Heme Induces Significant Neutrophil Adhesion in Vitro Via an Nf{kappa}b-Dependent Pathway

Conclusion: We therefore demonstrate, herein, that heme is a potent activator of neutrophil adhesive properties, increasing the ligand affinity of the β2 integrins via a mechanism that is apparently mediated by an NFkB-dependent pathway. The mechanism of neutrophil activation appears to differ from that stimulated by TNF-α and may involve, in part, the generation of reactive oxygen species. Given the fundamental role that the adhesion of neutrophils to the vascular wall plays in the vaso-occlusive process in sickle cell disease and other vascular inflammatory processes, our findings further support the idea that cell-free heme represents a major therapeutic target in the hemolytic diseases.DisclosuresNo relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Source: Blood - Category: Hematology Authors: Tags: 101. Red Cells and Erythropoiesis, Structure and Function, Metabolism, and Survival, Excluding Iron: Poster III Source Type: research