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Updated: May 18, 2026
05:47
Isolation of Murine Lymph Node Stromal Cells
Published on: August 19, 2014
IL-7-producing stromal cells are critical for lymph node remodeling
Lucas Onder1, Priyanka Narang, Elke Scandella
1Institute of Immunobiology, Kantonal Hospital St Gallen, St Gallen, Switzerland.
Blood
|September 8, 2012
Summary
Lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) are a major source of Interleukin-7 (IL-7) in lymph nodes (LNs). These IL-7 producing stromal cells are critical for rebuilding and remodeling the lymph node microenvironment.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Anatomy
Background:
- Nonhematopoietic stromal cells form lymph node (LN) structures and microenvironments.
- Interleukin-7 (IL-7) is a key cytokine for lymphocyte homeostasis, primarily attributed to T-cell zone fibroblastic reticular cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the cellular sources of IL-7 within secondary lymphoid organs.
- To investigate the role of IL-7-producing stromal cells in LN remodeling and reconstruction.
Main Methods:
- Utilized bacterial artificial chromosome transgenic IL-7-Cre mice for tracking IL-7 expression.
- Administered diphtheria toxin to deplete IL-7-producing stromal cells.
- Analyzed LN remodeling post-viral infection and reconstruction post-avascular transplantation.
Main Results:
- Lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) were identified as a prominent source of IL-7 in both human and murine LNs.
- IL-7 expression was significantly upregulated in fibroblastic reticular cells and LECs during LN remodeling and reconstruction.
- IL-7-producing stromal cells were essential for the formation of lymphatic structures and complete LN reconstruction.
Conclusions:
- LN LECs are a major source of IL-7.
- IL-7-producing stromal cells are indispensable for the reconstruction and remodeling of the LN microenvironment.
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