The polymorphonuclear leukocyte: its pharmacological transport and target properties: an overview

The need for experimental models to study cellular pharmacokinetics and mechanisms of cell association of drugs in relation to the (patho)physiology is obvious. These models, although never identical to the in vivo physiological environment, can provide fundamental insights with respect to cellular transport mechanisms of drugs in vivo. This knowledge contributes to the development of drug targeting. The human polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) was chosen in our studies as model and target cell because of its involvement in the action of different groups of drugs. First, the physiology and transport characteristics of the PMN has been described. Secondly, the mechanisms of association of some drugs with the PMN are considered. The possible contribution of cellular pharmacokinetics to drug targeting to the PMN is discussed.