Role of immunoconglutinin in resistance to infection. The in vitro promotion of phagocytosis by immunoconglutinin.

The role of immunoconglutinin (IK) in phagocytosis was investigated using an in vitro opsonic test system. Phagocytosis of Gram-negative bacteria was increased when pre-treated with rabbit serum containing immunoconglutinin. The enhanced phagocytosis was reflected by an increase in the number of macrophages engaged in phagocytosis as well as an increase in the opsonic index. Heat inactivation of t…