M2d Macrophage Activation State Markers
Click on one of the macrophage activation states shown in the buttons below to see the markers that are commonly used to identify each activated state or view a list of the common macrophage markers used for distinguishing macrophages from other immune cell types.
Overview
M2d Macrophage Activation State Markers Overview
Macrophage activation occurs in response to a variety of stimuli and can generate macrophages with a range of different phenotypes and functions. According to the dichotomous model, classical macrophage activation generates M1 macrophages with pro-inflammatory properties, while alternative activation generates M2 macrophages with anti-inflammatory properties. Slight phenotypic variations in the M2 phenotype subsequently led to the description of distinct M2 subsets known as M2a, M2b, M2c, and M2d. M2d macrophages are common in the tumor microenvironment. They are thought to be induced following stimulation with Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists and adenosine, and/or tumor-associated factors. M2d macrophages secrete low levels of IL-12, and high levels of IL-10 and VEGF, along with CCL5, CXCL10, and CXCL16.