Monocyte Function in the Fetus and the Preterm Neonate: Immaturity Combined with Functional Impairment

Figure 1

The intrusion of bacteria stimulates the tissue macrophages, which produce IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. While the macrophages undergo activation via exposure to TLR agonists, such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the superoxide burst is increased through microbial killing in activated macrophages. This intrusion stimulates the tissue macrophages which produce cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, etc.), reactive oxygen species (e.g., H₂O₂ and superoxide anion), and leukotrienes.