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A stratified myeloid system, the challenge of understanding macrophage diversity
1Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 417 E 68th St New York, NY 10065, USA; Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue New York, NY 10065, USA.
Insights
Macrophage biology research has advanced significantly, revealing a complex myeloid system beyond the traditional view. Understanding this diversity is crucial for insights into tissue homeostasis and immunity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Hematology
Background:
- Commemorates 100 years since Elie Metchnikoff's death, a pioneer in phagocyte research.
- Macrophage roles in homeostasis and immunity are well-established but increasingly complex.
- Recent findings highlight the myeloid system's diversity beyond the generalized macrophage concept.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of macrophage biology and myeloid cell diversity.
- To discuss the limitations of the traditional view of macrophages in light of new data.
- To propose a model accounting for the complexity of myeloid cell populations.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of current research in immunology and cell biology.
- Discussion of historical perspectives and advancements in understanding myeloid cells.
- Presentation of a tentative model for myeloid cell diversity.
Main Results:
- The traditional concept of a single, plastic macrophage is insufficient.
- The myeloid system comprises diverse cell types with distinct origins and functions.
- A more nuanced understanding is needed to advance research in vivo.
Conclusions:
- Future research must embrace the complexity of myeloid cell populations.
- A quantitative and molecular approach is necessary for understanding myeloid cell biology.
- The proposed model aims to guide future investigations into myeloid cell diversity and function.
Abstract:
The present issue of 'Seminars in Immunology' addresses the topic of macrophage biology, 100 years after the death of Elie Metchnikoff (May 1845-July 1916). As foreseen by Metchnikoff, the roles of macrophages in the maintenance of homeostasis and immunity against pathogens have become a broad and active area of investigation. We now start to realize that the myeloid system includes a multiplicity of cell types with diverse developmental origins and functions. Therefore, the textbook picture of a plastic and multifunctional macrophage does not meet the requirements of our current knowledge anymore. Further development toward a quantitative and molecular understanding of myeloid cell biology in vivo and their roles in tissue homeostasis and remodeling will benefit from taking this complexity into account. A tentative model to help in this pursuit and account for myeloid cell and macrophage diversity is discussed below.
