A comprehensive review of the proliferative events involved in the antibody response will not be attempted here in the classical sense. Rather, we shall take an unorthodox approach and discuss, in relation to various models, the current data on the antigen-triggered exponential rise in antibody-forming cells. There are several reasons for taking this approach. 1. In recent years there have been several comprehensive reviews (Dutton, 1967; Makinodan and Albright, 1967; Uhr and Finkelstein, 1967), symposia (Symposium on Molecular and Cellular Basis of Antibody Formation, 1965; Cold Spring Harbor Symposia, 1967), and workshops (Midwinter Conference of Immuno-logists, 1968; Gordon Research Conferences, Immunochemistry and Immuno-biology, 1968; Southeastern Workshop of Immunology, 1968) covering this subject, but critical evaluation of models has been lacking. 2. In view of recent technological advances in immunology and data analysis, most models are now testable and therefore should be discussed. 3. By approaching this problem in terms of model analysis, we hope that quantitative data on antigen-triggered differentiation (transformation, proliferation, and death) can be obtained. We can then focus our attention on the more complex and fascinating problem of homeostasis in the immune response at the cellular level. 4.
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