Anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies

The relationship between presence of anti-beta(2)-glycoprotein I autoantibodies (a beta(2)-GPI) and history of thrombosis is now widely known. However, differences in the methodology of a beta(2)-GPI detection have made the comparison of data from different laboratories extremely difficult. We discuss the significance of a beta(2)-GPI of the IgG, IgM and IgA isotypes, and our approach to developing an easier and mon reproducible method for the detection of this autoantibody. In addition, we present data that shows that commercially available enzyme immunoassay plates differ regarding detectability of a beta(2)-GPI. Since the clinical significance of this heterogeneity is presently unclear, the set-up of the detection systems and interpretation of data need great care.