Human Peripheral Blood Immature Dendritic Cells

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are Human Peripheral Blood Immature Dendritic Cells?

  Human Peripheral Blood Immature Dendritic Cells are antigen-presenting cells derived from peripheral blood monocytes. They play a crucial role in the immune system by capturing, processing, and presenting antigens to T cells. These cells are in an immature state, meaning they are highly phagocytic and have not yet fully developed the ability to stimulate T cells.

• How are Immature Dendritic Cells obtained from peripheral blood?

  Immature dendritic cells can be obtained from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) through a process that typically involves isolation of monocytes followed by their culture in the presence of specific cytokines, such as GM-CSF (Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor) and IL-4 (Interleukin-4), which promote differentiation into immature dendritic cells.

• What are the key surface markers of Immature Dendritic Cells?

  Immature dendritic cells typically express markers such as CD11c, HLA-DR, and CD14, but have low expression of co-stimulatory molecules like CD80, CD83, and CD86, which are upregulated upon maturation.

• What are the differences between immature and mature dendritic cells?

  Immature dendritic cells are primarily involved in antigen capture and processing, while mature dendritic cells have a reduced phagocytic ability and are more effective at presenting antigens to T cells, initiating an immune response. Maturation involves upregulation of co-stimulatory molecules and increased migration to lymphoid tissues.

• How do you induce maturation of Immature Dendritic Cells in vitro

  Maturation of immature dendritic cells can be induced in vitro by exposing them to various stimuli such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), TNF-α (Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha), or other pro-inflammatory cytokines. These agents trigger the cells to upregulate co-stimulatory molecules and become effective antigen-presenting cells.