A flow-cytometry-based protocol using diverse cell types for detecting autoantibodies from human plasma and serum samples.

Here, we describe a protocol for cell-based detection of autoantibodies from human plasma and serum samples using a standard flow cytometer. The protocol allows detection of autoantibodies against a wide array of extracellular antigens. Antigen coverage is limited to the cell types tested, and researchers will need to further determine if autoantibody-positive samples correlate with cytotoxic or clinical outcomes. This protocol is less expensive and faster to perform when compared to protein microarrays and requires no prior knowledge of potential targets. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Wong et al. (2021).