Genetic factors and polypeptide chain subclasses of human immunoglobulin G detected in chimpanzee serums.

The Gm and Inv genetic factors, characteristic antigens of human immunoglobulin G, were detected in chimpanzee serums. All animals tested were Gm(a+, x-, b(l)-, b(2)-, b(3)+, b(4)+). Polymorphism was demonstrated for factors Gm(c), Inv(l), and Inv(b). Three of the subclasses of heavy polypeptide chains and both types of light polypeptide chains that are present in human immunoglobulin G were identified in chimpanzee serums.