Methods in isolation and characterization of bovine monocytes and macrophages

Monocytes and macrophages belong to the mononuclear phagocyte system play important roles in both physiological pathological processes. The cells belonging monocyte/macrophage are structurally functionally heterogeneous. Several subsets of monocytes have been previously identified mammalian blood, generating different subpopulations tissues. Although their distribution phenotype similar human counterpart, bovine feature differences functions purification procedures. specific that fulfil several diseases species, including among others tuberculosis paratuberculosis, brucellosis or disease related peripartum, remain still partially elusive. purpose this review is discuss current knowledge macrophages. We will describe methods for characterization major functions, chemotaxis, phagocytosis killing, oxidative burst, apoptosis necrosis. An overview flow cytometry morphological procedures, cytology, histology immunohistochemistry, currently utilized monocyte macrophage main populations presented as well.