Macrophages are essential immune cells that polarise into pro-inflammatory M1 or anti-inflammatory M2 types based on environmental cues, playing a pivotal role in infection defence and tissue homeostasis.

This study focuses on Zinc Finger Protein X-Linked (ZFX), identified through computational analysis as a novel transcription factor influencing M1 macrophage polarisation, which may explain the observed sex-based differences in immune responses, with females exhibiting stronger responses but increased susceptibility to autoimmune diseases due to higher ZFX dosage. The goal is to examine the polarisation potential of male and female macrophages and their infection control capabilities, employing CRISPR technology to elucidate ZFX’s role. This research aims to enhance understanding of sex-specific immune responses and identify potential targets for treating infectious and autoimmune diseases.

Judith Zaugg (EMBL), Edith Heard (EMBL), Joel Selkrig (RWTH Aachen)