Inflammation and macrophages

Authors

  • Jorge Lloberas Grup de Biologia del Macròfag, Departament de Fisiologia i Immunologia, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona
  • Antonio Celada Grup de Biologia del Macròfag, Departament de Fisiologia i Immunologia, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona

Keywords:

macrophage, interferon gamma, inflammation, macrophage activation, macrophage deactivation.

Abstract

Macrophages play key roles in inflammation. During the onset of the inflammatory process, these phagocytic cells become activated and have destructive effects. Macrophage activation, which involves the induction of more than 400 genes, results in an increased capacity to eliminate bacteria and to regulate many other cells through the release of cytokines and chemokines. However, excessive activation has damaging effects, such as septic shock, which can lead to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and death. In other situations, persistence of pro-inflammatory activity results in the development of chronic inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease. To prevent undesirable effects, several mechanisms have evolved to control excess activation, thereby leading to macrophage deactivation and the resolution of inflammation. In this review we will discuss the molecular mechanisms of proliferation, activation and survival of macrophages.

Key words: macrophage, interferon gamma, inflammation, macrophage
activation, macrophage deactivation.

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Author Biography

Jorge Lloberas, Grup de Biologia del Macròfag, Departament de Fisiologia i Immunologia, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona


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