Neutralization of lymphokine-mediated antirickettsial activity of fibroblasts and macrophages with monoclonal antibody specific for murine interferon gamma

Abstract

Lymphokine-mediated inhibition of Rickettsia prowazekii multiplication in L929 fibroblasts was eliminated by treatment of the lymphokine with a monoclonal antibody specific for interferon-gamma. Soluble monoclonal antibody and antibody conjugated to Sepharose beads were equally effective. Macrophage activation to limit the multiplication of Rickettsia conorii was eliminated with antibody-conjugated beads; however, neutralization of the ability to activate macrophages with soluble antibody was not complete and required more antibody than did neutralization of antiviral activity.