Down-modulation of L-selectin by lipopolysaccharide is not required for lipopolysaccharide-induced expression of CD14 in mouse bone marrow granulocytes.

We established in previous studies that a constitutive lipopolysaccharide (LPS) receptor of low affinity is present on mouse bone marrow granulocytes (BMG). This yet-unidentified receptor is involved in the LPS-induced expression of a second LPS receptor, CD14. Because it has been claimed that L-selectin (CD62L) is a low-affinity LPS receptor in mature granulocytes (polymorphonuclear leukocytes), it may be asked whether this molecule could be the constitutive LPS receptor in BMG. We show in this study that L-selectin is constitutively present on BMG and is down-regulated after exposure of the cells to LPS. A phorbol ester induced a down-regulation of CD62L and blocked the LPS-induced expression of CD14. However, a metalloproteinase inhibitor (BB-3103) blocked the former but not the latter effect of PMA. We also observed an absence of cross-reactivity between LPS and a CD62L ligand (fucoidan) in binding studies with radiolabeled derivatives of the two agents. Furthermore, BMG from L-selectin-deficient mice expressed normal levels of CD14 in response to LPS. Taken together, these results demonstrate that in BMG, L-selectin is not the constitutive LPS receptor required for the LPS-induced expression of CD14.