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Human monocyte CD163 expression inversely correlates with soluble CD163 plasma levels
1Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine, USA. davisb@mmc.org
Cytometry. Part B, Clinical Cytometry
|December 30, 2004
Summary
Plasma soluble CD163 (sCD163) levels inversely correlate with monocyte surface CD163 expression, suggesting sCD163 originates from circulating monocytes and reflects their functional state, not just numbers.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- CD163 is a monocyte/macrophage receptor involved in inflammation and clearance.
- Soluble CD163 (sCD163) is shed from cell surfaces into plasma.
- Both forms hold potential as diagnostic markers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between plasma sCD163 levels and monocyte CD163 expression.
- To explore the origin and regulation of sCD163.
Main Methods:
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for plasma sCD163.
- Flow cytometry for monocyte CD163, CD64, and CD14 expression.
- Analysis of 129 blood samples.
Main Results:
- A significant inverse correlation between membrane CD163 expression and plasma sCD163 levels (r = -0.65, P < 0.001).
- No correlation found between monocyte CD163 expression/sCD163 levels and absolute monocyte count.
Conclusions:
- Plasma sCD163 likely derives from circulating monocytes and tissue macrophages.
- The balance of CD163 forms reflects monocyte functional status rather than cell count.
- Simultaneous measurement of soluble and cell-bound CD163 is recommended for diagnostic use.