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Nerve growth factor: a chemotactic factor for polymorphonuclear leukocytes in vivo
Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
|January 1, 1985
Summary
Nerve growth factor (NGF) triggers leukocyte migration in mice, requiring its protease activity but not complement C5. This finding may explain NGF's role in wound healing.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Previous research indicated nerve growth factor (NGF) promotes human polymorphonuclear leukocyte migration in vitro.
- NGF is crucial for neuronal development and survival.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vivo chemotactic effects of NGF on leukocyte recruitment in mice.
- To elucidate the mechanisms underlying NGF-induced leukocyte migration.
Main Methods:
- Subdermal injection of NGF in mice.
- Observation of leukocyte recruitment at the injection site.
- Assessment of NGF's protease activity requirement.
- Evaluation of the role of complement component C5.
Main Results:
- Subdermal NGF injection induced rapid and significant leukocyte chemotactic recruitment in mice.
- This effect was observed at nanomolar concentrations of NGF.
- NGF's serine protease activity was essential for leukocyte recruitment.
- The process was independent of complement component C5, suggesting a novel pathway.
Conclusions:
- NGF acts as a potent in vivo chemoattractant for leukocytes in mice.
- The mechanism involves NGF's protease activity and a C5-independent pathway.
- NGF-mediated leukocyte recruitment may contribute to accelerated wound contraction.