The murine local lymph node assay for identification of contact allergens: A preliminary evaluation of in situ measurement of lymphocyte proliferation

A murine local lymph node assay for the identification of contact allergens has been developed. Contact sensitizing activity is measured as a function of lymphocyte proliferation in the draining lymph node following repeated application of the test agent to the dorsum of the ear. In original studies, lymphocyte proliferative activity was measured in vitro. In an attempt to remove the requirement for tissue culture, and thereby enhance the utility of the local lymph node assay as a predictive screening method, a new protocol has been evaluated in which proliferation in draining nodes is measured following i.v. injection of 3H-thymidine.