Transformation of atla‐negative leukocytes by blood components from anti‐ATLA‐positive donors In vitro

Abstract

Anti‐ATLA‐positive blood components transformed healthy human leukocytes in vitro. Blood components examined were packed red cells, whole blood, platelet concentrate and fresh frozen plasma. Leukocytes present in anti‐ATLA‐positive blood components such as packed red cells, whole blood and platelet concentrate easily transformed anti‐ATLA‐negative leukocytes. Co‐culture in fresh frozen plasma, however, did not transform recipient leukocytes, and leukocytes of anti‐ATLA‐positive recipients proved refractory to transformation. The transformed cells were morphologically lymphoid, grew in suspension, and possessed normal recipient karyotypes except in the case of three platelet concentrates. A high proportion of all the transformed populations formed Erosettes with neuraminidase‐treated sheep erytrocytes. The cytoplasm of over 90% of each recipient was stained brilliantly with antibodies against ATLV‐determined antigens. Electron microscopy of these transformed cells revealed many C‐type virus particles in the extracellular space. Blood components, such as packed red cells, whole blood and platelet concentrate, containing leukocytes from anti‐ATLA‐positive donors, should be used cautiously to prevent the transmission on ATLV to anti‐ATLA‐negative recipients.