Phagocytic properties of exudative microphages from animals with alloxan diabetes and insulin-induced hypoglycemia.

Phagocytosis was studied in exudative microphages from white mice with alloxan diabetes and insulin-induced hypoglycemia. Peritoneal exudates were induced to obtain exudative forms of microphages, which were used to phagocytize Staphylococcus aureus 209 P Oxford. Phagocytic indices were calculated by the method of Davies. The liver and pancreas were studied morphologically and histochemically, and serum glucose levels were assayed. The experiments showed that: 1) lowered phagocytic indices in animals with alloxan diabetes and insulin-induced hypoglycemia indicate lower phagocytic capability of exudative microphages; 2) normal phagocytosis depends on: a) normal blood levels of glucose as energetic material, and b) adequate concentration of insulin in tissues as enzymatic "transporter" of glucose.