T-cells originate in the thymus and are key components of the adaptive immune system [1-15]. Other sections of our website describe T-cell characteristics and the roles they play in cell-mediated immunity in more detail.
B-cells created in the bone marrow, are key players in the humoral immune response. B- cell development is a lengthy process of differentiation and maturation. Antigen recognition via the B-cell receptor, either directly or through presentation by an APC, ultimately results in their activation, maturation, immunoglobulin synthesis and immunological memory [19]. Similar to T-cells, B-cells also have a number of subsets, each specialised for their function. The principles behind most vaccinations are based on immunological memory preserved by B-cell subsets, plasma and memory B-cells [20].
NK-cells of the innate immune system originate in the bone marrow. The NK cell population constitute 5-20% of all circulating lymphocytes [21]. NK-cells are responsible for detecting and destroying infected and transformed cells. Unlike T-cells and B-cells, NK-cells do not recognize specific antigens. Instead, they use receptors to detect cells that lack self-antigens or express stress-induced molecules [22]. NK-cells utilise several cytolytic mechanisms e.g., death receptor ligation and degranulation, to lyse cells [21]. NKs can also initiate inflammation using pro-inflammatory cytokines. NK-cells do not exhibit immunological memory like T-cells and B-cells; their responses are rapid and largely non-specific.
Autoimmune and immunodeficiency disorders: The TNBK assay can help diagnose autoimmune and primary immunodeficiency disorders where there is an imbalance or deficiency in lymphocyte subsets.
Monitoring HIV/AIDS: The TNBK assay is used to monitor CD4+/CD8+ T-cell ratio in HIV-infected individuals to gauge the progression of the disease and the effectiveness of anti-retroviral therapy. A decrease in the CD4+/CD8+ ratio is indicative of immune system damage caused by the virus.
Lymphoma and Leukaemia: TBNK assays are used to identify abnormal lymphocyte to aid in diagnosis and monitoring of lymphomas and leukaemia.
Transplant Medicine: TNBK assays are employed prior to organ transplant to monitor lymphocyte subsets and assess the risk of graft rejection.
Medical research: Researchers use TBNK assays to investigate immune responses to various diseases, vaccines, and therapies.
CD3+ in T-cells
CD3+CD4+ in T-helper cells
CD3+CD8+ in Cytotoxic T-cells
CD19+ in B-cells
CD3–CD16+CD56+in NK cells
