Macrophage Polarization & Cytokine Secretion

Macrophage polarization refers to the ability of macrophages to adopt different activation states (often termed M1 and M2) in response to environmental signals such as cytokines, pathogens, and other cues[1][3]. M1 macrophages (classically activated) are pro-inflammatory and secrete cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-12, while M2 macrophages (alternatively activated) are anti-inflammatory and involved in tissue repair, secreting cytokines such as IL-10 and TGF-β[1][2][3][5]. Cytokine secretion by macrophages underlies their central role in regulating immune and inflammatory responses and contributes to the pathogenesis of a wide range of diseases including autoimmune disorders, cancer, metabolic, and cardiovascular diseases[1][3][5]. Therapies do not target "macrophage polarization" per se, but rather modulate the signaling pathways and cytokines that influence these states. This category ("Macrophage polarization & cytokine secretion") reflects a complex, dynamic process and not a single molecular entity suitable to function as a structured therapeutic target.

Other names

Macrophage polarizationM1/M2 polarizationCytokine secretion by macrophagesMacrophage activation states