T-cell receptor gene rearrangements were analyzed by PCR using forward and reverse primers complementary to the V_$\gamma$1 and J_$\gamma$1 regions, respectively, of the T-cell receptor gene region. The products were separated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and bands visualized using ethidium bromide. The lane corresponding to the patient had a sharp band. All controls were acceptable. How is this result interpreted?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of a sharp band in the patient's lane indicates that they have a monoclonal T-cell population, which suggests a neoplastic process such as lymphoma. Controls being acceptable rules out the possibility of a false positive result. The use of T-cell receptor gene-specific primers eliminates the possibility of amplification of immunoglobulin genes. The assay does not need to be repeated as the correct primers have been used.

T-Cell Receptor Gene Rearrangements Were Analyzed by PCR Using Forward γ\gammaγ

T-Cell Receptor Gene Rearrangements Were Analyzed by PCR Using Forward $\gamma$