Macrophage participation in the mouse model of lupus induced by non-bilayer phospholipid arrangements 2853

Abstract Description Macrophages represent the most diverse type of immune cells and are present in all tissues. They activate in response to pathogens and modulate the adaptive immune response by processing and presenting antigens. Some of their functions include initiating and resolving inflammation and facilitating tissue repair. Macrophages can be classified into M1 and M2 phenotypes. Elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines, potent microbicidal properties, high reactive nitrogen and oxygen intermediates, and Th1 response stimulation characterize the M1 phenotype. In contrast, M2 phenotype cells are essential for immune regulation, tissue remodeling, controlling parasites and tumors, and exhibiting effective phagocytic activity. Our research group developed a mouse model that resembles systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) by administering liposomes bearing non-bilayer phospholipid arrangements (NPA). This administration induces the formation of anti-NPA IgG antibodies that trigger the lupus-like disease in mice. Therefore, we evaluated macrophage polarization in the mesenteric lymph nodes and spleen of BALB/c mice administered with liposomes bearing NPA by flow cytometry to assess their role in the inflammatory response and the formation of high-affinity anti-lipid antibodies. This research improves our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that lead to the formation of high-affinity antibodies against lipids and contributes to insights into the pathogenesis of SLE. Funding Sources This study was supported by grants from Instituto Politécnico Nacional (SIP20241225, SIP20241230, and SIP20241234). Topic Categories Basic Autoimmunity (BA)