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Normal peritoneal lymphocytes: A population with increased capacity for endocytosis
The American Journal of Pathology
|October 1, 1974
Summary
Normal peritoneal lymphocytes (NPLs) exhibit phagocytic capabilities, taking up horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and latex particles. Cultured NPLs demonstrate phagocytosis without transforming into macrophages, indicating they become phagocytic lymphocytes.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Normal peritoneal lymphocytes (NPLs) were investigated for their potential to transform into macrophages.
- Comparison was made with splenic lymphocytes (SpLs) to understand NPL behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if normal peritoneal lymphocytes (NPLs) can transform into macrophages.
- To characterize the pinocytosis and phagocytosis capabilities of NPLs.
Main Methods:
- NPLs and SpLs were exposed to horseradish peroxidase (HRP) to assess pinocytosis.
- Phagocytosis of latex particles by NPLs was evaluated after 24-hour culture.
- Ultrastructural analysis and peroxidase staining were performed.
Main Results:
- NPLs exhibited significantly higher HRP uptake via pinocytosis compared to SpLs.
- NPLs retained undegraded HRP for at least 24 hours.
- Cultured NPLs demonstrated erythrophagocytosis and latex particle phagocytosis, remaining lymphocyte-like and peroxidase-negative.
Conclusions:
- NPLs do not transform into morphologic macrophages under the tested culture conditions.
- NPLs possess inherent phagocytic capabilities and can become phagocytic lymphocytes.