In this new approach, iPS cells continue to differentiate in a nutrient solution and, within 14 days, form organoids that in turn continuously release macrophages.

Macrophages are already being used in clinical therapy, for example in the treatment of liver diseases. Scientists are also investigating their use in the treatment of infectious diseases, inflammation, fibrosis, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. 

The method was published in the journal Nature Protocols.
Saleh, F., Valdivia Malqui, E.E., Gensch, I. et al. Harnessing intermediate-scale bioreactors for next-generation macrophage production and application. Nat Protoc (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-025-01313-x

Source and further information:
https://www.mhh.de/presse-news/zellfabrik-fuer-das-immunsystem