Differential expression of HLA class-I antigens on B and T lymphocytes obtained from human lymphoid tissues.

The amount of HLA class-I antigens was determined on the surface of enriched populations of B and T lymphocytes obtained from human peripheral blood, lymph nodes and spleens. The assays were performed using monoclonal antibodies that recognize different determinants on HLA class-I antigens and utilizing a simple and sensitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Our results indicate that B lymphocytes obtained from human peripheral blood, lymph nodes and spleens express at least twice as many HLA class-I antigens as T lymphocytes obtained from the same organs.