Expression of H-2 antigens and thyroglobulin (Tg) on freshly dissociated and in vitro cultured monolayers of mouse thyroid epithelial cells (TEC).

The expression of the major histocompatibility complex antigens (K, D, and Ia) and thyroglobulin was studied on both freshly dissociated and in vitro cultured murine thyroid cells. Methods used for antigen detection included direct cytotoxicity, fluorescence and electron microscopic studies. Results obtained showed that the K-end, the D-end and thyroglobulin antigens are expressed exclusively on the apical cell surface of thyroid epithelial cells, while Ia antigens are found on the basal part of the cell.