B-cell activating properties of polymyxin B

Scand J Immunol. 1978;7(1):67-72. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-3083.1978.tb00427.x.

Abstract

Polymyxins are known to be inhibitors of certain polyclonal B cell activators such as lipopolysaccharide and dextransulphate. However, increased specific responses to hapten-coupled mitogens have been reported after the addition of polymyxins to superoptimal conjugate doses. In this paper we have studied the effect of polymyxin B on superoptimal polyclonal doses of lipopolysaccharide. Results similar to those reported for hapten-lipopolysaccharide conjugates were obtained. Polymyxin B was also found to exert adjuvant properties for a primary immune response to sheep erythrocytes and to be a thymus-independent antigen.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • B-Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • Cells, Cultured
  • DNA / biosynthesis
  • Immunization
  • Lipopolysaccharides / pharmacology
  • Lymphocyte Activation / drug effects*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred Strains
  • Polymyxin B / pharmacology*
  • Polymyxins / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Lipopolysaccharides
  • Polymyxins
  • DNA
  • Polymyxin B