[Langerhans cells and the immunological function of the skin]

An analysis of published literature on the skin as a multicomponent system for initiation of the T-cell response to a antigen is the focus of this review. Recent data are considered on the structure, function and genesis of Langerhans' cells as principal cellular elements providing representation of the antigen while the immune reactions initiated in the skin are running their course. An analysis of data on relations of Langerhans' cells to other reticular cells as well as to keratinocytes has been performed. Issues related to the development and mutual transformation of stationary cells of the lymphoid organs and Langerhans' cells are discussed.