Opportunities and Challenges of Macrophages in Regulating Fracture Healing

Fracture healing is a complex process that necessitates the synergistic action of various cells and molecules. Macrophages play an indispensable and crucial regulatory role in the process of fracture repair, influencing stages such as inflammatory modulation, angiogenesis, and tissue remodeling. This article delves into the functional characteristics of macrophages and their roles at different stages of fracture healing. Additionally, it explores the impact of aging macrophages on the healing process. Furthermore, the potential of emerging therapies, such as hydrogel-based treatments and exosomes, in modulating macrophage responses is analyzed. This study provides a theoretical foundation for the development of innovative therapies aimed at enhancing the efficacy of fracture healing.