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The role of monocytes in optic nerve injury
Xiangxiang Liu1, Yuan Liu2, Mohamed M Khodeiry2
1Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
Abstract:
Monocytes, including monocyte-derived macrophages and resident microglia, mediate many phases of optic nerve injury pathogenesis. Resident microglia respond first, followed by infiltrating macrophages which regulate neuronal inflammation, cell proliferation and differentiation, scar formation and tissue remodeling following optic nerve injury. However, microglia and macrophages have distinct functions which can be either beneficial or detrimental to the optic nerve depending on the spatial context and temporal sequence of their activity. These divergent effects are attributed to pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines expressed by monocytes, crosstalk between monocyte and glial cells and even microglia-macrophage communication. In this review, we describe the dynamics and functions of microglia and macrophages in neuronal inflammation and regeneration following optic nerve injury, and their possible role as therapeutic targets for axonal regeneration.
Insights
Monocytes, including microglia and macrophages, play complex roles in optic nerve injury. Understanding their distinct functions is key to developing therapies for axonal regeneration.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Monocytes, encompassing microglia and macrophages, are crucial in optic nerve injury.
- Microglia initiate the response, followed by infiltrating macrophages, influencing inflammation and tissue repair.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the dynamic roles of microglia and macrophages in optic nerve injury.
- To explore their potential as therapeutic targets for promoting axonal regeneration.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on monocyte roles in optic nerve injury.
- Analysis of microglia-macrophage interactions and their impact on neuronal inflammation and regeneration.
Main Results:
- Microglia and macrophages exhibit distinct, context-dependent functions (beneficial or detrimental) in optic nerve injury.
- Their effects are modulated by cytokines, cell-cell crosstalk, and communication.
Conclusions:
- Microglia and macrophages are critical regulators of optic nerve injury outcomes.
- Targeting these cells offers a promising strategy for enhancing axonal regeneration and functional recovery.
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