Neutrophil granules and secretory vesicles in inflammation

Microbes Infect. 2003 Nov;5(14):1317-27. doi: 10.1016/j.micinf.2003.09.008.

Abstract

The neutrophil is a major effector cell of innate immunity. Exocytosis of granules and secretory vesicles plays a pivotal role in most neutrophil functions from early activation to the destruction of phagocytosed microorganisms. Neutrophil granules contain a multitude of antimicrobial and potentially cytotoxic substances that are delivered to the phagosome or to the exterior of the cell following degranulation. This review summarises current knowledge of granule biology and highlights the effects of neutrophil degranulation in the acute inflammatory response.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cell Degranulation
  • Cytoplasmic Granules / physiology*
  • Exocytosis
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / immunology*
  • Neutrophils / immunology*
  • Neutrophils / physiology*
  • Secretory Vesicles / physiology*