Immunoglobulin receptors in lymphocytes.

This discussion has been concerned with the immunoglobulin receptors of lymphocytes and particularly with the ability of these immunoglobulin receptors to bind specific antigens. We have considered some of the methods used to measure these antigen-binding cells (ABC) and the nature of the ABC in normal, nonimmunized animals. The response of the ABC to specific immunization has been discussed to demonstrate the usefulness of technics which allow the evaluation of precursor cell populations. Finally, the development of these ABC and more particularly the development of B lymphocytes in general has been considered and compared to the ontogenic pattern of several species.