Collectins: opsonins for apoptotic cells and regulators of inflammation.

The collagenous C-type lectin family (collectins) members are humoral molecules found in the serum and on certain mucosal surfaces. In humans the family of collectins include the mannose-binding lectin, surfactant protein A and surfactant protein D. They demonstrate broad ligand specificity for both pathogenic bacteria and viruses. Over the past 5 years data have emerged indicating that these molecules are able to bind self-derived ligands in the form of apoptotic cells and regulate inflammatory responses. Furthermore, exciting new data from murine models have begun to define the in vivo importance of these molecules as regulators of inflammation and immunity. Here will discuss our current understanding of the process of collectin recognition of dying and damaged cells and its implications for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.