Measurement of Basophil Activation Using a Flow Cytometry Method for Applications in Clinical Research and Clinical Trials
Authors: Jennifer J. Stewart and Lynette Brown
Abstract: Current methods for allergen testing, such as skin prick tests and serum IgE measurements, are ineffective at giving quick, clear results. These tests often supply contradictory results, making it difficult, and sometimes dangerous, to diagnose an allergy. These assays are also time consuming, sometimes requiring multiple replicates to confirm a diagnosis. However, the Basophil Activation Test (BAT) offers a safer, faster, and more accurate way to test for allergies by utilizing the power of flow cytometry. BAT tests can use two different cell markers to detect degranulation of basophils: CD63 and CD203c. Because of this, BAT tests are more sensitive then IgE serum measurements, while being safer and less painful then in vivo skin prick tests. Their ability to monitor the state of the actual basophil cells instead of the level of antibody used to activate the cells in the blood stream make BATs a potentially powerful and unique research tool. To test basophil activation, we originally planned to use two different stimulation factors, fMLP and FCɛ-R1. After further research, it was decided that only fMLP was necessary. The purpose of this study was to measure the efficacy of the BAT test as a tool for the research of basophils by flow cytometry in support of clinical trials.
