Genetic polymorphism of IgG in the mink. V. Two new genetic markers of the lambda light chains of mink immunoglobulins, L4 and L5

Two new allotypes of the light (L) chains IgG, L4 and L5, were identified in the mink with dispecific antiserum produced by immunization with allogenic IgG. By means of hybrid IgG molecules and proteolytic fragments, L4 and L5 were localized on the C region of the L chain. L4 and L5 occurred frequently in the three mink populations studied and L4 and L5 are inherited independently of the known mink C gamma allotypes. L4 and L5 are encoded by closely linked genes. The antigenic specificities of L4 and L5 were not identified in the closely related Mustelidae and in the other mammalian representatives. Consequently, L4 and L5 are species specific to mink. Determination of the phenotype combinations of the five allotypes on the L chains (including the new L4 and L5) demonstrated the existence of seven combinations only with a predominance of L1,2,3; L4,5, and L1,2,3,4,5 phenotypes. Based on the results obtained, it is concluded that the mink C lambda locus has a complex organization. A model for the mink C lambda locus with at least three or possibly five linked genes is suggested.