STRUCTURE OF MONONUCLEAR PHAGOCYTES DIFFERENTIATING INVIVO .3. EFFECT OF PARTICULATE FOREIGN SUBSTANCES

  • 1 January 1977
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 89  (2) , 335-350
Abstract
The response of mononuclear phagocytes [from guinea pigs] to 3 inert particles, barium sulfate, talc, and thorium dioxide, was studied by correlated light and electron microscopy. All 3 particles induced maturation of the mononuclear phagocytes, which proceeded to the stage of the mature macrophage and required 7-9 days. Once established, maturation persisted as long as 45 days, as did the inert particles. The resultant lesions, dense aggregates of mature macrophages, were termed mature granulomas. The resultant maturation differed from that produced by digestible bacteria in tempo and extent but not in pattern.