Monocyte-derived CXCL7 peptides in the marrow microenvironment

The marrow microenvironment consists of several different interacting cell types, including hematopoietic-derived monocyte/macrophages and nonhematopoietic-derived stromal cells. Gene-expression profiles of stromal cells and monocytes cultured together differ from those of each population alone. Here, we report that CXCL7 gene expression, previously described as limited to the megakaryocyte lineage, is expressed by monocytes cocultured with stromal cells. CXCL7 gene expression was confirmed by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and secretion of protein was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blot. At least 2 stromal-derived activities, one yet to be identified, were required for optimal expression of CXCL7 by monocytes. NAP-2, the shortest form of CXCL7 detected in the coculture media, was confirmed to decrease the size and number of CFU-Meg colonies. The propeptide LDGF, previously reported to be mitogenic for fibroblasts, was not secreted by stimulated monocytes. The recombinant form of LDGF produced in a prokaryotic expression system did not have biologic activity in our hands. The monocytic source of CXCL7 was also detected by immunohistochemistry in normal bone marrow biopsies, indicating an in vivo function. We conclude that stromal-stimulated monocytes can serve as an additional source for CXCL7 peptides in the microenvironment and may contribute to the local regulation of megakaryocytopoiesis.