Macrophages: the Vigilant Sentinels of the Nasal Great Wall

The story

This image depicts the immunofluorescent staining of mouse nasal mucosa. The structure of the nasal mucosa resembles a Great Wall and serves a similar function—a strong barrier protecting the body’s defensive gateway. Along this "nasal Great Wall," the red-stained macrophages stand out prominently. These powerful immune cells, embedded within the mucosa, act like vigilant sentinels, tirelessly patrolling the defensive line and ready to fend off foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses.

Research area

The glymphatic brain clearance system.

Impact

Our research focuses on unraveling the immune defense mechanisms of the nasal mucosa and their potential connection to neurodegenerative diseases. This understanding could open new avenues for early diagnosis, preventive strategies, and innovative treatments targeting the interplay between immunity and neurodegeneration.

Image description

This image depicts the immunofluorescent staining of mouse nasal mucosa. The structure of the nasal mucosa resembles a Great Wall and serves a similar function—a strong barrier protecting the body’s defensive gateway. Along this "nasal Great Wall," the red-stained macrophages stand out prominently. These powerful immune cells, embedded within the mucosa, act like vigilant sentinels, tirelessly patrolling the defensive line and ready to fend off foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses.

Credits

Marios Kritsilis