Researchers reveal how cells rewrite their fate
Researchers discovered a protein, C/EBPα, that accelerates B lymphocyte-to-macrophage conversion by interacting with PU.1. This epigenetic mechanism may be targeted for cancer research and treatment.
Macrophages
Articles tagged with Macrophages
Engineered white blood cells eliminate cancer
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science have developed a new therapy that uses engineered macrophages to eliminate solid tumors. The treatment works by silencing a molecular pathway that prevents white blood cells from attacking cancer cells, allowing them to recognize and destroy tumoroids.
Two new studies identify promising pathways to treat chronic COVID-19
Two studies investigate long-term consequences of COVID-19, identifying potential drug targets for treating chronic disease. Researchers found novel pathways in the lungs and immune system that may lead to effective treatment options, including therapies targeting immune dysfunction and mucous cell differentiation.
Leishmania parasite manipulates organism’s defense system to continue replicating, study shows
Researchers at USP in Brazil discovered that Leishmania parasites manipulate the protein gasdermin-D to prevent the immune system from killing them. This allows the parasite to continue replicating and causing disease. The findings offer hope for developing novel treatments for leishmaniasis, a disease affecting 30,000 people annually.
Microbubble macrophages track tumors #ASA184
Scientists have created a new way to image and track macrophages in the body using ultrasound-enhanced immune cells. This method has potential for early cancer detection and monitoring of therapeutic efficacy. The technique involves attaching microbubbles to macrophages, allowing for high-resolution tracking images.
New immunotherapy targeting tumour macrophages to tackle lung cancer
Researchers have developed a new immunotherapy targeting tumour macrophages, which are immunosuppressive cells that weaken the immune system. The treatment, RImAb, reduces tumour growth and modifies the tumour microenvironment, offering potential for a new line of treatment for lung cancer patients.
Key to fighting chronic inflammation in severe COVID
Researchers have discovered that most immune cells contributing to chronic inflammation in severe COVID-19 are not infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Instead, these uninfected macrophages detect damage and trigger a strong inflammatory response, leading to excessive collateral damage.
Spatial patterns of immune cells predict patient outcomes in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center found that tumor-associated macrophage clustering in the stromal compartment is associated with poor outcomes. The study developed a score based on gene expression to predict macrophage clustering, which also predicted disease stage and survival.
A backpack full of multiple sclerosis therapy
A cell therapy using myeloid cells bound to drug delivery microparticles reduces disease burden in a preclinical multiple sclerosis model. The therapy partially reverses hind limb paralysis and improves motor functions.
Important role of intestinal immune cells in iron deficiency identified for the first time
A study from MedUni Vienna found that macrophages in the duodenum control iron absorption by degrading transferrin. This discovery may lead to new treatment options for inflammatory bowel diseases and intestinal infections.
Protecting the vision of premature babies
Researchers have found a new target and drug combination that appears to stop the destruction of vision in premature newborns. By blocking ACAT1, an enzyme that converts cholesterol into smaller pieces, scientists can prevent the formation of leaky blood vessels and inflammation in the retina.
How cadmium-induced inflammation increases the severity and mortality of lung infections
A study by University of Alabama at Birmingham researchers reveals that cadmium-induced inflammation increases the severity and mortality of lung infections. The findings suggest that targeting the regulation of PPAR-gamma in macrophages may protect against severe pneumonia.
Alternative route used by specialized immune cells to colonize the embryonic brain suggests new approach to fighting fetal brain dysfunction
Researchers at Nagoya University found an alternative route for microglia colonization in the embryonic brain, suggesting a novel approach to combat diseases like fetal brain dysfunction. Macrophages can convert into microglia later in development, providing new insights into microglial plasticity and behavior.
To ice or not to ice? Icing promotes muscle regeneration after mild injury
Researchers found that applying ice to minor muscle damage in rats enhances muscle repair and reduces inflammation. The study used an animal model of mild injuries and showed that icing attenuates the recruitment of pro-inflammatory macrophages, preventing injury expansion. This contradicts previous findings on the negative effects of ...
Trinity and University of Manchester researchers tackle parasitic worms that infect millions worldwide
A recent study published in the journal Immunity has shed light on the immune response to parasitic worm infection, revealing a critical role for T cells and macrophages. The research team identified specific signaling molecules that control the development of tissue-resident macrophages, which are essential for eliminating the infection.
