The frequency of Leu 1+B cells in autoantibody positive and negative autoimmune diseases and in neonatal cord blood.

There is increasing evidence supporting the involvement of Leu 1+B cells in the development of human autoimmune diseases. In this study, the frequency of Leu 1+B cells has been analysed by a multiparameter FACS machine in newborn cord blood, and in the peripheral blood of several autoimmune patients and their healthy adult controls. Higher frequencies were observed in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), in seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and in newborn cord blood compared to control adults and seronegative RA. No relationship was observed between the frequency of Leu 1+B cells, and the age, sex and medication of the subjects.