This report describes a suitable model for analysing heterogeneous T cell responses to complex foreign antigens using coated polystyrene beads. The advantage of this technique is that it allows the simple removal of detergents from bound antigen so that biochemically separated antigens or crude antigen mixtures can be used. Furthermore, due to the enhanced uptake of latex-bound antigens by phagocytic antigen-presenting cells (APC), very small amounts of antigen will suffice for activation of T cells in vitro. The potential use of this technique to analyse relevant T cell responses to antigens which are difficult to obtain purified in bulk quantities, is discussed.