Methods used to study apoptotic cell clearance

The phagocytosis of dying cells is a complex process involving interactions between many molecules on the dying cell, on the phagocyte, and in the micro-environment. Although much is known on the subject, many questions and unknown variables remain under investigation. Knowledge of appropriate methods for studying phagocytosis of dying cells is essential for acquisition of a deeper understanding of programmed cell death, phagocytosis, dying cell clearance, and homeostasis. In this chapter we will define a consensual vocabulary and discuss general and specific considerations regarding the different methods and models used to study the clearance of dying cells. In the second part of this chapter we will describe in further detail selected techniques and protocols.