apyrase and Erythema

Langerhans cells (LCs) are epidermal antigen-presenting cells capable of initiating a specific T lymphocyte-mediated immune response. It is a well known fact that ultraviolet light B (UVB) suppresses LC number and function. In this study, we confirmed that the sunscreens CITY BLOCK, and TOTAL SUN SHIELD 28 (Clinique Laboratories Tokyo, Japan) protected the epidermis against the depletion of LC number. We also investigated whether or not sunscreens could provide LC protection from ultraviolet ray (UVR) damage other than the prevention of the decrease in the total number of cells. Our data showed that the LC population was depressed after irradiation by 100 mJ/cm2 or 10 mJ/cm2 of UVB, but recovered to within normal levels after 16 days. Both sunscreens provided protection against erythema and LC depression due to UVB irradiation. However, despite the fact that these sunscreens had completely suppressed UVB erythema, shrinkage of LC dendrites was seen. Apparently, sunscreens prevent UVB erythema, but do not protect against functional changes in LC due to UVB. Recently, it has been reported that sunscreens are less effective in protecting against systemic immunosuppression that against inflammation. The shrinkage of LC dendrites despite sunscreen application may help explain this discrepancy.

Topics: Animals; Apyrase; Cell Count; Erythema; Langerhans Cells; Male; Mice; Mice, Inbred Strains; Sunburn; Sunscreening Agents; Ultraviolet Rays

Salivary gland homogenates of adult female Lutzomyia longipalpis inhibited platelet aggregation induced by ADP and collagen. Apyrase (ATP diphosphohydrolase) activity was prominent, requiring Ca2+ but not Mg2+ and a pH optimum of 8.0. Human as well as rabbit hosts developed a well delimited erythema, evident 2-3 min after initial probing and lasting for as long as 2 days. Erythema, not accompanied by itching or swelling, developed in previously exposed hosts as well as in those not previously exposed to this insect. When injected intradermally into the shaved back of a rabbit, salivary gland homogenates induced marked erythema, even with 1/250 of a homogenized salivary gland. This erythema-inducing factor was insoluble in 90% ethanol and was destroyed by incubation with trypsin. These apyrase and erythema-inducing factors, together with short mouthpart stylets, appear to adapt Lutzomyia sandflies to feed on blood released from superficial skin capillaries.

Topics: Adenosine Diphosphate; Animals; Apyrase; Blood; Capillaries; Collagen; Diptera; Erythema; Female; Humans; Platelet Aggregation; Rabbits; Salivary Glands; Tissue Extracts