LANGERHANS CELLS Meaning and
Definition
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Langerhans cells are a type of antigen-presenting cell found predominantly in the skin and mucosa. They are a specialized subset of dendritic cells, which are responsible for initiating immune responses against foreign substances. Langerhans cells are named after their discoverer, Paul Langerhans, a German physician.
These cells play a crucial role in the immune system by capturing antigens (foreign substances such as bacteria, viruses, or allergens) and presenting them to T cells, a type of white blood cell. This process stimulates the adaptive immune response, leading to the activation of other immune cells to target and eliminate the invading pathogens.
Langerhans cells are primarily located in the outermost layer of the skin, called the epidermis. They have a distinctive appearance under a microscope, with long, finger-like projections called dendrites extending out from the cell body. These dendrites sense and capture antigens in the surrounding environment.
In addition to their role in immune responses, Langerhans cells also participate in maintaining skin homeostasis. They contribute to the natural barrier function of the skin by secreting cytokines and other molecules that regulate the proliferation, differentiation, and migration of skin cells.
Langerhans cells have the ability to distinguish between harmless substances and potentially harmful ones, enabling the immune system to respond appropriately. However, in certain conditions, such as autoimmune disorders or allergies, Langerhans cells may malfunction and contribute to abnormal immune reactions, leading to skin disorders or systemic diseases.
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Star-shaped cells in the deeper part of the stratum germinativum of the epidermis, possibly pigmented leucocytes. 2. Centroacinar cells, spindle shaped cells occupying the lumina of the acini of the pancreas.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LANGERHANS CELLS
- kangerhans cells
- pangerhans cells
- oangerhans cells
- lzngerhans cells
- lsngerhans cells
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- labgerhans cells
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- lanferhans cells
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- lanterhans cells
- langwrhans cells
- langsrhans cells
- langdrhans cells
Etymology of LANGERHANS CELLS
The term Langerhans cells is derived from the name of the German anatomist Paul Langerhans (1847-1888). Langerhans discovered these specialized cells in the skin while studying pancreatic tissue in 1868. Initially, he described them as helle Zellen (light cells). Later, in honor of his contribution to the field, these cells were named after him, and are now commonly known as Langerhans cells.
