Regulation of macrophage and dendritic cell function by pathogens and through immunomodulation in the avian mucosa

Eveline D de Geus1, Lonneke Vervelde

  • 1Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, The Netherlands. e.d.degeus@uu.nl

Insights

This review explores macrophage (MPh) and dendritic cell (DC) functions in chickens, focusing on their roles in recognizing and responding to pathogens. It highlights strategies like nutraceuticals and vaccination to enhance disease resistance.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology
  • Veterinary Science

Background:

  • Macrophages (MPh) and dendritic cells (DC) are key components of the mononuclear phagocyte system.
  • Distinguishing MPh from DC in chickens is challenging due to a lack of specific markers.
  • The distinction between MPh and DC is also debated in humans and mice, despite available markers.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of MPh and DC function in chickens.
  • To examine MPh and DC receptors involved in pathogen recognition.
  • To discuss MPh and DC responses to respiratory and intestinal pathogens in chickens.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of MPh and DC function and pathogen responses in chickens.
  • Analysis of MPh and DC receptors involved in immune recognition.
  • Exploration of strategies to modulate MPh and DC activity.

Main Results:

  • Mucosal MPh and DC are strategically positioned for antigen uptake and rapid pathogen response.
  • MPh and DC play crucial roles in recognizing and responding to various pathogens.
  • Specific receptors mediate pathogen recognition by MPh and DC.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding MPh and DC responses is vital for combating avian diseases.
  • Modulating MPh and DC activity offers potential for enhancing disease resistance.
  • Nutraceuticals and vaccination are promising approaches to enhance MPh and DC-mediated immunity.

Related Concept Videos

Cell-mediated Immune Responses01:40

Cell-mediated Immune Responses

Overview
Immune Response Against Viral Pathogens01:29

Immune Response Against Viral Pathogens

The immune system's response to viral infections is a complex and coordinated process involving natural killer (NK) cells, T cell-mediated responses, and antibody-mediated responses.
NK Cells
NK cells are a crucial part of our innate immune system, acting as the first line of defense against viral infections. These cells can recognize and kill infected cells without prior exposure to the virus, effectively slowing down the spread of infection. Additionally, NK cells produce proinflammatory...
Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens01:31

Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens

The human immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against bacterial infections. It consists of various immune cells, each playing a specific role in the defense mechanism.
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...
Inflammatory Response01:28

Inflammatory Response

An inflammatory response is a localized, nonspecific immune reaction that occurs when a tissue is injured. It is characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain, which are commonly called the cardinal signs and symptoms of inflammation. Inflammation can sometimes result in a loss of function.
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
T Cell Types and Functions01:24

T Cell Types and Functions

When T cells with CD4 markers are activated, they give rise to two types of effector cells: helper T cells and regulatory T cells. Meanwhile, T cells with CD8 markers differentiate into effector cytotoxic T cells. The differentiation of CD4 T cells into helper T cell subsets, such as Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells, is dependent on the antigen type, antigen-presenting cell, and regulatory cytokines.
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
Antigen Presenting Cells01:22

Antigen Presenting Cells

The immune system is a complex network of cells and molecules that protects the body from foreign invaders. T cells, a type of white blood cell, play a crucial role in this process. They recognize and attack foreign substances, such as pathogens, that enter the body.
T cells require the help of antigen-presenting cells (APCs), which process foreign antigens into smaller fragments that can be recognized by T cells. These APCs are highly specialized cells that efficiently internalize antigens...