Dendritic cells and macrophages in the genitourinary tract.
Mucosal Immunol
; 1(6): 451-9, 2008 Nov.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-19079212
ABSTRACT
Dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages are antigen-presenting cells (APCs) that are important in innate immune defense as well as in the generation and regulation of adaptive immunity against a wide array of pathogens. The genitourinary (GU) tract, which serves an important reproductive function, is constantly exposed to numerous agents of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). To combat these STIs, several subsets of DCs and macrophages are strategically localized within the GU tract. In the female genital mucosa, recruitment and function of these APCs are uniquely governed by sex hormones. This review summarizes the latest advances in our understanding of DCs and macrophages in the GU tract with respect to their subsets, lineage, and function. In addition, we discuss the divergent roles of these cells in immune defense against STIs as well as in maternal tolerance to the fetus.
Texto completo:
1
Colección:
01-internacional
Base de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Sistema Urogenital
/
Células Dendríticas
/
Macrófagos
Límite:
Animals
/
Humans
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Mucosal Immunol
Asunto de la revista:
ALERGIA E IMUNOLOGIA
Año:
2008
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
Estados Unidos