Abstract
Whereas dendritic cells (DC) are known to be potent activators of T cells both in vitro and in vivo, the critical costimulatory molecules expressed on DC are not well characterized. Using immunocytochemical and molecular techniques we find that splenic DC express B7/BB1, the counter-receptor for CD28. Moreover, expression of B7/BB1 is upregulated on epidermal Langerhans cells (LC) during their functional maturation into potent T cell stimulators. In blocking experiments, we find that participation of B7/BB1 is required for optimal proliferation of unprimed, allogeneic T cells in DC-driven, primary mixed leukocyte reactions. These data demonstrate that the regulated expression of B7/BB1 on DC may be important in the initiation of a primary T cell response.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Antigens, CD / immunology
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Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte / immunology
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B-Lymphocytes / immunology*
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Base Sequence
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CD28 Antigens
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Dendritic Cells / cytology
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Dendritic Cells / immunology*
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Flow Cytometry
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Lymphocyte Activation
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Lymphocyte Culture Test, Mixed
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Male
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Mice
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Mice, Inbred Strains
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Molecular Sequence Data
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Oligodeoxyribonucleotides
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Polymerase Chain Reaction
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RNA, Messenger / genetics
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RNA, Messenger / metabolism
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Receptors, Cell Surface / biosynthesis*
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Receptors, Cell Surface / genetics
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T-Lymphocytes / immunology*
Substances
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Antigens, CD
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Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte
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CD28 Antigens
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Oligodeoxyribonucleotides
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RNA, Messenger
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Receptors, Cell Surface