Cytoplasmic pH regulation in monocytes and macrophages: mechanisms and functional implications

Maintenance of cytoplasmic pH (pHi) within a narrow physiological range is critical to optimal cell function. Monocytes and macrophages (Møs) actively regulate their pHi through three distinct plasma membrane ion transport systems: (1) Na+/H+ exchange; (2) Na(+)-dependent anion exchange; and (3) vacuolar-type H+ ATPases. Alterations in the functional state of monocytes and Møs have been linked to changes in pHi and/or its regulation by these ion transport systems. Differentiation, proliferation, and activation of Møs in response to a variety of agents are associated with increased Na+/H+ exchange. The resultant cytoplasmic alkalinization typically observed in HCO3(-)-free media likely plays a permissive, rather than a triggering, role in mediating Mø response to most of these agents. Prevention of cytoplasmic acidification is essential during Mø activation, when production of metabolic acid increases. This is of particular importance within the in vivo microenvironment of an abscess or tumour, where pHi is further threatened by the low extracellular pH (pHo) which typically prevails. At low pHo, H+ ATPase-mediated H+ extrusion plays a critical role in maintenance of pHi, preserving the ability of Møs to generate a respiratory burst. The requirement for maintenance of pHi within a range conducive to efficient Mø function may explain why Møs have acquired a variety of parallel systems for pHi regulation.