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Effect of divalent cations on adhesion of polymorphonuclear leukocytes to matrix molecules in vitro

E Lundgren-Akerlund1, E Berger, K E Arfors

  • 1La Jolla Institute for Experimental Medicine, California.

Insights

Magnesium is crucial for human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) adhesion to matrix proteins. Divalent cations like manganese can enhance PMN binding, suggesting a role in regulating receptor affinity.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) play a critical role in immune responses.
  • Leukocyte adhesion to extracellular matrix proteins is essential for migration and function.
  • The role of divalent cations in modulating PMN adhesion to specific matrix proteins requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of divalent cations (Mg2+, Ca2+, Mn2+) in PMN adhesion to laminin, fibronectin, and collagen types I and IV.
  • To determine the effect of manganese in combination with other cations on PMN adhesion.
  • To assess the involvement of the CD11/CD18 receptor in cation-dependent PMN adhesion.

Main Methods:

  • PMN adhesion assays using substrates coated with laminin, fibronectin, and collagen.
  • Stimulation of PMNs with N-formyl-methionyl-leucylphenylalanine.
  • Addition of various divalent cations (Mg2+, Ca2+, Mn2+) to adhesion assays.
  • Inhibition studies using monoclonal antibody 60.3 (mAb 60.3).

Main Results:

  • PMN adhesion to matrix proteins was dependent on Mg2+ but not Ca2+.
  • Mn2+ significantly enhanced PMN adhesion when combined with Ca2+ and Mg2+.
  • Higher concentrations of mAb 60.3 were needed to inhibit adhesion to collagen when Mn2+ was present, indicating increased PMN affinity.

Conclusions:

  • Divalent cations, particularly Mg2+ and Mn2+, play a significant role in regulating PMN adhesion to extracellular matrix proteins.
  • The CD11/CD18 receptor's affinity for multiple ligands can be modulated by the binding of different divalent cations.
  • These findings provide insights into the mechanisms governing leukocyte migration and immune cell interactions with the extracellular matrix.

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