In vitro T Cell–DC and T Cell–T Cell Clustering Assays

Abstract

To get activated, T cells need to find their cognate antigen at the surface of an antigen-presenting cell (APC). Recognition of cognate antigen in the context of the MHC (Major histocompatibility complex) by the TCR (T-Cell Receptor) results in long lasting interactions between T cells and APCs. Subsequently, T cells form homotypic interactions with each other, which is seen as a hallmark of T cell activation. This protocol describes a method to analyze T-APC and T-T conjugation.