The constant region contributes to the antigenic specificity and renal pathogenicity of murine anti-DNA antibodies

► The constant region can affect autoantibody affinity and specificity. ► Class switch recombination may confer autoreactivity. ► Antibody isotype is instrumental in the nephritogenicity of antibodies to DNA. ► Enhanced kidney binding may contribute to the pathogenicity of IgG2a and IgG3.