Macrophage plasticity and interaction with lymphocyte subsets: cancer as a paradigm

Nat Immunol. 2010 Oct;11(10):889-96. doi: 10.1038/ni.1937. Epub 2010 Sep 20.

Abstract

Plasticity is a hallmark of cells of the myelomonocytic lineage. In response to innate recognition or signals from lymphocyte subsets, mononuclear phagocytes undergo adaptive responses. Shaping of monocyte-macrophage function is an essential component of resistance to pathogens, tissue damage and repair. The orchestration of myelomonocytic cell function is a key element that links inflammation and cancer and provides a paradigm for macrophage plasticity and function. A better understanding of the molecular basis of myelomonocytic cell plasticity will open new vistas in immunopathology and therapeutic intervention.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cytokines / biosynthesis
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / immunology
  • Lymphocyte Subsets / immunology*
  • Macrophage Activation
  • Macrophages / immunology*
  • Macrophages / metabolism
  • Monocytes / immunology
  • Neoplasms / immunology*

Substances

  • Cytokines