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Comparative accessory cell function of Langerhans cells isolated from mouse skin
British Journal of Experimental Pathology
|April 1, 1986
Summary
Murine epidermal cells expressing Fc receptors are phagocytic and Ia positive, but not active in immune responses. These findings suggest these cells are more akin to macrophages involved in antigen uptake, rather than interdigitating dendritic cells.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Langerhans cells are immune cells found in the epidermis.
- Their precise functional role and relationship to other dendritic cells remain subjects of investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To structurally and functionally characterize Fc receptor-bearing cells isolated from murine epidermis.
- To determine the relationship between these epidermal cells and other dendritic cell populations.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of Fc receptor-bearing cells from murine epidermis.
- Structural analysis including assessment for Birbeck granules.
- Functional assays evaluating activity in allogeneic and mitogen responses.
- Immunophenotyping using Ia, Mac 1, and F4.80 markers.
Main Results:
- 60-70% of isolated cells were Ia positive, phagocytic, and expressed Mac 1 and F4.80 markers.
- These cells lacked Birbeck granules in their cytoplasm.
- Functional studies indicated they were not active as inducer cells in allogeneic and mitogen responses.
Conclusions:
- The characterized epidermal cells are distinct from interdigitating dendritic cells.
- These cells exhibit macrophage-like properties, suggesting a role in antigen uptake within the epidermis.