Macrophage heterogeneity and tissue lipids
Siamon Gordon
Siamon Gordon
Published January 2, 2007
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2007;117(1):89-93. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI30992.
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Commentary

Macrophage heterogeneity and tissue lipids

Abstract

Macrophages are present as resident cells in adipose tissue, and blood monocytes are recruited in increased numbers to sites of lipid accumulation in atherosclerosis, a modified form of inflammation in the arterial wall. Recent findings reported by 3 separate groups in this issue of the JCI provide evidence for distinct monocyte subsets, differential chemokine receptor usage, and phenotypic modulation of macrophages in murine models of genetic and high-fat diet–induced disease (see the related articles beginning on pages 175, 185, and 195). These studies raise prospects for selective therapeutic targets to ameliorate macrophage hyperinflammatory responses, while sparing host defense and repair mechanisms.

Authors

Siamon Gordon

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Figure 2

Monocyte and macrophage recruitment and response to tissue lipids.

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Monocyte and macrophage recruitment and response to tissue lipids. Summa...
Summary of findings reported in the present studies (3–5). It is not clear whether individual monocytes express all markers and whether cells of each subset are recruited stochastically from the circulation. Some markers are not shown, which reflects lack of study rather than absence of expression. See text for role of Gr-1lo cells in atherosclerosis and in the generation of CD11c– cells. CCR5 involvement is partial (part; see text).