Macrophage Response

Macrophages play an important role in protecting the body from various pathogens and foreign substances such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, etc. However, if the protective functions of macrophages are not used correctly, they can turn into tumors, which disrupt the normal functioning of the body and pose a danger to human health. In this article we will look at the macrophage response and its role in human physiology and pathology.

Macrophages are cells that are major participants in the innate immune system and can be found in body tissues. They perform a number of important functions, including protection against infections, removal of dead cells and other microorganisms, and participation in wound healing. It is important to note that macrophages are active “invaders” of microorganisms and are capable of neutralizing and destroying them. In addition, macrophages can respond to various inflammatory stimuli, such as bacterial, viral, mechanical or chemical factors, which affect surrounding tissues and cause their damage.

During the normal macrophage response, macrophages engulf and digest antigens, thereby providing protection to the body from potential infection or foreign substances. When an antigen enters the body, a macrophage reacts to it and engulfs it using a special process known as phagocytosis. Phagocytosis receptors are located on the surface of macrophages and recognize antigens. The macrophage then destroys the antigen using enzymes called lysosomes, thereby killing the antigen and protecting the body from potential infectious agents.

However, if the protective functions of microphages are used incorrectly, there is a risk of their transformation into tumors or mycoses, which can lead to damage to body tissue, illness and even death. The macrophage response can become pathological if macrophages do not remove antigen quickly and efficiently, resulting in the retention of antigens in the body and the development of disease. For example, migration of macrophages into cardiac, thyroid, or liver tissue can lead to myocardial infarction, thyroiditis, or thyroid goiter, respectively, also known as Hodgkin's process or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Violation of the protective function of microphages can be