Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 5, 2026
Whole-animal Imaging and Flow Cytometric Techniques for Analysis of Antigen-specific CD8+ T Cell Responses after Nanoparticle Vaccination
Published on: April 29, 2015
Functional and molecular evaluation of lymphocytes
Thomas A Fleisher1, João Bosco Oliveira
1Immunology Service, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human ServicBethesda, MD 20892, USA. tfleisher@nih.gov
Laboratory tests are crucial for diagnosing and treating immune deficiencies by evaluating lymphocyte function. This review outlines a sequential approach, from screening to advanced assays, aiding in appropriate test selection for immune disorder diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Clinical Laboratory Science
- Genetics
Background:
- The laboratory is essential for assessing immune function and diagnosing/treating immune deficiencies.
- Expanded understanding of the immune system has led to a wider array of lymphocyte function tests.
- Identifying gene defects has integrated mutation analysis into clinical diagnostics for immune deficiencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a sequential approach for evaluating lymphocyte function.
- To guide the appropriate selection of laboratory tests for immune deficiency evaluation.
- To review current and emerging in vitro assays for immune function testing.
Main Methods:
- A sequential testing strategy is proposed, starting with screening tests.
- More complex in vitro assays are discussed for further evaluation.
- The review references test procedures without detailing protocols.
Main Results:
- A structured approach helps in choosing appropriate laboratory tests based on initial results.
- Mutation analysis is now a key tool for diagnosing various immune deficiencies.
- Newer assays offer deeper insights into specific immune responses.
Conclusions:
- A sequential approach optimizes the evaluation of lymphocyte function.
- Advances in genetic analysis are transforming immune deficiency diagnostics.
- Future assays promise greater understanding of immune responses and related deficiencies.