Scientists make a breakthrough in the cellular recognition of microplastics
Researchers at Ritsumeikan University have made a breakthrough in understanding how macrophages recognize microplastics, discovering an interaction between aromatic rings that drives this process. The study suggests that while microplastics may not induce acute inflammation, chronic exposure could lead to autoimmune diseases.
Labeling macrophages associated with cancer progression using a selective dye
Researchers have developed a novel probe, CDg18, to selectively dye M2 macrophages, which are associated with cancer progression. This breakthrough enables real-time monitoring of macrophage reprogramming in cancerous tissues, holding promise for new cancer treatments.
HIV can persist for years in myeloid cells of people on antiretroviral therapy
A new study confirms that HIV can persist in myeloid cells for months to several years, even in virally suppressed individuals. The findings suggest that these cells contribute to a long-lived HIV reservoir and may be an important target for cure efforts.
New study: HIV genomes that hide in white blood cells offer new target to eliminate infections
Scientists have identified monocytes, a type of white blood cell, as a potential target for eliminating HIV infections. A new study found that monocytes can harbor stable HIV genomes, which may provide a new direction for efforts to improve therapies and eventually cure the disease.
Harnessing power of immune system may lessen reliance on antibiotics for infections like TB
Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have discovered a key role for autophagy in controlling intracellular infections like TB. By boosting this natural process, they hope to create new treatments that can combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Getting around muscle aging
A new study found a protein that regulates macrophage function, clearing residues from regenerating muscle and recovering regenerative capacity in aged mice. The discovery holds promise for regenerative medicine and aging, potentially improving the success of current stem-cell based therapies.
Enzyme-regulating macrophages found in both humans and mice open the door to translating findings in mice into human therapies.
A study published in Cell Death & Disease reveals that a protein cross-linking enzyme called TG2 exacerbates kidney fibrosis by polarizing M2 macrophages. The researchers hope to develop treatments for diseases caused by inflammation imbalance, such as fibrosis, cancer, and atherosclerosis.
Upgraded tumor model optimizes search for cancer therapies
Researchers created a three-dimensional structure that mimics bone and houses osteosarcoma cells beside immune cells, finding increased inflammation reduces chemotherapy effectiveness. The study highlights the importance of the tumor microenvironment in disease progression and treatment.
Study of immune ‘neighborhoods’ highlights macrophages as key players in invasive breast cancers
A comprehensive analysis of invasive ER+ breast cancers found macrophages as dominant immune cells infiltrating tumors. The study identified distinct immune cell 'neighborhoods' associated with good patient outcomes and highlights the need for tailored immunotherapies targeting macrophages.
Fats help tag medical implants as friend or foe
Researchers discovered that lipid deposition on medical implant surfaces can signal to the immune system whether to attack or ignore the implant. This knowledge could help develop biomaterials that deflect host immune aggression, reducing malfunction rates for devices like pacemakers and surgical mesh.
In search of inflammatory Achilles heel
Researchers at Kyoto University found that neutrophils instruct macrophages to form a bacteria-permissive microenvironment, which could have implications for cancer treatment. The study suggests that A9, an enzyme expressed in neutrophils, may play a key role in this process.
Scientists unearth potential new therapeutic target for inflammatory diseases such as Lupus and sepsis
Researchers found that Fumarate Hydratase is repressed in macrophages, leading to the release of cytokines and worsening inflammation. Restoring or targeting this enzyme could lead to new anti-inflammatory therapies for diseases like Lupus and sepsis.
Novel biomimetic polypeptides activate tumor-infiltrating macrophages, offering hope for cancer therapy
Researchers have developed novel biomimetic polypeptides that activate M1-like macrophages, a type of immune cell involved in fighting cancer. The new immunomodulators, known as BMPPs, exhibit excellent biocompatibility and efficacy, making them a promising tool for cancer therapy.
Modifying messenger RNA may provide a new target for Alzheimer’s disease
Reducing mRNA methylation promotes migration of macrophages into the brain and clearance of toxic protein amyloid-beta. This pathway provides a potential new target for treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Newly identified personalized immunotherapy combination treats an aggressive form of advanced prostate cancer
Researchers discovered a new personalized immunotherapy combination that treats aggressive forms of advanced prostate cancer. By blocking PD-1-expressing macrophages and Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation, the therapy significantly improves response rates in PTEN-deficient cancers.
Specialized garbage disposal cell, implicated in autoimmune disease, tracked for the first time
Researchers tracked the lifecycle and function of tingible body macrophages, specialized cells that clean up the immune system's waste, in a significant breakthrough. The study sheds light on autoimmune disorders like lupus by understanding the role of these cells in triggering autoimmunity.
