MODIFICATIONS IN THE PHAGOCYTOSIS OF HUMAN-NEUTROPHILS INDUCED BY VINBLASTINE AND CYTOCHALASIN-B - THE EFFECTS OF LITHIUM

The effects of lithium on the microtubular and microfilament systems of neutrophil granulocytes is described. The phagocytic capacity of human neutrophils was reduced or inhibited by using vinblastine or cytochalasin B. Lithium at concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 2.0 mEq/l proved to be capable of antagonising the action of vinblastine, whereas the action of cytochalasin B was found to be unaffected by lithium. Based on the antagonising effect of lithium on vinblastine-induced inhibition of phagocytosis, it is suggested that lithium acts-at therapeutically achievable levels-on the microtubular system of neutrophils, possibly through modulation of cyclic AMP levels.