Non-classical monocytes comprise about 2–11% of circulating monocytes. They are mobile in nature and patrol the endothelium in search of injury. They can have pro-inflammatory behavior and secrete inflammatory cytokines in response to infection.

What is classical and non-classical monocytes?

Classical monocytes are critical for the initial inflammatory response. Classical monocytes can differentiate into macrophages in tissue and can contribute to chronic disease. Nonclassical monocytes have been widely viewed as anti-inflammatory, as they maintain vascular homeostasis.

What are pro-inflammatory monocytes?

Human primary monocytes comprise a heterogeneous population, of which 10-20% can be distinguished by their expression of surface antigen CD16¹. These CD16⁺ cells are known as the “inflammatory” subset due to their potent pro-inflammatory activity².