Macrophage Regulation of Granulopoiesis and Neutrophil Functions

Neutrophils are potent effector cells of innate immunity requiring precise regulation of their numbers and functions in blood and tissues. Macrophages have emerged as modulators of neutrophil properties. In inflammatory conditions, tissue macrophages modulate neutrophil trafficking and activation. Further, macrophages govern granulopoiesis in the bone marrow hematopoietic niche. Interactions of macrophages and neutrophils can be induced by cytokines and damage-associated molecular patterns, and they are also regulated by oxidative signaling. We review the impact of macrophages on neutrophil development and function, and its consequences in health and disease. Targeting the liaison between macrophages and neutrophils might provide an interesting therapeutic strategy to reduce tissue inflammation and promote immune tolerance. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 35, 182-191.