Method and apparatus for automated double fluorochromization analysis in lymphocytotoxicity testing

摘要

An automated system for rapid sequential photometric analysis of a collection of double fluorochrome stained lymphocyte specimens, useful for antibody screening or lymphocytotoxicity analysis. The specimens are sequentially alternately irradiated with light of two distinguishable wavelengths, producing fluorescence at two distinguishable wavelengths. The fluorescent emission light intensity for each irradiation of each specimen is measured using a photometer and computer. The computer controls the synchronization of the irradiation through alternately selected condenser sets with the sequential movement of specimens into the optical path of the irradiating and detected light, and calculates the quotient of the light intensities emitted from each specimen at the two selected fluorescent light wavelengths. These quotients are compared against a control ratio (for lymphocytotoxicity analysis) to classify the specimen. Also described is a method of preparing specimens for such analysis, which requires that a complement be added to the first staining solution after the latter is applied to the specimens, then this combination agitated, and then the second staining solution added and the specimen incubated.