Regulation of T follicular helper cell formation and function by antigen presenting cells

Curr Opin Immunol. 2011 Feb;23(1):111-8. doi: 10.1016/j.coi.2010.10.007. Epub 2010 Nov 4.

Abstract

CD4+ T cells can differentiate into numerous subsets characterized by expression of a suite of cytokines and effector molecules that endow them with specialized functions. By mediating the differentiation of B cells into memory and plasma cells following exposure to T-dependent antigens (Ag), T follicular helper (TFH) cells have emerged as the predominant subset of CD4+ T cells responsible for regulating humoral immunity. The generation of TFH cells from naïve precursors typically involves sequential cognate interactions with distinct populations of Ag-presenting cells (APCs): dendritic cells within the T-cell zone of lymphoid tissues, and activated B cells at the border of the T-zone and follicle, and then within a germinal center. Recent studies have illuminated the key roles of APCs in TFH development, and have also re-defined the role of B cells in this process.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antigen-Presenting Cells / immunology*
  • Cell Differentiation*
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Innate
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / immunology
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction
  • T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / cytology
  • T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / immunology*

Substances

  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell