Abstract
CNS pericytes are an integral part of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), but their function is not well understood. We questioned whether primary cultured CNS pericytes have immune potential. Primary cultured pericytes exhibit phagocytic activity when exposed to fluorochrome-conjugated polystyrene beads and antibody-coated zymosan. Maximum phagocytic activity occurred by 3 hr. Pericytes were found to express the macrophage markers ED-2 and the integrin subunit CD11b (αM) in culture as well as on isolated microvessels. Pericytes did not express the macrophage marker ED-1. We confirm the heterogeneity of cultured CNS pericytes with regard to expression of α-smooth muscle actin. In conclusion, pericytes express macrophage surface antigens and have the ability to perform at least some immune function. CNS pericytes may therefore have a role in neuroimmune networks at the BBB.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 127-142 |
Number of pages | 16 |
Journal | Microvascular Research |
Volume | 52 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Sep 1996 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Biochemistry
- Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
- Cell Biology