Antigen presentation by dendritic cell leading to activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell

Dendritic cells are specialized antigen-presenting cells that play a central role in initiating and regulating adaptive immune responses[7][9]. Upon encountering pathogens or foreign antigens in peripheral tissues, dendritic cells internalize and process these antigens, then migrate to lymph nodes where they present antigen-derived peptides on their surface via MHC molecules. - MHC class II presents antigens to CD4+ helper T-cells, which orchestrate immune responses through cytokine secretion and help activate other immune cells[2][7]. - MHC class I, via cross-presentation, enables activation of CD8+ cytotoxic T-cells, crucial for killing infected or tumor cells[1][3][5]. Dendritic cells also provide important co-stimulatory signals required for full T-cell activation. The interplay between dendritic cells and T-cells is essential for immunity against infections and cancer, as well as induction of tolerance to prevent autoimmunity[8][9]. Multiple molecular mechanisms, including endocytic processing, peptide loading, and co-receptor interactions (e.g., CD80, CD86, CD40), are involved in this process[1][7][8].

Other names

Antigen presentation by dendritic cellDC-mediated T-cell activationDendritic cell antigen presentationDC cross-presentation (for CD8+ T-cell activation)