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Updated: Jul 8, 2026

Exploring the Sequential Cellular Events of Phagocytosis Triggered by Godanti Bhasma in Mammalian Cells
Published on: July 11, 2025
Cell-dependent influence on the phagocytosis induced by non-ionic contrast medium injection
1Department of Radiology, Center for Molecular Imaging Research MBMB, University of Bonn, Germany. ingrid.boehm@ukb.uni-bonn.de
Non-ionic contrast media (CM) used in CT scans can impair monocyte phagocytosis, but this effect is counteracted by increased neutrophil activity, maintaining overall immune defense.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Radiology
Background:
- Phagocytosis is a key component of the innate immune system.
- Iodinated contrast media (CM) are widely used in computed tomography (CT) scans.
- Previous studies suggest CM may affect immune cell function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vivo effect of non-ionic CM on phagocytic cells.
- To compare the impact of CM on neutrophil granulocytes and monocytes.
- To assess CM's influence on bacterial engulfment by peripheral blood phagocytes.
Main Methods:
- Peripheral blood samples were collected from patients before and after CM injection for CT.
- Neutrophils and monocytes were isolated and incubated with fluorescently labeled Escherichia coli.
- Phagocytosis was quantified using flow cytometry to determine cell percentages and activity.
Main Results:
- CM significantly decreased the percentage of monocytes engulfing bacteria at 4°C.
- CM did not significantly alter monocyte phagocytosis at 37°C but decreased activity.
- CM increased the percentage of neutrophils engulfing bacteria at 4°C and 37°C, with no change in activity.
Conclusions:
- Non-ionic CM differentially affects monocyte and neutrophil phagocytosis.
- Monocyte phagocytosis inhibition by CM appears to be compensated by enhanced neutrophil function.
- The study highlights the complex interaction between CM and innate immune mechanisms.
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