Neutrophils as a novel source of eosinophil cationic protein in IgE-mediated processes

The production of eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) in IgE-mediated diseases has been associated mainly with eosinophils, although no IgE-dependent ECP release has been observed in these cells. Because there is increasing evidence of neutrophil participation in allergic processes, we have examined whether human neutrophils from allergic patients were able to produce ECP by an IgE-dependent mechanism. After challenge with specific Ags to which the patients were sensitized, ECP release was detected in the culture medium. Furthermore, intracellular protein was detected by flow cytometry, immunofluorescence staining, and Western blotting. Expression at both mRNA and de novo protein synthesis were detected, respectively, by RT-PCR and radiolabeling with (35)S. Ag effect was mimicked by cell treatment with anti-IgE Abs or Abs against FcepsilonRI and galectin-3 (FcepsilonRI>galectin-3), but not against FcepsilonRII. These observations represent a novel view of neutrophils as possible source of ECP in IgE-dependent diseases.