Dendritic cells and its interaction with Leishmania parasites

Abstract

Aim: to compile evidences about the role of dendritic cells during the infection and the immune response to parasites of the genus Leishmania.

Data source: pubmed data base was consulted (1989-2003) introducing as a key words "dendritic cells" and "Leishmania" and papers compiled by the authors.

Study selection: a group of 120 papers were reviewed, 29 were selected about biology of dendritic cells and 28 that shown evidences of the interaction between this cells and Leishmania parasites.

Data extraction: the papers were classified according to the methodology for the isolation and differentiation of dendritic cells, according to the parasite species and study objectives.

Data synthesis: dendritic cells are sentinel cells specializing in the uptake, processing and presentation of antigens. Indeed, these cells are potent stimulators of naïve Τ cells. Therefore, they participate in the initiation of primary immune response induced after Leishmania infection. The interaction between dendritic cell and Leishmania parasites induces the regulation of important dendritic cell processes such as surface membrane molecule expression, activation, maturation, cytokine production and antigen presentation.

Conclusion: dendritic cells play an important role in the initiation and regulation of mediated Τ cell immune response against Leishmania parasite infections. However, the effect of this infection in dendritic cell activation and function remains to be determined