Antigen uptake

Antigen uptake is the essential physiological process by which professional antigen-presenting cells (APCs), such as dendritic cells, macrophages, and B cells, internalize extracellular substances (e.g., pathogens, proteins, or apoptotic cell debris) for processing and subsequent presentation to T cells. This process is a prerequisite for the initiation of adaptive immune responses and occurs through various mechanisms including macropinocytosis, phagocytosis, and receptor-mediated endocytosis (Janeway et al., 2001; PMID: 15128751). Specific surface receptors, such as the mannose receptor (CD206), DEC-205 (CD205), and various Fc receptors, often mediate this internalization by binding to conserved molecular patterns or opsonized antigens (PMID: 11114382). In clinical contexts, modulating antigen uptake is a key strategy for vaccine development and cancer immunotherapy, where adjuvants or targeted delivery systems are used to enhance the efficiency of antigen capture by dendritic cells. Conversely, deficiencies in antigen uptake can lead to immune evasion by tumors and pathogens, while dysregulated uptake of self-antigens is associated with the development of autoimmune disorders.

Other names

Antigen internalizationAntigen captureEndocytic antigen uptakeAntigen samplingAntigen endocytosis

Not applicable; this is a physiological process mediated by multiple receptors rather than a specific molecular target.