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Gold-induced changes in the morphology and functional capabilities of human monocytes
Abstract:
The capacity of gold compounds to induce morphologic changes and alterations in the functional activity of human mononuclear phagocytes (M phi) in vitro was examined. Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells were incubated with gold sodium thiomalate (25 microgram/ml) for 96 hours. As a result, M phi developed electron dense precipitates within phagolysosomes, as well as marked dilatation of these organelles. Gold incubation also altered a number of M phi functions. While viability and adherence were unaffected, the capacity to spread on surfaces was diminished. Pinocytosis of soluble proteins and phagocytosis of opsonized sheep erythrocytes were impaired, but Fc mediated particle binding was not. These data indicate that gold can alter certain functional activities of M phi and support the idea that the major action of gold in rheumatoid arthritis results from its capacity to alter M phi function.
Insights
Gold compounds alter human mononuclear phagocytes (M phi) function in vitro. Gold sodium thiomalate impaired M phi spreading, pinocytosis, and phagocytosis, suggesting a mechanism for rheumatoid arthritis treatment.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Gold compounds are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis.
- The effects of gold on human mononuclear phagocytes (M phi) are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the effects of gold compounds on the morphology and function of human M phi in vitro.
- To investigate the potential mechanisms of gold's therapeutic action in rheumatoid arthritis.
Main Methods:
- Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells were incubated with gold sodium thiomalate (25 microgram/ml) for 96 hours.
- Morphological changes were assessed using electron microscopy.
- Functional assays included viability, adherence, spreading, pinocytosis, and phagocytosis.
Main Results:
- Gold incubation led to electron-dense precipitates within M phi phagolysosomes and organelle dilatation.
- M phi spreading capacity was diminished.
- Pinocytosis and phagocytosis of opsonized sheep erythrocytes were impaired, while Fc-mediated particle binding remained unaffected.
- Cell viability and adherence were not altered.
Conclusions:
- Gold compounds induce significant morphological changes in M phi.
- Gold alters key M phi functions, including phagocytosis and spreading.
- These findings support the hypothesis that gold's therapeutic effects in rheumatoid arthritis stem from its ability to modulate M phi function.