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ASGR1 and ASGR2, the Genes that Encode the Asialoglycoprotein Receptor (Ashwell Receptor), Are Expressed in
Rebecca Louise Harris1, Carmen Wilma van den Berg, Derrick John Bowen
1Institute of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK.
Monocytes express transcripts for the asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) proteins, ASGR1 and ASGR2. This suggests monocytes may act as a mobile ASGPR pool, potentially functioning beyond the liver.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) is crucial for clearing glycoconjugates from blood.
- ASGPR is composed of ASGR1 and ASGR2 proteins, encoded by ASGR1 and ASGR2 genes.
- ASGPR plays roles in both health and disease by mediating receptor-ligand interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression of ASGPR1 and ASGPR2 in human peripheral blood monocytes.
- To determine if monocytes can transcribe and process ASGPR components.
- To explore the potential of monocytes as a model system for ASGPR research.
Main Methods:
- Reverse transcription amplification (RT-PCR) was employed to detect ASGR1 and ASGR2 transcripts.
- Monocytes were isolated from human peripheral blood.
- The THP1 monocyte cell line was used as a model system.
Main Results:
- ASGR1 and ASGR2 transcripts were detected in human peripheral blood monocytes.
- Correctly spliced transcript variants encoding ASGPR isoforms were identified in monocytes.
- Transcript expression levels in monocytes were significantly lower than in HepG2 cells but detectable.
- The THP1 cell line showed similar results to primary monocytes, suggesting its utility as a model.
Conclusions:
- Monocytes actively transcribe and process ASGPR component proteins.
- Monocytes may function as a mobile pool of ASGPR, extending its reach beyond the liver.
- These findings open avenues for studying ASGPR function in extrahepatic sites.
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