| Abstract: | Peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) from patients with toxoplasmosis were shown to be highly responsive to in vitro stimulation with Toxoplasma gondii extract as measured by incorporation of 3H]methylated thymidine. Analysis of Toxoplasma-specific proliferative cells in PBL by using monoclonal antibodies specific for human T cell subsets revealed that the Toxoplasma-specific proliferation response of PBL from the patients was mediated by Leu 1, Leu 3a positive cells, that is, helper/inducer T cells. Tests for the Toxoplasma-specific proliferation response may provide a readily available method for the diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis, especially during the newborn period. |
