Terminology

Apoptosis

A form of programmed cell death.

Efferocytosis

The process of apoptotic cell clearance.

Maintains homeostatic cell and tissue conditions.

Review Articles

Efferocytosis: the art of cellular clearance and novel perspectives in disease therapy Li et al. 2025 Review Article

"Impaired efferocytosis is a central pathogenic driver in chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, leading to unresolved inflammation."

"Conversely, the hijacking of efferocytosis by tumors fosters an immunosuppressive microenvironment, facilitating immune evasion."

"This dichotomy presents a significant therapeutic conundrum, as enhancing efferocytosis benefits inflammatory conditions but exacerbates cancer."

Cell Removal: Efferocytosis Henson 2017 Review Article

"The recognition of cells destined for this form of removal is critical and, significantly, is distinguished for the most part from the recognition of foreign materials and organisms by the innate and adaptive immune systems."

"In keeping with the key role of cell removal in maintaining tissue homeostasis, constant cell removal is normally silent, i.e., does not initiate a local tissue reaction."