Dendritic cell migration

Dendritic cell migration refers to the process by which dendritic cells move from their site of origin or residence (such as peripheral tissues) to lymphoid organs, particularly the lymph nodes, in order to stimulate T cell responses and mediate immune surveillance[1][2][3][6][7]. This migration is regulated by a complex interplay of chemokines, chemokine receptors (such as CCR7), cytoskeletal rearrangement, and environmental cues such as hypoxia or inflammation[3][7]. Migratory dendritic cells are vital for initiating adaptive immunity, regulating inflammation, and maintaining immune tolerance[2][3][6]. The dysregulation of their migration patterns can contribute to disease states including cancer, infection, and autoimmunity[1][7]. Because migration is a multi-molecular, multi-step process, rather than a single receptor or target, this term is considered biologically meaningful but not a canonical molecular target.

Other names

Dendritic cell traffickingDC migrationDendritic cell homing