Cellular localization of apolipoprotein D and lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase mRNA in rhesus monkey tissues by in situ hybridization.

Apolipoprotein D (apoD) and lecithin:cholesterol acyl transferase (LCAT) are found on high density lipoprotein particles (HDLs) and have been postulated to form part of a complex involved in the transport of cholesterol from peripheral tissues to the liver for excretion. We have examined the sites of synthesis of the mRNAs for these two proteins in the rhesus monkey by in situ hybridization. ApoD mRNA-containing cells were widely distributed throughout peripheral tissues in interstitial and connective tissue fibroblasts often associated with blood vessels or capillaries. ApoD mRNA was also found localized in cells associated with peripheral nerves, neuroglial cells, cells in the subarachnoid space on the surface of the brain including the pial cells, perivascular cells, and scattered neurons in the brain. LCAT demonstrated a much more restricted pattern of synthesis and was found to be synthesized by hepatocytes, the basal cell layer of the epidermis, and in brain cell populations distinct from those that synthesize apoD. In the brain LCAT was synthesized by scattered neurons, neuroglial cells, ependymal cells, as well as a discrete cell layer in the cerebellum. ApoD has been shown to possess extensive homology to retinol binding protein, which has a binding pocket for vitamin A. We propose that apoD may also function to bind cholesterol or its derivatives in compartments not in direct contact with the blood. The findings of both apoD and LCAT synthesis in the brain suggest that they play a significant role in lipid transport in the brain.