The term "Mixed Leukocyte Reaction" (M-L-R) is pronounced as /mɪkst ljuːkəsaɪt rɪˈækʃən/. The IPA phonetic transcription reveals that the word "mixed" is pronounced as /mɪkst/ with the "x" sound pronounced as /ks/. Similarly, the word "leukocyte" is pronounced as /ljuːkəsaɪt/ with a silent "e" and "u" pronounced as /juː/. Finally, "reaction" is pronounced as /rɪˈækʃən/ with the stress on the second syllable. Proper spelling and pronunciation of medical terminology are essential for accurate communication among healthcare professionals.
Mixed leukocyte reaction (MLR) refers to a laboratory technique used to assess the compatibility of immune systems between two individuals through an examination of the reaction between their white blood cells (leukocytes). MLR involves the mixing of lymphocytes from two different individuals and observing their interaction to determine the level of donor–recipient immune cell compatibility.
This in vitro test evaluates the alloreactivity, or immune response, that occurs when T cells from one individual's lymphocytes are exposed to another individual's histocompatibility antigens. By measuring the degree of this immune response, MLR can provide valuable information about the potential success or rejection of transplantation or transfusion procedures.
During MLR, both the stimulating cells (donor cells) and the responding cells (recipient cells) are cultured together for a period of time. The activation, proliferation, and cytokine production triggered by the interaction between these cells are then assessed. Various techniques like flow cytometry, ELISA, or radioisotopes can be employed to measure cell proliferation or cytokine release.
MLR is an essential tool in the field of immunology as it enables researchers and medical professionals to predict immunologic compatibility, identify potential organ or tissue transplant donors, evaluate bone marrow engraftment, or determine the presence of host-versus-graft disease. Furthermore, it aids in the investigation of immune-mediated diseases and the development of therapeutic strategies to manipulate immune responses.