Changes in the activity of oxygen-dependent metabolism in polymorphonuclear leukocytes and macrophages from a primary focus during experimental Y. pestis infection in the mouse.

The activity of oxygen-dependent metabolism (OM) was investigated in phagocytosing cells from a primary focus in plague infection using a mouse model. Experimental animals were given various i.p. doses of a virulent culture of Y. pestis. Changes in the OM of neutrophils and macrophages derived from peritoneal exudate after Y. pestis administration were phased and identical to non-specific post-aggression fluctuating reaction (PFR) comprising: 1. immediate depression phase, 2. overexertion phase and 3. exhaustion phase.