Response of lymphocytes from lead, cadmium, and methylmercury exposed mice in the mixed lymphocyte culture.

Mice were exposed to various dosages of lead, cadmium, or methylmercury for 10 weeks. At the end of the feeding trial, splenic lymphocytes were evaluated for responsiveness in mixed lymphocyte cultures. Cadmium and methylmercury as well as one dose level of lead tended (not significant) to stimulate the lymphocyte reaction. These results are discussed and compared to other investigations concerned with the effect these environmental contaminants have on the cell mediated immune response of animals.