Apoptotic Cell Clearance: Basic Biology and Therapeutic Potential

Overview

Journal Nat Rev Immunol

Specialty Allergy & Immunology

Date 2014 Feb 1

PMID 24481336

Citations 599

Authors

Ivan K H Poon

Christopher D Lucas

Adriano G Rossi

Kodi S Ravichandran

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

The prompt removal of apoptotic cells by phagocytes is important for maintaining tissue homeostasis. The molecular and cellular events that underpin apoptotic cell recognition and uptake, and the subsequent biological responses, are increasingly better defined. The detection and disposal of apoptotic cells generally promote an anti-inflammatory response at the tissue level, as well as immunological tolerance. Consequently, defects in apoptotic cell clearance have been linked with various inflammatory diseases and autoimmunity. Conversely, under certain conditions, such as the killing of tumour cells by specific cell-death inducers, the recognition of apoptotic tumour cells can promote an immunogenic response and antitumour immunity. Here, we review the current understanding of the complex process of apoptotic cell clearance in physiology and pathology, and discuss how this knowledge could be harnessed for new therapeutic strategies.

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