Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 31, 2026

Determining the Phagocytic Activity of Clinical Antibody Samples
Published on: November 30, 2011
Effects of soluble immune complexes on Fc receptor- and C3b receptor-mediated phagocytosis by macrophages
The effects of ingestion of soluble immune complexes upon macrophage phagocytic function was studied. Ingestion of immune complexes severely impaired the macrophage's ability to ingest IgG-coated particles but did not alter its ability to interact with particles by means other than its Fc receptors. Treatment of macrophages that had ingested immune complexes with supernates containing the previously described lymphokine that augments macrophage complement receptor function failed to enhance the cells' interaction with either IgG-coated erythrocytes or zymosan particles but markedly enhanced their ability to phagocytize via their complement receptors. The possible significance of these findings in immunologically mediated inflammation is discussed.
The effects of ingestion of soluble immune complexes upon macrophage phagocytic function was studied. Ingestion of immune complexes severely impaired the macrophage's ability to ingest IgG-coated particles but did not alter its ability to interact with particles by means other than its Fc receptors. Treatment of macrophages that had ingested immune complexes with supernates containing the previously described lymphokine that augments macrophage complement receptor function failed to enhance the cells' interaction with either IgG-coated erythrocytes or zymosan particles but markedly enhanced their ability to phagocytize via their complement receptors. The possible significance of these findings in immunologically mediated inflammation is discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Cell-mediated Immune Responses
Immune Surveillance by NK Cells and Phagocytes
Natural Killer Cells: The Fast Responders
NK cells are large granular lymphocytes found in the blood and lymphatic system. These...
Antibody Actions
Neutralization
Antibodies can bind to pathogens, preventing them from infecting host cells. This process...
Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...
Complement System
Hypersensitivity Reactions: Immune-Complex Reactions

