ABSTRACT
Object To investigate the mechanisms of action of lentinan (LTN) activated mouse peritoneal macrophages to produce nitric oxide (NO). Methods The effects of LTN on NO output and intracellular glutathione (GSH) in mouse peritoneal macrophages and the correlation of them were studied. Results (1) LTN can significantly increase production of NO in mouse peritoneal macrophages, decrease level of intracellular GSH followed increase of NO production. (2) The above effect can be blocked efficiently by the NO production inhibitors. (3) NO production can be inhibited by GSH lowering drugs. Conclusion LTN increase NO production with depletion of intracellular GSH in the activated mouse peritoneal macrophages. It suggested that intracellular GSH plays an important role in regulation of NO production and protection of host cells from cytotoxic attack induced by NO.