ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the properties and mechanisms of secretion from neutrophils; other cell systems, including those as closely related as monocytes and macrophages. It describes the types of granules and their contents. The chapter provides description of the agents used to induce degranulation. It also describes the stimulus-response coupling pathway whereby cell surface signals are transduced into degranulation. The chapter discusses the fusion process itself, wherein granule membranes and plasma membranes merge, thereby permitting the release of granule contents. It explores several disorders of neutrophil degranulation, which generally lead to impaired bactericidal capacity. With respect to the tissue destruction observed in inflammatory reactions, the most important azurophil granule contents are the proteases. There are three well-defined lysosomal proteases in azurophil granules of neutrophils. A variety of particulate and soluble stimuli can be used to provoke secretion from neutrophils.
