Abstract
The expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II (HLA-DR) antigens on M cells within follicle-associated epithelial cells (FAE) covering Peyer's patches was analyzed immunohistochemically. HLA-DR antigens were strongly expressed on M cells and cells with dendritic morphology, whereas other FAE covering Peyer's patches showed weak, but definite staining. Dendritic cells were also positive for S-100 protein and IL-1. These findings suggest that M cells as well as dendritic cells within FAE form an antigen-presenting cell system and contribute to the first information releaser for the mucosal immune system.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Dendritic Cells / cytology
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Dendritic Cells / immunology
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Dendritic Cells / ultrastructure
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Epithelial Cells
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Epithelium / immunology
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Epithelium / ultrastructure
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HLA-DR Antigens / analysis*
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Humans
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Immunohistochemistry
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Interleukin-1 / analysis
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Intestinal Mucosa / cytology
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Intestinal Mucosa / immunology
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Intestinal Mucosa / ultrastructure
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Intestine, Small / cytology*
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Intestine, Small / immunology
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Intestine, Small / ultrastructure
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Microscopy, Electron
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Peyer's Patches / cytology*
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Peyer's Patches / immunology*
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Peyer's Patches / ultrastructure
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S100 Proteins / analysis
Substances
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HLA-DR Antigens
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Interleukin-1
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S100 Proteins