Monocytes Figure (Figure 17.18). Reprinted from OpenStax Microbiology (p. 707), by N. Parker, M. Shneegurt, A.-h. Thi Tu, B. M. Forester, and P. Lister, 2016, Rice University. Copyright 2016 by Rice University.

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Monocytes are granulocytes that clear microbes via phagocytosis as well as other antigens that have been labeled by immunoglobulin (Ig).  These cells are activated after neutrophils are, and they have been found to present in places with chronic inflammation and infection.  Additionally, monocytes are involved in acute inflammation and causing inflammation in granulomatous conditions, which are chronic infections.  They are able to kill microbes by producing nitric oxide and regulate adaptive immunity by producing cytokines such as IL-12 and interferon (IFN)-γ.  Monocytes can differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells.

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Monocytes

Macrophages are differentiated monocytes that can adapt many different phenotypes depending on the signaling that caused them to mature.  Typically, they are pro-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and produce the cytokines IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-12, and TNF.  Alternatively, if the macrophage is activated by IL-4, IL-10, or IL-13, the cell can have anti-inflammatory properties by producing IL-10, the antagonist for the IL-1 receptor, and transforming growth factor β (TGFβ).  

Macrophages

Phagocytes derived from monocytes include:

- Macrophages
- Dendritic Cells

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