Inhibition of lymphoid cell DNA synthesis by metal allergens at various concentrations. Effect on short-time cultured nonadherent cells compared to nonseparated cells.

Metal allergen concentrations inhibiting lymphoid cell DNA synthesis were tested on short-time cultured nonadherent and nonseparated thymic and splenic cells. With all tested metal allergens, the DNA-synthesis-inhibiting effect was more marked for nonadherent compared to nonseparated splenic cells. In thymocytes, a stronger inhibition of nonadherent cells was seen after addition of mercuric chloride. A protective or modifying role of adherent cells towards inhibiting or toxic effects of metal allergens in vitro is postulated.