is there any traditional method to check T cell levels or can we isolate T-cells to check Th17 cell levels using specific markers? I am a little stuck here.
Just to clarify I don't want to use the magnetic separation method. I want to Try the traditional method before I jump to that.
Thank you in advance.
In the past, for HLA testing, T cells were separated form PBMC by elution through a nylon mesh column ( we usually used a sirynge). Cells were suspended in medium and the column was incubated at 37%. Adherent cells ( B cells and monocytes) were trapped and T cells were eluted. Believe it or not, if performed correctly, this yielded a nice separation.
Obviously, sorting by flow cytometry or magnetic beads ( positive or negative separation) are more suitable methods nowadays