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Monoclonal antibody--defined lymphocyte subsets in normal Nigerians
1Department of Hematology, College of Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Nigeria.
Angiology
|November 1, 1989
Summary
This study found that T cells, specifically OKT4+ cells, show daily rhythmicity in Nigerian subjects, with higher morning levels potentially linked to cortisol. This research highlights diurnal variations in lymphocyte subsets.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Hematology
- Chronobiology
Background:
- Lymphocyte subset analysis is crucial for understanding immune function.
- Limited data exists on lymphocyte subsets in normal Nigerian populations.
- Diurnal variations in immune cells are increasingly recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize lymphocyte subsets in healthy Nigerian adults.
- To investigate the diurnal rhythmicity of circulating lymphocyte subsets.
- To identify specific lymphocyte populations responsible for observed variations.
Main Methods:
- Monoclonal antibody-based flow cytometry was used to analyze lymphocyte subsets.
- Blood samples were collected from 8 healthy Nigerian subjects at 8 AM and 2 PM.
- Absolute counts of lymphocyte subsets, including T cells (OKT4+) and B cells, were determined.
Main Results:
- A significant diurnal variation in total lymphocyte counts was observed, with higher levels in the morning.
- T cells, particularly the OKT4+ subset, exhibited significantly higher numbers in the morning compared to the afternoon (p < 0.05).
- B cell counts did not show significant diurnal variation.
Conclusions:
- Circulating T cells, specifically OKT4+ cells, demonstrate significant time-of-day variation in Nigerian subjects.
- This rhythmicity may be influenced by factors such as plasma cortisol levels.
- The findings contribute to understanding immune cell dynamics in a specific ethnic group.