Youinou P, Buisson M, Berthelot J M, Jamin C, Le Goff P, Genoulaz O, Lamour A, Lydyard P M, Seigneurin J M
Laboratory of Immunology, Brest University Medical School Hospital, France.
Autoimmunity. 1992;13(3):225-31. doi: 10.3109/08916939209004828.
We have examined serum antibodies to Epstein-Barr virus Nuclear Antigen (EBNA)-1, -2A and -2B, in addition to antibodies to viral capsid antigen and early antigen in 100 rheumatoid arthritis patients and 50 of their relatives. Using indirect immunofluorescence on transfected cells and Western-blot technique, we have found increased frequency and titres of antibodies to EBNA-2B in patients and, to a lesser degree, in their family members, whereas other anti-Epstein-Barr virus antibodies appeared to be similar to controls. Cross-inhibition experiments were carried out and show that antibodies to EBNA-2A are distinct from those to -2B, and vice versa.
