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Pathophysiology of Langerhans cells

Shweta Jaitley1, Tr Saraswathi

  • 1Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, K D Dental College and Hospital, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology : JOMFP
|August 28, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Langerhans cells (LCs), a type of dendritic cell (DC), are crucial for initiating immune responses in the skin and oral mucosa. This review explores their origin, function, and role in various diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Dermatology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Langerhans cells (LCs) are specialized dendritic cells (DCs) residing in stratified squamous epithelia, including the epidermis and oral mucosa.
  • First described in 1868, LCs constitute approximately 3% of epidermal cells and play a vital role in local immune defense.
  • They are strategically located in the suprabasal layer, positioning them to interact with pathogens and initiate immune responses.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive review of Langerhans cells (LCs).
  • To detail the origin, distribution, and demonstration methods for LCs.
  • To elucidate the mechanism of action and pathological significance of LCs.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing research on Langerhans cells (LCs).
  • Synthesis of information regarding LC origin, distribution, and identification techniques.
  • Analysis of LC function as antigen-presenting cells (APCs) and their involvement in immune responses.

Main Results:

  • LCs are identified in all mammalian stratified squamous epithelia, primarily in the epidermis and oral mucosa.
  • LCs function as critical antigen-presenting cells (APCs), essential for lymphocyte recognition of microbes.
  • The review covers LC origin, distribution, demonstration, mechanism of action, and roles in pathology.

Conclusions:

  • Langerhans cells (LCs) are key players in the initiation of immune responses within epithelial tissues.
  • Understanding LCs' function is vital for comprehending local defense mechanisms and pathological conditions.
  • This review consolidates current knowledge on LCs, highlighting their importance in immunology and dermatology.

Keywords:
Antigen presenting cellsLangerhans cellsclear cellsdendritic cells

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