Macrophage

Macrophages (Greek: "big eaters") are cells found in tissues that are responsible for phagocytosis of pathogens, dead cells and cellular debris. Macrophages are part of the innate immune system.

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Macrophages are derived from monocytes. Monocytes grow in the bone marrow and enter the bloodstream. Circulating monocytes respond to chemical mediators of inflammation. Upon activation by these mediators, monocytes squeeze through the endothelium. Once through the endothelium, the monocytes are called macrophages. (Some monocytes differentiate into specialized cells such as dendritic cells or microglia).

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