In-vitro modification of membrane receptors on cells of the mononuclear phagocyte system.

EA and EAC receptors have been studied on non-elicited and paraffin-induced macrophages, under a variety of culture conditions in vitro, for up to 7 days. A large decrease in the number of macrophages showing EAC receptors was found after treatment of the cells with BCG, but not "inert" particles such as latex and zymosan. This was reversible by 7 days. In the presence of a toxic material, Al(OH)3, both EA and EAC receptors were partially lost. The results obtained have been related to previous results obtained with cryostat sections of human leprosy skin lesions.