Taking the lymphatic route: dendritic cell migration to draining lymph nodes

Semin Immunopathol. 2014 Mar;36(2):261-74. doi: 10.1007/s00281-013-0410-8. Epub 2014 Jan 9.

Abstract

In contrast to leukocyte migration through blood vessels, trafficking via lymphatic vessels (LVs) is much less well characterized. An important cell type migrating via this route is antigen-presenting dendritic cells (DCs), which are key for the induction of protective immunity as well as for the maintenance of immunological tolerance. In this review, we will summarize and discuss current knowledge of the cellular and molecular events that control DC migration from the skin towards, into, and within LVs, followed by DC arrival and migration in draining lymph nodes. Finally, we will discuss potential strategies to therapeutically target this migratory step to modulate immune responses.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Movement*
  • Dendritic Cells / physiology*
  • Endothelium, Lymphatic / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / genetics
  • Inflammation / immunology
  • Inflammation / metabolism
  • Inflammation / therapy
  • Lymph Nodes / physiology*
  • Lymphatic Vessels / physiology*
  • Transendothelial and Transepithelial Migration