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Insulin, at physiological concentrations, enhances the polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotactic properties
F Cavalot1, G Anfossi, I Russo
1Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, San Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, Italy.
Hormone and Metabolic Research = Hormon- Und Stoffwechselforschung = Hormones Et Metabolisme
|May 1, 1992
Summary
Insulin enhances human polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) chemotaxis, improving immune cell function. This finding suggests insulin deficiency may impair PMN activity in poorly controlled diabetes.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) are crucial immune cells.
- Impaired PMN function is observed in diabetic patients.
- The role of insulin in PMN chemotaxis requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of insulin on human PMN chemotaxis.
- To determine if insulin affects PMN response to various chemotactic mediators.
Main Methods:
- Human PMNs were studied using a microchamber assay.
- Chemotaxis was induced by formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine, calcium ionophore, and phorbol-miristyl acetate.
- The effect of varying insulin concentrations was assessed.
Main Results:
- Insulin significantly increased PMN chemotaxis in a dose-dependent manner.
- This effect was observed with multiple chemotactic agents.
- Insulin demonstrated a significant effect even at physiological concentrations (40 microU/ml).
Conclusions:
- Insulin positively influences human PMN chemotaxis.
- These findings support the hypothesis that insulin deficiency contributes to impaired PMN function in diabetic patients with poor metabolic control.