Stimulation of DNA synthesis in mouse lymphoid cells by polyanions in vitro. II. Relationship between adjuvant activity and stimulation of DNA synthesis by polyanions

Abstract

Abstract The effect of eleven different polyanions, among them dextran sulfate, and of two different preparations of dextran was investigated on [ 3 H]dThd incorporation in spleen cells in vitro , and on PFC response to SRBC in vivo. In general, polyanions stimulated DNA synthesis in spleen cells and enhanced PFC response to SRBC. Dextran itself had no effect on DNA synthesis and on PFC response. The degree of activation of DNA synthesis by polyanions in vitro was found to correlate with the adjuvant activity of the substances in vivo It is postulated that activation of DNA synthesis in lymphoid cells is essential for the adjuvant activity of polyanions.