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Updated: Apr 8, 2026
Characterization of Human Monocyte Subsets by Whole Blood Flow Cytometry Analysis
Published on: October 17, 2018
Phenomenon of individual difference in human monocyte activation
Alexander N Orekhov1, Nikita G Nikiforov2, Natalia V Elizova2
1Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow 125315, Russia; Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russia; Institute for Atherosclerosis Research, Skolkovo Innovative Center, Moscow 143025, Russia.
Individual differences in how monocytes activate exist, regardless of atherosclerosis. These variations in monocyte activation may explain unique immune responses in different people.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cardiovascular Science
- Pathogenesis of Atherosclerosis
Background:
- Macrophages are crucial in atherosclerosis development, even in early stages.
- Altered monocyte/macrophage responses to inflammatory stimuli may influence disease onset.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if atherosclerosis is linked to changes in monocyte/macrophage responses.
- To evaluate monocyte susceptibility to M1 and M2 activation in healthy individuals and atherosclerosis patients.
Main Methods:
- Circulating monocytes were isolated from healthy subjects and patients with asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis.
- Monocytes were subjected to M1 and M2 pro- and anti-inflammatory activation stimuli.
Main Results:
- Significant individual variability in monocyte activation susceptibility was observed.
- This variability was present in both healthy individuals and those with atherosclerosis.
Conclusions:
- Monocyte activation susceptibility shows considerable individual differences, independent of atherosclerosis.
- These differences may underlie the unique immune responses observed in different individuals.
