Modified limiting dilution assay for cell systems

摘要

A form of mathematical analysis that permits an extended analysis of limiting dilution assays under conditions in which accessory factors or cells are limiting is presented. This is in contrast to the traditional form of analysis that permits only a single limiting parameter. Both make use of in vitro experiments to determine the number of antibody-producing cell precursors; the traditional form of analysis requires that all accessory cells or their factors be present in saturating concentrations, whereas in the analytic method employed here, not only B cells, but accessory cells (macrophages) or their factors are limiting. Analysis under nonsaturating conditions permits greater elucidation of the mechanisms of intercellular interaction.