The ability to "immortalize" immunologically-useful cells by hybridization with a unique cancer cell has revolutionized serological studies and has revealed new potential applications in all fields of biological sciences. This volume presents the studies from a highly successful national symposium on Hybridomas and Cellular Immortality held November 1981 in Houston, Texas. The individual chapters exhibit the diversity of topics discussed during the meeting. These include emphasis on the origin of antibody diversity, Band T lymphocyte differentiation, applications of monoclonal antibodies in studies of histocompatibility, tumor, and viral antigens, plus the use of somatic cell hybridizations for studying T cell products. Three papers focus on the emerging methodologies of in vitro primary immunizations for both humoral and cell-mediated immunities, relevant for coupling with hybridoma technology. There is a useful mix of general (methods) and specific (applications) chapters. A unique aspect of the book is the presentation of both recent research findings with concise descriptions of the state of the art methodologies. It is anticipated that this work will be of interest to a wide audience of practioners in biomedical research. Hopefully, the information contained will foster new and imagi native ideas in hybridoma applications. Baldwin H. Tom, Ph.D. James P. Allison, Ph.D. vii CONTENTS PART L INTRODUCTION TO HYBRIDOMAS 1 Somatic Cell Hybrids and Hybridomas Baldwin H. Tom 3 1. Somatic Cell Hybrids 8 Hybridomas. * * * * * 2.