Efferocytosis and Respiratory Disease

Abstract

Cells are the smallest units that make up living organisms, which constantly undergo the processes of proliferation, differentiation, senescence and death. Dead cells need to be removed in time to maintain the homeostasis of the organism and keep it healthy. This process is called efferocytosis. If the process fails, this may cause different types of diseases. More and more evidence suggests that a faulty efferocytosis process is closely related to the pathological processes of respiratory diseases. In this review, we will first introduce the process and the related mechanisms of efferocytosis of the macrophage. Secondly, we will propose some methods that can regulate the function of efferocytosis at different stages of the process. Next, we will discuss the role of efferocytosis in different lung diseases and the related treatment approaches. Finally, we will summarize the drugs that have been applied in clinical practice that can act upon efferocytosis, in order to provide new ideas for the treatment of lung diseases.

Alveolar-capillary endocytosis and trafficking in acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome

“…During ALI, there is significant death of epithelial and endothelial cells. Activated neutrophils have an extended lifespan, but they eventually undergo apoptosis ( 139 ). Phagocytosis of apoptotic cells is termed efferocytosis.…”

“…Phagocytosis of apoptotic cells is termed efferocytosis. It has been shown, that efferocytosis plays a critical role in the resolution of inflammation in the setting of ALI ( 139 , 140 ). Of note, a recent clinical study demonstrated that patients with ARDS exhibit impaired alveolar macrophage efferocytosis ( 140 ).…”