Activation of murine macrophage-like cell line J774.1 by Sarcophaga peregrina lectin

The effect of Sarcophaga lectin on mouse macrophage-like cell line J774.1 was studied. It was found that this lectin induced significant morphological changes and stimulated glucose consumption of J774.1 cells. A similar effect was observed when bacterial lipopolysaccharide was added to the culture medium. However, although cells treated with lipopolysaccharide were not cytotoxic to allogeneic tumor cells, those treated with Sarcophaga lectin were found to acquire cytotoxicity. The physiological significance of Sarcophaga lectin is discussed from the viewpoint of comparative immunology.