How rod-shaped particles might distract an out-of-control COVID immune response

[Judi Lynn]

Date:
June 10, 2020
Source:
University of Michigan
Summary:
A long-ignored white blood cell may be central to the immune system overreaction that is the most common cause of death for COVID-19 patients -- and researchers found that rod-shaped particles can take them out of circulation.


A long-ignored white blood cell may be central to the immune system overreaction that is the most common cause of death for COVID-19 patients -- and University of Michigan researchers found that rod-shaped particles can take them out of circulation.

The No. 1 cause of death for COVID-19 patients echoes the way the 1918 influenza pandemic killed: their lungs fill with fluid and they essentially drown. This is called acute respiratory distress syndrome. But a new way of drawing immune cells out of the lungs might be able to prevent this outcome. This research is among the essential projects at U-M that have continued through the pandemic uninterrupted.

ARDS is a manifestation of a condition known as cytokine storm, in which the immune system overreacts and begins attacking the person's own organs. In ARDS, out-of-control white blood cells break down lung tissue and cause fluid to build up. Helping to lead the charge is a type of white blood cell called the neutrophil, which makes up 60% to 70% of intruder-eating "phagocyte" cells in humans.

"They're like the Coast Guard -- their main job is to make sure your boundaries aren't breached," said Lola Eniola-Adefeso, University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor and a professor of chemical engineering, who led the research.

More:
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/06/200610151959.htm