Macrophage-colony-stimulating factor selectively enhances macrophage scavenger receptor expression and function.

Regulation of macrophage scavenger receptor (MSR) activity may be an important determinant of the extent of atherogenesis. The effect of macrophage-colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) on this pathway was studied using a recently developed monoclonal antibody to murine MSR. M-CSF markedly and selectively increased MSR synthesis in murine macrophages: posttranslationally, the receptor appeared more stable and shifted to a predominantly surface distribution. Functionally, M-CSF enhanced modified lipoprotein uptake and increased divalent cation-independent adhesion in vitro. These results suggest a plausible mechanism whereby M-CSF production in the atheromatous plaque microenvironment could promote the recruitment and retention of mononuclear phagocytes and subsequent foam cell formation.