Lewis System isoantigen

Isoantigens and isoantibodies of the Lewis system

Introduction

Lewis system isoantigens are class M immunoglobulins directed to a specific protein antigen found on the surface of red blood cells in humans, some species of rodents and primates. In connection with these animals, the name "Lewis antigen" has been expanded to "H antigen" by some scientists.

They are formed in the period after the birth of the fetus and reach a level of 1-2%, gradually increasing and reaching a maximum by 5-6 months. After 3 years, their content decreases to 0.1% and remains at this level until the end of a person’s life. If we compare the antigenic composition of the Lewis system in the blood of newborn mammals and humans, it becomes obvious that in all these animals the group of seven blood isoagglutinins is practically absent. This phenomenon is called isoimmunodeficiency. An exception to this rule

Lewis system isoantigens are a family of small protein molecules that play an important role in the body's immune system. These antigens are unique to each person and can be used to determine the individual compatibility of organs and tissues, as well as in the diagnosis of certain diseases, such as sickle cell anemia and beta thalassemia.

Lewis isoantigens were discovered in 1959 by David E. Lewis at the University of Tanya in London. The scientist conducted research on rabbits, infecting them with certain influenza viruses and checking which antibodies appeared on the inner surface of their blood vessels. He noticed that certain viruses caused the production of specific antibodies characterized by complex chemical properties. Lewis's experiments later confirmed that these antigens were closely related to blood type A