Follicular Dendritic Cell Networks of Primary Follicles and Germinal Centers: Phenotype and Function

Overview

Journal Semin Immunol

Specialty Allergy & Immunology

Date 2008 Feb 12

PMID 18261920

Citations 208

Authors

Christopher D C Allen

Jason G Cyster

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) were identified decades ago by their ability to retain immune complexes and more recent findings indicate that they are a source of B cell attractants and trophic factors. New imaging studies have shown that B cells closely associate with their dendritic processes during migration. Here we will review the properties of these specialized follicular stromal cells and provide an update on the requirements for their maturation into phenotypically distinct cells within germinal center light and dark zones. We will then discuss current understanding of how they help support the B cell immune response.

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