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Lipopolysaccharide regulates macrophage fluid phase pinocytosis via CD14-dependent and CD14-independent pathways

M P Peppelenbosch1, M DeSmedt, T ten Hove

  • 1Laboratory for Experimental Internal Medicine, G2-130 Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. M.P.Peppelenbosch@AMC.UVA.NL

Blood
|May 26, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) affects macrophage pinocytosis through dual pathways. Lower LPS concentrations decrease pinocytosis, while higher concentrations enhance it, involving CD14-dependent and independent signaling.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a key mediator of inflammation and septic shock in bacterial infections.
  • Monocytes and macrophages are crucial immune cells highly responsive to LPS, but its precise effects on their functions are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the influence of LPS on macrophage pinocytosis and Fc receptor-mediated endocytosis.
  • To elucidate the signaling pathways involved in LPS-mediated effects on macrophage functions.

Main Methods:

  • Assessing pinocytosis and Fc receptor-mediated endocytosis in macrophages and monocytes exposed to varying LPS concentrations.
  • Utilizing detoxified LPS to evaluate the role of endotoxin activity.
  • Investigating LPS effects after inhibiting the LPS receptor CD14.

Main Results:

  • LPS showed minimal influence on Fc receptor-mediated endocytosis but exerted a dual effect on pinocytosis.
  • Lower LPS concentrations (0.1-100 ng/mL) decreased pinocytosis in both cell types.
  • Higher LPS concentrations enhanced pinocytosis in macrophages, an effect dependent on CD14 signaling.
  • CD14 inhibition unmasked LPS-induced pinocytosis stimulation at lower concentrations.

Conclusions:

  • LPS influences macrophage pinocytosis through both CD14-dependent and CD14-independent pathways.
  • Pinocytosis and Fc receptor-mediated endocytosis are independently regulated processes in macrophages.
  • Understanding these pathways is crucial for managing inflammatory responses in bacterial infections.

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