The subcellular distribution of myeloid-related protein 8 (MRP8) and MRP14 in human neutrophils

David F Stroncek1, Raji A Shankar, Keith M Skubitz

  • 1Department of Transfusion Medicine, Warren G. Magnuson Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA. dstroncek@cc.nih.gov

Abstract

Insights

Myeloid-related protein 8/14 (MRP8/14) is found in neutrophil cytosol and secondary granules, loosely associating with plasma membranes. Activated neutrophils release MRP8/14, contributing to inflammation.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology
  • Inflammation Research

Background:

  • Myeloid-related protein 8 (MRP8) and MRP14 form the calprotectin (MRP8/14) heterodimer, a calcium-binding protein in neutrophils and monocytes.
  • MRP8/14 associates with endothelium, promoting thrombotic and inflammatory responses by upregulating endothelial chemokines and adhesion molecules.
  • The precise intracellular localization of MRP8/14 within neutrophils, particularly its distribution in granules and plasma membranes, remained unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the distribution of MRP8/14 within neutrophil subcellular compartments.
  • To elucidate the role of MRP8/14 localization in neutrophil function and inflammatory processes.

Main Methods:

  • Characterization of three monoclonal antibodies specific for MRP8 and MRP14.
  • Immunoblotting assays were performed on neutrophil whole cell extracts, isolated plasma membranes, primary granules, secondary granules, and cytosol.

Main Results:

  • MRP8 and MRP14 were detected in neutrophil cytosol, plasma membrane, primary granule, and secondary granule fractions.
  • MRP8/14 exhibited calcium-dependent adherence to plasma membranes and primary granules, removable by EGTA.
  • MRP8/14 was localized within the secondary granules, which are released by activated neutrophils.

Conclusions:

  • MRP8/14 is present in neutrophil cytosol and secondary granules, with loose association to plasma membranes.
  • Release of MRP8/14 with secondary granules from activated neutrophils suggests a key role in endothelial binding and acute inflammation.