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Updated: Jan 23, 2026
08:34
Flow Cytometry Analysis of Murine Bone Marrow Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells and Stromal Niche Cells
Published on: September 28, 2022
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The Stromal Niche Guarding the Gatekeepers.
Spyridon Makris1, Sophie E Acton1
1Stromal Immunology Group, MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
Immunity
|June 20, 2019
Summary
Lymphatic endothelial cells are crucial for forming and maintaining the subcapsular sinusoidal macrophage network. This network is vital for immune responses during both normal conditions and immune challenges.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Anatomy
Background:
- The subcapsular sinusoidal macrophage (SSM) network is a critical immune surveillance site within lymph nodes.
- The cellular niche supporting the SSM network has not been fully elucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) in the formation and maintenance of the SSM network.
- To understand the contribution of LECs to immune homeostasis and response.
Main Methods:
- Utilized advanced imaging techniques to visualize the lymph node microenvironment.
- Employed genetic manipulation to study the function of LECs in vivo.
- Performed immunological assays to assess macrophage populations and function.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated that LECs are integral components of the niche supporting the SSM network.
- Showed that LECs are essential for the structural integrity and cellular composition of the SSM network.
- Confirmed the importance of LECs in maintaining the SSM network during homeostasis and immune activation.
Conclusions:
- Lymphatic endothelial cells play a fundamental role in establishing and sustaining the subcapsular sinusoidal macrophage network.
- These findings highlight LECs as key regulators of immune cell organization and function within lymph nodes.
- Targeting LECs could offer novel strategies for modulating immune responses.
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