Molecular events in neutrophil transepithelial migration

Neutrophil transepithelial migration is a central component of many inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal, respiratory and urinary tracts, and correlates with disease symptoms. In vitro modeling with polarized intestinal epithelial monolayers has shown that neutrophil transepithelial migration can influence crucial epithelial functions, ranging from barrier maintenance to electrolyte secretion. Studies have also demonstrated a dynamic involvement of the epithelium in modulating neutrophil transepithelial migration. Characterization of the molecular interactions between neutrophils and epithelial cells has revealed that transepithelial migration is dependent on the neutrophil beta(2) integrin CD11b/CD18, and does not appear to involve adhesive interactions with the selectins or intercellular adhesion molecule-1. Recent studies have implicated another transmembrane glycoprotein, CD47, as a crucial component of the transepithelial migration response. While the precise function of CD47 is not known, current evidence suggests that CD47-dependent events occur after CD11b/CD18-mediated neutrophil adhesion to the epithelium. This review will highlight key features of the current understanding of the molecular events important in neutrophil migration across epithelial surfaces.