Although macrophages and DCs both are originated from monocytes, macrophages are well known for their autofluorescence (AF) properties. However, DCs or monocytes do not exhibit AF. Does anyone know the underlying reason of macrophages AF, and non-AF of DCs or monocytes?
Dear Abdullah,
The autofluorescence is associated with an increased complexity of the cells. Macrophages have intense AF particularly as a cytoplasmic type.
Macrophages are more granulated, and also their morphology (more irregular) help to elevate their autofluorescence.
Saurabh is right. It's the granules in such cells which typically lead to autofluoresence-there are treatments for such cells that can quench some of this effect. Try working with birds as thrombocytes and even erythrocytes all auto fluoresce
Human monocytes are definitely super auto fluorescent if you excite them within the UV range to target NADH. I used to investigate human monocytes auto fluorescence level depending on different experimental conditions. These monocytes were isolated from healthy donors (blood drive).
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