Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell (pDC)

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) are a rare and specialized subset of immune cells recognized for their ability to secrete large quantities of type I interferons (IFN-I), especially in response to viral infections. They play a crucial role as sentinels in the innate immune system, bridging innate and adaptive immunity by influencing T cell responses and modulating other immune cell functions. They can also be sources of type III interferon (IFN-lambda), TNF-alpha, interleukin IL‑6. Overactivation or dysregulation can contribute to autoimmune diseases, while malignant transformation leads to blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN). Deficiencies or functional impairment can increase susceptibility to infections.