Modulation of Langerhans cell surface antigen expression by recombinant cytokines

Abstract

This study examined the influence of cytokines on surface antigen expression by gingival Langerhans cells (LC) in organ culture, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and tumor necrosis factor a (TNF‐α) upregulated the expression of CDla, HLA‐DR and HLA‐DP antigens on LC. TNF‐α, interleukin‐4 (IL‐4), and transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β) suppressed CD29 expression, while other cytokines, including interleukin‐3 and granulocyte‐macrophage colony stimulating factor, were without effect. No cytokines induced CD3, CD4, CD23, CD25 or CD45 RA antigen expression in organ culture. Since TNF‐α and IL‐6 can be secreted by keratinocytes, these molecules, together with interleukin‐1, are likely to play a role in the local control of LC number and function within the epithelial milieu. Thus, alterations in cytokine secretion by keratinocytes may at least in part be responsible for variations in LC number and antigen expression which occur in oral mucosal disorders.