Effect of host factors on neutrophil functions in response to Burkholderia pseudomallei in healthy Thai subjects

Jpn J Infect Dis. 2014;67(6):436-40. doi: 10.7883/yoken.67.436.

Abstract

Burkholderia pseudomallei is an intracellular pathogenic bacterium that causes melioidosis in humans. On infection, neutrophils eliminate the majority of intracellular B. pseudomallei. Previous reports on the risk factors for melioidosis have shown that host factors, particularly age and diabetes mellitus, increase susceptibility to B. pseudomallei; however, whether these factors influence neutrophil functions in response to infection remains unknown. In this study, whole blood samples were collected from healthy Thai blood donors and co-cultured with B. pseudomallei, and phagocytic and respiratory burst functions of neutrophils were then measured by flow cytometry. The results show reduced neutrophil functions in older donors or those with poor glycemic control. Furthermore, the levels of antibody against B. pseudomallei showed a positive correlation with neutrophil functions. This study therefore indicated the importance of age, glycemic control, and antibody levels in the activity of neutrophils in melioidosis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Antibodies, Bacterial / blood
  • Asian People
  • Burkholderia pseudomallei / immunology*
  • Diabetes Mellitus / immunology
  • Female
  • Flow Cytometry
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Melioidosis / immunology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Neutrophils / immunology*
  • Phagocytosis
  • Respiratory Burst
  • Thailand
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Antibodies, Bacterial