An anatomical view on macrophages in tolerance

Fredrik Wermeling, Mikael C.I. Karlsson, Tracy L. McGaha

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

26 Scopus citations

Abstract

Macrophages are divided into several functional subtypes involved in host defence, wound healing and immune regulation. In an alternate view, increased understanding of macrophage biology can also be gained by including anatomical location as a parameter. The focus of this review lies on tolerogenic features of macrophages relevant for autoimmune disease. The importance of macrophages as janitors clearing apoptotic cells and debris is seen in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) where a clearance defect often is connected to disease induction and progression. The apoptotic debris can be encountered by the macrophage in multiple anatomical compartments including the circulation but also in areas of intense cell death such as in the thymus and germinal center were tight regulation is important.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)49-52
Number of pages4
JournalAutoimmunity Reviews
Volume9
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 1 2009

Keywords

  • Cell death
  • Macrophages
  • Tolerance

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology and Allergy
  • Immunology

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