https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.13087
Ameboid cell that is major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II-positive, Fc receptor-negative, and presents processed antigens to T cells in the T-cell areas of secondary lymphoid tissues.
Notes:
- Dendritic cells are potent stimulators of T-cell responses. Nonlymphoid tissues also contain dendritic cells, but these are not able to stimulate T-cell responses until they are activated.
- There are three major subclasses of dendritic cells, conventional dendritic cells, Langerhans cells, and plasmacytoid dendritic cells.
- This is a different cell type from the follicular dendritic cell, which is Fc receptor-positive.
- Some authors also distinguish myeloid and lymphoid dendritic cells based on lineage.
- Some confusion in the classification of dendritic cells may arise from systems based on function, morphology, or lineage, and possibly species differences.