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The mononuclear phagocyte system revisited

David A Hume1, Ian L Ross, S Roy Himes

  • 1Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Australia. D.Hume@imb.uq.edu.au

Journal of Leukocyte Biology
|October 16, 2002
PubMed

Insights

The mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) includes monocytes and macrophages. Despite challenges, shared markers and functions suggest a unified cell lineage, including dendritic cells.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • The mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) is traditionally defined as a family of cells including bone marrow progenitors, blood monocytes, and tissue macrophages.
  • Key markers like F4/80 and the M-CSF receptor are used to identify these cells, particularly in mice.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the concept of the mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS).
  • To discuss evidence challenging the traditional MPS definition and explore macrophage heterogeneity.
  • To examine the relationship between macrophages and antigen-representing dendritic cells within the MPS.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature and scientific evidence.
  • Analysis of cellular markers for lineage identification.
  • Discussion of phenotypic plasticity and transdifferentiation.

Main Results:

  • The MPS concept faces challenges from evidence of separate embryonic lineages and cell plasticity.
  • Local tissue renewal of macrophages may occur, contrasting with monocyte recruitment.
  • Despite challenges, shared markers, morphology, and location suggest unity within the MPS.

Conclusions:

  • Macrophages and antigen-representing dendritic cells are closely related and integral to the MPS.
  • Macrophage heterogeneity arises from various factors, including local regulation and cell plasticity.
  • The MPS remains a relevant concept, encompassing a diverse yet interconnected family of phagocytic cells.

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