Analysis of the interleukin 6 receptor on normal human keratinocytes by digital imaging fluorescence microscopy

The interleukin 6 receptor (IL 6 receptor) on normal human keratinocytes was analyzed by digital imaging fluorescence microscopy (DIFM). Non-fixed keratinocytes were incubated with monoclonal anti-IL 6 receptor antibody (MT18). The fluorescence intensity was quantitatively determined by an interactive laser cytometer (ACAS 470). IL 6 receptor-positive cells showed high density staining with the specific antibody in the center of the elevated cell surface. Therefore, DIFM appears to be an effective method for study of the distribution of IL 6 receptors at the single living cell level.