Induction of interferon-gamma in human leukocyte cultures stimulated by Zn2+

Our studies have confirmed previous reports that Zn2+ has a mitogenic effect on human lymphocytes. Furthermore, we have tested the ability of Zn2+ to induce interferon production in human leukocyte cultures. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were stimulated with ZnCl2 at different concentrations. Interferon was detected in the supernatants of cultures stimulated with concentrations ranging from 5 X 10(-4) to 5 X 10(-5) M. Interferon was produced only in the presence of accessory cells. The type of interferon induced by Zn2+ was interferon-gamma, as proven by the use of specific antisera.