Actin Polymerization

Locomotion of leukocytes is a complex event requiring coordinated activity of cytoskeletal, membrane, and adhesion systems (1 ). Prior to the migration of cells into the inflamed tissue, they have to pass the endothelium. This process involves several types of adhesion molecule interactions between eosinophils and endothelial cells. Selectins mediate two steps, initial tethering to the vessel wall and their subsequent rolling. Integrins then bind to endothelial receptors, increasing adhesion which results in the arrest of the rolling leukocytes, which can then cross the endothelial layer of the blood vessel and enter the tissue using integrins for traction (2 –5 ).