“AAI 2022: Peritoneal Macrophages” Featuring Dr. Gwendalyn Randolph
May 6, 2022
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Dr. Gwendalyn Randolph, an expert in Immunology and Pathology, shares insights on peritoneal macrophages at the AAI 2022 conference. Topics include macrophage diversity, lipid storage, career advice for scientists, and challenges faced by women balancing career and parenthood.
Understanding the diversity and mysteries of peritoneal macrophages
Exploring the relationship between macrophages and lipid metabolism for cellular function and protection
Deep dives
Dr. Gwendolyn Randolph's Talk on Diversity and Function of Peritoneal Macrophages
Dr. Gwendolyn Randolph from Washington University in St. Louis discusses the diversity, function, and mysteries of peritoneal macrophages. She examines how her interest in macrophage biology stemmed from studying monocytes and their trafficking patterns, particularly the differences between dendritic cells and macrophages. The discussion delves into the origins and roles of tissue macrophages in organs, highlighting their diverse functions and the importance of understanding the nuances of macrophage behavior based on their environment and metabolic functions.
Macrophages and Lipid Metabolism: Insights from Dr. Gwendolyn Randolph's Research
Dr. Gwendolyn Randolph explores the relationship between macrophages and lipid metabolism, focusing on their ability to store and process lipids. The conversation touches on the concept of foam cells, emphasizing their role in atherosclerosis and other scenarios related to lipid uptake and oxidation. Dr. Randolph discusses the scavenger receptors and endocytic nature of macrophages, highlighting how they handle lipids to maintain cellular function and protect against lipid toxicity, offering new perspectives on the anti-inflammatory functions of foam cells.
Challenges of Macrophage Classification and Functional Definitions
Dr. Gwendolyn Randolph addresses the classification of macrophages into M1 and M2 states, highlighting the benefits and limitations of this categorization in understanding macrophage behavior. She emphasizes the complexity of macrophage phenotypes in different tissue environments, suggesting a more nuanced approach to studying their functions based on specific tissue-resident characteristics. The discussion underscores the importance of molecular definitions and functional markers in identifying macrophages, encouraging researchers to focus on individual tissue macrophage profiles rather than rigid classification boundaries.
Dr. Gwendalyn Randolph is the Emil R. Unanue Distinguished Professor in the Department of Immunology and Pathology at Washington University in St. Louis. Research in her lab integrates the study of monocytes, monocyte-derived cells, and dendritic cells with vascular and lymphatic vessel biology. She discusses the work she’s presenting at the American Association of Immunologists’ annual meeting, IMMUNOLOGY2022, on the diversity, function, and mysteries of peritoneal macrophages.
Careers in Science Lecture and Roundtables – Becoming a confident scientist and embracing your authentic self
Sunday, May 8, 2022 | 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM | Portland Ballroom 251
, on the diversity, function, and mysteries of peritoneal macrophages. 
