Macrophage Smad3 Protects the Infarcted Heart, Stimulating Phagocytosis and Regulating Inflammation

Abstract

We demonstrate that Smad3 critically regulates function of infarct macrophages, by mediating acquisition of a phagocytic phenotype and by contributing to anti-inflammatory transition. Smad3-dependent actions in macrophages protect the infarcted heart from adverse remodeling.