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Human polymorphonuclear leukocytes: demonstration of microtubules and effect of colchicine
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|April 28, 1967
Abstract:
Microtubules are demonstrable in mature human polymorphonuclear leukocytes, even after prolonged incubation in vitro. These organelles are not seen after treatment with colchicine, which has various functional effects on these cells but does not inhibit phagocytosis.
Insights
Microtubules are present in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Colchicine treatment removes these microtubules but does not affect cell phagocytosis.
Area of Science:
- Cell biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Polymorphonuclear leukocytes are key immune cells.
- Microtubules play roles in various cellular functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and behavior of microtubules in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes.
- To assess the effect of colchicine on these microtubules and cellular functions.
Main Methods:
- In vitro incubation of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes.
- Microtubule visualization techniques.
- Colchicine treatment and functional assays (e.g., phagocytosis).
Main Results:
- Microtubules were observed in mature human polymorphonuclear leukocytes.
- Prolonged in vitro incubation did not eliminate microtubules.
- Colchicine treatment led to the disappearance of microtubules.
- Colchicine did not inhibit the phagocytic capacity of the cells.
Conclusions:
- Microtubules are a stable feature of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes.
- Colchicine disrupts microtubule structure in these cells.
- Microtubule integrity is not essential for phagocytosis in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes.