THE ROLE OF THE RETICULO-ENDOTHELIAL SYSTEM IN IMMUNITY : II. THE COMPLEMENT TITER AFTER BLOCKADE AND THE

C W Jungeblut1, J A Berlot

  • 1Division of Laboratories and Research of the New York State Department of Health, Albany.

1. Intravenous injections of India ink into guinea pigs caused a decided drop in the complement titer which set in as early as 15 minutes after the injection, but did not reach its maximum for 3 hours. This drop was followed by a return to normal within the first 24 hours following the injection. 2. India ink mixed in vitro with guinea pig serum adsorbs the complement almost immediately to its full extent. 3. By means of reduction tests (methylene blue and nitroanthraquinone) it was shown that the respiration of the cells of the liver and spleen of guinea pigs was markedly impaired for the first 8 hours, following an intravenous injection of ink. Evidences of a return to normal functional vitality, however, became apparent by the end of the 1st day after the injection.

Related Concept Videos

Complement System01:27

Complement System

The complement system is a group of approximately 20 plasma proteins that strengthen the body's defenses against infections through opsonization, inflammation, and cell lysis. Opsonization involves coating pathogens with complement proteins, making them more recognizable and facilitating phagocyte engulfment. Certain complement proteins induce inflammation that attracts immune cells to the site of infection. Cell lysis involves the destruction of pathogens through the formation of a membrane...
Functions of the Lymphatic and Immune System01:28

Functions of the Lymphatic and Immune System

The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in bolstering our immune system. It consists of a network of lymphoid organs, lymph, and lymphatic vessels that provide structural and functional support in safeguarding the body against pathogens such as viruses and bacteria.
The primary lymphoid organs, including the bone marrow and the thymus, serve as the maturation sites for lymphocytes. Secondary lymphoid organs, like the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, activate these lymphocytes and serve as...
Cell-mediated Immune Responses01:40

Cell-mediated Immune Responses

Overview
Inflammatory Response01:28

Inflammatory Response

An inflammatory response is a localized, nonspecific immune reaction that occurs when a tissue is injured. It is characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain, which are commonly called the cardinal signs and symptoms of inflammation. Inflammation can sometimes result in a loss of function.
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Humoral Immune Responses01:36

Humoral Immune Responses

Overview
Immune Response Against Viral Pathogens01:29

Immune Response Against Viral Pathogens

The immune system's response to viral infections is a complex and coordinated process involving natural killer (NK) cells, T cell-mediated responses, and antibody-mediated responses.
NK Cells
NK cells are a crucial part of our innate immune system, acting as the first line of defense against viral infections. These cells can recognize and kill infected cells without prior exposure to the virus, effectively slowing down the spread of infection. Additionally, NK cells produce proinflammatory...