MIF/MAF-Macrophage Interactions: Biochemical Characterization of a Putative Glycolipid Receptor for MIF and the Existence and Properties of Two Distinct MIFs

A lymphocyte mediator of cellular immunity, the migration inhibition factor (MIF), alters the behaviour of macrophages (David 1966; Bloom & Bennett 1966). Studies so far indicate that MIF is biochemically indistinguishable from the macrophage activating factor (MAF), a lymphocyte mediator that modulates the morphology, biochemistry, and function of macrophages, enhancing their microbicidal and tumoricidal capabilities (Nathan et al. 1973; David & Remold 1976). Thus, one important mechanism for the activation of macrophage function is through lymphocyte mediators (MIF/MAF).