Background: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) represent a one of the most widely used anti-inflammatory substances. Their anti-inflammatory effects are mainly based on inhibition of cyclooxygenase. The potential direct effect of NSAID on leukocyte migration was poorly investigated. Using time-lapse microscopy and 96-well fluorescence-based assay, we studied the effect of three different NSAID, ketoprofen, diclofenac and SC-560, on leukocyte haptokinesis and haptotaxis in vivo and in vitro.
Results: NSAID induced an immediate inhibiting effect on leukocyte migration both in vitro and in vivo. This effect was dose-dependent and was not restricted to a specific type of leukocytes. The inhibition of leukocyte migration by NSAID was partially re-stored after removal of inhibiting agent. Only complete blockade of leukocyte migration was accompanied by a strong reduction of [Ca(2+)]i.
Conclusions: NSAID strongly supress leukocyte migration. The results of the present study may have important clinical implications since blockade of leukocyte migration can be achieved after topical application of NSAID.