Studies have demonstrated significant heterogeneity in neutrophil granule morphology and physical density. Using cytochemical methods to localize
peroxidase and vicinal glycol containing complex
carbohydrates we examined the heterogeneity of neutrophil granules from intact human neutrophil granules in 13 isolated granule density fractions,
calcium ionophore A23187 treated neutrophils and neutrophils from patients with
Chediak-Higashi Syndrome and
Specific Granule Deficiency. At least four distinct populations of
peroxidase positive granules (PPG) were identified based on
peroxidase staining, vicinal glycol staining, morphology,
beta-glucuronidase and
defensin content, and physical density characteristics. The smallest (0.15 micron diameter) PPG was the least dense granule, had a unique
peroxidase/
beta-glucuronidase ratio, reacted intensely for vicinal
glycols, resisted
ionophore degranulation and was not consumed in giant granule formation in
Chediak-Higashi Syndrome. The largest (0.3 micron average diameter) and most physically dense PPG was rich in
defensins, stained weakly for vicinal
glycols, and was absent in
specific granule deficiency. These studies demonstrate and correlate morphologic, biochemical, functional, and pathologic differences in PPG populations.