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Homeostasis in the mononuclear phagocyte system
Stephen J Jenkins1, David A Hume2
1University of Edinburgh, Centre for Inflammation Research, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK.
Trends in Immunology
|July 23, 2014
Summary
The mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) involves macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) as distinct cell types. Evidence suggests tissue macrophages may self-renew, challenging the traditional view of monocyte precursors.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) comprises bone marrow precursors, blood monocytes, and tissue macrophages.
- Macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) are key components of the innate immune system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence differentiating macrophages and DCs as separate lineages.
- To examine the role of monocytes as precursors to tissue macrophages.
- To present a refined model of the MPS.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of immunological and cellular biology studies.
- Analysis of evidence regarding macrophage self-renewal and progenitor seeding.
- Review of the role of colony-stimulating factor 1 (CSF1).
Main Results:
- Macrophages and DCs represent distinct lineages and functional entities.
- Macrophages exhibit significant self-renewal capacity.
- Early life progenitors (yolk sac/fetal liver) contribute to tissue macrophage populations, with less subsequent monocyte input.
Conclusions:
- The traditional view of monocytes as the sole immediate precursors of tissue macrophages requires refinement.
- Local proliferation, influenced by CSF1, and monocyte recruitment are integrated processes maintaining tissue macrophage populations.
- A revised MPS model emphasizes local macrophage self-renewal and diverse seeding origins.
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