True False Question 75 A dendritic or Langerhans cell is a specialized ___ Osquamous epithelial cell Omelanocyte O nerve cell Ophagocytic cell
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is phagocytic cell.
Explanation:
Dendritic cells, also known as Langerhans cells when located in the skin, are a type of specialized immune cell that are primarily involved in the detection, capture, and presentation of antigens to T-cells, which is crucial for initiating the immune response.
Langerhans cells are a subset of dendritic cells found in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. They play a key role in the skin’s immune defense, acting as sentinels that monitor for potential pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. When they encounter foreign pathogens, Langerhans cells capture and process them and then migrate to nearby lymph nodes. Here, they present the processed antigens to T-cells, initiating an adaptive immune response.
Despite being involved in immune surveillance, Langerhans cells are classified as phagocytic cells, meaning that they engulf and digest microorganisms and other particles. This distinguishes them from other types of cells such as melanocytes (which produce pigment) or nerve cells (which transmit electrical signals).
- Squamous epithelial cells are flat cells that make up the lining of various tissues, such as the skin and the lining of body cavities. They are not involved in antigen processing or immune response.
- Melanocytes are specialized skin cells that produce the pigment melanin, responsible for skin color and protection against UV radiation.
- Nerve cells (neurons) are responsible for transmitting electrical signals within the body and are not involved in immune functions.
Thus, the Langerhans cell’s primary function as a phagocytic cell is essential for immune system surveillance and response.
