Autoimmunity in trypanosome infections: I. Tissue autoantibodies in Trypanosoma (Trypanozoon) brucei infections of the rabbit

Ten rabbits infected with Trypanosoma (Trypanozoon) brucei showed a substantial increase in a natural anti-tissue autoantibody and Wassermann antibody. Absorptions suggest that the liver and Wassermann antibodies are distinct. The liver antibody reacts equally well with homologous and autologous liver. Absorption with trypanosomes and liver show that cross-reacting trypanosomal antibodies are not responsible for the liver activity. These antibodies will contribute to the raised IgM levels of rabbit trypanosomiasis and may be important in this respect but the precise extent of the contribution is not known.

It is suggested that a depression of certain T-cell functions may release antibody secreting B-cell descendants from T-cell control resulting in elevated IgM.