[Effect of lysozyme on the surface structures of mouse peritoneal macrophages].

Surface structures of the peritoneal macrophages of BALB/c mice treated intramuscularly with various doses of egg lysozyme (0.05 to 50 mg/kg) were studied with scanning electron microscopy. It was shown that the effect of lysozyme on the macrophages significantly depended on the dose of the preparation and the frequency of its use. When used in the subtherapeutic (0.5 mg/kg) and therapeutic (5 mg/kg) single doses, lysozyme promoted detection of heterogeneity of the macrophage population, marked activation of their surface membranes and intensification of intercellular cooperation. The highest level of the lysozyme activating effect on the minor macrophages and lymphocytes was observed after administration of the preparation in a single dose of 5 mg/kg or in a dose of 0.5 mg/kg repeatedly (daily for 7 days). When used in a dose of 5 mg/kg repeatedly or especially in a single dose of 50 mg/kg lysozyme induced smoothing of the surface of the macrophages and lymphocytes. The problems of indirect, direct and immune activation of the macrophages with lysozyme are discussed.