Cutaneous-Associated Lymphoid Tissue

The skin is an important anatomic barrier to the external environment, and its large surface area makes this tissue important in nonspecific (innate) defenses. The epidermal (outer) layer of the skin is composed largely of specialized epithelial cells called keratinocytes. These cells secrete a number of cytokines that may function to induce a local inflammatory reaction. In addition, keratinocytes can be induced to express class II MHC molecules and may function as antigen-presenting cells. Scattered among the epithelial-cell matrix of the epidermis are Langerhans cells, a type of dendritic cell, which internalize antigen by phagocytosis or endocytosis. The Langerhans cells then migrate from the epidermis to regional lymph nodes, where they differentiate into interdigitating dendritic cells. These cells express high levels of class II MHC molecules and function as potent activators of naive TH cells.

The epidermis also contains so-called intraepidermal lymphocytes. These are similar to the intraepithelial lymphocytes of MALT in that most of them are CD8+ T cells, many of which express _ T-cell receptors, which have limited diversity for antigen. These intraepidermal T cells are well situated to encounter antigens that enter through the skin and some immunologists believe that they may play a role in combating antigens that enter through the skin. The underlying dermal layer of the skin contains scattered CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and macrophages. Most of these dermal T cells were either previously activated cells or are memory cells.

source: from Cutaneous associated lymphoid tissue, Posted by Mumtaz TUESDAY, 29 NOVEMBER 2011.

Link: https://immunesystemimmunity.blogspot.in

Reference:

Kuby, 5^th edition, Unit 2: Cells and organs of immune system, pg 52, Immunology.