[Langerhans cells--their structure, function and pathological role].

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Dermatology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Langerhans' cells (LC) are specialized dendritic cells residing in the epidermis and mucous membranes.
• These cells originate from the mesenchyme and function as antigen-presenting cells, similar to macrophages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present comprehensive data on the structure and function of Langerhans' cells.
• To characterize the key markers associated with Langerhans' cells.
• To elucidate the role of Langerhans' cells in immune responses within the skin.

Main Methods:

• Characterization of morphological, enzymatic, and antigenic markers of Langerhans' cells.
• Review of existing data on Langerhans' cell function in immune contexts.

Main Results:

• Langerhans' cells are identified as epidermal dendritic cells of mesenchymal origin.
• Key morphological, enzymatic, and antigenic markers defining Langerhans' cells are detailed.
• The critical involvement of Langerhans' cells in initiating and mediating skin-related immune responses is demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• Langerhans' cells are pivotal in the development of skin-specific immune reactions.
• Their function is essential for processes such as delayed-type hypersensitivity, contact hypersensitivity, and specific inflammation.
• Langerhans' cells play a significant role in transplant rejection and the neoplastic process within the skin.