Macrophages are cells differentiated from circulating bone marrow-derived monocytes. The main function of macrophages is to remove cellular debris and destroy invading pathogens. Rat Splenic Macrophages (RSMa) reside in the spleen and play a critical role in maintaining blood homeostasis [1]. There are three distinct populations of splenic macrophages including: red pulp macrophages, marginal zone macrophages, and marginal zone metallophillic macrophages [1, 2]. RSMa perform iron processing functions and aid in the capture of microbes and viruses in the circulatory system [1, 2]. Recent studies have shown that splenic macrophages contribute to stroke pathology and autoimmune diseases [3, 4]. RSMa are an excellent model for studying macrophage functions under normal physiological and pathological conditions.

RSMa from ScienCell Research Laboratories are isolated from ***** CD® IGS rat spleen. RSMa are cryopreserved after purification and delivered frozen. Each vial contains > 1 x 10⁶ cells in 1 ml volume. RSMa are characterized by immunofluorescence with antibody to F4/80. RSMa are negative for mycoplasma, bacteria, yeast, and fungi. RSMa are guaranteed to further culture in the conditions provided by ScienCell Research Laboratories; however, RSMa are not recommended for expanding or long-term cultures since the cells do not proliferate in regular culture.