Model-Specific Immune Signatures of Human Macrophages: Insights from Proteomic and Functional Profiling

ABSTRACT: The human leukemia monocytic cell line, THP-1, is widely used as an in vitro model to study human macrophage biology. Recently, the B cell leukemia cell line, BLaER1, was proposed as an alternative cell model for macrophages. Despite their broadscale use, the molecular and functional fidelity to primary macrophages remains understudied. We conducted a comparative analysis between human peripheral blood monocyte cell-derived macrophages and THP-1 and BLaER1 cells, cultured in basal conditions or stimulated with one of two commonly studied cytokines, IFNγ or IL-4. Using label-free proteomics and metabolic assays, we uncovered distinct profiles and functional properties across models and primary macrophages. Mitochondrial functional assay showed similar trends between primary macrophages and BLaER1-macrophages. While all macrophage types showed cytokine-induced proteome changes, substantial differences were observed in immune regulators, antigen presentation, and metabolic programs. Our findings highlight the strengths and limitations of each macrophage model and provide a framework for selecting appropriate in vitro systems for specific immunological questions.

INSTRUMENT(S):

ORGANISM(S): Homo Sapiens (human)

TISSUE(S): Cell Culture, Macrophage

SUBMITTER: Sasha Singh  

LAB HEAD: Sasha A. Singh

PROVIDER: PXD070966 | Pride | 2026-10-27

REPOSITORIES: Pride