makrófaga

A makrófaga, also known as a macrophage, is a type of white blood cell belonging to the immune system's phagocytic family. These cells play a crucial role in detecting, engulfing, and destroying pathogens and apoptotic cells, as well as stimulating lymphocytes and other immune cells to respond to infection or damage. Macrophages are derived from circulating monocytes that migrate from the bloodstream into tissues, where they differentiate and mature.

Macrophages are found in nearly every tissue and organ in the body, where they perform various functions depending on their location and activation state. They are particularly abundant in the liver (Kupffer cells), brain (microglia), lungs (alveolar macrophages), and spleen. Their primary function is phagocytosis—the process of recognizing, binding, and internalizing foreign particles, such as bacteria, viruses, dead cells, and debris. Once ingested, these particles are digested within lysosomes, a process that helps eliminate infections and maintain tissue homeostasis.

Macrophages exhibit remarkable plasticity and can adopt different activation states in response to environmental signals. Classically activated macrophages (M1) are induced by interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and are primarily involved in antimicrobial defense and inflammation. Alternatively activated macrophages (M2) are stimulated by interleukin-4 (IL-4) or IL-13 and are associated with tissue repair, angiogenesis, and anti-inflammatory responses. This dual functionality allows macrophages to participate in both innate and adaptive immunity while also contributing to wound healing and tissue remodeling.

Beyond phagocytosis, macrophages secrete a variety of cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors that modulate immune responses. They also present antigens to T cells, bridging the innate and adaptive immune systems. Dysregulation of macrophage function has been linked to various diseases, including chronic inflammation, autoimmune disorders, and cancer. Understanding their behavior and interactions is essential for developing therapeutic strategies targeting immune-related conditions.