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Langerhans cells of the ocular surface
Ophthalmology
|June 1, 1982
Summary
Langerhans cells, a type of dendritic cell, are found on mammalian skin and ocular surfaces. These cells are crucial for immune responses, including allograft rejection and inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Dendritic cells, specifically Langerhans cells, are of mesenchymal origin and found in epidermal and ocular surface epithelia.
- These cells are vital in antigen processing and possess macrophage-like characteristics, influencing immune responses.
- Langerhans cells express Class II histocompatability antigens, important in allograft rejection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize Langerhans cells in ocular surface epithelium.
- To investigate the role of ocular surface Langerhans cells in immune responses like inflammation and rejection.
Main Methods:
- Enzyme histochemistry
- Immunofluorescence microscopy
- Electron microscopy
Main Results:
- Ocular surface Langerhans cells were identified in humans, mice, rats, and guinea pigs.
- These cells proliferate during corneal inflammation and are reduced by corticosteroid treatment.
Conclusions:
- Ocular surface Langerhans cells are a distinct subset of dendritic cells with significant immune functions.
- They play a key role in ocular immune surveillance, contact hypersensitivity, and corneal allograft rejection.