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Isolation and In Vitro Culture of Murine and Human Alveolar Macrophages
Published on: April 20, 2018
Alveolar macrophages: novel therapeutic targets for respiratory diseases
Pamelia N Lim1,2, Maritza M Cervantes1, Linh K Pham1,3
1Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA01003, USA.
Abstract:
Alveolar macrophages (AMs) are lung-resident myeloid cells that sit at the interface of the airway and lung tissue. Under homeostatic conditions, their primary function is to clear debris, dead cells and excess surfactant from the airways. They also serve as innate pulmonary sentinels for respiratory pathogens and environmental airborne particles and as regulators of pulmonary inflammation. However, they have not typically been viewed as primary therapeutic targets for respiratory diseases. Here, we discuss the role of AMs in various lung diseases, explore the potential therapeutic strategies to target these innate cells and weigh the potential risks and challenges of such therapies. Additionally, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, we examine the role AMs play in severe disease and the therapeutic strategies that have been harnessed to modulate their function and protect against severe lung damage. There are many novel approaches in development to target AMs, such as inhaled antibiotics, liposomal and microparticle delivery systems, and host-directed therapies, which have the potential to provide critical treatment to patients suffering from severe respiratory diseases, yet there is still much work to be done to fully understand the possible benefits and risks of such approaches.
Insights
Alveolar macrophages (AMs) are crucial for lung health but often overlooked as therapeutic targets. Novel strategies are emerging to target AMs for treating severe respiratory diseases, including COVID-19, though risks require further study.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary immunology
- Innate immunity
- Respiratory medicine
Background:
- Alveolar macrophages (AMs) are resident lung myeloid cells essential for airway clearance and immune surveillance.
- AMs regulate pulmonary inflammation but are not traditionally considered therapeutic targets for lung diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the role of AMs in various lung diseases.
- To explore therapeutic strategies targeting AMs and their associated risks.
- To examine AMs' role in severe COVID-19 and potential therapeutic interventions.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on AM function in homeostasis and disease.
- Analysis of emerging therapeutic approaches for modulating AM activity.
- Examination of AMs' role in COVID-19 pathogenesis and treatment.
Main Results:
- AMs play a significant role in lung homeostasis, pathogen defense, and inflammation regulation.
- Targeting AMs presents potential therapeutic benefits for respiratory diseases, including severe COVID-19.
- Novel approaches like inhaled therapies and host-directed treatments are under development.
Conclusions:
- AMs are critical players in lung health and disease, offering a promising target for novel therapies.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the benefits and risks of AM-targeted treatments.
- Modulating AM function holds potential for treating severe respiratory conditions and protecting against lung damage.
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