Interstitial macrophages are a type of immune cell that resides in the lung tissue and plays a crucial role in the defense against respiratory infections. The researchers found that the virus can infect and replicate in interstitial macrophages, leading to an intense inflammatory response. This response, in turn, might contribute to the development of pneumonia, a severe complication of COVID-19 that can lead to respiratory failure and death.
The Role of Interstitial Macrophages in COVID-19
Interstitial macrophages are a crucial player in the body’s defense against respiratory infections. These immune cells reside within the lung tissue and play a vital role in the immune response. However, the researchers have discovered that the COVID-19 virus can infect and replicate within these interstitial macrophages.
Inflammatory Response and Pneumonia
The infection of interstitial macrophages by the COVID-19 virus leads to an intense inflammatory response. This inflammatory response might contribute to the development of pneumonia, a severe complication of COVID-19 that can result in respiratory failure and even death. The findings suggest that the interplay between the virus and interstitial macrophages may be a critical factor in the progression of COVID-19 disease.