Transcriptional profiles of macrophages in resolving inflammation

We have performed a comprehensive transcriptional analysis of specific monocyte and macrophage (M) subsets during an acute self-resolving inflammatory insult. Following initial induction of acute inflammation, tissue resident (Resident) M are rapidly cleared from the inflammatory foci, only becoming recoverable as inflammation resolves. Monocytes are recruited to the inflammatory lesion where they differentiate into M. We term these monocyte-derived M inflammation-associated to distinguish them from Resident M which are present throughout the inflammatory response and can renew during the resolution of inflammation by proliferation. Comparative analysis of the Mo and M populations (both inflammation-associated and Resident M) identifies select genes expressed in subsets of inflammation-associated and Resident M that play important roles in the resolution of inflammation and/or for immunity, including molecules involved in antigen presentation, cell cycle and others associated with immaturity and M activation.

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