Macrophages are assigned to identify “attacks” from viruses, bacteria, or fungi However, these cells are a “double edged sword” in spinal cord injury, providing both neural repair-promoting properties and pathological functions that destroy neuronal tissue. Researchers from the University of Kentucky found that activating bacterial receptors boosted the macrophage response and limited damage to the spinal cord following injury, while activating fungal receptors actually led to greater neuronal destruction.
Findings identify receptors modulating macrophage responses to spinal cord injury
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