Macrophages are cells differentiated from circulating bone
marrow-derived monocytes. The main function of macrophages is to remove
cellular debris and destroy invading pathogens. Rat Splenic Macrophages
(RSMa) reside in the spleen and play a critical role in maintaining
blood homeostasis [1]. There are three distinct populations of splenic
macrophages including: red pulp macrophages, marginal zone macrophages,
and marginal zone metallophillic macrophages [1, 2]. RSMa perform iron
processing functions and aid in the capture of microbes and viruses in
the circulatory system [1, 2]. Recent studies have shown that splenic
macrophages contribute to stroke pathology and autoimmune diseases [3,
4]. RSMa are an excellent model for studying macrophage functions under normal physiological and pathological conditions.
RSMa from ScienCell Research Laboratories are isolated from ***** CD®
IGS rat spleen. RSMa are cryopreserved after purification and delivered
frozen. Each vial contains > 1 x 106 cells in 1 ml
volume. RSMa are characterized by immunofluorescence with antibody to
F4/80. RSMa are negative for mycoplasma, bacteria, yeast, and fungi.
RSMa are guaranteed to further culture in the conditions provided by
ScienCell Research Laboratories; however, RSMa are not recommended for expanding or long-term cultures since the cells do not proliferate in regular culture.
