Macrophage Activating Factor (MAF)

Macrophage-activating factors (MAFs) are a group of molecules, primarily cytokines or receptor-based signals, that prime macrophages to enhance their cytotoxicity against tumors, increase cytokine secretion, and improve clearance of pathogens. A key example is GcMAF (Gc protein-derived Macrophage Activating Factor), which is produced by deglycosylation of vitamin D-binding protein (DBP) and interacts with CLEC10A isoforms to modulate macrophage activity. Other molecules that activate macrophages through different receptors (e.g., TLRs, complement receptors) can be considered functional 'replacements' even though they represent alternative pathways.

Other names

GcMAFGroup-specific component macrophage activating factor

Priming macrophages to enhance cytotoxicity, cytokine secretion, and phagocytosis via CLEC10A isoforms and other receptors like TLRs and complement receptors.