Stromal cell networks regulate lymphocyte entry, migration, and territoriality in lymph nodes

Immunity. 2006 Dec;25(6):989-1001. doi: 10.1016/j.immuni.2006.10.011. Epub 2006 Nov 16.

Abstract

After entry into lymph nodes (LNs), B cells migrate to follicles, whereas T cells remain in the paracortex, with each lymphocyte type showing apparently random migration within these distinct areas. Other than chemokines, the factors contributing to this spatial segregation and to the observed patterns of lymphocyte movement are poorly characterized. By combining confocal, electron, and intravital microscopy, we showed that the fibroblastic reticular cell network regulated naive T cell access to the paracortex and also supported and defined the limits of T cell movement within this domain, whereas a distinct follicular dendritic cell network similarly served as the substratum for movement of follicular B cells. These results highlight the central role of stromal microanatomy in orchestrating cell migration within the LN.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adoptive Transfer
  • Animals
  • Cell Communication / immunology
  • Chemotaxis, Leukocyte / immunology*
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Lymph Nodes / immunology
  • Lymph Nodes / metabolism
  • Lymph Nodes / ultrastructure*
  • Lymphocytes / cytology
  • Lymphocytes / immunology
  • Lymphocytes / metabolism*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Microscopy, Confocal
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Microscopy, Electron, Transmission
  • Stromal Cells / immunology
  • Stromal Cells / ultrastructure*