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Langerhans cells and more: langerin-expressing dendritic cell subsets in the skin

Nikolaus Romani1, Björn E Clausen, Patrizia Stoitzner

  • 1Department of Dermatology & Venereology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria. Nikolaus.romani@i-med.ac.at

Immunological Reviews
|March 3, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Langerhans cells (LCs), a type of dendritic cell (DC) in epithelia, play key roles in adaptive immunity and immune tolerance. Genetically engineered mouse models are advancing our understanding of LC functions in vivo.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Langerhans cells (LCs) are specialized antigen-presenting dendritic cells (DCs) found in epithelia, particularly the epidermis.
  • LCs are characterized by Birbeck granules and the expression of the C-type lectin receptor langerin/CD207.
  • Dermal langerin-positive DCs are distinct from epidermal LCs.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the history, ontogeny, and homeostasis of epidermal Langerhans cells.
  • To emphasize the functional properties of LCs in vivo.
  • To explore the role of LCs in adaptive immunity, tolerance, and innate effector functions.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on Langerhans cells.
  • Analysis of data from genetically engineered mouse models.
  • Discussion of in vivo functional studies.

Main Results:

  • LCs are crucial for initiating adaptive immune responses against pathogens and tumors.
  • LCs play a significant role in inducing and maintaining tolerance to self-antigens and harmless substances.
  • Innate effector functions of LCs are increasingly recognized.

Conclusions:

  • Genetically engineered mouse models have significantly advanced the understanding of LC functions.
  • LCs have potential applications in medicine, particularly in vaccine development.
  • Further research into LC innate functions may reveal new therapeutic strategies.

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