Cell electrophoresis research directed toward clinical cytodiagnosis

The application of cell electrophoresis to cytodiagnosis requires that a scientifically established basis exists for identifying abnormal cells electrophoretically, that research to detect such differences in the cytodiagnostic setting is possible and that a rapid and simple method of cell electrophoresis is adaptable to the clinical setting. Data are presented indicating modifications of electrophoretic mobility due to herpes simplex virus type 1 infection and Rous sarcoma virus transformation of culture cells. A simple apparatus for electrophoretically separating cells on a density gradient and collecting them for subsequent analysis is described, and results of experiments with this apparatus are consistent with those obtained by microscopic electrophoresis. Laser-doppler spectroscopic electrophoresis is suggested as a rapid method adaptable to clinical application.