Origin and Ontogeny of Lung Macrophages: From Mice to Humans.

Origin and Ontogeny of Lung Macrophages: From Mice to Humans. Immunology. 2019 Nov 12;: Authors: Evren E, Ringqvist E, Willinger T Abstract Macrophages are tissue-resident myeloid cells with essential roles in host defense, tissue repair, and organ homeostasis. The lung harbors a large number of macrophages that reside in alveoli. Due to their strategic location, alveolar macrophages are critical sentinels of healthy lung function and barrier immunity. They phagocytose inhaled material and initiate protective immune responses to pathogens, while preventing excessive inflammatory responses and tissue damage. Apart from alveolar macrophages, other macrophage populations are found in the lung and recent single-cell RNA-sequencing studies indicate that lung macrophage heterogeneity is greater than previously appreciated. The cellular origin and development of mouse lung macrophages has been extensively studied, yet little is known about the ontogeny of their human counterparts, despite the importance of macrophages for lung health. In this context, humanized mice (mice with a human immune system) can give new insights into the biology of human lung macrophages by allowing in-vivo studies that are not possible in humans. In particular, we have created humanized mouse models that support the development of human lung macrophages in vivo. In this review, we will discuss the heterogeneity, development, and homeostasis of lung macrophages. Mo...
Source: Immunology - Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Tags: Immunology Source Type: research