IntroductionIn previous studies, we identified the unique tumor immunosuppressive function of IgG4. This study aims to further characterize the structure of IgG4 and evaluate its potential effects on monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDCs).MethodsThe densities of IgG4 and CD11c in esophageal cancer tissues were detected by immunohistochemistry.
IgG1 and IgG4 subclasses were purified from IgG1 and IgG4 subclasses were purified from intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) and human serum samples using subclass‑specific affinity chromatography. Human peripheral CD14⁺ monocytes were isolated and induced to differentiate into moDCs in vitro.
The migratory and phagocytic capacities of moDCs were then evaluated following stimulation with IgG1 and IgG4. ResultsImmunohistochemical staining revealed that the densities of IgG4⁺ and CD11c⁺ cells were significantly higher in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) tissues than in adjacent normal tissues.
Protein electrophoresis, molecular weight analysis, lectin affinity chromatography, and spectrometry demonstrated that native IgG4 exhibits distinct glycosylation profiles compared with IgG1 or commercial myeloma-derived IgG4. IgG4 was predominantly enriched in the ConA⁺ IgG fraction, indicating that it undergoes extensive high-mannose glycosylation.
Frontiers in Immunology published a clinical update in Infectious Disease on 18 Jun 2026.
The item focuses on Exploratory characterization of IgG1/IgG4 glycosylation and monocyte-derived dendritic cell responses in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
Review the original article for the full source wording and details.