Hidden anti‐nuclear antibodies in sero‐negative systemic lupus erythematosus patients and in NZB and (NZB × NZW) F1 mice

Anti‐nuclear antibodies could be demonstrated in sero‐negative patients with immune complex glomerulonephritis by means of an acid dissociation method. The antibodies were also found in sero‐negative NZB and (NZB × NZW) F1 mice with complex glomerulonephritis. It is suggested that the antigen is bound to anti‐nuclear antibodies, thus forming circulating soluble immune complexes, which cause the glomerular deposits.