MHC class I binding assays

[Jean-Luc Verschelde]

Dear all,

    There are two binding assays that are used for the study of HLA class I
peptide binding.
    One assay employs cell-bound MHC class I molecules (Melief et al) and
the other uses cell free
    MHC class I molecules (Seti et al). The IC50 values for the first method
lies in the micromolar range while
    the second method is in the naonmolar range.
    As a non-expert in immunology , I would like to know why there is such a
difference. I would also like
    to know the advantages and disadvantages of both methods.

    Kind regards,


                    Jean-Luc