Role of airway epithelium in engulfing apoptotic eosinophils.

INTRODUCTION: This study aims to investigate which recognition pathways are important in engulfing apoptotic eosinophils. METHODS: Here, two epithelial cell were selected namely (large airway bronchial epithelial cells) LAECs and A549. The inhibition assay was examined by resting and dexamethasone-stimulated epithelial cells. Confocal microscopy confirmed the engulfment of apoptotic eosinophils. RESULTS: Macrophages and LAECs recognized and phagocytosed apoptotic eosinophils. Dexamethasone and IL-1 increased the capacity of LAECs to engulf apoptotic eosinophils. More interestingly, inhibiting monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) abolished the uptake of apoptotic cells by LAECs. CONCLUSION: On the basis of the above findings, the LAECs is capable of recognizing and engulfing apoptotic eosinophils and that enhanced by interleukin-1 (IL-1â) and dexamethasone.