Polyclonal activation to immunoglobulin secretion in human adenoid lymphocytes induced by bacteria from nasopharynx in vitro
Rynnel-Dagöö, B.
Clinical and Experimental Immunology 34(3): 402-410
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0009-9104 PMID: 369751 Document Number: 133792
Adenoid lymphocytes from 26 children scheduled consecutively for adenoidectomy because of severe nasal obstruction were stimulated in vitro by Diplococcus [Streptococcus] pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and hemolytic streptococci group A. All bacteria induced increased DNA synthesis and polyclonal antibody [Ab] secretion, tested in a hemolytic plaque assay. The magnitude of the B[bone marrow-derived]-cell response was correlated to the age of the children. Cells from older children showed a significantly higher polyclonal response than those from younger children. No case of unresponsiveness to any stimulant was observed. Susceptibility to infection was more pronounced among the younger children, which might reflect some degree of immaturity in the immune system. Adenoid lymphocytes are immunocompetent cells, contributing to Ab secretion in the response against infection. The role of the receptor for PBA [polyclonal B cell activators] on adenoid cells in immune reactions against infectious microorganisms is discussed.