Phenotypic and functional alterations of peritoneal macrophages in lupus-prone mice

Several studies have demonstrated the contribution of innate immune cells, including macrophages, in promoting systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Macrophages, one of the most abundant cell populations in the peritoneal cavity, are considered multifunctional cells with phenotypic plasticity. However, the functional properties of peritoneal macrophages in steady-state and during the progression of SLE remain poorly defined.

Using the [NZB × NZW]F1 (BWF1) murine model of SLE, we analyzed the phenotype and function of peritoneal macrophages during the disease's onset. We found a higher frequency of peritoneal macrophages and B1a cells in BWF1-diseased mice than age-matched controls. Additionally, macrophages from diseased animals expressed lower levels of CD206, MHC-II, and Sirpα. RNAseq analysis identified 286 differentially expressed genes in peritoneal macrophages from diseased-BWF1 mice compared to control mice. Functional experiments demonstrate that peritoneal macrophages from diseased-BWF1 mice secrete higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines when activated with TLR7 and TLR9 agonists, and they were less efficient in suppressing the activation and proliferation of peritoneal LPS-activated B cells. These data demonstrate that peritoneal macrophages from BWF1-diseased mice present phenotypic and functional alterations shifting to a more pro-inflammatory state.

The increase of macrophages with an altered phenotype and function together with the accumulation of B1a cells in the peritoneal cavity of diseased-BWF1 mice may promote the progression of the disease. Advancing awareness of the role and phenotype of peritoneal macrophages in SLE may contribute to a better understanding of these types of diseases and the development of novel therapies.