Mononuclear Phagocyte System

Abstract

The mononuclear phagocyte system is part of the innate immune system and comprises dendritic cells (DCs), monocytes and macrophages, which fulfil a range of tasks essential for homeostasis and immunity. Macrophages and DCs were originally thought to be variations of monocytes, but recent evidence has defined the distinct origins of macrophages, monocytes and DCs. Mononuclear phagocytes are functionally specialised and play a critical role in all phases of the immune response. They detect and phagocytose pathogens, recruit cells, initiate adaptive immunity by presenting antigens to T cells and coordinate the resolution of inflammation and wound healing. Macrophages have additional vital functions in tissue development and homeostasis. Key Concepts Mononuclear phagocytes (dendritic cells, monocytes and macrophages) are a diverse group of cells with a wide range of functions essential for maintaining organism integrity. Macrophages are tissue resident, play a central role in homeostasis, perform tissue‐specific functions and orchestrate immune responses. Dendritic cells are specialised antigen‐presenting cells with superior ability to initiate immune responses. Monocytes are circulating leucocytes that can enter the tissue and have important roles in phagocytosis, inflammation and wound healing. Mononuclear phagocytes coordinate innate and adaptive immune response.

Establishment and characterization of the immortalized porcine lung-derived mononuclear phagocyte cell line

“…The mononuclear phagocyte system is an important part of the innate immune system (1). Mononuclear phagocytes (MNP) comprise monocytes, dendritic cells (DC), and macrophages and are characterized by their phagocytosis and antigen presentation abilities (1). DC are professional antigen-presenting cells, which initiate adaptive immune responses (1).…”

“…Mononuclear phagocytes (MNP) comprise monocytes, dendritic cells (DC), and macrophages and are characterized by their phagocytosis and antigen presentation abilities (1). DC are professional antigen-presenting cells, which initiate adaptive immune responses (1). Macrophages are professional phagocytes and are highly specialized for the removal of dead cells and cellular debris (1).…”

“…DC are professional antigen-presenting cells, which initiate adaptive immune responses (1). Macrophages are professional phagocytes and are highly specialized for the removal of dead cells and cellular debris (1). Although monocytes were historically considered to be a precursor of DC/macrophages, recent evidence has demonstrated the distinct origins of DC, macrophages, and monocytes (2).…”