In TS/A, as well as in a variety of other murine and human tumors, alternatively-activated M2 tumor-associated macrophages expressed a multifunctional scavenger receptor named stabilin-1 involved in endocytic and phagocytic clearance of “unwanted-self” components, including soluble component of extracellular matrix SPARC (a tumor-inhibiting agent). The gene discussed is SPARC; the disease is neoplasm.