Experimental Production of "Grape Cells" and Their Relation to the Serum Gamma Globulin and Seromucoids

Abstract

Hypenimmunization in rabbits with three different antigens produced an elevation of the serum gamma globulin, a plasma cell proliferation and an increase of the seromucoid content of the serum. Grape cells and intracellular crystals were found in hyperimmune animals, but not in controls. The globules of the grape cells stained positive with periodic acid Schiff and with osmium tetroxide dissolved in a non-polar solution, indicating the presence of a mucopolysaccharide. It is suggested that there is a relationship between the process of immunization—producing hyperglobulinemia, plasma cell hyperplasia and an elevation of the serum seromucoid content—and the presence of grape cells.