Close encounters of the first and second kind: T-DC and T-B interactions in the lymph node.

ABSTRACT: Cellular interactions in lymphoid organs initiate the immune response and determine its outcome. Using two-photon microscopy in the lymph node, several groups have begun to investigate the motility characteristics and interactions among T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, and dendritic cells (DC) in lymphoid organs. In the first "close encounter", T cells of a particular antigen specificity interact with antigen-bearing dendritic cells and begin to activate. Activation of both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells evolves through several stages; from transient interactions to stable clusters and later to dissociation and proliferation of T cells (clonal expansion). The second "close encounter" requires that antigen-engaged B cells become accessible to T cells by directed migration to the edge of the follicle. T

SUBMITTER: Cahalan MD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2953541 | biostudies-literature | 2005 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature