Journal of Research in Microbiology and Immunology ISSN: 3108-0952 (Online)

Authors : Dr. Priya Reddy, Aditya Sharma

Abstract: Dendritic cells (DCs) are pivotal antigen-presenting cells that bridge innate and adaptive immunity by capturing, processing, and presenting antigens to T cells. This paper reviews the biology of dendritic cells, focusing on their subsets, maturation processes, and mechanisms of antigen uptake and presentation through MHC class I and II pathways. We discuss cross presentation, cytokine secretion, and costimulatory molecule expression, which determine the quality and magnitude of T-cell responses. A table summarizing dendritic cell subsets and their primary functions is included. Understanding DC-mediated antigen presentation provides insights into vaccine development, immunotherapy, and modulation of immune responses in infections, cancer, and autoimmune diseases.

Keywords: Dendritic cells, antigen presentation, MHC class I, MHC class II, cross-presentation, immune response, T cells