EXPRESSION OF THE MACROPHAGE SCAVENGER RECEPTOR, A MULTIFUNCTIONAL LIPOPROTEIN RECEPTOR, IN MICROGLIA ASSOCIATED WITH SENILE PLAQUES IN ALZHEIMERS-DISEASE

The macrophage scavenger receptor is a multi-functional receptor whose ligands include oxidized low density lipoprotein (LDL), as well as se veral other polyanionic macromolecules. Although the capacity of the r eceptor to bind modified LDL has implicated in the process of atherosc lerosis, its physiological role remains uncertain. We have examined hu man brain for expression of macrophage scavenger receptor as part of o ngoing studies of lipoprotein receptors in the central nervous system. The receptor is expressed on microglia, but not on astrocytes, neuron s, or vessel-associated structures. In Alzheimer disease, there is str ong expression of the scavenger receptor in association with senile pl aques.