Role of the SOCS in monocytes/macrophages-related pathologies. Are we getting closer to a new pharmacological target?

The suppressors of cytokine signalling (SOCS) are proteins that restrict the functions of cytokines. Since their discovery, the state of knowledge regarding the SOCS is being regularly updated. One of the aspects of their importance concerns the immune system and its elements. Macrophages are one of the key cell types expressing SOCS and subsequently influence multiple biological processes. Presently, the scientific understanding of potential therapeutic value of SOCS is increasing. Considering this, we review and summarize the most recent findings regarding the role of SOCS in the macrophages in various aspects, including viral and bacterial infections, modulation of anti-inflammatory properties of drugs and other substances, cancer, arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, the neural system, hormone signalling and others. The multiplicity of the connections between macrophages, SOCS and biological reactions may suggest that investigations into this relationship will continue to be of great importance.