Qualitative and quantitative assessment of human polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNL) functions.

The current status on human PMNL separation, storage conditions, and quantitative assessment of cell functions is discussed. Human peripheral blood PMNLs are multifunctional cells which may be activated by several soluble and particulate stimuli. A variety of methods for the isolation of PMNLs and testing of cell functions is described which may be used in the clinical and the research laboratory. Detailed information on the quantitative assessment of PMNL motility, phagocytosis, microbial killing, exocytosis, and oxygen metabolite generation is given. Recently developed biochemical and immunological methods which may be employed for detection of structural and metabolic changes in normal and pathological PMNLs are also included.