Lymphoid stroma in the initiation and control of immune responses

Abstract

The lymphoid tissues are characterized by a complex organized architecture that is supported by a network of stromal cells. These stromal cells play many important roles in addition to serving as structural support. Lymphoid stromal cells, including the specialized fibroblastic reticular cells and follicular dendritic cells, express chemokines, cytokines, adhesion molecules, as well as other factors required for the migration, homeostasis, and survival of immune cells. Studies have demonstrated the dynamic role that lymphoid stromal cells and the chemokines they produce play in directing lymphocyte migration within the spleen and lymph nodes. The stromal network may also play roles in influe..