How Leishmania amazonensis Affects Macrophage Function
Author Information
Author(s): Marques-da-Silva Camila, Chaves Mariana Martins, Rodrigues Juliany Cola, Corte-Real Suzana, Coutinho-Silva Robson, Persechini Pedro Muanis
Primary Institution: Instituto de Biofisica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro
Hypothesis
The P2X7 receptor and the different transport mechanisms associated with its activation could be differentially modulated during the course of many physiologically-relevant immune-pathological or immunomodulatory processes.
Conclusion
Infected macrophages show increased uptake of anionic dyes and decreased uptake of cationic dyes, indicating that Leishmania amazonensis can differentially modulate these pathways.
Supporting Evidence
- Macrophages infected with L.amazonensis showed increased ATP-induced uptake of anionic dyes.
- Infected macrophages displayed a significant decrease in uptake of cationic dyes.
- 12% of infected macrophages permeabilized to cationic dye spontaneously.
- Both infected and uninfected macrophages responded to ATP with increased intracellular calcium concentration.
Takeaway
When a certain germ infects immune cells, it can change how those cells work, making them better at taking in some things and worse at taking in others.
Methodology
The study involved infecting macrophages with Leishmania amazonensis and assessing the uptake of various fluorescent dyes in response to ATP treatment.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on in vitro experiments, which may not fully replicate in vivo conditions.
Participant Demographics
Balb/c mice, 8- to 12-weeks old, weighing approximately 16–30 g.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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