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Enhanced adhesion of oxidized mouse polymorphonuclear leukocytes to macrophages by a cell-surface sugar-dependent

M Beppu1, N Yokoyama, M Motohashi

  • 1School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Science, Hachioji, Japan.

Insights

Macrophages recognize oxidized polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) through specific cell surface sugars. This interaction, crucial for immune response, is mediated by sialylated sugar chains on PMNs.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Macrophages play a critical role in clearing cellular debris and pathogens.
  • Oxidative stress can alter cell surface properties, potentially affecting immune cell interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the molecular mechanisms by which macrophages recognize oxidized polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs).
  • To identify specific cell surface molecules on PMNs involved in their recognition by macrophages.

Main Methods:

  • Thioglycollate-induced mouse peritoneal macrophages were used.
  • Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) were oxidized using diamide, superoxide, or t-butylhydroperoxide.
  • Inhibition assays were performed using specific carbohydrate structures and enzymatic treatments (neuraminidase, endo-beta-galactosidase).

Main Results:

  • Macrophages recognized oxidized PMNs in a serum-free environment.
  • Recognition and adhesion were concentration-dependent on the oxidizing agents.
  • Sialylated sugar chains, particularly poly-N-acetyllactosaminyl structures, inhibited PMN adhesion.
  • Enzymatic removal of sialic acid or degradation of poly-N-acetyllactosaminyl chains abolished enhanced macrophage adhesion.

Conclusions:

  • Clustered sialylated poly-N-acetyllactosaminyl sugar chains on the cell surface are involved in the increased adhesion of oxidized PMNs to macrophages.
  • These findings elucidate a novel mechanism of immune cell recognition mediated by specific glycans under oxidative stress.

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