Description
MCSF, also known as CSF1, is a four-α-helical bundle cytokine that is the primary regulator of macrophage survival, proliferation and differentiation. MCSF is also essential for the survival and proliferation of osteoclast progenitors. MCSF also primes and enhances macrophage killing of tumor cells and microorganisms, regulates the release of cytokines and other inflammatory modulators from macrophages, and stimulates pinocytosis. MCSF increases during pregnancy to support implantation and growth of the decidua and placenta. Sources of MCSF include fibroblasts, activated macrophages, endometrial secretory epithelium, bone marrow stromal cells and activated endothelial cells