Podosomes of dendritic cells facilitate antigen sampling

• Published in: Journal of cell science Vol. 127; no. Pt 5; pp. 1052 - 1064
• Main Authors: Baranov, Maksim, Ter Beest, Martin, Reinieren-Beeren, Inge, Cambi, Alessandra, Figdor, Carl G, van den Bogaart, Geert
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 01.03.2014
• Subjects: Antigen Presentation; Cell Surface Extensions - metabolism; Cells, Cultured; Dendritic Cells - immunology; Dendritic Cells - metabolism; Dendritic Cells - ultrastructure; Endocytosis; Humans; Matrix Metalloproteinase 14 - metabolism; Tubulin - metabolism; Antigen presentation; Dendritic cell; Receptor-mediated endocytosis; Podosome
• ISSN: 0021-9533; 1477-9137
• DOI: 10.1242/jcs.141226

Dendritic cells sample the environment for antigens and play an important role in establishing the link between innate and acquired immunity. Dendritic cells contain mechanosensitive adhesive structures called podosomes that consist of an actin-rich core surrounded by integrins, adaptor proteins and actin network filaments. They facilitate cell migration via localized degradation of extracellular matrix. Here, we show that podosomes of human dendritic cells locate to spots of low physical resistance in the substrate (soft spots) where they can evolve into protrusive structures. Pathogen recognition receptors locate to these protrusive structures where they can trigger localized antigen uptake, processing and presentation to activate T-cells. Our data demonstrate a novel role in antigen sampling for the podosomes of dendritic cells.