STAT6 induces expression of Gas6 in macrophages to clear apoptotic neutrophils and resolve inflammation

Significance Clearance of apoptotic neutrophils by alveolar macrophages (AMФs) is critical for the resolution of acute lung injury (ALI). Here, we demonstrated that induction of the M1 phenotype in MФs activates the transcription factor STAT6 and thereby promotes resolution of lung injury by the increased expression of Gas6, the ligand for efferocytosis. Therefore, targeting the STAT6 activation pathway in AMФs and Gas6 may be a potential therapeutic strategy for resolution of inflammatory lung injury.