Related Experiment Videos
Langerhans cells in the lymph node: mirror section and immunoelectron microscopic studies.
M Shamoto1, M Shinzato, S Hosokawa
1Division of Pathological Cytology, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Aichi, Japan.
Virchows Archiv. B, Cell Pathology Including Molecular Pathology
|January 1, 1992
Summary
The study identified two distinct cell types in lymph nodes: Langerhans cells (LC) in superficial nodes and interdigitating reticulum cells (IDC) in deeper nodes. LC presence suggests migration from squamous epithelia.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Histology
Background:
- Lymph nodes contain various immune cells, including dendritic cells.
- Langerhans cells (LC) and interdigitating reticulum cells (IDC) are types of dendritic cells with distinct roles.
- The precise localization and markers of LC and IDC in different lymphoid tissues are not fully elucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To differentiate and localize Langerhans cells (LC) and interdigitating reticulum cells (IDC) in various lymphoid tissues.
- To investigate the potential origin and migration patterns of LC.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry was employed to detect S-100 protein and OKT-6 antigen expression in cells.
- Analysis was performed on cells from superficial, hilar, and mesenteric lymph nodes, as well as the spleen.
Main Results:
- Cells positive for both S-100 and OKT-6 were found exclusively in superficial and hilar lymph nodes draining squamous epithelia.
- Mesenteric lymph nodes and spleen showed cells positive for S-100 but negative for OKT-6.
- The presence of Birbeck granules was hypothesized to be linked to LC migration from squamous epithelia.
Conclusions:
- S-100 and OKT-6 positive cells are likely Langerhans cells (LC) found in lymph nodes draining squamous epithelia.
- S-100 positive, OKT-6 negative cells are likely interdigitating reticulum cells (IDC).
- LC may originate from squamous epithelia and migrate to regional lymph nodes.