Mapping T cell epitopes by flow cytometry

Methods. 2003 Mar;29(3):270-81. doi: 10.1016/s1046-2023(02)00349-3.

Abstract

Epitope mapping by flow cytometry is a very modern approach that not only identifies T-cell epitopes but simultaneously allows for detailed analysis of the responding T-cell subsets including lineage, activation marker expression, and other markers of interest. The most frequently used approach is based on the identification of intracellular cytokines in secretion-inhibited activated T cells following stimulation with peptides or peptide pools. A more recently developed assay analyzes T-cell proliferation by measuring the decrease in carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester staining in proliferated cells. This article includes information on peptide configuration, a section on the design and efficient application of peptide pools, and working laboratory protocols for both assays.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Epitope Mapping / methods*
  • Epitopes, T-Lymphocyte / analysis*
  • Flow Cytometry / methods*
  • Humans

Substances

  • Epitopes, T-Lymphocyte