Enhancement of phagocytosis and bactericidal activity of neutrophils in miniature pigs by dihydroheptaprenol, a synthetic polyprenol derivative.

Dihydroheptaprenol (DHP), a synthetic polyprenol derivative, markedly stimulated the generation of peripheral blood neutrophils after intramuscular injection in miniature pigs. The generated neutrophils exhibited enhanced phagocytic activity against latex particles and also enhanced killing activity against Escherichia coli. The effective dose in miniature pigs (1.4 mg/kg) was markedly less than that required in mice (100 mg/kg). These results indicate that DHP induces resistance to some bacterial infections in pigs, suggesting the applicability of DHP for humans.