Reverse ELISPOT assay for clonal analysis of cytokine production I. Enumeration of gamma-interferon-secreting cells

A reverse modification of the ELISPOT assay using nitrocellulose membranes and epitope-specific monoclonal antibodies is described for the detection of single lymphokine-secreting cells. As a model, the production of gamma-interferon by mitogen stimulated human peripheral blood lymphocytes has been examined. The assay can also be modified to permit microscopic examination of spot-forming cells.