Hybridoma 20d5, Producing Mabs Specific For Mouse Nkg2a/c/e

Abstract

This invention concerns a hybridoma producing a rat (IgG2a, kappa) monoclonal antibody specific for the mouse NKG2 receptor subunits. The antibody reacts with three NKG2 subunits, NKG2A, NKG2C, and NKGE. These NKG2 subunits pair with the CD94 subunit, and are expressed on the surface of approximately 50% of NK cells and class I molecules. Ligand binding inhibits the NK cell when CD94 is paired with NKG2A, and probably activates the NK cell when CD94 is paired with NKG2C or E. Approximately half of NK cells do not express NKG2A, C, or E; these cells express CD94 on the surface in a form that does not bind ligand and is believed to be nonfunctional.
Ref: Vance, RE, Jamieson, AM, and Raulet DH. 1999. recognition of the class Ib Molecule Qa-1b by Putative Activating Receptors CD94/NKG2C and CD94/NKG2E on Mouse Natural Killer Cells. J.Exp.Med 190:1801-12.

Applications

The 20d5 antibody is useful for staining the NK cells and/or the T cells that express the mouse NKG2A, C, or E receptors.
The antibody is also useful for blocking ligand binding by the receptor.