinea Pigs by Homologous γ 1 and γ 2 Immunoglobulins

Abstract

Summary

Direct passive Arthus reactions were performed in guinea pigs with homologous γ₁ and γ₂ antibody preparations fully reactive in precipitation, passive hemagglutination, and less than 0.1% reciprocally contaminated (as verified with passive cutaneous anaphylaxis and passive hemolysis). Under these conditions, a definite role for the elicitation of the reaction could be ascribed to each of these two immunoglobulins: γ₁ antibodies alone build up a strongly edematous reaction with vascular permeability increase but no hemorrhage; the hemorrhage is conferred to the preceding reaction by γ₂ antibodies; γ₂ antibodies alone are practically incapable of producing a visible reaction. The lack of reaction with γ₂ antibodies alone was not subsequent to a drastic elimination of this type of immunoglobulin since a similar combination of results was obtained when large quantities of γ₂ antibodies were given 20 min after, 20 min or 48 hr before antigen. In the latter case, their persistence in blood with full biological capacities was verified.