The Formation and Function of Granulomas.
Annu Rev Immunol
; 36: 639-665, 2018 04 26.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-29400999
ABSTRACT
Granulomas are organized aggregates of macrophages, often with characteristic morphological changes, and other immune cells. These evolutionarily ancient structures form in response to persistent particulate stimuli-infectious or noninfectious-that individual macrophages cannot eradicate. Granulomas evolved as protective responses to destroy or sequester particles but are frequently pathological in the context of foreign bodies, infections, and inflammatory diseases. We summarize recent findings that suggest that the granulomatous response unfolds in a stepwise program characterized by a series of macrophage activations and transformations that in turn recruit additional cells and produce structural changes. We explore why different granulomas vary and the reasons that granulomas are protective and pathogenic. Understanding the mechanisms and role of granuloma formation may uncover new therapies for the multitude of granulomatous diseases that constitute serious medical problems while enhancing the protective function of granulomas in infections.
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Texto completo:
1
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Granuloma
Tipo de estudo:
Diagnostic_studies
Limite:
Animals
/
Humans
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2018
Tipo de documento:
Article