Summary
Dendritic cells (DC) are professional antigen presenting cells which playa pivotal
role in the activation of adaptive immunity. Tissue invasion by pathogens induces
the recruitment of blood DC to the site of infection and contributes to their subsequent
migration to secondary lymphoid organs. This complex process relies on the expression
and regulation of receptors for chemotactic factors on the surface of migrating DC
and on the activation of adhesion molecules which allow DC to properly interact with
both blood and lymphatic vessels. In the absence of correct tissue localization, DC
fail to promote proper immune responses. Therefore, the interaction of DC with endothelial
cells represents a fundamental step for DC biology.
Keywords
Dendritic cells - chemokines - endothelial cells - adhesion molecules - signal transduction