Vinblastine-dependent down-modulation of TNF receptors in human osteosarcoma cells is mediated by protein kinase C activity. The binding of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) to a human osteogenic sarcoma cell line (Saos-2) was investigated. These cells express two types of receptors as determined by specific monoclonal antibodies. Vinblastine induced a down-modulation of these receptors weaker than the one produced by phorbol esters or okadaic acid treatment. On exposure of cells to 10 microM vinblastine for two hours an approximately 55-65% diminution of TNF binding was observed, but only 20% reduction occurred under long-term vinblastine treatment. TNF receptor down-modulation induced by vinblastine was partially prevented by protein kinase C inhibitors or protein kinase C depletion. It is suggested that the regulation of TNF binding to each one of its receptors in Saos-2 cells always occurs in a phosphorylation-dependent manner.