Objective, To determine whether there are variations in the expression
of Ro and La antigens in human skin. Methods, Levels of expression of
Ro and/or La antigens in 26 specimens of normal human skin (11 sun-ex
posed, 15 sun-protected) were measured by indirect immunofluorescence
with monospecific antisera. Results, Levels of expression of both anti
gens varied by more than 2,000-fold in the skin of different individua
ls. There usually was a correlation between the levels of expression o
f Ro and La antigens in the same skin specimen. There was no correlati
on found between the levels of Ro or La antigen expression and sun exp
osure, nor was there a correlation found between levels of antigen exp
ression and location of the skin on the body. Conclusion, There is a m
arked heterogeneity in the expression of both Ro and La antigens in th
e skin of different individuals. The present study findings suggest th
at the levels of expression of these antigens may play a role in the p
ropensity of some individuals to develop anti-Re or anti-La antibodies
and/or skin lesions associated with the presence of these antibodies.