Adherence of polymorphonuclear leukocytes to nylon: modulation by prostacyclin (PGI2), corticosteroids, and complement activation.

Effects of in vitro addition of prostacyclin (PGI2), hydrocortisone, and zymosan to plasma on adherence of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNLs) to nylon were investigated. PGI2, in nanogram concentrations, and hydrocortisone, in high concentrations, inhibited base-line adherence of PMNLs; zymosan-treated plasma augmented retention of PMNLs by nylon columns. Incubation of plasma with antiserum to C5, hydrocortisone, or PGI2 blocked zymosan-mediated effects. Prostaglandins (PGD2, PGE1, and PGF2 alpha) when added in votro did not alter base-line adherence. PMNLs obtained 4 hr after administration of oral prednisone to volunteers were partially resistant to effects of zymosan-activated plasma.