Development of A Flow Cytometry Assay for Measurement of CD4+ T Cell Proliferation

Thesis (Master's)--University of Washington, 2016-06

Measurement of CD4+ T cell function has been widely utilized in numerous studies. In clinical medicine, in vitro tests to measure CD4+ T cell functions such as activation and proliferative capacity have been established for decades. The Ki67 molecule is a nuclear protein present exclusively in proliferating cells. Ki67 protein expression is strictly correlated to cell proliferation and to the active phases of the cell cycle, although it’s functional role during cell proliferation is unclear. The purpose of this study was to define the optimal flow cytometric protocol for the detection of in vitro CD4+ T cell proliferation using Ki67. The ultimate goal is to develop a clinical-grade assay that can be used for the diagnosis and management of patients.