ABSTRACT. Binding of secretory IgA (sIgA) to human milk macrophages was identified by rosette formation with sIgA-sensitized indicator cells and competitive inhibition binding studies with P 25 I)_sIgA. Macrophages formed rosettes with sIgA-sensitized sheep red blood cells that were inhibited by sIgA (87%) but not IgG. Both IgA) and IgA 2 inhibited sIgA-sensitized sheep red blood cell rosette formation. Rosette formation was completely inhibited by galactose, partially inhibited by asialofetuin, and unaffected by mannose. ( J25I)-labeled sIgA binding to macrophages reached a plateau after 60 min, was dependent on the number of macrophages in culture, and was specifically inhibited by unlabeled sIgA. Incubation of macrophage monolayers with increasing concentrations of sIgA-antiIgA immune complexes resulted in a progressive increase in the oxidative burst and increased secretion of prostaglandins. These studies indicate that human milk macrophages have a receptor for sIgA and that activation of these macrophages may occur via these receptors. (Pediatr Res 29: 429-434, 1991)