Regulation of T follicular helper cell formation and function by antigen presenting cells.
CD4+ T cells can differentiate into numerous subsets characterized by expression of a suite of cytokines and effector molecules that endow them with specialized functions. By mediating the differentiation of B cells into memory and plasma cells following exposure to T-dependent antigens (Ag), T follicular helper (TFH) cells have emerged as the predominant subset of CD4+ T cells responsible for regulating humoral immunity. The generation of TFH cells from naïve precursors typically involves sequential cognate interactions with distinct populations of Ag-presenting cells (APCs): dendritic cells within the T-cell zone of lymphoid tissues, and activated B cells at the border of the T-zone and follicle, and then within a germinal center. Recent studies have illuminated the key roles of APCs in TFH development, and have also re-defined the role of B cells in this process.
Immunology Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, 2010, NSW, Australia.
Elissa K
EK
Deenick
Cindy S
CS
Ma
Robert
R
Brink
Stuart G
SG
Tangye
D000818:Animals; D000938:Antigen-Presenting Cells / Q000276:immunology*; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D006801:Humans; D007113:Immunity, Innate; D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism; D015398:Signal Transduction; D006377:T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / Q000166:cytology / Q000276:immunology*
D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell