Localization of Fc gamma receptors and complement receptors CR1 on human peripheral nerve fibres by immunoelectron microscopy.

The localization of receptors for the Fc part of IgG (Fc gamma R) and for the complement C3b/C4b components (CR1) on human peripheral nerve fibres was investigated by indirect immunoperoxidase staining of frozen nerve sections with monoclonal antibodies. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that Fc gamma R and CR1 are localized to the entire surface membrane and inner membrane (axolemma) of the Schwann cell. Myelin and axons were not stained. The presence of Fc gamma R and CR1 in human Schwann cells adds further evidence for the immunocompetence of these cells.