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Fate-Mapping Macrophages: From Ontogeny to Functions.
Anna Ahlback1, Rebecca Gentek2
1The University of Edinburgh, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, Centre for Reproductive Health & Centre for Inflammation Research, Edinburgh, UK.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|August 28, 2023
Summary
Understanding macrophage origin is key to their function in health and disease. Genetic fate mapping is essential for tracing macrophage development and function.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Macrophages are crucial for tissue homeostasis and disease pathogenesis.
- Their plasticity and heterogeneity arise from diverse developmental origins.
- Understanding macrophage ontogeny is vital for deciphering their roles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the importance of macrophage ontogeny in biology.
- To delineate macrophage populations based on their origin.
- To recommend genetic fate-mapping strategies for research.
Main Methods:
- Review of current understanding of macrophage ontogeny.
- Discussion of how origin influences macrophage function.
- Evaluation of genetic fate-mapping techniques.
Main Results:
- Macrophages originate from embryonic and adult progenitors.
- Tissue-resident macrophages often self-maintain, but monocyte-derived macrophages can infiltrate.
- Origin significantly impacts macrophage function in health and disease.
Conclusions:
- Genetic fate mapping is the gold standard for tracing macrophage origin.
- Specific fate-mapping strategies are recommended based on research questions.
- Current models have limitations that need consideration.
