Cross-linking of GPI-80, a possible regulatory molecule of cell adhesion, induces up-regulation of CD11b/CD18 expression on neutrophil surfaces and shedding of L-selectin.

Previously, we described a novel glycosylphosphatidyl inositol (GPI)-anchored glycoprotein (designated GPI-80) on human neutrophils and monocytes that may regulate beta(2) integrin-dependent neutrophil adherence and migration. However, the mechanism regulating beta(2) integrin remains to be clarified. To study this, we examined changes in beta(2) integrin expression and function caused by cross-linking GPI-80. GPI-80 cross-linking induced up-regulation of CD11b/CD18 (Mac-1) expression on neutrophil surfaces and shedding of L-selectin, which depends on tyrosine phosphorylation and cytoskeleton remodeling. Furthermore, the cross-linking enhanced fMLP-induced human neutrophil adherence. These results suggest that GPI-80 may be a regulator of beta(2) integrin in neutrophils.