Enhancement of phagocytosis by Compound 48/80 and its influence upon Ca++-dependent ATP-ase.

A new activity of p-methoxy-phenylethyl-methyl-amine condensed by formaldehyde (Cpd 48/80) has been established: enhancement of phagocytosis. This property seems to be correlated to its ability to activate lysosomes. Enhancement of phagocytosis is discussed in relation to the virus penetration process. Furthermore it was found that Cpd 48/80 and to a smaller degree the dimer inhibit the Ca++-dependent ATP-ase (E. C. 3.6.1.3.) from human red blood cells. The enzyme from bovine myosin is not inhibited by the dimer, but somewhat more by poly-THIQ (7-methoxy-tetrahydroisoquinoline condensed by formaldehyde) than by Cpd 48/80. These properties are discussed in relation to a general hypothesis of virus-induced giant cell formation. Finally it has been shown that the drug does not influence the PHA-stimulation (phytohemagglutinin) of lymphocytes, indicating selectivity of its activity.