A new era of macrophage-based cell therapy

Experimental & Molecular Medicine, Published online: 01 September 2023; doi:10.1038/s12276-023-01068-zTreating disease with the white blood cells called macrophages, in some cases genetically modified, could become an effective clinical option for a range of diseases. Macrophages are cells of the innate (non-specific) immune system that can destroy diseased cells or damaging materials. They can also enhance tissue repair by releasing growth factors and anti-inflammatory molecules. Seung Hyeok Seok and colleagues at Seoul National University in South Korea review the laboratory research and clinical trials that are investigating the potential of macrophages in cell-based therapies. In some trials, macrophages have outperformed cell therapies using the more widely hailed stem cells. Conditions targeted include kidney disease, stroke, arterial disease and cancer. Genetic modification can focus macrophage activity on specific conditions. The authors also survey the wide range of patent activity involving macrophage therapy.
Source: Experimental and Molecular Medicine - Category: Molecular Biology Authors: Source Type: research