Immunoelectron microscopy of alpha 2-glycoprotein. An astrocyte-specific antigen.

The cellular and fine structural localization of the soluble brain-specific acidic alpha 2-glycoprotein was investigated using the indirect immunohistochemical method. The electron microscope was used to unambiguously identify cells containing the antigen. A single type of cell, the astrocyte, was found to be labelled with specific antisera directed against alpha 2-glycoprotein. Immunoperoxidase reaction product was found in astrocyte perikarya, their processes and perivascular end feet. It was found to be apparently associated with the cytoplasmic surface of mitochondria, reticular membranes and the plasma membrane. No specific labelling of neurones, oligodendrocytes, myelin or capillary endothelial cells was observed. The data is discussed in relation to the immunological properties of alpha 2-glycoprotein already reported.