In brief, single cells are encapsulated in agarose microdrops. The microdrops are then analyzed by flow cytometry and FITC fluorescence is measured. We have successfully used this technique to quantitate IFN- g secretion from transgenic CHO cells that secrete said protein. In addition, we have been able to sort encapsulated CHO cells based on fluorescence and then return them to culture. The CHO cells grew out of the microdrops in a few days and continued to reproduce.
Studies are now underway using stimulated porcine lymphocytes from peripheral blood.
Stay tuned for updates.