immunophénotype

Immunophenotype refers to the characteristic pattern of expression of cell surface antigens or intracellular molecules by a particular cell type. These antigens, often proteins, are detected using specific antibodies, allowing for the identification and classification of cells based on their unique molecular profile. This technique is crucial in various biological and medical fields.

Flow cytometry is a primary method used to determine immunophenotype. In this process, cells are stained with fluorescently labeled antibodies that bind to specific antigens. As cells pass through a laser beam, the fluorescence emitted by the bound antibodies is detected, providing information about the presence, quantity, and combination of antigens on each cell. Other techniques like immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence microscopy also enable the visualization and analysis of immunophenotype in tissue samples.

The study of immunophenotype is fundamental in hematology and oncology for diagnosing and classifying leukemias, lymphomas, and other blood cancers. Different types of leukemia or lymphoma are characterized by distinct combinations of expressed antigens, guiding treatment decisions. In immunology, immunophenotyping helps to identify and quantify different subsets of immune cells, such as T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells, and to understand their roles in health and disease, including autoimmune disorders and infectious diseases. It is also used in transplant medicine to assess immune compatibility and monitor for rejection.