Strain restricted typing sera (SRTS) for use in monitoring the genetic integrity of congenic strains.

A relatively simple procedure for serologic monitoring of the genetic integrity of congenic strains housed in a conventional colony is presented. Using a combination of 3 or 4 F1 immunizing cells, sera can be produced in each strain housed in the colony which will react in a complement-mediated cytotoxicity assay with peripheral lymphocytes from most if not all other strains in the colony. Routine screening of breeding stock with these strain restricted typing sera (SRTS) permits the sensitive detection of genetic contamination between the stocks maintained. These sera detect H-2, minor histocompatibility differences, and other cell surface differentiation antigens, and can also be used to identify the nature of a contaminant when isolated. In addition, when used within appropriate strain combinations, the sera can be useful in detecting antigenic determinants otherwise difficult to identify.