The effect of Eglin C on the function of human neutrophils in vitro.
Eglin C is an inhibitor of polymorphonuclear leukocyte elastase and cathepsin G. Recently, it was suggested that Eglin C may inhibit bacterial clearance in an experimental animal model of pneumonia. Since the phagocytic-bactericidal activity of polymorphonuclear leukocytes is most important in the promotion of bacterial clearance, we determined the effect of Eglin C on a variety of functions of isolated human polymorphonuclear leukocytes such as phagocytic-bactericidal activity, superoxide production, degranulation and chemotaxis. Apart from a partial inhibition of superoxide production, which was shown to be due to a superoxide dismutase-like effect of Eglin C, there was no inhibition of polymorphonuclear leukocyte functions measured. Eglin C can therefore be considered as a protease inhibitor, which does not interfere with the phagocytic-bactericidal activity of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes.
Suter
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Department of Pediatrics, University Children's Hospital, Geneva.
Chevallier
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I
D002634:Chemotaxis, Leukocyte / Q000187:drug effects; D003594:Cytoplasmic Granules / Q000187:drug effects / Q000648:ultrastructure; D006801:Humans; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D009504:Neutrophils / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology*; D010587:Phagocytosis / Q000187:drug effects; D011480:Protease Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology*; D011506:Proteins / Q000494:pharmacology*; D015843:Serpins; D013482:Superoxide Dismutase; D013481:Superoxides / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors / Q000097:blood
D011480:Protease Inhibitors; D011506:Proteins; D015843:Serpins; C028656:eglin proteinase inhibitors; D013481:Superoxides; D013482:Superoxide Dismutase