Influence of dextran polymer particles (Sephadex G-200) on the chemiluminescence response of murine peritoneal leukocytes.

Murine peritoneal leukocytes exhibited enhanced levels of chemiluminescence (Cl) when derived from mice inoculated intraperitoneally with Sephadex G-200 gel. This could be observed in the background, 'spontaneous' Cl reactivity, and in Cl elicited by in vitro addition of zymosan or mitogens. Leukocytes found in the peritoneum after Sephadex G-200 inoculation are predominantly neutrophils. It is suggested that the enhanced Cl reactivity is due to activation and proliferation of neutrophils.