The humoral immune response against human cytomegalovirus is characterized by a delayed synthesis of glycoprotein-specific antibodies.

An individual analysis of IgG antibodies against 12 known antigenic domains of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV)-derived structural phospho- and glycoproteins and nonstructural polypeptides was performed. In HCMV-seropositive healthy persons, the separate determination of antibody titers against the various antigens resulted in an antibody profile that was characteristic for each individual. Profiles were qualitatively stable over a period of >4 years. However, quantitative changes were observed in some persons. During primary HCMV infection, a delay of 50-100 days in the appearance of glycoprotein-specific antibodies was observed, whereas immunoglobulins directed against other HCMV-specific antigens were promptly synthesized. In contrast, during reactivation or reinfection, a synchronized production of antibodies was found. Levels of glycoprotein-specific antibodies and detection of viral DNA in peripheral blood inversely correlated. Precursor B cell analyses showed no significant differences between glycoprotein-specific and phosphoprotein-specific B cells.