polarized cells - (Jun/17/2010 )

Hi everyone,
I am wondering if some one can explain to me what “polarized cell” means? Does it refer to cell morphology?
Thanks!

Hi,

In terms of macrophages if a macrophage has been matured with, say, LPS+IFNg, then it becomes POLARIZED to a classically activated state ie it will respond by producing TH1 cytokines in response to appropriate stimulus. If the macrophage is matured with TH2 cytokines, such as IL-4 + IL-13, it becomes POLARIZED to an alternatively activated state ie responds to stimulus with TH2 cytokines. Also unique markers for each polarized state will decrease or increase depending on what sort of macrophage you have polarized the initial macrophage to.

I don't think polarization has much to do with morphology although. I wouldn't think so. If a monocyte matures to a macrophage I would think that would be CONVERSION. I think POLARIZATION is more complicated and intricate.

I hope this helps you a bit.

Hi again,

Ignore my last post. I'm incorrect!

Here is a good review on the subject:

http://www.nature.com/nrm/focus/polarity/index.html

jakatta70 on Jun 18 2010, 03:30 AM said:

Sayeh on Jun 17 2010, 09:37 PM said: