Emulsified perfluorochemicals for oxygen-transport to tissues: effects on lymphoid system and immunological competence.

Abstract

Data from both in vivo and in vitro studies to assess lymphoid tissue and immune system responses to emulsified PFCs and their components have been discussed. It may be concluded that the extent to which PFC emulsions are retained in lymphoid tissues and their effects on the manifestation of humoral immune responses to immunological "challenges" is variable and depends upon: (1) Emulsion composition; (2) Dose administered; (3) Route of administration; (4) Tissue examined; (5) Timing of emulsion administration relative to immune challenge; and (6) Species studied. Such variability in the responses to emulsified PFCs has inevitably introduced difficulties in assessing their effects upon immunological competence. Further work is needed determine the extent to which lymphoid tissue functions may be altered by PFC emulsions and identify the active component(s) and mechanism(s) involved.