USPIO-labeling in M1 and M2-polarized macrophages: an in vitro study using a clinical Magnetic Resonance scanner
Aim of the study was to evaluate USPIO labeling in different macrophage populations using a clinical 3.0T MR unit with optical and electron microscopy as the gold standard. Human monocytic cell line THP-1 cells were differentiated into macrophages. Afterwards, M0 macrophages were incubated with IL-4 and IL-13 in order to obtain M2 polarized macrophages or with IFN-gamma and LPS for classical macrophage activation (M1). These groups were incubated with USPIO-MR contrast agent (P904) for 36?hr; M0, M0?+?P904, M1?+? P904, and M2?+?P904 were analyzed in gel phantoms with a 3.0T MR scanner.