Antigenic specificities detected on papainized human granulocytes by microgranulocytotoxicity.

A reliable and routine identification of human granulocyte antigens is possible with an improved microgranulocytotoxicity assay. Freshly isolated, papainized granulocytes, an extended incubation period, and alcohol to prevent the adherence of cells are important factors enhancing cellular reactivity. Absorption studies indicate an absence of B-lymphocyte alloantigens on granulocytes. Five tentative granulocyte specificities were defined with granulocytotoxic non-HLA alloantisera. Sib-pair studies suggest the independent chromosomal segregation of the granulocyte and HLA antigen systems.