Biologists from the Garvan Institute of Medical Research in Australia used genetically
For their experiment, the researchers createdgenetically edited mice whose macrophages were labeled with red fluorescent protein. The scientists monitored the activity of these immune cells in real time using a two-photon laser microscope.
Germ Center (GC) Surveillancelymph node, obtained using two-photon microscopy. B-lymphocytes (green) move around "waiting" macrophages (red). Video: Garvan Institute of Medical Research
The study showed that, unlike otherimmune cells, macrophages in the germinal centers of the lymphatic system do not pursue their goals, but disperse throughout the space of the lymph nodes and “wait” for their prey. When dead or dying B-lymphocytes approach the macrophage, it "captures" the prey and consumes it in order to process it.
Lymph nodes contain large amounts ofnumber of dead cells. During the immune response, huge numbers of B lymphocytes are produced inside the lymph nodes, which are then “tested” for their ability to neutralize the infection. Those cells that do not cope with the task are rejected and must be destroyed. The processing of these cells in the germinal centers is ensured by macrophages.
Autoimmune diseases, as the authors believestudies occur when macrophages fail to cope with their function. In this case, “rejected” B cells enter the cells, cause inflammation and inadvertently activate an autoimmune response. Biologists believe that a detailed study of the behavior of macrophages will make it possible to find a way to treat such diseases.
In the current study, the activity of immune cells was observed only for a healthy organism, in the future, scientists plan to repeat the experiment for animals with an autoimmune disease.
Read more:
Named a vitamin that protects the brain from dementia
See how the Earth has changed over 100 million years on the most detailed map
It turned out which men are the most fertile: their sperm is 50% better than the rest
Cover: Two-photon microscopy image of a lymph node. Image: Garvan Institute of Medical Research