Imbalances of gamma globulin subgroups and gene defects in patients with primary hypogammaglobulinemia

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Abstract

Analysis of immunoglobulin classes, γG subgroups, and Gm genetic markers from 59 patients with various types of immune deficiencies was undertaken to assess the function of the several cistrons concerned with synthesis of gamma globulins. 13 patients including two sibling pairs were found to have γG subgroup imbalances. All of these patients had non sex-linked disease. 11 of the 13 had preponderance of the γG3 subgroup. In most instances of γG3 preponderance it was the Gm(b) type of γG3 that was selectively retained; the Gm(g) type, controlled by the allelic gene was markedly depressed but not absent in the cases where it could be studied. Other imbalances, either seen concomitantly with γG3 preponderance or independently, included predominance of the γG2 subgroup and selective absence of single γG subgroups.

Authors

W. J. Yount, R. Hong, M. Seligmann, R. Good, H. G. Kunkel