Alveolar macrophage-environmental particle interaction: analysis by flow cytometry.
Inhaled particulates such as pollutant particles, allergens, and microorganisms are rapidly cleared by alveolar macrophages (AMs). Methods for analysis of AM-particle interaction have been hindered by the lack of a convenient assay. Flow cytometry offers rapid, sensitive, and reproducible measurements of single cells in suspension. Multiple parameters can be measured in real time. Here we will review the application of flow cytometry to the study and characterization of AM receptors for unopsonized environmental particles. We will discuss the role of this technique in identifying a key AM receptor system involved in lung defense. Multiparametric flow cytometry to analyze intracellular functional parameters, though a powerful and unique tool, needs to be interpreted with caution. We will also discuss the advantages and limitations of flow cytometry in analysis of AM-particle interaction.
Palecanda
A
A
Physiology Program, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA.
Kobzik
L
L
D000485:Allergens / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism; D000818:Animals; D004785:Environmental Pollutants / Q000378:metabolism; D005434:Flow Cytometry / Q000379:methods*; D008168:Lung / Q000166:cytology / Q000276:immunology; D016676:Macrophages, Alveolar / Q000166:cytology* / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism*; D010587:Phagocytosis; D011663:Pulmonary Surfactants / Q000378:metabolism; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface / Q000378:metabolism; D016897:Respiratory Burst
D000485:Allergens; D004785:Environmental Pollutants; D011663:Pulmonary Surfactants; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface