What is the role of dendritic cells in the immune response?

Dendritic cells play a crucial role in the immune response primarily as antigen-presenting cells to T cells. These specialized cells are vital in the recognition of pathogens and the initiation of the adaptive immune response. Dendritic cells capture, process, and present antigens to T cells in the lymph nodes, where they help activate naïve T cells.

Once they encounter an antigen, dendritic cells migrate to lymphoid tissues and display pieces of the pathogen (antigens) on their surface using major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. This presentation is fundamental for T cell activation; it enables T cells to recognize and respond appropriately to specific antigens. By doing so, dendritic cells effectively bridge the innate immune response, which offers immediate but nonspecific defense, with the adaptive immune system, which provides a tailored response against specific pathogens.

In contrast, while the production of antibodies is a key role of B cells, filtering lymphatic fluid is a function of lymph nodes, and enhancing the production of red blood cells relates to stem cells in the bone marrow rather than dendritic cells. Thus, the involvement of dendritic cells in presenting antigens directly to T cells is essential for coordinating a targeted immune response.