Abstract
Apart from their main function as oxygen carriers in vertebrates, erythrocytes are also involved
in immune regulation. By circulating throughout the body, the erythrocytes are exposed and
interact with tissues that are damaged as a result of a disease. In this study, we summarize the literature
regarding the contribution of erythrocytes to immune regulation and metabolism. Under the circumstances
of a disease state, the erythrocytes may lose their antioxidant capacity and release Damage
Associated Molecular Patterns, resulting in the regulation of innate and adaptive immunity. In
addition, the erythrocytes scavenge and affect the levels of chemokines, circulating cell-free mtDNA,
and C3b attached immune complexes. Furthermore, through surface molecules, erythrocytes
control the function of T lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. Through an array of enzymes,
red blood cells contribute to the pool of blood’s bioactive lipids. Finally, the erythrocytes
contribute to reverse cholesterol transport through various mechanisms. Our study is highlighting
overlooked molecular interactions between erythrocytes and immunity and metabolism, which
could lead to the discovery of potent therapeutic targets for immunometabolic diseases.
Keywords:
Erythrocytes, immunity, metabolism, lipid signaling, reverse cholesterol transport, cytokine signaling, DAMP binding,
DAMP release, cellular interactions.
Graphical Abstract
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