Attraction of phagocytes by apoptotic cells is mediated by lysophosphatidylcholine

Autoimmunity. 2007 Jun;40(4):342-4. doi: 10.1080/08916930701356911.

Abstract

Apoptotic cells promote the phagocytosis of themselves via the exposure of "eat me" signals. Furthermore, a second, "find me" signal is required to attract phagocytes. In this review the double function of lysophosphatidylcholine for the clearance of apoptotic material as factor leading to attraction of phagocytes as a soluble "find me" signal and opsonisation of apoptotic cells as a membrane bound "eat me" signal is outlined. Lysophosphatidylcholine, exerting this bivalent function, leads to a sufficient clearance of apoptotic cell as a "keep calm" mechanism to prevent activation of the immune system by secondary necrosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Apoptosis / immunology*
  • Cell Movement / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Lysophosphatidylcholines / immunology*
  • Necrosis / immunology
  • Phagocytes / immunology*
  • Signal Transduction / immunology*

Substances

  • Lysophosphatidylcholines