Expression of lectin-like oxidized low density lipoprotein receptor-1 in human and murine macrophages: Upregulated expression by TNF-alpha

Uptake of oxidized low density lipoprotein (Ox-LDI,) and subsequent foam ce ll transformation have been implicated in early atherogenesis, Although mul tiple molecules, including class A and B scavenger receptors, have been ide ntified as Ox-LDL receptors, additional receptors may also be involved in t his process. Here, we provide evidence that lectin-like Ox-LDL receptor-1 ( LOX-1), a novel Ox-LDL receptor initially identified in vascular endothelia l cells, is also expressed in macrophages in humans and mice. Expression of LOX-1 can be induced after macrophage-like differentiation in vitro in hum an peripheral blood monocytes and the related cell line THP-1 cells. Furthe rmore, LOX-1 expression can also be detected in resident peritoneal macroph ages, and can be upregulated by an inflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha. These r esults suggest that LOX-1 in macrophages may play an important role in Ox-L DL uptake and subsequent foam cell formation in this cell type. (C) 1998 Fe deration of European Biochemical Societies.