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Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Depletion and Reconstitution of Macrophages in Mice
Published on: August 1, 2012
Alternatively activated macrophages in helminth infections
Timothy Kreider1, Robert M Anthony, Joseph F Urban
1Department of Medicine, UMDNJ - New Jersey Medical School, MSB 639, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
Abstract:
Helminthic parasites can trigger highly polarized immune responses typically associated with increased numbers of CD4(+) Th2 cells, eosinophils, mast cells, and basophils. These cell populations are thought to coordinate an effective response ultimately leading to parasite expulsion, but they also play a role in the regulation of associated pathologic inflammation. Recent studies suggest that macrophages, conventionally associated with IFN-gamma-dominant Th1-type responses to many bacteria and viruses, also play an essential role in the Th2-type inflammatory response. These macrophages are referred to as alternatively activated macrophages (AAMPhis) as they express a characteristic pattern of cell surface and secreted molecules distinct from that of classically activated macrophages (CAMPhis) associated with microbe infections. In this review, we will discuss recent findings regarding the role of AAMPhis in the development of disease and host protection following helminth infection.
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