Eosinophil crystalloid granules: structure, function, and beyond

J Leukoc Biol. 2012 Aug;92(2):281-8. doi: 10.1189/jlb.0212067. Epub 2012 Jun 6.

Abstract

Eosinophils are granulocytes associated with host defense against parasitic helminths with allergic conditions and more recently, with immunoregulatory responses. Eosinophils are distinguished from leukocytes by their dominant population of cytoplasmic crystalloid (also termed secretory, specific, or secondary) granules that contain robust stores of diverse, preformed cationic proteins. Here, we provide an update on our knowledge about the unique and complex structure of human eosinophil crystalloid granules. We discuss their significance as rich sites of a variety of receptors and review our own recent research findings and those of others that highlight discoveries concerning the function of intracellular receptors and their potential implications in cell signaling. Special focus is provided on how eosinophils might use these intracellular receptors as mechanisms to secrete, selectively and rapidly, cytokines or chemokines and enable cell-free extracellular eosinophil granules to function as independent secretory structures. Potential roles of cell-free eosinophil granules as immune players in the absence of intact eosinophils will also be discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Crystallization
  • Cytoplasmic Granules / chemistry
  • Cytoplasmic Granules / immunology*
  • Cytoplasmic Granules / pathology
  • Eosinophils / chemistry
  • Eosinophils / immunology*
  • Eosinophils / pathology
  • Humans
  • Secretory Vesicles / chemistry
  • Secretory Vesicles / immunology*
  • Secretory Vesicles / pathology
  • Structure-Activity Relationship