Identification of I/i, Pr1-3 and Gd antigens in the human kidney: possible relevance to hyperacute graft rejection induced by cold agglutinins.

Human cold agglutinins (CA) with I/i, Pr1--3 and Gd specificities were tested for reactivity against kidney tissue by immunofluorescent techniques. I/i antigens were found on the epithelia of the Henle's loops and distal tubules. Pr1--3 antigens were demonstrated on the glomerular capillaries. Gd antigens were localized on the endothelia of the glomerular and peritubular capillaries as well as in the kidney interstitium. From these results, it is suggested that hyperacute rejection of renal transplants in recipients with high-titre CA may not only be caused by intravascular erythrocyte agglutination but also by direct cytotoxic damage of the transplant. Since CA occur frequently in potential kidney recipients, pre-operative determinations of CA in these patients should be recommended.