Inflammatory reaction in germfree mice.

In intact germfree animals, the total leukocyte count, the number of polymorphonuclear (PMN) granulocytes, the phagocytic index of peritoneal PMN granulocytes, the serum seromucoid and coeruloplasmin levels are significantly lower than in conventional controls. As a result of treatment with turpentine, the total leukocyte count and the number of PMN granulocytes increased significantly in both groups, but the phagocytic index and the level of the two examined acute phase proteins rose significantly less in germfree animals than in conventionals. The decreased phagocytic function of PMN granulocytes in germfree animals has been explained by the lack of the stimulating effect of the normal bacterial flora.