Methylmercury: effects on B-lymphocyte receptors and phagocytosis of macrophages

Mice were exposed to 0, 1,5 and 10 ppm methylmercury for 10 weeks. After exposure, splenic lymphocytes were collected and examined for the ability of their antibody (Fc) and complement receptors to rosette sheep red blood cells (SRBC) in the presence of anti-SRBC antibody. Peritoneal exudate cells were also collected and examined for Fc rosetting and phagocytic properties. The largest dosage of methylmercury activated the complement receptor of B lymphocytes to rosette SRBC. The lower dosages did not affect this property of B cells nor did methylmercury alter the Fc receptors on B lymphocytes and macrophages or phagocytosis of peritoneal macrophages.