Receptor that mediates the recognition, internalization and degradation of oxidatively modified low density lipoprotein (oxLDL) by vascular endothelial cells. OxLDL is a marker of atherosclerosis that induces vascular endothelial cell activation and dysfunction, resulting in pro-inflammatory responses, pro-oxidative conditions and apoptosis. Its association with oxLDL induces the activation of NF-kappa-B through an increased production of intracellular reactive oxygen and a variety of pro-atherogenic cellular responses including a reduction of nitric oxide (NO) release, monocyte adhesion and apoptosis. In addition to binding oxLDL, it acts as a receptor for the HSP70 protein involved in antigen cross-presentation to naive T-cells in dendritic cells, thereby participating in cell-mediated antigen cross-presentation. Also involved in inflammatory process, by acting as a leukocyte-adhesion molecule at the vascular interface in endotoxin-induced inflammation. Also acts as a receptor for advanced glycation end (AGE) products, activated platelets, monocytes, apoptotic cells and both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria.
(Microbial infection) May serve as a receptor for adhesin A variant 3 (nadA) of N.meningitidis.
Subcellular locations: Cell membrane, Cell membrane, Membrane raft, Secreted
A secreted form also exists. Localization to membrane rafts requires palmitoylation.
Expressed at high level in endothelial cells and vascular-rich organs such as placenta, lung, liver and brain, aortic intima, bone marrow, spinal cord and substantia nigra. Also expressed at the surface of dendritic cells. Widely expressed at intermediate and low level.