Cell surface receptors and lymphocyte migration.

Lymphocyte subpopulations show a marked specificity in their distribution in various parts of the lymphoid system. It has been suggested that specific localization of lymphocytes depends on the presence of homing" receptors on their cell surface. The present paper summarizes some of the approaches used in the study of cell surface receptors involved in the migration and localization of lymphocytes. The effect of exposure of lymphocytes to antibodies, enzymes or lectins, on their capacity for localization is described. It is concluded that the experimental procedures employed do not provide conclusive evidence as to the mechanisms of lymphocyte localization, and that the role of homing receptors is still far from clear.