Liver macrophages coordinate various functions in the liver microenvironment. These enigmatic cells, derived from the mononuclear phagocyte system, have recently become the focus of research, captivating the scientific community with their fascinating heterogeneity and functional specificity.

Creative Biolabs, a service provider in the field of macrophage research, helps scientists explore liver macrophages. Here, we share some information about their heterogeneity and functional roles, and delve into techniques to reveal their biological characteristics.

Heterogeneity of Liver Macrophages

Liver macrophages are innate immune cells that play a key regulatory role in immune defense, tissue repair and metabolic homeostasis. They have two sources: hepatic resident macrophages (Kupffer cells) and monocyte-derived macrophages (MoMFs), which are recruited from the periphery during liver injury. In recent years, with the application of high-end technologies, the study of liver macrophage diversity has been intensified.

• Recent advances in single-cell RNA sequencing and other high-throughput technologies have advanced the understanding of changes in cellular diversity and immune cell subpopulations in states of liver health and disease, altering the previously simple typing strategy of macrophage M1/M2.
• Understanding the heterogeneity of liver macrophages holds therapeutic promise. Modulating the activation state and function of these cells may provide novel therapeutic approaches for liver diseases. Targeting specific subpopulations of macrophages may help to reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair and restore liver homeostasis.

Functional Specificity in the Liver Microenvironment

In response to signals from hepatocytes, endothelial cells, and other immune cells, hepatic macrophages are involved in complex coordinated processes. From orchestrating inflammation to promoting tissue repair, each macrophage subtype plays a role that resonates with the changing needs of the liver.

• Following acute or specific Kupffer cell depletion, MoMFs are recruited and acquire a KCs-like phenotype within hours driven by multiple signals.
• At homeostasis, MoMFs circulate in the hepatic sinusoids, whereas bone marrow-derived MoMFs are recruited to the liver when tissues are damaged.

Techniques for Studying Liver Macrophages

Peering into the realm of liver macrophages demands cutting-edge techniques that mirror their complexity.

• Single-cell RNA sequencing technology
  Macrophages have different functions in different liver diseases, highlighting the importance of multidimensional analysis. Single-cell RNA sequencing technology is a tool for detecting macrophage diversity and helps to identify macrophage subpopulations. Single-cell transcriptomics, in combination with bioinformatics, helps predict novel cellular interactions, reduces the impact of sample preparation methods on the frequency of specific cell populations, and allows transcriptomic analysis from difficult-to-isolate cells.
• Time-lapse imaging technology
  Spatial localization and temporal dimensions are also critical for a proper understanding of macrophage function. Real-time imaging has dramatically changed our understanding of immune responses and their temporality. In addition, time-lapse imaging is important for in vitro studies.

With the guidance of Creative Biolabs, your exploration of liver macrophages will be half the battle. If you are interested in our services, please contact us.

References

1. Krenkel, Oliver, and Frank Tacke. "Liver macrophages in tissue homeostasis and disease." Nature Reviews Immunology 17.5 (2017): 306-321.
2. Laskin, Debra L., Barry Weinberger, and Jeffrey D. Laskin. "Functional heterogeneity in liver and lung macrophages." Journal of leukocyte biology 70.2 (2001): 163-170.