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Effect of microcystin on leukocyte viability and function
Elsa Alidia Petry Gonçalves1, Maria Aparecida Dalboni, Aline Trevisan Peres
1Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo-UNIFESP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil. elsapetry@yahoo.com.br
Summary
Microcystin exposure can alter immune cell function. In hemodialysis patients, microcystin may reduce oxygen-reactive species production by leukocytes, impacting immune response.
Area of Science:
- Environmental toxicology
- Immunology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Microcystin (MC) is a toxin found globally, known for hepatotoxicity and potential immunomodulatory effects.
- Patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) face chronic exposure to variable MC concentrations and exhibit altered immune responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of microcystin on leukocyte function in healthy volunteers (HV) and hemodialysis patients (HD).
- Investigate effects on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, phagocytosis, apoptosis, and cytokine release (TNF-alpha, IL-10).
Main Methods:
- Polymorphonuclear leukocytes and monocytes were isolated from HV and HD patients.
- Cells were incubated with microcystin (10 microg/L) for 24 hours, with some monocytes also stimulated with LPS.
- Evaluated ROS production, phagocytosis, apoptosis, and TNF-alpha/IL-10 levels.
Main Results:
- Leukocytes from HV showed increased apoptosis rates when exposed to MC.
- Leukocytes from HD patients exhibited lower ROS production, both spontaneously and after S. aureus stimulation.
- Monocyte cytokine production increased with LPS stimulation, but MC did not significantly alter this response in either group.
Conclusions:
- Low concentrations of microcystin can induce subtle alterations in leukocyte function.
- These changes are particularly noted in ROS production capabilities in both healthy individuals and hemodialysis patients.