The harmful effects of immune cells in hypertension
Researchers found that immune cells play a key role in hypertension, weakening blood vessel walls and damaging the blood-brain barrier. Inhibiting inflammatory messengers may be a new therapeutic target for treating hypertension.
Combination of immune cells could provide clearer prognoses for cancer
Researchers at Uppsala University developed a prognostic method using a combination of immune cells to provide clearer disease prognoses and predict which patients will respond best to immunotherapy. The method was shown to be associated with patient fate in several types of cancer.
Rare genetic disease may protect Ashkenazi Jews against TB
Research by University of Cambridge scientists reveals that a rare genetic disorder, Gaucher disease, provides protection against TB due to an unusual fatty chemical that acts as a microbicide. The study suggests that Ashkenazi Jews, who are more susceptible to Gaucher disease, may be less likely to contract TB infection.
Spanish scientists identify a new therapeutic target in macrophages for the treatment of obesity-related diseases
Macrophages adapt their metabolism according to the organ they reside in, reveals Spanish scientists. This discovery highlights a vulnerability of macrophages that contributes to chronic inflammatory diseases and could be exploited therapeutically for conditions like cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
Identified mechanism involved in development and intensification of cancer treatment-related pain
A study found that immune checkpoint inhibitors enhance chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain by blocking interaction between macrophages and neurons via PD1-PDL1 synergy. This discovery could lead to the development of therapeutic alternatives to prevent pain while maintaining anti-neoplastic effects.
“Spleen-on-a-chip” yields insight into sickle cell disease
Researchers developed a microfluidic device to model the spleen's filtration function in patients with sickle cell disease. The study found that low oxygen levels can cause the spleen's filters to become clogged, while boosting oxygen levels can unclog them, potentially explaining how blood transfusions help patients.
New Chinese Medical Journal article discusses metabolic reprogramming of tumor-associated macrophages
Researchers identified key metabolic pathways in tumor-associated macrophages that contribute to cancer development and progression. Targeting these pathways may provide a new perspective for immunotherapy-based cancer treatments.
Oncotarget | Resistance of MMTV-NeuT/ATTAC mice to anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint therapy is associated with macrophage infiltration and Wnt pathway expression
Researchers found that MMTV-NeuT/ATTAC mice treated with anti-PD-1 therapy developed increased tumor-associated macrophages, EMT, fibroblast proliferation, and enhanced extracellular matrix. These findings suggest potential therapeutic avenues to enhance PD-1 immune checkpoint sensitivity.
Harnessing tumor’s power to heal non-healing wounds
Scientists discover a way to train healthy immune cells to acquire tumor cells' skills for accelerating diabetic wound healing. TAMs-educated macrophages promote cell proliferation, resolve inflammation and orchestrate vasculature.
PPARγ acetylation in macrophages impairs adipose tissue function
Macrophage PPARγ acetylation decreases energy expenditure and worsens insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, and lipid metabolism in mice fed a high-fat diet. This impairment promotes macrophage infiltration, adipose fibrosis, and hepatic steatosis.
Alveolar macrophages help CD8+ T cells go (anti-)viral
Researchers from Nara Institute of Science and Technology found that alveolar macrophages act as antigen-presenting cells to prime CD8+ T cell expansion in the lungs. This process involves the production of interleukin 18, leading to the development of resident memory-type cell populations.
Researchers determine genetic variants offered protection during Black Death, associated with current autoimmune disorders
A study found that genetic variants near ERAP2 and TICAM2 provided protection against Yersinia pestis, the bacterium responsible for the Black Death. These variants were also associated with improved detection and resistance to other pathogens, but at a cost: increased risk of autoimmune disorders like Crohn's disease.
Combined effect of bacteria and iron levels on the progression of colorectal cancer
Researchers found that excessive iron accumulation accelerates tumor growth in F. nucleatum-positive colorectal cancer by enhancing inflammatory responses in immune cells, promoting interpatient prognostic variability. Iron levels also modulate macrophage expression profiles, transforming them into pro-tumor cells expressing CCL8.
Mysterious outbreak of bone-eating TB resembled an ancestral form
Researchers identify unique chemical signal allowing ancient TB bacteria to evade immune system and spread beyond lungs. The 'mobile factor', called EsxM, allows the bacteria to infect macrophages more easily, leading to bone infections in six people.
