HETEROGENEITY IN THE EXPRESSION OF RO AND LA ANTIGENS IN HUMAN SKIN

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.