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Ultrastructural study of the specific granule of the human eosinophil
Abstract:
The authors have shown in one of their previous papers that incubation of human eosinophils with homologous immunocomplexes produces a lysis of specific granules and simultaneously releases a large amount of peroxidase from the granule matrix in the incubation medium. The present study has clarified that the matrix contains a membranous tubular structure, which is considered a container of enzymatic content on the basis of the experimental evidence that the peroxidase content of the matrix decreases as the tubular structure emerges both in the specific granules on incubation of eosinophils with immunocomplexes and in the allergic nasal mucous membrane. This study has also suggested that the tubular structure serves a channel to excrete the content of the matrix outside the cells.
Insights
Human eosinophils release peroxidase when exposed to immunocomplexes. A tubular structure within granules appears to contain and excrete this enzyme, crucial for allergic responses.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Allergy Research
Background:
- Human eosinophils contain specific granules rich in peroxidase.
- Incubation with homologous immunocomplexes causes eosinophil granule lysis and peroxidase release.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the role of the granule matrix in eosinophil peroxidase release.
- To investigate the nature and function of structures within the eosinophil granule matrix.
Main Methods:
- Incubation of human eosinophils with homologous immunocomplexes.
- Microscopic examination of specific granules and allergic nasal tissue.
Main Results:
- A membranous tubular structure was identified within the eosinophil granule matrix.
- Peroxidase content decreased as this tubular structure emerged, suggesting it contains the enzyme.
- The tubular structure was observed both in stimulated eosinophils and in allergic nasal membranes.
Conclusions:
- The membranous tubular structure acts as a container for eosinophil peroxidase.
- This structure facilitates the excretion of peroxidase from the granule matrix and potentially outside the cell.
- Understanding this mechanism offers insights into eosinophil function in allergic inflammation.