To evaluate the phenotypic characteristics of naive and memory B cells in individuals with type 1 diabetes, we developed a polychromatic flow cytometry panel incorporating a viability dye and monoclonal antibodies specific for CD3, CD19, CD21, CD24, CD27, CD38, CD45R/B220, CD95, CXCR3 and IgD. The gene discussed is CD38; the disease is type 1 diabetes mellitus.