Receptors for the Fc portion of immunoglobulin G (Fc gamma R) on human monocytes and macrophages

Abstract

Human mononuclear phagocytes bear a group of cell surface receptors that bind the Fc domain of IgG. These Fc gamma receptors are utilized in the phagocytosis of opsonized cells and immune complexes and are involved in the pathogenesis of several hematologic and immunologic disorders. However, the relative contributions of the different Fc gamma receptors to these processes is uncertain. The expression of these receptors can also be modulated by several physiologic and pharmacologic factors, including IFN-gamma and glucocorticoids, but the mechanisms of this modulation have not been fully elucidated. The recent isolation of molecular probes for these receptors should allow a more complete understanding of the function of these molecules and their response to modulatory signals.