An international team of scientists has discovered a unique genetic mechanism that determines the ability of immune cells to maintain organ health. The study showed that a single gene may act as a kind of "switch" that triggers the process of cleansing and repairing tissues throughout the body.
The results of the work were published in the scientific journal Immunity.
The key role in this mechanism is played by the gene regulator MafB. A research team led by Professor Thomas Marichal from the University of Liège in Belgium found that this gene controls the maturation of macrophages, specialized immune system cells that perform the function of cleansing the body.
Macrophages are responsible for destroying microbes and removing damaged cells. If the MafB gene is not activated, these cells stop developing. They remain in the body, but are unable to do their main job - cleaning tissues of cellular debris and dangerous microorganisms.
Scientists have found that MafB controls a network of genes that determine the functional “specialization” of macrophages in different organs — the lungs, spleen, intestines, and kidneys. When this genetic mechanism malfunctions, cellular “garbage” begins to accumulate in tissues. This can lead to inflammation, fibrosis — tissue scarring — and the development of chronic diseases.
Macrophages play a particularly important role in the spleen, where they process iron from old red blood cells, a key process for the normal functioning of the hematopoietic system.
The study also showed that this mechanism is almost identical across species. Comparative DNA analysis revealed more than 4,000 common MafB gene binding sites in the genomes of different vertebrates, including mice and humans. This suggests that evolution has preserved this gene as a critical element for maintaining the body's function.
Scientists believe that the discovery of MafB could provide the basis for new treatments. Instead of suppressing the immune system, future therapies could stimulate the proper maturation of macrophages, helping the body to clear and repair tissues on its own.
This approach may open up new possibilities for combating chronic inflammation, metabolic disorders, and persistent infections.
