Are neutrophils part of antigen-presenting cells?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking whether neutrophils function as antigen-presenting cells (APCs). To answer this, we'll need to delve into the role of neutrophils in the immune system and how they compare to classical APCs such as dendritic cells and macrophages.
Answer
Neutrophils can acquire APC characteristics.
Neutrophils can acquire antigen-presenting cell (APC) characteristics under certain conditions.
Answer for screen readers
Neutrophils can acquire antigen-presenting cell (APC) characteristics under certain conditions.
More Information
Although neutrophils are traditionally known for their role in innate immunity, recent studies reveal they can express MHC-II and other costimulatory molecules, thus exhibiting APC functions under certain conditions.
Tips
A common mistake is to assume that neutrophils always function as APCs like macrophages or dendritic cells. They usually adopt this role under specific conditions.
Sources
- Neutrophils acquire the capacity for antigen presentation to memory CD4+ T cells - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Neutrophils acquire an antigen-presenting cell (APC) phenotype following RBC phagocytosis - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Evidence for antigen presentation by human neutrophils - ashpublications.org
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