| abstract |
The invention relates to a method for determining precursors of cytolytic T cells and the frequency of these precursors, where the cytolytic T cells which develop therefrom are specific to antigens associated with or characteristic of the tumors. The method involves contacting peripheral blood monocyte cells (PBMC) containing sample to a source of antigen characteristic of or associated with the tumor, such as non viable tumor cells. The PBMCs, if precursors are contained therein, react and cytolytic T cells develop. These can then be determined by assaying for lysis of tumor cells introduced to the mixture. The methodology can be used for monitoring patient response to various therapeutic regimes. |