Receptor-mediated internalization of fluorescent chemotactic peptide by human neutrophils.

Tetramethylrhodamine labeled N-formyl-Nle-Leu-Phe-Nle-Tyr-Lys is a potent chemoattractant for human neutrophils. Binding of this peptide to living neutrophils was observed by means of video intensification microscopy. At 37 degrees C, diffuse membrane fluorescence was seen initially, followed by rapid aggregation and internalization of the fluorescent peptide. These processes are dependent on specific binding to the formal peptide chemotactic receptor.