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Non-lethal complement-membrane attack on human neutrophils: transient cell swelling and metabolic depletion
1Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff, U.K.
Immunology
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Non-lethal complement-membrane attack temporarily depletes neutrophil energy and function, but cells fully recover after nutrient incubation. This study reveals transient metabolic and physical changes in neutrophils following complement attack.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Neutrophils are critical immune cells involved in pathogen defense.
- The complement system plays a vital role in innate immunity.
- Understanding neutrophil responses to complement attack is crucial for immune function research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the metabolic and functional consequences of non-lethal complement-membrane attack on neutrophils.
- To assess the reversibility of these changes and the capacity for neutrophil recovery.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of cellular ATP and lactate dehydrogenase content.
- Assessment of neutrophil functional parameters: chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and reactive oxygen metabolite secretion.
- Analysis of cell volume changes using fluorescence-activated cell sorting.
Main Results:
- Non-lethal complement attack caused a >75% reduction in neutrophil ATP content and depressed energy-dependent functions.
- Cellular ATP levels and functions were rapidly restored upon incubation in nutrient medium.
- Neutrophils exhibited reversible cell swelling during complement attack, with diameters returning to baseline.
Conclusions:
- Non-lethal complement-membrane attack induces transient metabolic and physical alterations in neutrophils.
- Neutrophils demonstrate a remarkable capacity for complete functional recovery after such an attack.
- These findings highlight the resilience of neutrophils to complement-mediated damage.