Simultaneous Determination of Alteration of a Variety of Macrophage Functions Related to Natural Immunity Following Treatment with a DP Receptor Agonist

Prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) acts via the adenyl cyclase-coupled receptor for PGD2 (DP receptor). Here we present evidence that BW245C, a DP receptor agonist, modulates macrophage functions related to natunal immunity. BW245C inhibited macrophage chemotaxis at concentrations of 0.1 to 10μM and phagocytosis of Escherichia coli by macrophages at a concentration of 10μM. In addition, BW245C inhibited the production of superoxide anions by PMA-stimulated macrophages at concentrations of 0.1 to 10μM and nitrite production by LPS-stimulated macrophages at a concentration of 10μM. In contrast, BW245C potentiated the production of TNF-α, a pro-inflammatory cytokine, by LPS-stimulated macrophages at concentrations of 1 to 10μM. These results suggest that PGD2 may modulate macrophage functions related to natural immunity via the DP receptor.