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Mitogen stimulation of lymphocytes from patients with epidemic influenza
Abstract:
The in vitro responses to PHA (phytohemagglutinin) of lymphocytes from 14 patients with influenza A and 4 patients with influenza B infection were found decreased as compared with the responses to the same mitogen demonstrated in lymphocytes obtained from the same patients after recovery. Lymphocytes from 6 of the patients with influenza A were examined for PWM (pokeweed mitogen) stimulability and a decrease was found during the influenza infection. The decrease of PHA response during the acute stage of the disease was observed in the presence of autologous as well as of fetal calf and allogeneic AB serum. Possible mechanisms causing this impaired function of lymphocytes are discussed.
Insights
During influenza infection, lymphocyte responses to mitogens like phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and pokeweed (PWM) decrease. Immune function recovers after the patient recovers from the flu.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Influenza infections can impact the immune system.
- Understanding lymphocyte function during viral infections is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro lymphocyte response to mitogens during acute influenza A and B infections.
- To compare immune cell responsiveness during illness versus recovery.
Main Methods:
- Studied lymphocytes from patients with influenza A and B.
- Assessed in vitro responses to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and pokeweed mitogen (PWM).
- Compared responses during acute infection and post-recovery phases.
Main Results:
- Lymphocyte responses to PHA were significantly decreased during acute influenza A and B infections compared to recovery.
- Pokeweed mitogen (PWM) responsiveness also showed a decrease during influenza A infection.
- Impaired PHA response was observed across different serum conditions (autologous, fetal calf, allogeneic AB).
Conclusions:
- Influenza infection temporarily impairs lymphocyte function in vitro.
- This suggests a potential mechanism for immune dysregulation during acute viral illness.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms behind this functional impairment.