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Fibronectin and phagocytosis in acute and chronic infections
Abstract:
Serum fibronectin (Fn) level and phagocytosis function were investigated during acute and chronic infections. Serum Fn concentration was significantly decreased in septic patients (mean +/- ES, 80 +/- 12 micrograms/ml, p less than 0.001) and was increased in chronic bronchitis patients (575 +/- 18 micrograms/ml, p less than 0.001) as compared to the controls. The phagocytosis index was decreased in septicaemia and not significantly changed in chronic bronchitis. Phagocytosis dysfunction was associated to a low serum Fn level in acute infections. Phagocytosis was stimulated in vitro, by purified Fn. Serum Fn concentration reflects the reticuloendothelial function and could be a marker of infection together with other parameters.
Insights
Serum fibronectin levels change during infections. Low fibronectin indicates poor phagocytosis in acute infections, while high levels are seen in chronic bronchitis, suggesting fibronectin
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Serum fibronectin (Fn) plays a role in immune responses.
- Its levels and impact on phagocytosis during infections are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate serum fibronectin levels and phagocytosis function in acute and chronic infections.
- To determine the relationship between serum fibronectin and phagocytosis.
Main Methods:
- Measured serum fibronectin concentrations in septic patients, chronic bronchitis patients, and controls.
- Assessed phagocytosis index in these groups.
- Performed in vitro stimulation of phagocytosis with purified fibronectin.
Main Results:
- Septic patients showed significantly decreased serum Fn (80 ± 12 µg/ml) and reduced phagocytosis.
- Chronic bronchitis patients had significantly increased serum Fn (575 ± 18 µg/ml) with unchanged phagocytosis.
- Low serum Fn correlated with phagocytosis dysfunction in acute infections.
- Purified Fn stimulated phagocytosis in vitro.
Conclusions:
- Serum fibronectin concentration reflects reticuloendothelial system function.
- Fibronectin may serve as a potential marker for infection, alongside other parameters.
- Distinct patterns of fibronectin levels and phagocytosis exist in acute versus chronic infections.