Dynamic regulation and targeted interventions of macrophages in ischemia-reperfusion injury

Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury (IRI) is a complex pathophysiological process characterized by oxidative stress and inflammatory responses during tissue reperfusion, leading to severe organ dysfunction. Macrophages, as key immune cells, play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of IRI, exhibiting dynamic functions that influence both tissue damage and repair. Despite extensive research, the precise mechanisms underlying macrophage-mediated IRI remain incompletely understood, necessitating a comprehensive review to explore their multifaceted roles and potential therapeutic targets.

This review aims to elucidate the diverse roles of macrophages in IRI, focusing on their involvement in programmed cell death mechanisms, communication with other immune cells, and regulatory effects on key organs affected by IRI. The review also explores potential therapeutic strategies targeting macrophages to mitigate IRI-induced injury. Key Scientific Concepts of Review: This article reviews the multifaceted roles of macrophages in IRI and explores various modes of macrophage programmed cell death induced by IRI, including gasdermin D-mediated pyroptosis, lipid peroxidation-associated ferroptosis, PARP-1-mediated PAR-dependent cell death, PANoptosis regulated by the PANoptosome, and the formation of macrophage extracellular traps (METs) induced by both reactive oxygen species-dependent and -independent pathways. Additionally, it discusses intercellular communication between macrophages and other immune cells in IRI, focusing on the bidirectional regulatory effects between macrophages and neutrophils, as well as their synergistic role in resolving inflammation. Moreover, the regulatory mechanisms of macrophages in IRI affecting key organs, such as the brain, lung, heart, kidneys and liver, have been systematically summarized. Finally, innovative therapeutic strategies targeting macrophages, including precise approaches such as regulating cell polarization, inhibiting excessive METs formation, and utilizing nano-drug delivery systems, are thoroughly analyzed. This review provides a significant theoretical foundation for clinical translational research on IRI.