Dendritic Cells: Methods and Protocols

This book provides methods for studying dendritic cell (DC) ontogeny, isolation, migration, and functions. It is written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series and includes introductions, lists of materials and reagents, step-by-step protocols, and tips on troubleshooting.

Format: Hardback
Length: 389 pages
Publication date: 12 March 2023
Publisher: Springer-Verlag New York Inc.

This extensive volume offers a comprehensive range of methods for studying dendritic cell (DC) ontogeny, isolation, migration, and functions. After providing an introduction to murine and human DC subsets and their distinct transcriptional, phenotypic, and functional characteristics, the book proceeds with sections covering in vivo studies, in vitro differentiation, enrichment, functional characterization, as well as Omics approaches to study dendritic cells. Written in the esteemed Methods in Molecular Biology series, the chapters encompass introductions to their respective topics, comprehensive lists of the necessary materials and reagents, detailed step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and valuable tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and practical, Dendritic Cells: Methods and Protocols serves as an invaluable guide for researchers seeking to familiarize themselves with the most current and advanced techniques employed to investigate these vital cells.

The development and function of dendritic cells (DCs) are crucial components of the immune system. DCs are antigen-presenting cells that play a critical role in initiating and regulating immune responses. In this chapter, we will discuss the methods used to study dendritic cell ontogeny, isolation, migration, and functions.

Dendritic cell ontogeny refers to the process by which DCs develop from hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow. This process involves several stages, including differentiation, maturation, and activation. Several methods have been developed to study dendritic cell ontogeny, including flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and cell culture.

Flow cytometry is a powerful method used to analyze the phenotypic characteristics of cells. It allows for the simultaneous measurement of multiple parameters, such as cell surface markers, intracellular proteins, and cell cycle status. Immunohistochemistry is a technique used to detect the expression of specific proteins in cells. It involves the use of antibodies that bind to specific antigens on the cell surface or in the cytoplasm. Cell culture is a technique used to grow cells in a controlled environment. It allows for the study of cell behavior and the analysis of gene expression.

In vivo studies are used to study dendritic cell development and function in the immune system. These studies involve the injection of cells or molecules into animals and the analysis of their effects on the immune response. In vitro studies are used to study dendritic cell functions in a controlled environment. These studies involve the isolation and culture of DCs from different tissues and the analysis of their functions using a variety of methods, such as immunostaining, flow cytometry, and cell culture.

Enrichment is a technique used to isolate specific cell populations from a mixed cell population. It involves the use of antibodies or other markers to label specific cells and then using magnetic beads or other devices to separate the labeled cells from the unlabeled cells. Functional characterization is a technique used to analyze the functions of dendritic cells. It involves the use of a variety of methods, such as immunostaining, flow cytometry, and cell culture.

Omics approaches are used to study the molecular mechanisms underlying dendritic cell development and function. These approaches involve the analysis of gene expression.

Weight: 954g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781071629376
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023