A short field guide to fibroblast function in immunity

Semin Immunol. 2018 Feb:35:48-58. doi: 10.1016/j.smim.2017.11.001. Epub 2017 Dec 1.

Abstract

Fibroblasts in secondary lymphoid organs, or fibroblastic reticular cells (FRC), are gate-keepers of immune responses. Here, we frame how these cells regulate immune responses via a three-part scheme in which FRC can setup, support or suppress immune responses. We also review how fibroblasts from non-lymphoid tissues influence immunity and highlight how they resemble and differ from FRC. Overall, we aim to focus attention on the emerging roles of lymphoid tissue and non-lymphoid tissue fibroblasts in control of innate and adaptive immunity.

Keywords: Fibroblast; Fibroblastic reticular cell; Immunity.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptive Immunity*
  • Animals
  • Fibroblasts / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Innate*
  • Immunomodulation
  • Lymph Nodes / immunology*
  • Lymphoid Tissue / immunology*