Reactions of Monoclonal Antibodies against Human Milk Fat Globule Membranes with Embryonal Tissue

Abstract Three monoclonal antibodies against antigens of human milkfat globule membranes-67-D11, HMFG-1 and HMFG-2 - were used to determine the expression of these antigens on human embryonal and newborn tissues. The antibodies react with epithelia of various organs and tissues. Positive reactions were found within: kidney, lung, esophagus, trachea, bile ducts, pancreatic ducts, intestinal tissues, appendix, submandibular glands, thymus epithelium, prostate, hair follicles, sweat and sebaceous glands. The patterns of reactivity with epithelia were as well dependent on the stage of development, which gives a demonstration of the timing with which these antigens appear and disappear. Crossreactivity of the monoclonal antibodies, also in relation to normal and malignant adult tissue is discusses.