EFFECTS ON INTERFERON OF HEAVY-METAL EXCESS AND ZINC-DEFICIENCY

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  • 1 January 1977
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 38  (6) , 863-867
Abstract
Near toxic concentrations of cadmium sulfate, mercuric chloride and nickel sulfate reduced interferon action in tissue cultures, but increased intake by the intact mouse of lead acetate and mercuric chloride did not reduce interferon action. Pb and Ni given orally inhibited the protective activity of Newcastle disease virus against encephalomyocarditis virus-induced mortality, whereas Cd, Hg, colbalt sulfate and sodium arsenite given orally and deficiency of Zn did not influence this action. Excess Pb abd Co and deficiency of Zn, but not excess Cd, Hg or Ni, inhibited the protective activity of poly I/poly C against encephalomyocarditis virus-induced mortality. These results illustrate the various actions of increased concentrations of certain metals or a deficiency of Zn on interferon action or on actions of interferon inducers.