A research team from the FWF-sponsored Special Research Area SFB F83 Immunometabolism led by Thomas Weichhart from the Center of Pathobiochemistry & Genetics has now demonstrated for the first time the metabolic role of macrophages in the renewal of intestinal cells, which sheds light on the complex interplay between immune cells and tissue regeneration. In particular, it could be described that macrophages produce the metabolites spermidine and spermine in high amounts, which then benefit the other tissue cells in the organ. As a result, the tissue cells no longer need to produce these substances themselves and are better able to perform their proper functions. This first description of a "commensal metabolism" of macrophages was recently published in the journal "Cell Metabolism".
For more details on the work see "News" of MedUni Vienna.