Influence of kolloids on neutrophil function

Introduction:The influence of kolloids on the immune system is not well documented. In this study we investigated the effects of gelatine, hydroxyethylstarch (HES), human albumine,and dextrane on neutrophil function and receptor expression by flow cytometry. Methods: Whole blood of healthy volunteers was incubated for 30 minutes with either gelatine, HES (6% and 10%), dextrane 40 and 60, or human albumin 20%. Phagocytic capacity was determined by uptake of fluorescein-isothiocyanate labeled bacteria,the conversion of dihydrorhodamine 123 into fluorescent rhodamine 123 was used for oxidative burst measurements. Expression of complement receptors CD 11b and CD35 was investigated using fluorescein-isothiocyanate labeled antibodies. Results:Incubation with gelatine significantly increased expression of complement receptors and oxidative burst. Dextranes and HES had no influence on neutrophil function. Human albumin reduced the oxidative burst,whereas CD 35 expression was increased. Conclusion: The physiological significance of these changes in a range of 10% has to be clarified in further investigations.