Macrophage function

Macrophage function encompasses the broad range of physiological activities performed by macrophages, including phagocytosis, cytokine secretion, and antigen presentation to T cells (Mills, C. D., 2012, Critical Reviews in Immunology). These cells are highly plastic and can transition between pro-inflammatory (M1) and anti-inflammatory or pro-repair (M2) states depending on the microenvironment. In oncology, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) often promote tumor progression, angiogenesis, and immunosuppression, making them a key focus for therapeutic reprogramming (Cassetta, L., & Pollard, J. W., 2018, Nature Reviews Drug Discovery). In chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, aberrant macrophage activation contributes to persistent tissue damage and fibrosis. Because macrophage function represents a complex biological process involving numerous receptors and signaling pathways rather than a single protein, it is classified as a physiological phenotype or biological process rather than a discrete molecular target (Wynn, T. A., et al., 2013, Nature).

Other names

Macrophage activationMacrophage polarizationPhagocytic activityMonocyte-macrophage system functionTAM modulation

Modulation of macrophage recruitment, polarization (M1/M2), and phagocytic activity through various molecular pathways such as the CSF1R axis, the CD47-SIRPα checkpoint, or TLR agonism.