Biochemistry of Inflammatory Processes and Vascular Injury. Role of Neutrophils: a Review

L. A. Belova¹

¹Russian Cardiology Research Complex, 3-ya Cherepkovskaya ul. 15a, Moscow, 121552 Russia; fax: (7-095) 415-29-62.

Submitted January 14, 1997.

---

Possible mechanisms of the participation of neutrophils in inflammation and vascular damage are reviewed. The role of chemotaxis, adhesion, and neutrophil--endothelium interaction are considered. Specific attention is paid to the action of neutrophils (PMNs) in inflammation sites which can be caused by the interaction between PMN-generated proteinases and oxygen metabolites.

---

KEY WORDS: polymorphonuclear leukocytes, neutrophil, proteinase, oxygen metabolite, proteinase inhibitor, chemotaxis, adhesion.

---