Background of the antigen
Phosphatidylserine receptor that enhances the engulfment of apoptotic cells. Hyaluronan receptor that binds to and mediates endocytosis of hyaluronic acid (HA). Acts also, in different species, as a primary systemic scavenger receptor for heparin (Hep), chondroitin sulfate (CS), dermatan sulfate (DS), nonglycosaminoglycan (GAG), acetylated low-density lipoprotein (AcLDL), pro-collagen propeptides and advanced glycation end products (AGE). May serve to maintain tissue integrity by supporting extracellular matrix turnover or it may contribute to maintaining fluidity of bodily liquids by resorption of hyaluronan. Counter receptor which plays an important role in lymphocyte recruitment in the hepatic vasculature. Binds to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and may play a role in defense against bacterial infection. The proteolytically processed 190 kDa form also functions as an endocytosis receptor for heparin internalisation as well as HA and CS.
