Modulation of Phagocytosis Induced Prostaglandin Release from Macrophages

Prostaglandins of the E-class (PGE1, PGE2) are tissue hormones which have been implicated to regulate inflammation and some leukocyte interactions (1–4). Recently, we postulated (4,5) that prostaglandins may play a role as modulators of immune reactions by: 1. a release in response to immune relevant stimuli, 2. a selective action towards leukocytes rendered particularly prostaglandin-sensitive. A rapid enhancement of PGE1 sensitivity of macrophages has already been observed during alterations of the cell membrane such as treatment with concanavalin A, colchicine, dextran sulfate and phagocytosis (4,5). To gain more information about mechanisms contributing to prostaglandin production, different classes of leukocytes, their state of stimulation and the opsonization of phagocytosable particles were examined in this study.