Activation of human B lymphocytes (the in vitro polyclonal B cell activator-induced plaque-forming cell system).

The characteristics of human B lymphocyte triggering, differentiation, and regulation are described using the polyclonally induced anti-sheep red blood cell hemolytic plaque-forming cell assay system. Technical and methodologic considerations, cellular requirements and mechanisms of regulation including suppressor and helper influences are discussed. Also considered are theoretical concepts regarding normal immune response versus pathologic immune states and the potential biologic role of polyclonal activation in these human immune mechanisms.