The proposed studies intend to develop a generalized method for cell activation using immobilized growth or differentiation factors. The experimental studies will initially involve a step by step investigation of methodology for immobilization of active Interleukin-2 (IL-2) on the surface of several supports. A simple proliferation assay will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of the immobilized lymphokine for supporting growth. The overall objective of the proposed research is to demonstrate the feasibility of using lymphokines immobilized on solid surfaces to stimulate and activate lymphokine-sensitive cells. IL-2 activation will be used as the model system for these studies. Successful implementation of such a technique would provide a generalized and more efficient method for stimulating cell growth and/or cell differentiation in general cell cultures.
