Cation complexed DNA. A novel class of immunoadsorbents for anti-DNA antibodies.

DNA can be precipitated as complexes with metal and organic cations. We have prepared these products using divalent metal cations (Cu2+, Mn2+, Ni2+, Zn2+, and Co2+) and ditetrazolium ions (blue tetrazolium and neotetrazolium). They are effective adsorbents, in vitro, for anti-nDNA antibodies and in reducing the titer of antinuclear antibodies in the sera from patients with autoimmune disease. They selectively adsorb most of the antinuclear components from a mixture of antimitochondrial and antinuclear antibodies.