The anti-human CD21 antibody, BU33, identifies equine B cells

The number of antibodies for identifying equine B cells is small and the nu mber that react with well-defined epitopes even smaller. The monoclonal ant ibody, BU33, which is directed against human CD21 (Complement Receptor 2; C R2) was shown to identify (1) follicular lymphocytes in the lymph nodes and spleen of three horses, and (2) a mean of 18 +/- 6% (SEM) of peripheral bl ood lymphocytes from 10 horses. These findings indicate that the antibody i dentifies equine B cells and possibly equine CR2 or a related molecule. Thi s study adds to the reagents available for equine research and diagnostic p athology. (C) 2001 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.