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An antigen-activated DFP-inhibitable enzyme controls basophil desensitization
Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP) boosts histamine release from human basophils and prevents desensitization by inhibiting serine esterases. This suggests the desensitization process regulates allergic mediator release.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Allergology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Serine esterase inhibitors can modulate immune cell responses.
- Human basophils release histamine in response to IgE-mediated activation.
- Cellular desensitization is a key factor in allergic reactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP) on IgE-mediated histamine release from human basophils.
- To determine if DFP influences the desensitization process in basophils.
- To explore the role of serine esterases in allergic responses.
Main Methods:
- Human basophils were treated with varying concentrations of DFP.
- Histamine release was measured following IgE-mediated antigen challenge.
- The effect of DFP removal before antigen addition was assessed.
- Hydrolyzed DFP and diisopropyl methyl phosphate were used as controls.
Main Results:
- DFP (0.1-0.5 mM) enhanced IgE-mediated histamine release.
- DFP effectively blocked antigen-induced basophil desensitization.
- These effects were dependent on an intracellular event triggered by antigen.
- Inactive DFP analogs did not exhibit these effects.
Conclusions:
- DFP, a serine esterase inhibitor, modulates human basophil responses.
- The desensitization process in basophils appears to control mediator release.
- DFP provides a biochemical marker for studying allergic desensitization.