In vivo activation of functional properties in mouse peritoneal macrophages by Nocardia rubra cell wall skeleton.

Exudative cells in the peritoneal cavity of mice, particularly polymorphonuclear leukocytes significantly increased 1 day after intraperitoneal injection of Nocardia rubra cell wall skeleton (N-CWS). Macrophages and lymphocytes significantly increased 4 to 7 days after injection. N-CWS also enhanced peritoneal macrophage functions such as phagocytosis of latex particles, production of superoxide anion, production and secretion of lysosomal enzymes such as beta-glucuronidase, lysozyme and acid phosphatase, phagocytosis and intracellular killing of bacteria, and in vitro chemotaxis. The phagocytic function of the reticuloendothelial system was also enhanced. These results indicate that macrophages were activated in vivo by N-CWS.