Expression of a monoclonal antibody-defined, B-lineage transformation antigen specifically identifies Abelson-diseased animals. Genetically determined resistance to Abelson murine leukemia virus acts before induction of gp160(6C3).

Mice genetically susceptible or genetically resistant to the leukemogenic effects of A-MuLV(Mo) were tested for their expression of the B-lineage neoplastic transformation-associated antigen, 6C3Ag. Genetically resistant inbred strains and recombinant inbred lines developed neither cells expressing high levels of 6C3Ag (6C3Aghi) in their hematolymphoid tissues nor Abelson leukemias. Genetically susceptible inbred strains and recombinant inbred lines developed high percentages of 6C3Aghi hematolymphoid cells concomitant with development of Abelson leukemias and lymphomas. Thus the genetically-determined resistance to A-MuLV(Mo) leukemogenesis appears to act at some step(s) after virus infection but before the stage of malignant progression, which is marked by 6C3Ag expression.