Antigenic Components of Human Erythrocytes

Abstract

The stroma of erythrocytes obtained from individual donors was analyzed by electrophoresis, and by immunoelectrophoresis with concentrated rabbit antisera to whole hemolysate and post-hemolytic residue. Each antiserum gave identical reaction patterns with all preparations of stroma irrespective of blood groups. At least 12 antigenic constituents besides hemoglobin were demonstrated, five of which were recognized as enzymes. In addition, four isoenzymes with lactic dehydrogenase activity were encountered. Purified virus receptor substance, glycoprotein complex obtained by butanol treatment of stromal residues, and glycoprotein in aqueous extracts of stroma exhibited basic immunologic identity unrelated to blood groups. Besides M or N activity corresponding to the donor's MN group, traces of blood group A activity were demonstrable in virus receptor substance and in butanol aqueous fractions prepared from cells of group A₁. The relation of these various components to the erythrocyte membrane ultrastructure is considered.