Dendritic Cells (Oral Mucosa) (DCs (Oral Mucosa))

Dendritic cells (DCs) in the oral mucosa are specialized antigen-presenting cells that play a central role in immune surveillance and regulation within the oral cavity. They constantly monitor changes in the oral microbiota, orchestrate T-cell function, and are crucial for determining whether to induce immunity or tolerance to encountered antigens. The oral mucosa contains distinct surfaces—such as buccal, gingival, and sublingual tissues—each with unique distributions of dendritic cell subsets. Key functions of dendritic cells in the oral mucosa include capturing foreign antigens, migrating to lymph nodes, initiating adaptive immune responses, and regulating local immunity versus tolerance. They contribute significantly to both protective immunity and pathological conditions such as periodontitis.

Other names

Oral Mucosal Dendritic CellsOral DCsLangerhans Cells (Oral Mucosa)Interstitial Dendritic Cells (Oral Mucosa)CD103+ Dendritic Cells (Oral Mucosa)