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Updated: May 1, 2026
Analysis of Microglia and Monocyte-derived Macrophages from the Central Nervous System by Flow Cytometry
Published on: June 22, 2017
The role of monocytes and macrophages in age-related macular degeneration
Michelle Grunin1, Shira Hagbi-Levi, Itay Chowers
1Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, 91120, Jerusalem, Israel, michelle.grunin@mail.huji.ac.il.
Abstract:
White blood cells, particularly monocytes and their descendants, macrophages, have been implicated in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) pathology. In this minireview, we describe the current knowledge of monocyte and macrophage involvement in AMD. Chemokine receptors present on these cells such as CCR1, CCR2, and CX3CR1, and their roles in monocyte/macrophage recruitment to sites of injury and inflammation in the context of AMD will be reviewed. Mice models for perturbation of chemokine receptors that recapitulate some of the features of AMD are also described. The body of evidence from human and rodent studies at this point in time suggests that monocyte and macrophages may modulate the course of AMD.
Insights
Monocytes and macrophages are key players in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Understanding their role and the chemokine receptors involved may help modulate AMD progression.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss.
- White blood cells, specifically monocytes and macrophages, are increasingly recognized for their role in AMD pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of monocyte and macrophage involvement in AMD.
- To explore the function of chemokine receptors (CCR1, CCR2, CX3CR1) in recruiting these cells to sites of inflammation in AMD.
- To discuss relevant mouse models for studying AMD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of human and rodent studies.
- Analysis of the role of specific chemokine receptors (CCR1, CCR2, CX3CR1).
- Examination of mouse models mimicking AMD features.
Main Results:
- Monocytes and macrophages are implicated in AMD pathology.
- Chemokine receptors (CCR1, CCR2, CX3CR1) are crucial for monocyte/macrophage recruitment in AMD.
- Mouse models provide insights into AMD mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- Evidence suggests monocytes and macrophages significantly influence the course of AMD.
- Targeting chemokine receptors may offer therapeutic strategies for AMD.
