Phagocytosis of synthetic particles in earthworms. Effect of antigenic stimulation and opsonization.

We examined the phagocytic activity of coelomocytes in earthworms Lumbricus terrestris. The synthetic polymeric HEMA particles were used in this study. The phagocytic capacity was increased after the protein administration or preincubation of HEMA particles with coelomic fluid. Furthermore, we isolated and characterized the proteins adsorbed on the surface of the particles which have opsonin-like properties.