Effects of saikosaponin-d on the functions and morphology of macrophages.

The effects of saikosaponin-d, isolated from Bupleurum Radix, on phagocytosis and spreading of mouse peritoneal macrophages were investigated. Macrophages from saikosaponin-d-treated mice showed a significant increase in spreading activity followed by an increase in phagocytic activity. An intense distribution of microfilaments and microtubules was also observed in these macrophages by immunofluorescence microscopy.