Scavenger receptor class B type I mediates the selective uptake of high-density lipoprotein-associated cholesteryl ester by the liver in mice

Objective - High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesteryl esters (CE) are taken up by liver and adrenals selectively, ie, independent from particle internalization. Class B type I scavenger receptor (SR-BI) mediates this uptake in vitro. The role of SR-BI in HDL metabolism was explored in mice. Methods and Results - Mice with a mutation in the SR-BI gene (SR-BI KO) and wild-type (WT) littermates were used. Mutants had increased HDL cholesterol. HDL was labeled with I-125 (protein) and [H-3] (CE). After HDL injection, blood samples were drawn and finally the mice were euthanized. In WT, the plasma decay of HDL-associated [H-3] is faster compared with I-125 and this represents whole-body selective CE uptake. In SR-BI KO, the decay of both tracers is similar, yielding no selective CE removal. In WT liver and adrenals, uptake of [H-3] is higher than 125I, showing selective uptake. In SR-BI KO, liver uptake of [H-3] and I-125 are similar, proposing no selective HDL CE uptake. In SR-BI KO adrenals, selective uptake is reduced; however, even in the absence of SR-BI, this uptake is detected using WT-HDL. Conclusions - SR-BI mediates selective uptake of HDL CE by the liver. In adrenals, an alternative mechanism or mechanisms can play a role in selective CE uptake.