Transcriptional regulation of macrophage polarization: enabling diversity with identity

Nat Rev Immunol. 2011 Oct 25;11(11):750-61. doi: 10.1038/nri3088.

Abstract

In terms of both phenotype and function, macrophages have remarkable heterogeneity, which reflects the specialization of tissue-resident macrophages in microenvironments as different as liver, brain and bone. Also, marked changes in the activity and gene expression programmes of macrophages can occur when they come into contact with invading microorganisms or injured tissues. Therefore, the macrophage lineage includes a remarkable diversity of cells with different functions and functional states that are specified by a complex interplay between microenvironmental signals and a hardwired differentiation programme that determines macrophage identity. In this Review, we summarize the current knowledge of transcriptional and chromatin-mediated control of macrophage polarization in physiology and disease.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Gene Expression Regulation*
  • Humans
  • Interferon Regulatory Factors / metabolism
  • Macrophages / classification
  • Macrophages / immunology*
  • Macrophages / metabolism*
  • PPAR gamma / metabolism
  • Promoter Regions, Genetic / genetics*
  • Protein Binding
  • STAT1 Transcription Factor / metabolism
  • STAT6 Transcription Factor / metabolism

Substances

  • IRF5 protein, human
  • Interferon Regulatory Factors
  • PPAR gamma
  • STAT1 Transcription Factor
  • STAT6 Transcription Factor
  • interferon regulatory factor-4