Regulation of adhesion molecules on circulating neutrophils during coliform mastitis and their possible immunomodulation with drugs.

Fast neutrophil diapedesis has been demonstrated to be critical in coliform mastitis and is determining for the severity of infection. Leukocyte adhesion molecules play a pivotal role in neutrophil recruitment. Two families of cell surface proteins help to regulate the adherence of neutrophils to vascular endothelium: selectins and beta(2)-integrins. Both classes of leukocyte adhesion molecules are reviewed in the context of their dynamic expression around parturition and during acute coliform mastitis. Their potential modulation by commonly used drugs and the therapeutic implications during acute coliform mastitis are also discussed.