Macrophages in food allergy: an enigma

Abstract

Macrophages, the characteristic cell type in inflammatory reactions, participate in a variety of immunological events in humans and other mammals. They act as regulatory switches for both innate and acquired arms of immune system and play a vital role in tissue repair. Recent studies have shown the possible role of macrophages in food allergic reactions. Since, there is involvement of alveolar as well as peritoneal macrophages in the pathogenesis of several food allergies, the present review covers the relevance of macrophage related immunological response in food allergic reactions.

Keywords: Allergy; Alveolar macrophage; Macrophage; Peritoneal macrophage.