Macropinocytosis of Extracellular Glutathione Ameliorates Tumor Necrosis Factor α Release in Activated Macrophages
2011
How Glutathione Affects Inflammation in Macrophages
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Neal S. Gould, Elysia Min, Brian J. Day
Primary Institution: National Jewish Health
Hypothesis
Can macrophages utilize extracellular glutathione to modulate inflammatory responses?
Conclusion
Macrophages can uptake extracellular glutathione, which helps reduce inflammation in response to stimuli.
Supporting Evidence
- Macrophages showed a significant increase in intracellular glutathione levels when supplemented with extracellular glutathione.
- The uptake of glutathione was blocked by inhibitors of macropinocytosis, indicating the mechanism of uptake.
- Increased glutathione levels were associated with reduced TNFα release upon LPS stimulation.
Takeaway
Macrophages, which are important immune cells in the lungs, can take in a substance called glutathione from their surroundings to help them fight inflammation.
Methodology
Macrophages were grown in media with glutathione, and their inflammatory responses were measured after stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS).
Limitations
The study primarily used mouse models, which may not fully represent human responses.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website