Induction of TGF-β1 synthesis by macrophages in response to apoptotic cells requires activation of the scavenger receptor CD36.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Phosphatidylserine (PS) exposed on apoptotic cells has been shown to stimulate production of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and promote anti-inflammatory responses. However, the PS receptor(s) responsible for this induction has not been clearly determined.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: In the present study, using RAWTβRII cells in which a truncated dominant negative TGF-β receptor II was stably transfected in order to avoid auto-feedback induction of TGF-β, we show that TGF-β1 synthesis is initiated via activation of the scavenger receptor, CD36. The response requires exposure of PS on the apoptotic cell surface and was absent in macrophages lacking CD36. Direct activation of CD36 with an anti-CD36 antibody initiated TGF-β1 production, and signaling pathways involving both Lyn kinase and ERK1/2 were shown to participate in CD36-driven TGF-β1 expression.

CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Since CD36 has been previously implicated in activation of secreted latent TGF-β, the present study indicates its role in the multiple steps to generation of this important biological mediator.