Participation of lipopolysaccharide-binding protein in lipopolysaccharide-dependent macrophage activation

Only recently has the mechanism for lipopolysaccharide (LPS) recognition by macrophages been elucidated. In contrast to many ligand receptor interactions, the interaction of LPS with its receptor, CD14, on myeloid cells is greatly enhanced by prior complexation of LPS with LPS-binding protein (LBP), a recently discovered plasma glycoprotein. LBP is found in normal serum or plasma in the 5 to 10 micrograms/ml range. In plasma, it reacts rapidly but transiently with LPS. LPS-LBP complexes then react with CD14 bearing cells. Blocking CD14 with monoclonal antibodies or removal of LBP from plasma blocks the ability of the cells to react with LPS-LBP complexes and also blocks release of cytokines and other mediators from the cells. In the normal lung, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid contains low levels of LBP. However, during acute lung injury, LBP levels may rise by transudation and enhance activation of alveolar macrophages to release injurious mediators. Description of this pathway for LPS recognition by macrophages and other leukocytes offers the possibility of developing new reagents to block LPS recognition and prevent the development of endotoxemia.