Human monocyte

Human monocytes are a type of leukocyte (white blood cell) of the innate immune system, derived from the bone marrow, circulating in blood, and known for their ability to migrate to tissues where they differentiate into macrophages or dendritic cells. Monocytes play central roles in immune surveillance, pathogen clearance by phagocytosis, cytokine production, and antigen presentation. Functionally, they are subdivided into classical (CD14++CD16−), intermediate (CD14+CD16+), and non-classical (CD14dimCD16+) subsets with distinct molecular markers and roles. Monocytes are prominent in inflammatory responses and contribute to various pathologies such as atherosclerosis, infection, and chronic disease. They are not molecular targets themselves, but their surface molecules may serve as therapeutic targets.

Other names

MonocyteClassical monocyteIntermediate monocyteNon-classical monocyteCD14+ monocyteCD16+ monocyte