Figure 2.

Dsg3-specific AK23 IgM transgenic B cells escape tolerance. A: Fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis of AK23 IgM transgenic mice detected IgM^a-positive B cells in lymphoid organs, including bone marrow (38.3%), spleen (40.2%), and lymph nodes (15.9%). Dsg3-reactive IgM-expressing B cells were also detected in bone marrow (23.8%), spleen (22.7%), and lymph nodes (9.47%). In wild-type mice, IgM^b-positive B cells, but not Dsg3-reactive B cells, were detected in lymphoid organs. B: Macroscopic and microscopic phenotype of AK23 IgM transgenic mice. AK23 IgM transgenic mice exhibited no obvious PV-like characteristics, such as patchy hair loss or weight loss. Although IgM was found deposited on the cell surfaces of basal layer keratinocytes in vivo, no blisters were formed. The dotted line indicates the basement membrane. Scale bar = 50 μm.