The influence of glycosaminoglycans on IL-8-mediated functions of neutrophils

► Binding sites of heparin on IL-8 are identified by NMR experiments. ► The binding of IL-8 on surface epitopes of human neutrophils is shown. ► The influence of GAGs on IL-8-mediated functions of neutrophils is examined. ► Only heparin affects the IL-8-induced chemotaxis of neutrophils. ► Sulfated GAGs enhance the IL-8-induced oxidant generation in neutrophils.