Role of Human Neutrophils in Inflammation and its Modulation by Ixora coccinea

Abstract

Neutrophils are one of the key cells that actively participate in the innate immune reactions. Sequences of event of pathogen elimination by neutrophils are initiated with the activation of resting neutrophils. Pathogen is then eliminated by oxygen-dependent killing mechanism or oxygen-independent killing mechanism. This process includes margination, diapedesis, chemotaxis, phagocytosis and degranulation of neutrophils. Although, these mechanisms of the neutrophils are targeted to eliminate the pathogens and protect the body, excessive production of inflammatory mediators can cause host tissue damage. These harmful effects of neutrophils initiate some detrimental diseases like arthritis. Therefore, different drugs which can modulate the neutrophil functions are used in the medicinal practices as targeted therapy. From the ancient time, medicinal plant extracts have been used in traditional medicine in many different regions of the world to achieve the same effect. Ixora coccinea is one such medicinal plant used for the treatment of various diseased conditions and as an anti-inflammatory agent. Modulation of neutrophil function is one of an important underlying mechanism that contributes to the anti-inflammatory activity of Ixora coccinea.

Keywords: Ixora coccinea, super oxide production, anti-inflammation, phagocytes, oxygen-dependent killing, chemotaxis

Cite this Article

N.K. Rachitha D. Wickramasinghe and Shiroma M. Handunnetti. Role of Human Neutrophils in Inflammation and its Modulation by Ixora coccinea. Research and Reviews: Journal of Immunology. 2016; 6(1): 32–48p.