S. Maier et al., THE ANALYSIS OF LIMITING DILUTION ASSAYS CONDUCTED UNDER NONSATURATING CONDITIONS, Journal of theoretical biology, 179(2), 1996, pp. 173-177
A form of mathematical analysis is presented which permits an extended
analysis of limiting dilution assays under conditions in which either
accessory factors, or cells or both are limiting. This is in contrast
to the traditional form of analysis which permits only a single limit
ing parameter. Both make use of in vitro experiments in order to deter
mine the number of antibody-producing cell precursors: the traditional
form of analysis requires that all accessory cells or their factors b
e present in saturating concentrations; whereas in the analytic method
employed here, not only B cells, but also accessory cells (macrophage
s) or their factors may be limiting. Analysis under non-saturating con
ditions permits greater elucidation of the mechanisms of intercellular
interaction. (C) 1996 Academic Press Limited.