| abstract |
The invention relates to a method for identifying T cell populations involved in autoimmune diseases. This involves determining levels of a Vβ element in a body fluid sample of a patient and comparing this to normal levels. Variation from normal levels is indicative of an autoimmune disease. The invention also involves assaying T cell subpopulations in a sample to determine clonality of β chains. Clonality can also be used to diagnose autoimmune disorders. |