Macrophage heterogeneity in atherosclerotic plaques

JL Johnson, AC Newby - Current opinion in lipidology, 2009 - journals.lww.com
JL Johnson, AC Newby
Current opinion in lipidology, 2009journals.lww.com
Monocyte and macrophage phenotypic diversity is important in atherogenesis. More work is
needed to define consistent marker sets for the different foam cell phenotypes in
experimental animals and humans. Cell tracking studies are needed to establish their
relationship with monocyte subtypes. In addition, genetic and pharmacological manipulation
of phenotypes will be useful to define their functions and exploit the resulting therapeutic
potential.
Summary
Monocyte and macrophage phenotypic diversity is important in atherogenesis. More work is needed to define consistent marker sets for the different foam cell phenotypes in experimental animals and humans. Cell tracking studies are needed to establish their relationship with monocyte subtypes. In addition, genetic and pharmacological manipulation of phenotypes will be useful to define their functions and exploit the resulting therapeutic potential.
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins