The phenotypic and functional analysis of multinucleated giant cells

Chronic inflammatory diseases such as the foreign body reaction and tuberculosis are characterized by the formation of granulomas. Multinucleated giant cells (MGCs), which develop by macrophage fusion, are frequently observed within these structures. However, their function is unknown. In this work it could be shown that MGCs are very efficient in the phagocytosis of large as well as complement-coated particles and also exhibit enhanced secretion of degradative enzymes. In addition, they show a reduced response to bacterial stimulation and thus potentially contribute to chronic inflammatory diseases.