The present invention relates to haptoglobin-haemoglobin (Hp-Hb) complex or a part thereof or a mimic thereof being operably linked to a substance and capable of binding a CD163 receptor. Furthermore, the invention relates to a CD163 variant, membrane bound or soluble, capable of binding at least one haptoglobin-haemoglobin (Hp-Hb) complex, and the use of the Hp-Hb complex and the CD163 receptor for therapy.