Class A scavenger receptors and the phagocytosis of apoptotic cells.

Apoptotic cells are rarely seen in situ because of rapid clearance by phagocytes. A number of receptors have been implicated in the recognition and ingestion of dying cells. Class A scavenger receptors (SRs) are multi-domained membrane glycoproteins that can endocytose modified lipoproteins and bind a wide range of ligands. There is growing evidence that they contribute to several biological processes. We present data that suggest class A SRs are involved in the phagocytosis of apoptotic cells.