CRP and neutrophils: functional effects and complex uptake

The uptake of C-reactive protein (CRP)-pneumococcal C-polysaccharide (CPS) complexes by neutrophils was studied. A specific CRP dependent mechanism of uptake was demonstrated. This promoted CPS (complexed to CRP) clearance which was further enhanced by additional complement activation. Physiological concentrations of low density lipoprotein inhibited entry of complexed CPS into neutrophils but had no effect on entry of CRP alone. Pure human CRP was shown to have no effect on neutrophil chemotaxis and oxidative metabolism.