CD163 Activators

CD163, a transmembrane glycoprotein, plays a crucial role in the innate immune response, particularly in the clearance of hemoglobin-haptoglobin complexes and modulation of inflammation. It is predominantly expressed on macrophages and monocytes, serving as a scavenger receptor for hemoglobin and facilitating its internalization and degradation. Additionally, CD163 acts as a regulator of inflammation by modulating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting anti-inflammatory responses. Through its involvement in the clearance of hemoglobin and attenuation of inflammation, CD163 contributes to the maintenance of tissue homeostasis and resolution of inflammatory processes.

Activation of CD163 involves various signaling pathways and mechanisms that regulate its expression and function. One of the key pathways implicated in CD163 activation is the anti-inflammatory signaling cascade mediated by the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10). IL-10 binds to its receptor on macrophages, leading to the activation of downstream signaling pathways that upregulate CD163 expression and enhance its scavenging activity. Additionally, activation of CD163 can be mediated by other immunomodulatory factors, such as glucocorticoids, which have been shown to induce CD163 expression in macrophages. Furthermore, certain environmental stimuli and pathophysiological conditions, such as exposure to bacterial products or tissue injury, can also trigger CD163 activation through mechanisms involving Toll-like receptors and other signaling pathways associated with immune activation and resolution of inflammation. Overall, the activation of CD163 represents a finely tuned process orchestrated by various immunomodulatory factors and signaling pathways aimed at promoting tissue homeostasis and resolving inflammatory responses.