Modification of the activity and surface topography of peritoneal macrophages by cytophilic antibody

Cytophilic antibody (Cab) attached to the macrophage surface substantially changes the cell surface relief as tested in the scanning electron microscope. Diffuse loss of surface structure is accompanied by diminished ability to interiorize opsonized sheep erythrocytes and to damage non-specifically bystanding target cells (chicken erythrocytes). Cross-linking of Cab on the macrophage surface by antigen or antibody partially restores macrophage membrane activity.