Tumour-Associated Surface Antigen(s) in Human Astrocytomas

The cytotoxic properties of a hetero-antiserum have been used to demonstrate surface antigen(s) common to seven human astrocytomas. This has been designated human astrocytoma-associated antigen (HAAA). Tissue cultures of astrocytomas were prepared. A rabbit antiserum was raised to one of these and its antibody activity on the original tumour cells assayed by dye exclusion cytotoxicity testing. After repeated absorption with brain and other tissues, a constant cytotoxic effect remained, indicating specific tumour-associated antigen(s). In a series of absorption experiments, HAAA was detected in six other human astrocytoma cultures, but not found in a series of other human tumours and tissues tested. Homogenates of two original astrocytomas absorbed out HAAA activity in a similar way indicating the presence of the antigen(s) in vivo.The significance of this HAAA is discussed.