Yuki Oya, Shunsuke Kimura, Maho Uemura, Yumiko Fujimura, Koji Hase
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
The ocular mucosal surface regularly encounters external materials in the air and tear fluids. Microfold (M) cells, specialized epithelial cells for antigen uptake, are present in tear duct-associated lymphoid tissue (TALT) within the nasolacrimal sac; however, their immunological significance is unclear. We generated Krt5-Cre Tnfrsf11aflox/flox mice, which lack functional M cells in the TALT, as evidenced by the absence of M-cell markers and reduced nanoparticle uptake. M cell deficiency resulted in fewer T follicular helper (Tfh) and germinal center (GC) B cells in the TALT under steady-state conditions. Upon induction of allergic conjunctivitis, control mice exhibited itching and increased Tfh and immunoglobulin E (IgE+) GC B cells in the TALT. However, M cell-deficient mice showed ameliorated allergic symptoms with fewer Tfh and IgE+ GC B cells. These findings suggest that M cells in TALT contribute to ocular surface immunosurveillance, whereas, upon allergen exposure, they play a critical role in the development of allergic conjunctivitis.
期刊介绍:
Mucosal Immunology, the official publication of the Society of Mucosal Immunology (SMI), serves as a forum for both basic and clinical scientists to discuss immunity and inflammation involving mucosal tissues. It covers gastrointestinal, pulmonary, nasopharyngeal, oral, ocular, and genitourinary immunology through original research articles, scholarly reviews, commentaries, editorials, and letters. The journal gives equal consideration to basic, translational, and clinical studies and also serves as a primary communication channel for the SMI governing board and its members, featuring society news, meeting announcements, policy discussions, and job/training opportunities advertisements.