Migration of neutrophils elicited by leukotriene B₄ is inhibited by fasudil, a Rho-kinase inhibitor, in the microvasculature of hamster cheek pouch

Abstract

This study was designed to investigate possible effects of a Rho-kinase inhibitor, fasudil, on migration of neutrophils induced by leukotriene B₄. The neutrophil behavior was observed in the microvasculature of hamster cheek pouch using a trans-illumination microscope. Superfusion of lekotrience B₄ caused an increase in the number of neutrophils adhering the endothelium and migrating through the endothelium outside the venules. The migration induced by lekotrience B₄ was significantly attenuated in hamsters receiving intravenous infusion of 10 and 30mg/kg of fasudil prior to the leukotriene B₄ superfusion. These results suggest that inhibition of Rho-kinase by fasudil produces an inhibition of neutrophil migration and represents a new therapeutic strategy for neutrophil-mediated tissue damage.