An innovative combination of methods to identify and study how macrophages function could potentially revolutionise the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases, according to research led by the University of Surrey. Along with the University of Surrey, the research team includes the Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Oxford.
Macrophages play a critical role in the immune system by fighting infections and aiding in tissue repair. Understanding how these cells are activated in different scenarios is important for developing new medical treatments. However, identifying and studying macrophage activation has been challenging due to the complex nature of these cells and their responses.
The research team identified a protein called colony stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) as a reliable marker for monocytes and dendritic cells in blood and macrophages in tissues – allowing for the clear identification and separation of different sample types. The new method works reliably for people of all ages and sexes.
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