ANTIBODIES AND METHODS FOR DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF DIABETES

摘要

The present invention provides a continuous cell line producing a DM monoclonal antibody reactive with beta cell autoantigen on human pancreatic beta cells having a molecular weight of approximately 64.000 daltons and associated with the onset of insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). The DM antibody is used in diagnostic assay methods and in methods for the treatment and prevention of IDDM. The invention further provides the beta cell autoantigen of approximately 64,000 daltons molecular weight associated with the onset of IDDM, reactive with the DM monoclonal antibody. The beta cell autoantigen is used to diagnose the early onset of IDDM. Also disclosed are immunotherapeutic methods employing anti-id monoclonal antibodies and the beta cell autoantigen. These methods are employed for inhibiting the binding of islet cell autoantibodies to pancreatic islet cells, and for removing islet cell autoantibodies and lymphocytes reactive with beta cell autoantigen from the peripheral circulation of a subject.