ABSTRACT
Idiotypes (Ids) and their anti-idiotypes (anti-Ids) constitute a complex network of interactions at the serum and lymphocyte receptor levels. This chapter deals with the regulation of anti-DNA antibodies by anti-Id in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), their families, and laboratory personnel who handle lupus sera. Anti-Ids could regulate the cellular network in human SLE. Autoanti-Ids against anti-DNA exist and appear to down regulate anti-DNA production in lupus patients and probably prevent family members of lupus patients or normal laboratory personnel—who are sensitized with idiotype or antigen—from the expression of the autoimmune state. In future strategies of immunomodulation of the lupus patient disease activity by anti-Ids, attention should be paid not only to the phenomenon of Id shift but also to the possibility that various anti-DNA Ids could have organ or tissue specificity. The idea of using exogenous anti-Id as a therapeutic reagent becomes attractive.
