Detection and Enumeration of Antibody-Producing Cells by Specific Adherence of Antigen-Coated Bentonite Particles

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Abstract
Summary: The capacity of antigen-coated bentonite particles to adhere specifically to the surface of mmune lymphoid cells has provided the basis for a versatile and sensitive in vitro technique for the detection and enumeration of antibody-producing cells. A number of factors influencing the interaction of antigen-coated particles and lymphoid cells, both normal and immune, were examined and a number of critical variables determined. The specificity of the adherence was affirmed by blocking tests; homologous antigen was effective in low concentrations whereas unrelated antigens were without effect. Antiglobulin also prevented adherence. The involvement of cytophilic or other forms of circulating antibody in this phenomenon was excluded by several means. The cytodynamics of the immune response of the mouse to Vi, Type I pneumococcus and S. enteritidis polysaccharides was ascertained. Except for the earlier detection of immune cells, the pattern of the immune response was similar to that reported previously for the technique of localized hemolysis in gel with other antigens. A spectrum of well characterized soluble antigens readily adsorbs to bentonite; the technique should therefore be applicable for investigation of the immune response to a variety of antigens not previously amenable to study at the cellular level.