Peripheral nerve injuries result in disrupted cellular communication between the central nervous system and somatic distal end targets. The peripheral nervous system is capable of independent and extensive regeneration; however, meaningful target muscle reinnervation and functional recovery remain limited and may result in chronic neuropathic pain and diminished quality of life. Macrophages, the primary innate immune cells of the body, are critical contributors to regeneration of the injured peripheral nervous system. However, in some clinical scenarios, macrophages may fail to provide adequate support with optimal timing, duration, and location. Here, we review the history of immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory strategies to treat nerve injuries. Thereafter, we enumerate the ways in which macrophages contribute to successful nerve regeneration. We argue that implementing macrophage-based immunomodulatory therapies is a promising treatment strategy for nerve injuries across a wide range of clinical presentations.

周围神经损伤导致中枢神经系统和躯体远端目标之间的细胞通讯中断。周围神经系统具有独立、广泛的再生能力；然而，有意义的目标肌肉神经支配和功能恢复仍然有限，并可能导致慢性神经性疼痛和生活质量下降。巨噬细胞是人体的主要先天免疫细胞，是受损周围神经系统再生的关键贡献者。然而，在某些临床情况下，巨噬细胞可能无法在最佳时间、持续时间和位置上提供足够的支持。在这里，我们回顾了治疗神经损伤的免疫抑制和免疫调节策略的历史。此后，我们列举了巨噬细胞有助于成功神经再生的方式。我们认为，实施基于巨噬细胞的免疫调节疗法是针对各种临床表现的神经损伤的一种有前景的治疗策略。