The EBV LMP cocktail recognizes four distinct epitopes present on a 60 kD latent membrane protein encoded by the BNLF1 gene of the Epstein-Barr virus. LMP is expressed on the plasma membranes of infected cells.
This IgG1, kappa monoclonal antibody of clones CS1, CS2, CS3, and CS4 are cocktailed commercially. The author's preferred proteolytic-induced epitope retrieval (PIER) pretreatment of tissue sections for the demonstration of EBV LMP is accomplished with the use of pepsin. Positive results are seen in the cell cytoplasm. HIER techniques can also be used.
EBV LMP1 positive spleen is demonstrated in the top image with mouse monoclonal antibody, clones CS 1-4. DAB chromogen is used.
EBV positive large B-cell type malignant lymphoma in the tonsil is shown in the lower image. EBV LMP1 antibody and DAB chromogen are used.
