Blockade of Mitogen Induction of the Interferon Lymphokine by a Phenolic Food Additive Metabolite 1

Summary

Gallic acid (GA), a food constituent and food additive metabolite, blocked macrophage-dependent mitogen-induced interferon production and suppressor T-lymphocyte function. Interferon production was restored by adherent peritoneal macrophages or 2-mercaptoethanol, a macro-phage substitute. GA failed to block the antiviral activity of preformed mitogen-induced interferon. Possible consequences of loss of lymphokine production and suppressor T-lymphocyte function(s) are discussed.