myeloid dendritic cell chemotaxis

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The movement of a myeloid dendritic cell in response to an external stimulus. [GOC:add, ISBN:0781735149, PMID:15814331, PMID:16056255]

Myeloid dendritic cell (mDC) chemotaxis is a crucial process in the initiation and orchestration of immune responses. It involves the directed migration of mDCs towards specific chemical cues, known as chemokines, present at sites of inflammation or infection. This directed movement is essential for mDCs to sample antigens, migrate to lymph nodes, and present these antigens to T cells, triggering adaptive immune responses.

The chemotactic process is initiated by the binding of chemokines to specific receptors expressed on the surface of mDCs. These receptors, known as chemokine receptors, belong to the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family. Upon chemokine binding, the receptors activate intracellular signaling pathways, leading to a cascade of events that ultimately result in the directed movement of the mDC.

The signaling pathways involved in mDC chemotaxis include the activation of small GTPases, such as Rac and Rho, which regulate cytoskeletal rearrangements. These rearrangements lead to the formation of protrusions, known as lamellipodia and filopodia, at the leading edge of the migrating mDC. The cytoskeletal changes also facilitate the polarization of the cell, with the nucleus positioned towards the rear and the leading edge extending towards the source of the chemokine gradient.

In addition to cytoskeletal rearrangements, mDC chemotaxis involves the recruitment of adhesion molecules to the cell surface, facilitating the attachment of the mDC to the extracellular matrix. This adhesion is essential for the mDC to maintain its directionality and move effectively through the tissue.

The process of mDC chemotaxis is highly regulated and influenced by various factors, including the concentration and type of chemokine, the expression levels of chemokine receptors, and the presence of other signaling molecules.

Overall, mDC chemotaxis is a complex and highly regulated process that plays a critical role in the initiation and development of immune responses. By migrating towards specific chemokine gradients, mDCs are able to efficiently sample antigens, transport them to lymph nodes, and present them to T cells, thereby triggering adaptive immunity.'
"

Proteins (1)

Compounds (2)