Abstract: The present disclosure relates to selected antigenic proteins obtained from the outer membranes of Moraxella catarrhalis, that have been found by the inventors to have a variety of useful properties. These proteins, termed OMPs ("Outer Membrane Proteins"), are characterized as having molecular weights of 30, 80 and 100 kD, respectively. Studies set forth herein demonstrate that monoclonal antibodies directed against these proteins confer a protective effect against infection by Moraxella catarrhalis organisms in animal models, demonstrating the potential usefulness of such antibodies in conferring passive immunity as well as the potential usefulness of these OMPs, or variants thereof, in the preparation of vaccines. Also disclosed are DNA segments encoding these OMPs, methods for preparing the antigens, or variants, through the application of recombinant DNA techniques, as well as diagnostic methods and embodiments.

Abstract: The macrophage cell line, IT-1 (KCCM-10038) was derived from normal human bone marrow. IT-1 cells are characterized by excellent adherence onto glass slides used in immunofluorescence assays, and the cells provide a positive result in the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test. Moreover, ANA tests performed with IT-1 cells were found to be more reliable and more easily interpreted than ANA tests performed with the customary HEp-2 cell line. Accordingly, IT-1 cells are particularly suitable for the diagnosis of autoimmune disease using the ANA test.