SUMMARY
Dendritic cells (DC) (classic, plasmacytoid, inflammatory) are an intense focus of interest because of their role in inflammation, autoimmunity, vaccination and cancer. We present a tissue-based classification of human DC subsets in tonsils with a high-parameter (>40 markers) immunofluorescent approach, cell type-specific image segmentation and the use of bioinformatics platforms. Through this deep phenotypic and spatial examination, classic cDC1, cDC2, pDC subsets have been further refined and a novel subset of DC co-expressing IRF4 and IRF8 identified. Based on unique tissue locations within the tonsil, and close interactions with T cells (cDC1) or B cells (cDC2), DC subsets can be further subdivided by correlative phenotypic changes associated with these interactions. In addition, monocytes and macrophages expressing HLA-DR or S100AB are identified and localized in the tissue. This study thus provides a whole tissue in situ catalog of human DC subsets and their cellular interactions within spatially defined niches.
Footnotes
Mailing address: Prof. Giorgio Cattoretti, Anatomia Patologica, UNIMIB and Ospedale San Gerardo, Via Pergolesi 33, 20900, Monza (IT). Phone: +39 039-233-2551; FAX: +39 039-233-2548; e-mail: giorgio.cattoretti{at}unimib.it
