Dendritic Cell Regulation of T Helper Cells

As the professional antigen-presenting cells of the immune system, dendritic cells (DCs) sense the microenvironment and shape the ensuing adaptive immune response. DCs can induce both immune activation and immune tolerance according to the peripheral cues. Recent work has established that DCs comprise several phenotypically and functionally heterogeneous subsets that differentially regulate T lymphocyte differentiation. This review summarizes both mouse and human DC subset phenotypes, development, diversification, and function. We focus on advances in our understanding of how different DC subsets regulate distinct CD4(+) T helper (Th) cell differentiation outcomes, including Th1, Th2, Th17, T follicular helper, and T regulatory cells. We review DC subset intrinsic properties, local tissue microenvironments, and other immune cells that together determine Th cell differentiation during homeostasis and inflammation.

Automated summary

Dendritic cells play a crucial role in sensing the microenvironment and shaping the adaptive immune response. They consist of several subsets that regulate T lymphocyte differentiation and determine distinct CD4(+) T helper cell differentiation outcomes. The intrinsic properties of DC subsets, local tissue microenvironments, and interactions with other immune cells contribute to Th cell differentiation during homeostasis and inflammation.