PATHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Albeit phagocytosis may provide the initial antigen stimulus, the activity of macrophages can be increased by cytokines secreted by helper T cells, with interferon gamma (IFN-) being one of the most potent macrophage activators.

Detailed explanation-2: -Proinflammatory cytokines are produced predominantly by activated macrophages and are involved in the up-regulation of inflammatory reactions. There is abundant evidence that certain pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1, IL-6, and TNF- are involved in the process of pathological pain.

Detailed explanation-3: -Inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-1 (IL-1), and IL-6, enhance the phagocytic and microbicidal activity of the cells and increase their stickiness.

Detailed explanation-4: -Macrophages are activated by interferon- (IFN-) from various sources – including activated NK cells or T cells – or by non-immunologic stimuli such as endotoxin.