Eosinophils in innate immunity: an evolving story

R Shamri, JJ Xenakis, LA Spencer - Cell and tissue research, 2011 - Springer
R Shamri, JJ Xenakis, LA Spencer
Cell and tissue research, 2011Springer
Eosinophils are innate immune leukocytes found in relatively low numbers within the blood.
Terminal effector functions of eosinophils, deriving from their capacity to release their
content of tissue-destructive cationic proteins, have historically been considered primary
effector mechanisms against specific parasites, and are likewise implicated in tissue
damage accompanying allergic responses such as asthma. However, the past decade has
seen dramatic advancements in the field of eosinophil immunobiology, revealing …
Abstract
Eosinophils are innate immune leukocytes found in relatively low numbers within the blood. Terminal effector functions of eosinophils, deriving from their capacity to release their content of tissue-destructive cationic proteins, have historically been considered primary effector mechanisms against specific parasites, and are likewise implicated in tissue damage accompanying allergic responses such as asthma. However, the past decade has seen dramatic advancements in the field of eosinophil immunobiology, revealing eosinophils to also be key participants in many other facets of innate immunity, from bridging innate and adaptive immune responses to orchestrating tissue remodeling events. Here, we review the multifaceted functions of eosinophils in innate immunity that are currently known, and discuss new avenues in this evolving story.
Springer