Macrophage scavenger receptors (MSR) are membrane glycoproteins that mediate the recognition and uptake of a wide variety of negatively charged macromolecules.  There are two types of these receptors that differ in the C-terminal region.  MSR has a key role in scavenging a variety of macromolecules, including modified lipoproteins, advanced glycation end (AGEs) products and amyloid b-protein (Ab).  While the normal role of MSR is associated with cell adhesion and host defense mechanisms, it also has been implicated in the development of atherosclerosis and Ab deposition in Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

The observation that the ,4 allele of the apolipoprotein E gene is associated with an increased risk for AD has lead to the investigation of lipoprotein metabolism in the brain of AD patients. The type I MSR has been found to be expressed on microglia and Mato cells, but not astrocytes or neurons.  In AD brain, MSR type I is strongly expressed by microglia cells that are associated with senile plaques.  Because the senile plaques contain AGEs, which are a source of free radicals that could result in oxidative damage to the brain, MSR may have a role in mediating the endocytosis of AGEs.

A goat antiserum to a synthetic peptide that corresponds to amino acids 325-342 of the C-terminus of the human MSR is currently available. This antiserum has been shown to be immunoreactive with the unconjugated immunizing peptide by ELISA. The antiserum has been shown to be immunoreactive with amyloid plaques in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections of AD brain.  This antiserum is suitable for western blots and recognizes the MSR protein. This antibody should be a valuable tool for scientists working to understand the role of MSR in AD.

This antiserum was produced using proprietary methodology whereby the peptide is attached to a carrier that elicits minimal immunoreactivity so that the antiserum has a higher degree of specificity for the peptide.  Since there is no overwhelming production of interfering antibodies to the carrier, this antiserum can routinely be used without further purification.  Pseud-Immune™ control immune serum (Cat no. GPA018E) from a mock immunized animal is available to be used in conjunction with this antibody as well as the immunizing peptide (Cat no. HSP015C), which can be used to neutralize immunoreactivity.