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Plasma membrane receptors of tissue macrophages: functions and role in pathology
Siamon Gordon1,2, Annette Plüddemann3, Subhankar Mukhopadhyay4
1College of Medicine, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan.
Abstract:
The cells of the mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) constitute a dispersed organ, which is distributed throughout the body. Macrophages in different tissues display distinctive mosaic phenotypes as resident and recruited cells of embryonic and bone marrow origin, respectively. They help to maintain homeostasis during development and throughout adult life, yet contribute to the pathogenesis of many disease processes, including inflammation, innate and adaptive immunity, metabolic disorders, and cancer. Heterogeneous tissue macrophage populations display a wide variety of surface molecules to recognise and respond to host, microbial, and exogenous ligands in their environment; their receptors mediate the uptake and destruction of effete and dying host cells and pathogens, as well as contribute trophic and secretory functions within every organ in the body. Apart from local cellular interactions, macrophage surface molecules and products serve to mobilise and coordinate systemic humoral and cellular responses. Their use as antigen markers in pathogenesis and as potential drug targets has lagged in clinical pathology and human immunotherapy. In this review, we summarise the properties of selected surface molecules expressed on macrophages in different tissues and disease processes, to provide a functional basis for diagnosis, further research, and treatment. © 2020 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Insights
Macrophages, key cells of the mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS), have diverse roles in health and disease. Understanding their surface molecules offers potential for new diagnostics and therapies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Macrophages, part of the mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS), are vital for tissue homeostasis.
- They exhibit diverse phenotypes based on origin and location, influencing health and disease pathogenesis.
- These cells play critical roles in immunity, inflammation, metabolic disorders, and cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review macrophage surface molecules and their functions in various tissues and disease states.
- To highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of targeting macrophage surface molecules.
- To provide a functional basis for future research and clinical applications in immunotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on macrophage heterogeneity and surface molecule expression.
- Analysis of the roles of specific surface molecules in cellular interactions and systemic responses.
- Synthesis of information on macrophage functions in homeostasis and disease pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- Tissue-resident and recruited macrophages display distinct phenotypes and functions.
- Macrophage surface receptors mediate recognition, uptake, and destruction of various targets.
- Surface molecules are crucial for trophic, secretory, and immune-coordinating functions.
Conclusions:
- Macrophage surface molecules are key determinants of their diverse roles in health and disease.
- Targeting these molecules presents opportunities for novel diagnostic markers and therapeutic strategies.
- Further research into macrophage surface molecule expression is essential for advancing clinical pathology and immunotherapy.
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