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Effect of morphine on phagocytic activity of the polymorphonuclears and monocytes
1Department of Physiology, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czechoslovakia.
Abstract:
The effect of morphine on the phagocytic activity of the polymorphonuclears (PMN), and monocytes in peripheral blood of laboratory rats of inbred Wistar strain was studied in vitro. Phagocytic activity of both types of the white blood cells was examined by the classical method using microspherical hydrophilic particles (Hema-particles), phagocytosis of the Hema-particles was determined by light microscopy. For evaluation of the leukocyte adherence, the method of MacGregor was used. Morphine was proved to influence phagocytic activity of individual types of the leukocytes in different way. Phagocytic activity of the PMNs was suppressed (by 14.0%), and that of monocytes was potentiated (by 17.1%).
Insights
Morphine impacts white blood cell function, suppressing polymorphonuclear (PMN) phagocytic activity while enhancing monocyte activity in rats. This study reveals differential effects of morphine on immune cell responses.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Opioids like morphine can modulate immune responses.
- Understanding the specific effects of morphine on different immune cells is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro effects of morphine on the phagocytic activity of polymorphonuclears (PMNs) and monocytes.
- To determine how morphine influences leukocyte adherence.
Main Methods:
- In vitro study using peripheral blood from Wistar rats.
- Assessed phagocytic activity using Hema-particles and light microscopy.
- Evaluated leukocyte adherence with the MacGregor method.
Main Results:
- Morphine suppressed PMN phagocytic activity by 14.0%.
- Morphine potentiated monocyte phagocytic activity by 17.1%.
- Differential effects of morphine on leukocyte types were observed.
Conclusions:
- Morphine exerts distinct effects on the phagocytic capabilities of PMNs and monocytes.
- These findings highlight the complex immunomodulatory role of morphine.