SEPHADEX INDUCED INFLAMMATION IN RATS

1 January 1975

journal article
research article

Vol. 10 (5-6) , 333-337

Abstract

Sephadex, the Dextran gel widely used in gel chromatography, was tested for its ability to produce Dextran-edema, as its physicochemical properties would offer some advantages in studies of inflammatory reactions. Aspects investigated at the preliminary stage were whether a single s.c. injection of Sephadex produced inflammation, if so, its characteristics on the microscopical level, and whether different types of Sephadex produced different effects. Male and female Wistar rats (100-250 g) in groups of 5 animals each received s.c. injections of 1 ml Sephadex G-25, G-50, G-100 and G-200 in 0.9% saline/rat. The Sephadex depot and the surrounding tissue were extirpated and examined histologically. Frozen sections were examined. For ascertaining probable differences in the effect of the particular Sephadex types 2 values were determined histometrically. The number of exudate cells emigrated between the Sephadex beads within the area of an ocular-net (edge length .66 mm) were counted, and the number of eosinophils determined. A single s.c. injection of Sephadex induced acute inflammation. The exudative phase marked by massive leukocytic infiltration (especially polymorphonuclear leukocytes) was followed by the appearance of mononuclear leukocytes and fibroblasts after the 2nd day. Inflammation declined within .apprx. 3 wk. Thereafter the Sephadex depot was encapsulated by a fibrous tissue. Chronic inflammation was never observed. The inflammation produced by the different types of Sephadex were detectable microscopically. Sephadex lying in the tissue did not change its original shape, it was insoluble and did not disintegrate. The size of the particles prevented transport into the blood or lymph vessels. Since Sephadex beads remain in the place of injection, it should facilitate investigations of local reactions during inflammation.

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