Effect of Extracts from Rabbit Leukocytes on Levels of Acute Phase Globulins in Rat Serum

Abstract

SummaryExtracts were prepared from rabbit polymorphonuclear leukocytes by procedures previously shown to yield activity for pyrogenicity and lowering of plasma iron and zinc levels. Rats were injected ip with these extracts, and 10 to 48 hr later their serum was assayed for acute phase globulins by immunological techniques. Positive responses were observed for α1- and α2-AP globulins; whereas responses to injections of control extracts were uniformly negative. The data were interpreted to indicate that one or more proteins synthesized and excreted by leukocytes can act as humoral intermediates in the stimulation of serum acute phase globulins during a variety of acute and chronic disorders.