Structure and Immunogenicity of Synthetic Antigens

Abstract

Synthetic antigens are often valuable tools in immunological research. They are usually linear or branched polypeptides, prepared by polymerization of N-carboxy-a-amino acid anhydrides or by polymerization of defined oligopeptides. 0 wing to their great variability, these simple antigens allow a systematic study of the chemical and physical parameters involved in immunogenicity, i.e. the ability of a substance to initiate an immune response in higher animals. The study of' very simple synthetic antigens made possible the first detailed analysis of genetic factors controlling the immunogenicity of a substance. The results have led to a better understanding of many immunological phenomena, and have helped to explain the complex processes initiated by antigens that lead to a specific immune response.

Properties of a synthetic antigen related to the human blood-group Lewis a

“…Calcd for C26H39N08: C, 63.27; H, 7.96; N, 2.84. Found: C, 63.02; H, 7.75; N, 3.14. 8-Ethoxycarbonyloctyl 2-Acetamido-3-0-(tetra-0-acetyl-/3-D-galactopyranosylh4,6-0-benzylidene-2-deoxy-(3-D-glucopyranoside (26). A solution of 24 (12.1 g, 24.5 mmol) and mercuric cyanide (7.35 g, 30 mmol) in 1600 ml of a 1:1 mixture of benzene and nitromethane was distilled at atmospheric pressure to remove 100 ml of solvent.…”