SPP1 macrophages across diseases: A call for reclassification?
Abstract
SPP1+ macrophages, characterized by elevated expression of the osteopontin gene (secreted phosphoprotein 1, SPP1), have emerged as key players in various pathological contexts, including aging, chronic inflammatory diseases, and cancer. While frequently classified as a subclass of tumor-associated macrophages in oncological settings, their presence in noncancer conditions, such as aging-related disorders and muscular diseases, suggests a broader role beyond tumors. These macrophages share conserved traits, including fibrosis promotion, extracellular matrix remodeling, and immune modulation, often linked to poor clinical outcomes. This perspective explores the multifaceted roles of SPP1+ macrophages across diseases and advocates for their reclassification as a distinct macrophage subtype associated with chronic or prolonged inflammation. Recognizing their cross-disease relevance could reshape macrophage biology and inform targeted therapeutic strategies.
The following analysis is generated by AI and may contain errors. It is separate from the authors’ abstract and is not peer review.
Research summary
The paper claims that SPP1+ macrophages should be reclassified as a distinct subtype associated with chronic inflammation across various diseases. The focus on SPP1+ macrophages in the context of aging and chronic inflammatory diseases suggests a potential link to the underlying mechanisms of aging and age-related pathologies, which is relevant to longevity research.
Author of this paper? Send a correction.