Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most important antigen-presenting cells in the body. DCs are critical in the initiation of innate immune responses and the regulation of adaptive immune responses. Recent studies have indicated that the origins and subsets of DCs are extremely complicated. DCs actively participate in the induction of both immunity and tolerance. Functions of DCs are influenced by the activation status and surrounding environments. This review highlights some important progress reported in a recent DC conference. Topics in this review include immunophysiology of DCs, the role of DCs in innate, adaptive and infection immunity, and the role of DCs in immunopathology and therapeutics.
Date:
2006-12
Relation:
Journal of Cancer Molecules. 2006 Dec;2(6):217-220.
