What do M2 cells do?

M2 macrophages play a pivotal role in regulating inflammation within the body. These specialized immune cells are tasked with resolving ongoing inflammatory responses, thereby restoring homeostasis to affected tissues.

In their resolving function, M2 macrophages facilitate the healing process of damaged tissues. They do so by secreting factors that promote the proliferation of cells involved in tissue repair and regeneration.

An essential aspect of M2 macrophage function is their ability to tolerate self-antigens. This tolerance prevents an immune response against the body's own cells, ensuring that healthy tissues are not mistakenly targeted for destruction.

Beyond self-antigens, M2 macrophages also demonstrate a level of tolerance towards certain neoantigens. Neoantigens are novel antigens that arise due to various biological processes, such as cell death or symbiosis.

For instance, M2 macrophages can tolerate apoptotic cells, which are cells that undergo programmed cell death. By recognizing and eliminating these cells, M2 macrophages help clear out damaged or unwanted cells without triggering an inflammatory response.