The evolving function of Langerhans cells in adaptive skin immunity

Langerhans cells (LC) are dendritic cell that resides in the epidermis of skin. Paul Langerhans originally observed and named this epinonymous cell more than 140 years ago. Their network-like distribution and dendritic processes that extended up into the stratum corneum convinced him that they represented peripheral nerve cells. It was not determined until almost 100 years later that LC are, in fact, bone marrow-derived and function as skin-resident antigen presenting cells. Many studies have shown that LC are highly immunostimulatory. Recently, data have begun to accumulate suggesting LC have immunoregulatory properties. This review will focus on the participation of LC in the development and regulation of adaptive immune responses.