Rejuvenated immune cells can improve clearance of toxic waste from brain
Scientists at WashU Medicine have discovered that immune cells surrounding the brain play a crucial role in clearing toxic clusters of proteins. Treating old mice with an immune-stimulating compound rejuvenates these cells, improving waste clearance and holding promise for treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
A new nanoparticle to act at the heart of cells
Researchers have developed a transport nanoparticle to deliver an anti-inflammatory drug, Necrosulfonamide (NSA), directly into macrophages to combat inflammatory overactivation. The mesoporous silica nanoparticle is fully biodegradable and non-toxic, showing remarkable efficacy in reducing inflammation.
Unlocking hidden connections between cell death and inflammation
Researchers have discovered that mutations in mitochondrial-related genes can trigger hyperinflammation, leading to diseases such as Crohn's disease and tuberculosis. The study found that these mutations lead to a new type of cell death called necroptosis, which causes an aggressive inflammatory immune response.
Root of triple negative breast cancer immunosuppression and chemoresistance revealed
A study reveals that interleukin 34 (IL-34) modulates the balance between two myeloid-derived suppressor cell populations, leading to immunosuppression and chemoresistance in triple-negative breast cancer. Neutralizing IL-34 with a drug reduces tumor growth and susceptibility to chemotherapy.
Advanced nanoparticles provide new weapon to fight difficult cancers
Advanced nanoparticles carrying a bacterially derived compound target the STING pathway, disrupting blood vessels and stimulating an immune response. This approach suppresses tumor growth and metastasis in several types of cancers.
New strategy enables targeted treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
A new strategy for treating rheumatoid arthritis has been proposed, integrating small interfering RNAs and Prussian blue nanoparticles to silence proinflammatory cytokines and scavenge reactive oxygen species. The approach was tested in a mouse model, showing improved therapeutic efficacy and real-time monitoring capabilities.
New machine-learning technique for classifying key immune cells has implications for a suite of diseases
Researchers developed a new machine-learning approach to classify macrophages, which are key immune cells involved in pro- or anti-inflammatory responses. This technology could be used as a diagnosis tool or to highlight the role of specific cell types in disease environments.
Testosterone is an ally of macrophages in the battle against adrenal cancers
Recruitment of tumor-fighting macrophages depends on testosterone. Administering testosterone to females increases macrophage ability to eradicate tumor cells.
Infections can have long-term consequences
A VUB study has mapped the immune system's response to brain infections, revealing that resident macrophages play a key role in defending against pathogens. The researchers found that blood-derived immune cells can eliminate parasites, but may retain 'memory' of past infections, altering their ability to respond to future insults.
New cell population identified in Alzheimer's Disease allows better targeting of macrophage populations in treatment of neurodegeneration
A new study has discovered two distinct cell populations in Alzheimer's Disease: disease-associated microglia and disease inflammatory macrophages. The former exhibits beneficial functions, while the latter displays pro-inflammatory features.
Kidney resident macrophages have distinct subpopulations and occupy distinct microenvironments
Researchers identified seven distinct subpopulations of kidney resident macrophages, each with unique transcriptomic signatures and functions. These subpopulations are associated with different portions of the nephron and have distinct roles in protecting the kidney from infection and maintaining tissue health.
Providing ‘quality assurance’ for new stem cells: Macrophages do the vetting
Researchers discovered that macrophages eliminate stressed stem cells with high levels of reactive oxygen species, while healthy cells are amplified. The study found that a specific marker, calreticulin, acts as an 'eat me' signal for stressed cells.
Stowers scientists use zebrafish to understand the connection between the immune system and regeneration
Stowers scientists investigate macrophage activation states in zebrafish sensory organ, discovering three distinct anti-inflammatory pathways that may inform human regenerative immunotherapies. The study provides valuable insights into the timing and genetic programs of macrophages, a type of white blood cell, in repair and regeneration.
High cholesterol leads to long-term liver scarring and immune cell dysfunction in lab study
A lab study found that high cholesterol intake worsens fatty liver disease progression by driving inflammation and scarring. The researchers also discovered long-lasting dysfunction in immune cells responsible for fighting liver damage. Moderation is key to maintaining a healthy diet, according to the study's findings.
DNA guardians out of control
Scientists at the University of Bonn discovered that an overactivated cGAS/STING signaling pathway leads to severe inflammation in ANCA-associated vasculitis. The study involved patients with the disease and a novel mouse model, providing new insights into potential drug targets.