Macrophage Polarization: A Novel Target and Strategy for Pathological Scarring
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Updated: Jun 11, 2025
Polarization and Characterization of M1 and M2 Human Monocyte-Derived Macrophages on Implant Surfaces
Published on: December 6, 2024
Xinyi Wang1,2, Dewu Liu3
1Medical Center of Burn Plastic and Wound Repair, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, 17 Yongwaizheng Street, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
Background:
Abnormal scarring imposes considerable challenges and burdens on the lives of patients and healthcare system. Macrophages at the wound site are found to be of great concern to overall wound healing. There have been many studies indicating an inextricably link between dysfunctional macrophages and fibrotic scars. Macrophages are not only related to pathogen destruction and phagocytosis of apoptotic cells, but also involved in angiogenesis, keratinization and collagen deposition. These abundant cell functions are attributed to specific heterogeneity and plasticity of macrophages, which also add an extra layer of complexity to correlational researches.
Methods:
This article summarizes current understanding of macrophage polarization in scar formation and several prevention and treatment strategies on pathological scarring related to regulation of macrophage behaviors by utilizing databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar and so on.
Results:
There are many studies proving that macrophages participate in the course of wound healing by converting their predominant phenotype. The potential of macrophages in managing hypertrophic scars and keloid lesions have been underscored.
Conclusion:
Macrophage polarization offers new prevention strategies for pathological scarring. Learning about and targeting at macrophages may be helpful in achieving optimum wound healing.
Insights
Targeting macrophage polarization offers novel strategies for preventing and treating abnormal scarring. Understanding macrophage roles in wound healing is key to optimizing outcomes and reducing scar burden.
Area of Science:
- Wound Healing Research
- Cellular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Abnormal scarring presents significant challenges for patients and healthcare systems.
- Macrophages are critical cells in wound healing, with their dysfunction linked to fibrotic scars.
- Macrophage heterogeneity and plasticity influence numerous functions, including collagen deposition and angiogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize current knowledge on macrophage polarization in scar formation.
- To review prevention and treatment strategies for pathological scarring by regulating macrophage behavior.
Main Methods:
- Literature review utilizing PubMed and Google Scholar.
- Analysis of studies on macrophage polarization and pathological scarring.
Main Results:
- Macrophages play a dynamic role in wound healing through phenotype conversion.
- Evidence supports the potential of macrophages in managing hypertrophic scars and keloids.
Conclusions:
- Macrophage polarization presents promising new avenues for pathological scar prevention.
- Targeting macrophages is a potential strategy for achieving optimal wound healing outcomes.
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