Question

In regard to the immune system, morphine has been shown to: a. Elevate antibody responses to various antigens. b. Elevate responses to the B-cell mitogen, lipopolysaccharide (LPS). c. Elevate delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) responses. d. Increase phagocytosis by macrophages. e. Depress natural killer \((\mathrm{NK})\) cell activity.

Short answer

Answer: e. Depress natural killer (NK) cell activity.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the immune system components mentioned in the exercise options

In the given exercise, we encounter various components and functions of the immune system: - Antibody responses - B-cell mitogen responses (specifically to lipopolysaccharide, LPS) - Delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) responses - Phagocytosis by macrophages - Natural killer (NK) cell activity It is essential to know how these components fit into the immune system to assess how morphine could affect it.

Analyzing the options individually

Now, let's briefly go through each of the options: a. Elevate antibody responses to various antigens: This option entails that morphine increases the immune system's ability to produce antibodies against different pathogens. b. Elevate responses to the B-cell mitogen, lipopolysaccharide (LPS): This option suggests that morphine increases the response of B-cells to LPS, a component of the outer membrane of some bacteria, leading to an increase in B-cell activity and proliferation. c. Elevate delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) responses: This option states that morphine increases DTH responses, which are cell-mediated immune responses that usually manifest 24-72 hours after antigen exposure. d. Increase phagocytosis by macrophages: This option proposes that morphine enhances the ability of macrophages to engulf and destroy pathogens, which is a crucial part of the immune defense. e. Depress natural killer (NK) cell activity: This option asserts that morphine reduces the activity of natural killer cells, which are part of the innate immune system and play a vital role in defending against viruses and cancer cells.

Identifying the correct option

Upon reviewing scientific literature, morphine is generally known to suppress various immune functions, leading to an increased vulnerability to infections. Based on this understanding, option (e) "Depress natural killer (NK) cell activity" is the correct answer, as it aligns with the general immunosuppressive effects of morphine. In conclusion, the effects of morphine on the immune system are mostly suppressive, and the correct option is: e. Depress natural killer (NK) cell activity.