Immunoserological studies on experimental sensitization with the rabbit Malpighian layer cells.

In regard to the development of allergic contact dermatitis and autosensitization dermatitis, skin protein, particularly epidermal protein is regarded to play an important role as antigen. The localization of the specific skin antigen in the epidermis has been suggested by investigations of heterologous and homologous immunization. In order to determine the antigenicity of epidermal cells, the immunization with malpighian cells without any other components of the skin is desirable. Guinea-pigs were immunized with the rabbit malpighian cells separated from the horny layer and corium by trypsinization. The antigenicity of malpighian cells was studied by gel diffusion, complement fixation test and the fluorescent antibody staining technique. The antigenicity of the rabbit malpighian cells was present in insoluble components as well as in soluble ones; the cell membrane was contained particularly in the insoluble components.