Immunofluorescence studies with a specific antiserum to the microfibrillar protein of elastic fibres. Location in elastic and non-elastic connective tissues.

The microfibrillar protein (MFP) of foetal bovine ligamentum nuchae elastic fibres was prepared and used to produce a monospecific antiserum. Indirect immunofluorescence studies employing the specific antiserum demonstrated its selectivity for MFP associated with elastic fibres. The antiserum was demonstrated to react with vascular elastic tissue, perivascular connective tissue and reticular basement membranes in a variety of tissues. This evidence suggests that the MFP (or an immunologically related protein) is not confined to elastic fibres but is widely distributed in connective tissue being associated with both elastin and collagen fibres.