Concanavalin A (Con A)-induced Lymphocyte Proliferation
Also known as: Mitogen-induced Cell Proliferation, Lymphocyte Stimulation
Use
Measurement of human lymphocyte proliferative responses to mitogens, specifically Concanavalin A (Con A), which stimulates T‑cell proliferation. Impaired responses are observed in immunodeficiency disorders, certain infections, and cancers. Reduced reactivity may also reflect general decreases in lymphocyte function due to medications, alcohol, or stress. Both T and B lymphocytes respond to some mitogens but Con A predominantly stimulates T cells. Response to Con A can help assess immune competence.
Special Instructions
Test available by prior arrangement only; requires special logistics and coordination with Referral Testing Department. For longitudinal studies, specimens should be drawn at consistent times of day. Submit Monday through Thursday only; avoid day before a holiday. Date and time of draw must be provided. Clients should contact lab prior to ordering for logistics.
Limitations
Because lymphocyte proliferative responses can be influenced by medications, alcohol, stress, and diurnal variation, results must be interpreted in clinical context. Specimen viability is time‑ and temperature‑sensitive; delays or temperature deviations (below 15 °C or above 37 °C) may affect proliferation. Refrigerated, frozen, clotted, or hemolyzed specimens, or those collected in lithium heparin tubes, are unacceptable.
Methodology
Culture-based
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
Not provided.
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
5 mL
Minimum Volume
3 mL
Container
sodium heparin (green‑top) tube
Collection Instructions
Whole blood in sodium heparin tube; transport at room temperature preferably within 48 hours; submit Monday through Thursday only; avoid day before holiday.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis; refrigerated; frozen; clotted specimens; collected in lithium heparin tubes
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | Unacceptable |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |