Studies on Human Leukocyte

Multiple factors influence the initial inflammatory response to microbial lodgement in tissues. These factors include the nature of the invading microorganisms, vascular and lymphatic events associated with their presence, and the speed and intensity of polymorphonuclear leukocyte migration to the site of infection. In recent years, considerable attention has been focused on the late inflammatory events of phagocytosis and the subsequent fate of ingested microorganisms. Because factors affecting leukocyte motion appeared less well characterized, the present studies were undertaken utilizing a simple in vitro system which permitted quantitative measurements of leukocyte migration under a variety of circumstances. This paper reports the effects of changes in pH, electrolyte concentration, plasma factors, and phagocytosis on the ability of human polymorphonudear leukocytes to migrate against gravity in glass capillary tubes.