The Function of Neutrophils in Viral Infections

Jordin Holmes and Michael Pawson

Abstract:
Neutrophils are the most abundant white blood cell in the human body. Neutrophils are on the constant lookout for foreign invaders which, if found, will be trapped, and killed. The role of neutrophils in bacterial infections is well characterized and includes phagocytosis, secretion of antimicrobial proteins, and release of their DNA to form traps that immobilize bacteria. However, the role of neutrophils in viral infections is still not entirely understood. We aim to further our knowledge on the role of neutrophils in viral infection, particularly their roles in the diseases caused by SARS-CoV-2 and Sin Nombre virus. In our lab, we are working with a cell line that can be induced to differentiate into neutrophil-like cells. Experiments have been done to optimize growth conditions for these cells. We are now optimizing the procedure for inducing the cells to differentiate into neutrophils. We will show results from experiments analyzing the growth, viability, and cell size during different time points in the differentiation process. Specifically, we have found that the differentiating cells become smaller, grow more slowly, and lose viability. In upcoming experiments we will measure secretion of antimicrobial proteins and release of the DNA by these differentiated neutrophils. The ultimate goal of our lab is to analyze secretion of antimicrobial proteins and release of the DNA by neutrophils exposed to virally infected cells. On the whole, our experiments aim to increase our knowledge of the role that neutrophils play in viral infections.