The role of efferocytosis in ischemic stroke and insights from retinopathy.

Efferocytosis, the phagocytic removal of dead cells by microglia and macrophages, was recently recognized as a critical process in the resolution of inflammation and tissue repair following ischemic stroke. In this review, we examine the pathways involved in efferocytosis after stroke, including the recognition and engulfment of apoptotic cells and the modulation of inflammatory responses. We elaborate on the pathways regulating efferocytosis and discuss how dysregulated efferocytosis can contribute to secondary injury and neurological deficits. Furthermore, we explore valuable mechanisms gleaned from retinopathy, a condition with parallels to ischemic stroke in terms of cellular death and immune responses. We then discuss phagocytosis assays used in brain and retina research. Finally, we highlight future perspectives on, and outstanding questions related to, efferocytosis in stroke.