Introduction
The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) is an MHC class I like receptor that binds immunoglobulin G (IgG) in acidic environment (mainly endosomes). The FcRn protects IgG from lysosomal degradation, controls its transport between cell layers and extends IgG serum half-life [1]. It has been shown that the FcRn is expressed by many human cells including APCs and monocytes [2]. Thus far FcRn expression by human lymphocytes has not been proven.
Aim
In this study we examined FcRn expression in isolated mononuclear cells derived from freshly harvested PBMCs.
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Methods
Freshly isolated PBMCs were obtained from three healthy volunteers and one buffycoat. NK, B, monocyte and CD4+ and CD8+ cell subsets were sorted by flow cytometry. FcRn and beta-2-microglobulin (β2M) mRNA levels were determined by RQ-PCR. FcRn protein expression from PBMCs obtained from a buffycoat was analyzed by Western blot studies.
Results
RQ-PCR revealed expression of FcRn and B2M mRNA in B, CD4+ and CD8+ cells and monocytes in all three RPE cultures. Western blot analysis demonstrated that mRNA expression in PBMCs from a buffycoat co-existed with FcRn protein expression.
Conclusions
Apart from monocytes, human B, CD4+ and CD8+ cells express low levels of FcRn.
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