Specific binding of an antigen-antibody complex to apoptotic human neutrophils.

Examination of apoptotic cell surface molecules has so far failed to reveal cell type-specific membrane alterations that serve as a signal for phagocytosis. In the present study we have identified a novel murine monoclonal antibody, BOB93, which bound to the surface of apoptotic neutrophils but not to apoptotic lymphocytes. BOB93 binding to apoptotic neutrophils was dependent on the presence of the sialoglycoprotein fetuin, a constituent of bovine serum.