Publication

Differentiation and activation of fibroblastic reticular cells

Journal Paper/Review - May 27, 2021

Units
PubMed
Doi

Citation
Lütge M, Pikor N, Ludewig B. Differentiation and activation of fibroblastic reticular cells. Immunol Rev 2021; 302:32-46.
Type
Journal Paper/Review (English)
Journal
Immunol Rev 2021; 302
Publication Date
May 27, 2021
Issn Electronic
1600-065X
Pages
32-46
Brief description/objective

Secondary lymphoid organs (SLO) are underpinned by fibroblastic reticular cells (FRC) that form dedicated microenvironmental niches to secure induction and regulation of innate and adaptive immunity. Distinct FRC subsets are strategically positioned in SLOs to provide niche factors and govern efficient immune cell interaction. In recent years, the use of specialized mouse models in combination with single-cell transcriptomics has facilitated the elaboration of the molecular FRC landscape at an unprecedented resolution. While single-cell RNA-sequencing has advanced the resolution of FRC subset characterization and function, the high dimensionality of the generated data necessitates careful analysis and validation. Here, we reviewed novel findings from high-resolution transcriptomic analyses that refine our understanding of FRC differentiation and activation processes in the context of infection and inflammation. We further discuss concepts, strategies, and limitations for the analysis of single-cell transcriptome data from FRCs and the wide-ranging implications for our understanding of stromal cell biology.