Human CD4+ helper T cells express the CD4 co-receptor and play an important role in the adaptive immune system by assisting other white blood cells. These cells are activated when they are presented an antigen on the MHC class II molecule of an antigen-presenting cell (APC). Once activated, CD4+ helper T cells secrete lymphokines that assist in the activation of B cells to secrete antibodies that target specific microbes and assist in the activation of cytotoxic T cells to destroy infected target cells.

Human cord blood CD4+ helper T cells are enriched by means of negative selection. Cells expressing CD8, CD14, CD15, CD16, CD19, CD36, CD56, CD123, TCRγ/δ, and CD235a are depleted from the cord blood mononuclear cell population using immunomagnetic particles leaving purified, untouched CD4+ helper T cells. Cell isolations are characterized by flow cytometry to ensure a highly pure and viable cell population.

Cells were obtained using Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved consent forms and protocols.