Dendritic cells, macrophages, and other innate immune cells (Innate immune cells)

Dendritic cells, macrophages, and other innate immune cells represent a diverse group of myeloid and lymphoid-derived cells that serve as the first line of defense against pathogens and tissue injury (StatPearls, 2023). Dendritic cells are specialized antigen-presenting cells (APCs) that capture, process, and present antigens to T cells, thereby bridging innate and adaptive immunity (Worbs et al., 2017). Macrophages are phagocytic cells that maintain tissue homeostasis, clear apoptotic cells, and initiate inflammatory cascades through the secretion of cytokines and chemokines (Wynn et al., 2013). These cells play pivotal roles in various pathologies; for instance, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) often promote an immunosuppressive environment that facilitates cancer progression (NIH, 2024). While these cell populations are central to therapeutic strategies, they are not considered a single molecular target. Instead, drug development focuses on specific receptors and signaling molecules within these cells, such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs) or colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R), to modulate their function in diseases like cancer and chronic inflammation (Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 2020).

Other names

Innate immune systemMyeloid cellsAntigen-presenting cellsAPCsMononuclear phagocyte system

Modulation of innate immune signaling pathways, enhancement of antigen presentation, and regulation of cytokine production (Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 2020).