Identification of T and B lymphocytes in pigs by combined E-rosette test and surface Ig labelling.

A procedure for combining labelling of B lymphocytes with [125I]anti-Ig-antibodies and E-rosetting is described which permits simultaneous detection of B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes. Pig lymphocytes were incubated with iodinated anti-Ig antibodies and the E-rosette test with SRBC was performed. E-rosettes appeared stable after methanol fixation of cell smears on agarose-coated slides and treatment for autoradiography on stripping films. The percentage of cells classified as B or T lymphocytes in pig peripheral blood closely resembles that in man. No doubly marked cells were demonstrated provided cells were classified as E-rosettes only when 5 or more red cells were attached.