Zeitschrift für Zytokinbiologie

Abstrakt

Macrophages in the spotlight

Alireza Heidari*

Macrophages are immune system cells that play an important role in the protection of the host. Infection-related killing processes and the accumulation of weakened or dead cells are examples of killing processes. Macrophages are large, specialised cells that recognise, engulf, and destroy target cells. The term macrophage is derived from the Greek terms "makro" which means "big" and "phagein" which means to feed. In addition to enhancing inflammation and stimulating the immune system, macrophages also have an antiinflammatory role and may reduce immune reactions through cytokine release. M1 macrophages are those that promote inflammation, while M2 macrophages reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair.