Antibodies to endothelial antigens in eluates of 88 human kidneys: Correlation with graft survival and presence of T- and B-cell antibodies

Renal transplant rejection is accompanied frequently by high titers of antibodies in the circulation and deposits of antibodies in the graft vessels. Analysis of circulating antibodies have revealed a multiplicity of classes and specificities. Antibodies with reactivities to lymphocytes (possibly HLA-DR or LB), monocytes, granulocytes (AYD), and endothelial (E) cells have been detected singly or in various combinations. The production of antibodies to antigens unrelated to the donor kidney may also be stimulated. Thus, renal transplantation may trigger a polyclonal antibody response only a part of which may participate actively in graft rejection. We have reported that eluates from two kidneys contained only antibodies to endothelial-monocyte (EM) antigens, even though antibodies to a wide range of antigens were present in the circulation. Therefore, the determination of those antibodies deposited in rejecting grafts may provide more accurate information about the antibodies participating in graft rejection.