Anionic Binding Sites in the Glomerular Basement Membrane: Possible Role in the Pathogenesis of Immune Complex Glomerulonephritis

Abstract

This paper details the ways in which the anionic sites of the GBM could be involved in immune complex deposition. Experiments were performed with chemically cationised proteins to test the hypotheses proposed. The most detailed investigations were concerned with the role of basic (cationic) antigen as a planted antigen, leading to in situ immune complex formation. A model was developed where it was possible to induce marked proteinuria following a single injection of small quantities of cationised human IgG or ferritin.