Neutrophil chemotaxis in the presence of antibiotics: a re-evaluation using an agarose technique

Abstract

The effectiveness of certain antimicrobial agents in the treatment of acne vulgaris is well established, but their mode of action remains obscure. Human neutrophil chemotaxis in the presence of tetracycline and clindamycin was evaluated using an agarose technique. No significant inhibition of chemotaxis by these antibiotics could be demonstrated, in contrast to previously reported findings using the Boyden chamber technique for measurement of chemotaxis. Both agents caused a minor increase in movement towards a Propionibacterium acnes derived chemotactic factor. Some reduction of chemokinesis by high concentrations of tetracycline was noted. No effect of the drugs upon generation of chemotactic activity from whole [human] serum could be demonstrated. Normal cell movement occurred in the absence of extracellular Ca and Mg, in contrast to reported findings using the Boyden chamber.