How Activated Granulocytes Can Damage Human Tissue
Author Information
Author(s): E. Lhde, A. H. Raude, M. Llick, E. Kraas, W. Lierse
Primary Institution: Surgical Department, Academic Hospital Moabit, University of Hamburg
Hypothesis
Can activated complement fragments lead to tissue damage by polymorphonuclear granulocytes (PMNs) in humans?
Conclusion
The study suggests that activated PMNs can cause significant damage to human mesothelial and endothelial tissues.
Supporting Evidence
- Exposure to zymosan activated plasma caused a rapid increase in chemiluminescence from PMNs.
- PMNs caused destruction of mesothelial cells within minutes after exposure to activated plasma.
- Decomplementation of plasma abolished the generation of plasma activity.
- Diapedesis of PMNs through endothelial junctions began within 90 seconds after exposure.
Takeaway
When certain proteins in the blood are activated, they can make white blood cells attack and damage our own tissues, which can be harmful.
Methodology
The study involved isolating PMNs from healthy volunteers and exposing them to autologous zymosan activated plasma to observe the effects on tissue.
Limitations
The study does not prove a direct causal relationship between anaphylatoxins and organ failure.
Participant Demographics
Healthy adult volunteers provided blood samples.
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website