Polymorphonuclear neutrophilic leukocytes in protein deficiency.

The number of white blood cells and of polymorphonuclear leukocytes remained unchanged in vervet monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops) receiving a "O" protein diet. The motility of the polymorphonuclear leukocytes and their phagocytic and killing indices with and without leukokinin stimulation decreased in protein-depleted animals. Acid cathepsin decreased, DNA relatively increased, and peroxidase, alkaline phosphatase, acid phenylphosphatase, and lysozyme reached higher levels in the polymorphonuclear leukocytes of animals on a "O" protein diet.