Monocytes and Macrophages in Asthma

Abstract

There is increasing evidence implicating the central role of cells of monocyte/macrophage lineage in the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma. This evidence comes from studies on peripheral blood monocytes. BAL fluid and cells and, more recently, airway immunohistochemistry. Elucidation of the mechanisms of macrophage interactions may eventually lead to novel approaches in anti-asthma therapy.

Keywords: Asthma; Macrophages; Monocytes.