[PHA transformation of coelomocytes of Lubricus terrestris]. / Transformation blastique par la PHA des coelomocytes de Lumbricus terrestris

ABSTRACT

This transformation was studied at various concentrations of PHA and during different periods of incubation. The coelomocytes were separated into adhering and non-adhering cells. The adhering cells were separated into trypsin-sensitive and trypsin-resistant. Results have clearly shown (P less than or equal to 0.01) that the coelomocytes do transform to PHA. Only the trypsin-resistant adhering cells (5-10%) having a high phagocytic activity, were capable of inducing the transformation of the non-adhering coelomocytes. None of these sub-populations of coelomocytes did transform alone. These results reinforce the existence in earthworms of a T-cell like function and perhaps receptors similar to those observed in higher vertebrates and confirm the cooperation of two cell types to achieve this activity.