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Analysis of variability in lymphocyte transformation tests.
Journal of Immunological Methods
|February 25, 1983
Summary
Investigating the lymphocyte transformation test (LTT), this study found that intrinsic cell differences, likely from freezing damage, and genetic factors significantly impact results. Day-to-day variations and biological factors had minimal influence on LTT outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cellular immunology
- Diagnostic testing
Background:
- The lymphocyte transformation test (LTT) is crucial for assessing cellular immune responses.
- Understanding factors influencing LTT variability is essential for accurate interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and quantify variables affecting the accuracy of the lymphocyte transformation test (LTT).
- To assess the impact of intrinsic cell properties, genetic influences, and experimental conditions on LTT results.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 250 LTT results from healthy controls over 5 years.
- Prospective testing of frozen cells from 3 donors across 5 separate occasions.
Main Results:
- Minor influence of day-to-day test condition variations.
- Negligible impact of biological variables on LTT outcomes.
- Intrinsic cell differences (likely freezing damage) and genetic factors emerged as the most significant variables.
Conclusions:
- Intrinsic cell variability and genetic background are primary determinants of LTT results.
- Repeated testing is necessary to discern subtle differences between donors or sample collection dates.
- Standardization and awareness of these factors are key for reliable LTT interpretation.