THE LOCAL LYMPH-NODE ASSAY - DEVELOPMENTS AND APPLICATIONS

The murine local lymph node assay is a predictive test method for the identification of contact allergens in which sensitizing activity is m easured as a function of induced proliferative responses in lymph node s draining the site of application. In this article the development an d validation of the assay are described and comparisons with guinea pi g predictive test methods discussed. In addition we examine the advant ages and limitations of the method and consider new opportunities and applications of the assay in the context of the toxicological evaluati on of sensitizing potential.