Disruption of the surfactant protein A receptor SP-R210L (CD245α/MYO18Aα) alters respiratory function and iron sequestration in alveolar macrophages of aged mice

Previous studies demonstrated that the host defense collectins, surfactant protein A and complement component 1q, modulate tissue-dependent macrophage activation, pathogen clearance, and regulatory macrophage functions through the receptor SP-R210, which consists of two isoforms SP-R210L and SP-R210S. These isoforms are encoded by alternatively spliced mRNAs of the Myo18a MYO18A gene in mice and humans. The present study in conditional transgenic mice revealed novel age-related functions of the SP-R210L isoform in modulating pulmonary mechanics, iron sequestration in alveolar macrophages (AMs), and life-long maintenance of the alveolar macrophage population. Our findings support the novel idea that SP-R210L-deficient AMs undergo bi-directional epigenetic adaptation that results in chronic dysregulation of broncho-alveolar function, immune homeostasis, and maintenance of oncotic balance at the airway-capillary interface. Disruption of SP-R210L increases the risk for development of severe interstitial lung disease during development and aging. ### Competing Interest Statement Zissis C. Chroneos is co-founder of Respana Therapeutic, Inc. (http://respana-therapeutics.com/) an early-stage company developing therapeutics targeting SP-R210 isoforms and is co-inventor on associated patents.