SIGN-R1+MHC II+ cells of the splenic marginal zone--a novel type of resident dendritic cells

J Leukoc Biol. 2011 Apr;89(4):607-15. doi: 10.1189/jlb.0610368. Epub 2011 Jan 4.

Abstract

In the spleen, the MZ forms an interface between red and white pulp. Its major function is to trap blood-borne antigens and to reorient them to APCs and lymphocytes. SIGN-R1(+) cells are of the MZ inherent cell population, which for a long time, have been considered as macrophages. We now show that one subpopulation of SIGN-R1(+) cells that express MHC II molecules should be considered as a resident DC. Histological analysis indicated that SIGN-R1(+) cells have dendritic-like protrusions extending into T and B cell areas. Flow cytometry analysis revealed an expression profile of adhesion, costimulatory, and MHC molecules similar to cDCs but distinct from macrophages. Most importantly, SIGN-R1(+)MHC(+) cells were able to present antigen to naïve CD4 T cells, as well as to cross-present soluble, particulate antigens secreted by Listeria monocytogenes to CD8 T cells in vitro and in vivo. Our experiments identified SIGN-R1(+)MHC II(+) cells as professional APCs and indicate their nature as splenic resident DCs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antigen Presentation
  • Cell Adhesion Molecules / immunology*
  • Dendritic Cells / immunology*
  • Dendritic Cells / microbiology
  • Female
  • Flow Cytometry
  • Genes, MHC Class II*
  • Lectins, C-Type / immunology*
  • Listeria monocytogenes / pathogenicity
  • Listeriosis / immunology
  • Listeriosis / microbiology
  • Lymphocyte Activation
  • Macrophages / immunology*
  • Macrophages / microbiology
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Receptors, Cell Surface / immunology*
  • Spleen / immunology*
  • Spleen / microbiology
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes / microbiology

Substances

  • Cell Adhesion Molecules
  • DC-specific ICAM-3 grabbing nonintegrin
  • Lectins, C-Type
  • Receptors, Cell Surface