beta2-Microglobulin from Normal and Leukaemic Guinea-Pig Lymphocytes

Abstract

β₂-Microglobulin has been isolated in useful quantities from the urine of strain-2 guinea-pigs after either treatment with sodium chromate or induction of the L₂C leukaemia. Antibodies raised against the β₂-microglobulin were used to set up a radioimmunoassay which measured its export into culture fluid by normal and leukaemic lymphocytes. Material containing β₂-microglobulin was also obtained by digestion of the lymphocytic surfaces with papain; fractionation demonstrated both free and combined forms, with no qualitative difference between those from normal and those from leukaemic cells.